Waltons Grizzly Lodge, nestled in the serene landscapes of Portola, California, stands as a beacon of adventure and learning in the Northern California region. This cherished camp, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains and the clear waters of its own private lake, has been a home away from home for campers since its establishment in 1926. Founded on the principles of outdoor education and character development, Waltons Grizzly Lodge has a rich history of providing children and teenagers with unforgettable summer experiences.

At the heart of Waltons Grizzly Lodge is a mission that focuses on fostering a nurturing environment where campers can grow both personally and socially. The camp is dedicated to creating a community that encourages respect, cooperation, and the courage to try new things, all while making lifelong friendships.

Catering to boys and girls aged 7 through 14, Waltons Grizzly Lodge offers a co-ed camp experience that is rich in tradition and filled with a wide range of activities. From water sports on its private lake to outdoor adventures, creative arts, and sports, there’s something for every camper to enjoy. This blend of activities, combined with a supportive and experienced staff, ensures that every camper leaves with not just memories, but skills and confidence that last a lifetime. Waltons Grizzly Lodge is more than just a summer camp; it’s a place where youth can explore, learn, and grow in an environment that celebrates the great outdoors.

Programs Offered by Waltons Grizzly Lodge

Waltons Grizzly Lodge provides a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental needs of its campers. The camp’s programming is structured around fostering a deep appreciation for nature, promoting physical activity, encouraging creativity, and developing social skills. Here’s a glimpse into the programs offered, their duration, specialty areas, and what a typical day looks like at the camp:

Description of the Programs

Traditional Camp Experience: At the core of Waltons Grizzly Lodge is its traditional camp program, which includes a wide variety of activities such as swimming, boating, fishing, archery, arts and crafts, and outdoor adventure. This program is designed to give campers a well-rounded experience, allowing them to try new things in a supportive environment.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: These short sessions are perfect for younger campers or first-timers who are just getting used to the camp experience.
Two-Week Sessions: Most campers participate in these sessions, which provide a more immersive experience, allowing for deeper engagement with activities and the camp community.
Full Summer Option: For campers who can’t get enough of Waltons Grizzly Lodge, a full summer option is available, combining multiple sessions for an extended adventure and learning experience.

Specialty Programs

Arts Program: For campers interested in exploring their creative side, Walton offers specialized arts programs that include painting, drawing, crafts, and more.
Sports Program: This program focuses on physical activity and skill development in sports such as soccer, basketball, and volleyball, promoting teamwork and healthy competition.
Outdoor Adventure: Emphasizing exploration and outdoor skills, this program includes hiking, rock climbing, and survival skills training.
Science and Nature: For curious minds, this program delves into the wonders of the natural world around the camp, including environmental science, astronomy, and wildlife observation.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM – Wake Up: Campers start their day early to make the most of the daylight hours.
8:00 AM – Breakfast: A nutritious breakfast fuels the campers for their busy day ahead.
9:00 AM – Morning Activities: Campers split into their groups for the first set of activities, which could range from arts and crafts to kayaking.
12:00 PM – Lunch: A communal lunchtime provides a break and a chance to share experiences with friends.
1:00 PM – Rest Hour: After lunch, campers have a quiet hour to rest, write letters home, or read.
2:00 PM – Afternoon Activities: The adventure continues with a second set of activities, focusing on different skills or experiences.
5:00 PM – Free Time: Campers have free time to enjoy the camp at their own pace, whether it’s a quiet moment by the lake or an impromptu game of soccer.
6:00 PM – Dinner: Dinner is a time for the camp community to come together, share stories of the day, and enjoy a hearty meal.
7:00 PM – Evening Program: The day ends with an evening program, which might include campfires, talent shows, or night hikes.
9:00 PM – Lights Out: Depending on the age group, campers head to bed to rest up for another day of fun and adventure.

Waltons Grizzly Lodge’s programs are thoughtfully designed to offer a balanced mix of education, exploration, and enjoyment, ensuring that every camper has a memorable and enriching summer experience.

Accommodations in Waltons Grizzly Lodge

Waltons Grizzly Lodge provides a classic summer camp environment, combining the rustic charm of outdoor living with the comforts necessary for a pleasant stay. Here’s an overview of the accommodations, dining options, and bathroom and shower facilities available to campers:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary sleeping arrangements at Waltons Grizzly Lodge are cabins that blend the traditional camp aesthetic with comfort and safety. These cabins are designed to accommodate campers in a communal setting, fostering camaraderie and friendship. Each cabin houses a specific number of campers along with at least one counselor, ensuring supervision and a familial atmosphere. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and electricity.
Tents or Dorms: While the mainstay of accommodation is cabins, Waltons Grizzly Lodge focuses on providing a genuine outdoor experience, and part of that may include organized overnight camping trips in tents for certain activities or age groups. However, the primary mode of accommodation remains cabins, and dorm-style accommodations are not typical of the camp’s setting.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: The camp operates on a fixed meal plan system, providing three well-balanced meals a day in a communal dining hall setting. The meals are designed to be nutritious, energy-boosting, and appealing to young appetites, ensuring campers have the fuel they need for their active days.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to all campers’ needs, Waltons Grizzly Lodge offers dietary accommodations upon request. Whether it’s vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or any allergies, the kitchen staff is prepared to adjust menus to meet individual dietary requirements. Parents are encouraged to communicate any dietary needs or restrictions during the registration process to ensure their child’s needs are met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: The camp is equipped with centralized bathroom and shower facilities that are strategically located near the cabins for easy access. These facilities are separated by gender and are maintained regularly to ensure cleanliness and hygiene. The shower areas offer privacy, and hot water is available to ensure campers can comfortably clean up after a day full of activities.
Maintenance and Hygiene: The camp places a high priority on the cleanliness of its facilities, with regular cleaning and maintenance schedules. Additionally, campers are educated on personal hygiene and the importance of keeping shared spaces clean, fostering a sense of responsibility and respect for the community’s living environment.

Overall, Waltons Grizzly Lodge strives to make the camping experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, ensuring that all campers have access to clean, safe, and accommodating facilities throughout their stay.

Activities in Waltons Grizzly Lodge

Waltons Grizzly Lodge offers an extensive range of activities designed to engage campers in fun, learning, and personal growth. The camp’s setting in the Sierra Nevada and its private lake provide a perfect backdrop for a wide variety of outdoor and creative pursuits. Here’s a closer look at the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Swimming and Water Sports: The private lake at the camp allows for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and even fishing, under the watchful eyes of certified lifeguards.
Hiking: The surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains offer numerous trails for hiking adventures, teaching campers about nature and wilderness survival skills.
Crafts: A well-equipped arts and crafts area enables campers to explore their creativity through painting, drawing, pottery, and various craft projects.
Archery and Shooting Sports: Summer camps can learn and practice archery and other shooting sports in a safe, supervised environment.
Rock Climbing: For the adventurous, the camp offers rock climbing activities on natural and artificial climbing walls, focusing on safety and technique.
Team Sports: A variety of team sports are available, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and softball, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
Performing Arts: Campers interested in drama, music, and dance can participate in performing arts activities, culminating in performances for the camp community.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfires: Regular campfire gatherings bring the community together for storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of camaraderie.
Color Wars: This camp-wide competition splits campers into teams for a series of fun and spirited challenges, promoting teamwork and camp spirit.
Talent Shows: Campers have the opportunity to showcase their talents to their peers, whether it’s through music, dance, comedy, or other creative expressions.
Theme Days: Throughout the summer, themed activity days add an extra layer of fun and creativity to the camp schedule, such as Superhero Day or Backwards Day.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to develop leadership skills through specialized programs that may include leading younger campers, organizing events, or participating in team-building exercises.
Environmental Education: Through nature hikes, stargazing nights, and environmental science projects, campers learn about the natural world and the importance of conservation.
Creative Workshops: Specialized workshops in the arts, crafts, or performing arts offer campers the chance to deepen their skills and explore new forms of expression.
Outdoor Skills: Activities like camping trips, orienteering, and survival skills workshops teach practical outdoor knowledge and self-reliance.

Waltons Grizzly Lodge is committed to providing a diverse array of activities that cater to the interests and development of every camper. Through these carefully designed programs, campers not only have a summer filled with fun but also leave with new skills, confidence, and lifelong memories.

The staff of Waltons Grizzly Lodge

Waltons Grizzly Lodge prides itself on a dedicated, qualified staff that ensures a safe, educational, and fun experience for every camper. The camp’s philosophy on staffing is centered around creating a supportive environment that fosters personal growth and enjoyment for campers through high standards of care, expertise, and guidance.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

The staff-to-camper ratio at Waltons Grizzly Lodge is carefully calibrated to ensure that every camper receives personalized attention and care. While the exact ratio may vary depending on the age group and specific activities, the camp typically aims for a ratio that exceeds industry standards, such as 1 staff member for every 6-8 campers, to ensure safety and provide quality instruction and supervision.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Rigorous Selection: The hiring process at Waltons Grizzly Lodge involves a thorough screening, including background checks, reference checks, and interviews to assess not only the applicant’s qualifications but also their character and suitability for working with children.
Diverse Backgrounds: Staff members are often selected from a variety of backgrounds, including education, recreation, arts, and sports, to bring diverse skills and perspectives to the camp. Many are also returning staff or former campers who deeply understand the camp’s culture and values.
Qualifications: Candidates are required to have relevant experience working with children, and additional qualifications or certifications in their area of expertise (e.g., lifeguard certification for swimming instructors) are highly valued.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff members undergo comprehensive pre-camp training. This training covers a wide range of topics, including child development, behavior management techniques, emergency procedures, and the camp’s specific policies and philosophies.
Ongoing Education: Throughout the camp season, staff receive ongoing support and training, including regular feedback sessions and opportunities for professional development.
Mandatory Certifications: All staff are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid as a minimum. Depending on their role, additional certifications may be required (e.g., lifeguards must have proper lifeguard training, and those leading wilderness trips may need wilderness first aid or similar qualifications).

The commitment to a highly qualified and well-trained staff at Waltons Grizzly Lodge ensures that every camper enjoys a safe, enriching, and enjoyable experience. This dedication to excellence in staffing helps create an environment where campers can thrive, learn new skills, and make lasting memories in a supportive community setting.

Safety and Health in Waltons Grizzly Lodge

Waltons Grizzly Lodge prioritizes the safety and health of its campers and staff, implementing comprehensive protocols and procedures to ensure a secure and nurturing environment. Here’s an overview of the camp’s safety measures, health facilities, and emergency response policies:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Structured Supervision: The camp maintains a structured supervision policy, ensuring campers are under the watchful eyes of staff members during all activities, meal times, and in the cabin areas.
Safety Equipment and Gear: For activities that require it, such as swimming, rock climbing, and archery, the camp provides appropriate safety equipment and ensures all campers and staff know how to use it properly.
Activity Training: Before participating in certain activities, campers receive instruction on safety procedures and guidelines, emphasizing the importance of following rules to prevent accidents.
Emergency Drills: Regularly scheduled emergency drills, including fire, earthquake, and lockdown drills, ensure that both campers and staff are prepared and know how to respond in various emergency situations.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Waltons Grizzly Lodge is equipped with an on-site health center, staffed by qualified healthcare professionals such as nurses or paramedics. This facility is prepared to handle minor injuries and illnesses, providing care and comfort to campers in need.
Healthcare Professional Availability: The health staff is available 24/7 to address any medical needs that arise, ensuring prompt and effective treatment. For more serious conditions, arrangements are made to transport campers to the nearest hospital.
Medication Management: The health center staff oversees the storage and distribution of medications for campers, following strict protocols to ensure that each camper receives the correct dosage at the appropriate times.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Action Plans: The camp has detailed emergency action plans for a variety of scenarios, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical incidents. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication with Parents: In the event of an emergency, the camp has a clear protocol for communicating with parents or guardians. This ensures that families are informed and updated about their child’s well-being.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: Waltons Grizzly Lodge works closely with local emergency services and law enforcement to ensure a coordinated response to any situation that may arise. This includes planning for evacuation routes and emergency shelter options.
Training and Certifications: All camp staff, not just health personnel, are trained in basic first aid and CPR. Additionally, staff members responsible for specific activities hold relevant certifications, ensuring they can respond effectively to accidents or emergencies in their areas.

By maintaining strict safety protocols, providing on-site health facilities staffed by qualified professionals, and preparing detailed emergency action plans, Waltons Grizzly Lodge ensures a safe and healthy environment where campers can enjoy their summer experiences with peace of mind.

Cost and Registration in Waltons Grizzly Lodge

The cost of attending Waltons Grizzly Lodge, along with the registration process and financial policies, are designed to be transparent and straightforward, ensuring families can plan and prepare for their camper’s summer experience effectively. While specific details may vary from year to year, here’s a general overview based on typical practices within the industry:

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes

Cost: The cost of attending Waltons Grizzly Lodge can vary depending on the length of the session chosen (e.g., one-week, two-week, or full summer options). Typically, fees cover all aspects of the camp experience, including accommodation in cabins, meals and snacks, participation in all activities, and any special events or programs.
Additional Costs: Some camps may have additional costs for things like transportation to and from the camp, special outings, or specific programs that require specialized equipment or instruction.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Early Registration: Families are often encouraged to register early, as spaces in popular sessions can fill up quickly. Early registration may also come with the benefit of discounted rates.
Deadlines: There will be a registration deadline for each session, after which registrations might still be accepted if space allows, but with a possible late registration fee.
Process: The registration process typically involves filling out an application form, which may include providing information about the camper’s medical history, dietary needs, and any special accommodations required. A deposit is usually required at the time of registration to secure a spot.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Many camps, including Waltons Grizzly Lodge, offer payment plans to spread the cost of attendance over several months, making it more manageable for families.
Refunds and Cancellation Policies: These policies vary by camp but generally include deadlines for cancellations with partial refunds. There may be non-refundable deposits or administrative fees. It’s crucial to understand these policies before registering.
Cancellation Insurance: Some camps offer or recommend cancellation insurance to protect your investment in case you need to cancel for unforeseen reasons.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid

Scholarships: Waltons Grizzly Lodge may offer scholarships or financial aid to families in need, ensuring that camp experiences are accessible to a broader range of children. These scholarships could cover a portion or all of the camp fees.
Application for Aid: Typically, there’s a separate application process for scholarships or financial aid, which may require documentation of financial need or a personal statement.

Waltons Grizzly Lodge summer camp fees:

Here’s a breakdown of their fee structure:

Registration fee: $100 (non-refundable)
Deposit: $750 (applied towards total fee)

Specific session fees:

One-week session: $2,400
Outdoor Adventure Program (one week): $2,400 (ages 13-17)

Parent and Camper Preparation in Waltons Grizzly Lodge

Preparing for a stay at Waltons Grizzly Lodge involves both practical considerations, like packing the right items, and understanding the camp’s rules and policies to ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience for both campers and their parents. Here’s a guide to help first-time campers and their families get ready for the adventure:

Packing List

Essentials:

Clothing: Pack enough for the session length, considering the activities (e.g., swimwear, hiking shoes, comfortable clothing for warm days, and layers for cooler evenings).
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, depending on the camp’s accommodations.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially with all the outdoor activities.

Activity-Specific Items:

Sports Gear: If participating in specific sports, consider packing any personal equipment (though the camp may provide most things).
Arts and Crafts Supplies: If the camper has a particular interest, they can bring materials, though the camp typically supplies these.

Optional:

Camera: For capturing memories (if allowed by the camp’s technology policy).
Stationery: For writing letters home.

Do Not Bring:

Electronics: Camps often have strict policies on mobile phones, tablets, and other gadgets to encourage campers to disconnect and fully engage with the camp experience.
Valuables: It’s best to leave expensive items at home to avoid loss or damage.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Waltons Grizzly Lodge may restrict or prohibit the use of electronic devices to foster a more immersive camp experience and encourage personal interactions. Check the camp’s specific policy.
Visitation: Visits from family may be limited to specific days or events to help campers adjust to camp life and foster independence.
Behavior: Respect, cooperation, and kindness are expected at all times. Bullying, exclusionary behavior, or disrespect of staff or fellow campers will not be tolerated.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:

Be Open to New Experiences: Camp is a great place to try new things and step outside your comfort zone.
Make Friends Early: Don’t be shy about introducing yourself to others. Everyone is in the same situation and looking to make friends.
Stay Organized: Keeping track of your belongings will make your stay more enjoyable and stress-free.

For Parents:

Prepare Your Child: Talk about what camp will be like focusing on the exciting opportunities and how to cope with any nervousness.
Stay Positive: If you’re confident and positive about the experience, your child is more likely to feel the same.
Communicate with Camp Staff: If you have concerns or your child has specific needs, don’t hesitate to discuss these with the camp staff beforehand.

By following these guidelines and preparing adequately, both parents and campers can ensure a rewarding and memorable experience at Waltons Grizzly Lodge.

Waltons Grizzly Lodge stands as a testament to the timeless allure of the great outdoors and the enduring value of summer camp experiences. Nestled in the stunning landscape of Portola, California, with the majestic Sierra Nevada as its backdrop, this camp offers more than just a retreat from the every day; it provides a sanctuary for growth, learning, and adventure. Through a wide array of activities, from swimming in its private lake to hiking in the surrounding wilderness, campers are encouraged to explore their interests, challenge themselves, and forge lasting friendships.

The Lodge’s commitment to safety, coupled with its comprehensive programs designed for skill development and personal growth, ensures that every camper leaves with not only fond memories but also increased confidence and a deeper appreciation for nature and community. The carefully curated mix of activities, along with a focus on camaraderie and personal development, creates an environment where every child can thrive.