Big Chief School and Camp

Big Chief School and Camp offers school programs and camp programs in a beautiful park-like setting with air-conditioned facilities. The program includes school options for infants, toddlers, and 3–4 year olds, as well as camp options for infants, toddlers, and younger and upper division groups.

• Ages: 0–14 years old
• Schedule: School runs Monday–Friday, 7:00am–6:00pm; camp runs Monday–Friday, 7:30am–5:15pm

Big Chief School and Camp is a family-owned business established in 1954 by Ruth Eleanore Picinich and her husband Joseph Picinich. Luanne Picinich joined the business full-time in 1978, and her three children, Katya, Zhenya, and Andrey, have now joined her. The program states as its mission, “Where your child is our main concern.” It is licensed by OCFS and the Board of Health and is a member of the Long Island School and Camp Association. The owners are described as very hands-on, and the staff is described as excellent and dedicated, with many staff members having been with the owner for many years. The program describes itself as family-owned and operated, taking a particular interest in every child, and states that it aims to create an atmosphere where children can grow physically, socially, intellectually, and emotionally, with a focus on customers as the most important people and on creating happy childhood memories of summer fun.

One testimonial states, “Thank you for an amazing experience for my family. Your school and camp have had a profound impact on my most precious gifts, my children. Thank you for all you do!” Another testimonial states, “You run an amazing school and your staff is exceptional as well! I can’t express how great I feel knowing that my children are safe when they are at Big Chief. Peace of mind is priceless.”

Last updated February 5, 2026.