Where is The Sheriffs’ Summer Camp located?

The Sheriffs’ Camp is located in the Finger Lakes region on Keuka Lake in Yates County. It is six miles south of the village of Penn Yan. The camp, a former YMCA Camp, is owned by the New York State Sheriffs’ Institute and meets the full compliance of the New York State Health Department.

Who attends the camp?

Boys and girls between the ages of 9 and 12 who, because of economic reasons would not have an opportunity to attend a summer camp or enjoy a summer vacation. The camp is for economically challenged children.

How are the children selected?

Each County Sheriff is given a predetermined number of camper slots. Sheriff’s Offices use a variety of methods to identify deserving children to attend. The primary criteria is economically challenged children and children who can benefit with the positive interaction with deputy sheriffs.

How does the camp operate?

The Camp Director is Tim Doughty who has worked under recently retired Camp Director Dave Sherman for the last 37 years and is more than prepared for these challenging new responsibilities.  Much of the outstanding support staff remains in place ensuring strong continuity throughout the transition and the 2023 camp season. Director Doughty staffs the camp with counselors who are highly motivated individuals and are dedicated to helping young people find the right path to a meaningful and productive life. The ratio of camper to counselor is about 4.5 to 1.

Are the deputy sheriffs at the camp?

Deputy sheriffs play two roles within the camp community. Typically, about 4 to 6 deputy sheriffs are in residence during each of the six one-week sessions. They work themselves into the camp’s daily curriculum. They work hard to project themselves as mentors to the kids. Other deputy sheriffs visit the camp daily to conduct demonstrations of law enforcement techniques and equipment. Such as K-9 and scuba diving demonstrations. Each week a deputy sheriff makes a presentation regarding illicit drugs and alcohol use.