Welcome to Girl Scouts Camp Marydale, nestled in the serene landscape of St. Francisville, Louisiana. This beautiful camp is located in the heart of Louisiana’s idyllic countryside, providing a perfect backdrop for enriching and adventurous experiences. St. Francisville is known for its historic sites and lush, rolling hills, offering campers a unique environment where they can explore and grow.

Camp Marydale has a storied history of empowering young women through dynamic programming and outdoor activities. Established to foster independence and leadership, the camp has been a cornerstone of the Girl Scouts experience, instilling courage, confidence, and character in its campers.

Their mission at Camp Marydale is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. They believe in the power of the outdoors to provide challenges that build strong girls, with activities designed to teach valuable life skills, encourage teamwork, and develop leadership capabilities.

As a girl-focused camp, Marydale offers programs specifically designed for Girl Scouts from various age groups. Through activities tailored for different maturity levels, campers from elementary to high school can enjoy age-appropriate challenges and opportunities for growth.

Join us at Girl Scouts Camp Marydale for an unforgettable experience where adventure meets learning in the picturesque settings of St. Francisville, Louisiana.

Programs Offered by Girl Scouts Camp Marydale

At Girl Scouts Camp Marydale, they offer a diverse range of programs tailored to nurture different interests, skills, and ages. Each program is carefully designed to ensure every camper has an enriching, fun, and educational experience. Here’s a look at what they offer:

Program Description:

Their programs cover a wide spectrum of activities from outdoor adventures to arts and science exploration. Campers engage in hiking, swimming, canoeing, and camping skills, alongside workshops in arts and crafts, performing arts, and environmental science. Each activity is designed to teach practical skills, promote physical health, and foster a deep respect for nature.

Length of Sessions:

One-Week Sessions: These short sessions are perfect for younger campers or first-timers who are getting used to the camp experience.
Two-Week Sessions: Offering a more immersive experience, these sessions allow for deeper exploration of activities and more personal growth.
Full Summer Programs: For the ultimate Camp Marydale experience, campers can spend the entire summer at camp, enjoying a comprehensive range of activities and personal development opportunities.

Specialty Programs:

Arts Programs: These include workshops in painting, pottery, and performing arts, where campers can unleash their creativity and gain confidence in expressing themselves.
Sports Programs: Focusing on teamwork and physical fitness, these activities include archery, canoeing, and more traditional sports like soccer and volleyball.
Science Programs: Tailored to spark curiosity, these sessions involve hands-on experiments and nature explorations to educate campers about the world around them.

Typical Daily Schedule:

Morning:
- Wake-up and breakfast
- Morning assembly
- Activity Session 1 (e.g., hiking or canoeing)
- Activity Session 2 (e.g., wildlife study or arts and crafts)
Afternoon:
- Lunch and rest time
- Activity Session 3 (e.g., swimming or archery)
- Free time or guided exploration
- Activity Session 4 (specialty workshops or group projects)
Evening:
- Dinner
- Evening program (campfire, storytelling, talent shows)
- Bedtime preparation and lights out

Every day at Camp Marydale is structured to balance active engagement with ample opportunities for rest and free exploration, ensuring that campers enjoy a full and dynamic experience tailored to their interests and developmental needs. Join us for a summer of growth, adventure, and unforgettable memories!

Accommodations in Girl Scouts Camp Marydale

At Girl Scouts Camp Marydale, they strive to ensure that their accommodations are comfortable, safe, and conducive to a true camp experience. Here’s a detailed look at the living arrangements, dining options, and facilities available to their campers:

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: The primary accommodation at Camp Marydale consists of well-maintained cabins that blend rustic charm with safety and comfort. Each cabin houses bunk beds and can accommodate small groups of campers, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere. The cabins are equipped with electricity, and many have air conditioning to ensure comfort during the warmer months.
Tents: For older campers seeking a more traditional camping experience, there are opportunities to sleep in tents. This option is typically part of specific adventure programs aimed at teaching survival skills and fostering independence.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: All campers are provided with three well-balanced meals per day, served in the communal dining hall. Their meal plans are designed to be nutritious, ensuring that campers have the energy they need for active days. Snacks are also provided between meals.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding that some campers have specific dietary needs, they offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive options upon request. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle various dietary requirements to ensure that all campers have delicious and safe meal options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Facilities: Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathroom and shower facility, which is shared among a small group of cabins. These facilities are gender-segregated and regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Privacy and Accessibility: Privacy is a priority in their design, with individual shower stalls and dressing areas. The facilities are also equipped with accessibility features to accommodate campers with disabilities.

Overall, Camp Marydale’s accommodations are designed to ensure that every camper feels comfortable, safe, and part of the community. From the moment they wake up in their cabin or tent to their meals and daily routines, campers are provided with everything they need to have a fulfilling and enjoyable camp experience.

Activities in Girl Scouts Camp Marydale

Girl Scouts Camp Marydale offers a vibrant array of activities designed to engage, educate, and entertain campers. These activities not only make camp fun but also promote skills development and personal growth. Here’s an overview of what campers can look forward to:

List of Activities Offered:

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps can immerse themselves in nature through hiking, swimming, canoeing, and archery. Each activity is designed to foster a deep appreciation for the outdoors and teach practical skills like navigation and water safety.
Creative Arts: Creativity flourishes at camp with a variety of crafts workshops including pottery, painting, and jewelry making. Performing arts activities like dance, drama, and music allow campers to express themselves artistically.
Environmental Education: Through guided nature walks, wildlife observation, and environmental science projects, campers learn about local ecosystems and the importance of conservation.
Team Sports: Activities like soccer, volleyball, and team-building games encourage physical fitness, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to participate in leadership workshops, helping them develop skills that are essential for personal and academic success.

Special Events or Traditions:

Campfires: A cherished tradition, evening campfires are a time for songs, storytelling, and marshmallow roasting. These gatherings foster a sense of community and belonging among campers.
End-of-Camp Gala: The session culminates in a gala where campers can showcase their talents and achievements from their time at camp, celebrating with performances, art displays, and a display of skills learned.
Themed Days: Special themed days, such as “Eco-Warrior Day” or “Pirate Day,” add a fun and imaginative twist to the camp experience, allowing campers to engage in themed activities and dress-ups.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Survival Skills Workshops: These include learning how to build a fire, basic first aid, and orienteering. These critical skills increase campers’ confidence and self-reliance.
Artistic Expression: Through arts and crafts, campers develop their creativity and fine motor skills. The performing arts programs also help improve public speaking and self-presentation abilities.
Environmental Stewardship: By participating in conservation projects and environmental education, campers become aware of sustainability issues and learn how they can contribute to environmental conservation.
Physical Health and Wellness: Regular participation in sports and outdoor activities promotes physical health, teaches the value of regular exercise, and builds lifelong healthy habits.

Camp Marydale is committed to providing a rich, educational, and fun environment where every girl can find activities that excite her curiosity and passion, build essential life skills, and create lasting friendships and memories.

The staff of Girl Scouts Camp Marydale

The staff at Girl Scouts Camp Marydale are key to providing a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for every camper. They maintain a high standard for hiring and training to ensure that all campers receive the best possible care and guidance.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

At Camp Marydale, they adhere to a strict staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and supervision. The ratio is typically 1 staff member for every 8 campers, which allows their staff to closely monitor safety, provide personalized instruction, and foster positive relationships with and among campers.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Recruitment: They seek individuals who are passionate about youth development, outdoor education, and the Girl Scouts mission. Potential staff members are recruited from a variety of sources including colleges, teacher networks, and community organizations.
Background Checks: All potential hires undergo comprehensive background checks to ensure the safety and security of their campers. This includes criminal records checks, references, and past employment verifications.
Qualifications: Staff members are typically required to have previous experience working with children, and educational or professional backgrounds in fields related to education, psychology, recreation, or the arts are highly valued.

Training and Certifications:

General Training: Before the beginning of camp, all staff undergo extensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and effective communication. This training is designed to prepare them for the broad range of situations they might encounter at camp.
Specialized Certifications: All staff members directly involved in outdoor activities and sports are required to have relevant certifications. This includes:
- CPR and First Aid: Essential for all staff, ensuring that they can respond effectively in emergency situations.
- Lifeguard Certification: For staff involved in swimming and water-based activities, ensuring water safety for all campers.
- Wilderness First Aid: For staff leading hiking and other remote outdoor activities, equipping them to handle potential injuries or health issues in wilderness settings.

Ongoing Education:

They also encourage and sometimes require ongoing education and training for their staff throughout their tenure at Camp Marydale. This might include advanced certifications, attendance at workshops on the latest in educational and recreational strategies, and leadership development programs.

The dedication and expertise of the staff at Girl Scouts Camp Marydale ensure a nurturing environment where girls can grow, learn, and have fun safely. They pride themselves on maintaining a team that is not only qualified but also deeply committed to creating a memorable and impactful camp experience.

Safety and Health in Girl Scouts Camp Marydale

At Girl Scouts Camp Marydale, the safety and health of their campers are their top priorities. They have established comprehensive safety protocols and health policies to ensure that every camper enjoys a secure and supportive environment during their stay at camp.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Training: All staff undergo rigorous training in safety protocols, including emergency response procedures, fire safety, water safety, and first aid.
Supervision: Campers are supervised at all times by experienced staff members. Their strict staff-to-camper ratio ensures that supervision is both effective and attentive.
Equipment and Facilities Safety Checks: Regular inspections and maintenance of all camp facilities and equipment are conducted to prevent accidents and ensure that everything is in safe working order.
Emergency Drills: Regularly scheduled drills (fire, weather emergencies, etc.) ensure that both campers and staff are well prepared in the event of an actual emergency.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Camp Marydale is equipped with a well-staffed health center that operates 24 hours a day during camp sessions. The health center is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, typically including a registered nurse (RN) and/or a paramedic.
Medical Supplies and Equipment: The health center is stocked with necessary medical supplies and equipment to handle a wide range of medical situations, from minor injuries to more serious health issues.
Health Forms and Medications: Parents are required to submit comprehensive health forms for each camper prior to their arrival at camp. All medications must be turned in to the health center and are administered by the health staff according to the prescribing physician’s instructions.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Immediate Response: In the event of an emergency, trained staff members are equipped to respond immediately. Protocols are in place for assessing the situation, administering first aid, and contacting emergency services if necessary.
Communication with Families: In any emergency, the camp’s policy is to communicate promptly and effectively with the camper’s family. Contact information is collected at the beginning of each session and is readily accessible.
Evacuation Procedures: Camp Marydale has a detailed evacuation plan in case of fire, severe weather, or other emergencies requiring the camp to be evacuated. This plan includes safe evacuation routes and assembly points, and staff are trained to guide campers to safety efficiently.
Partnerships with Local Authorities: They maintain strong relationships with local emergency services (police, fire department, hospitals) to ensure a quick response time and coordinated efforts during more significant emergencies or health issues.

By maintaining rigorous safety standards and a well-prepared staff, Girl Scouts Camp Marydale ensures a safe, healthy, and enjoyable camping experience for all participants, allowing parents and campers alike to feel secure in the knowledge that safety is their utmost concern.

Cost and Registration in Girl Scouts Camp Marydale

Girl Scouts Camp Marydale is committed to providing an accessible and enriching camping experience for all interested campers. Here’s a detailed look at the cost of attendance, registration procedures, and financial support options available.

Cost of Attendance:

Cost Details: The cost of attending Camp Marydale varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Generally, fees cover all aspects of the camp experience including lodging, meals, activities, supplies, and 24-hour supervision. Prices typically range from $300 to $600 per session.
What’s Included: The fee includes all camp activities, accommodation in cabins or tents, three daily meals, snacks, and any special events or outings scheduled during the camp session. Transportation to and from camp is usually not included unless specifically noted.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Registration Opening: Registration for Camp Marydale usually opens several months in advance of the summer season. Early registration is encouraged as spaces fill up quickly.
How to Register: Parents or guardians can register campers online through the camp’s official website. The registration process involves filling out camper information, health forms, and emergency contact details.
Deadlines: Specific registration deadlines are set each year and are clearly communicated on the camp’s website and promotional materials. It is crucial to register before the deadline to secure a spot.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: Understanding that families have different budgets, Camp Marydale offers flexible payment plans. Families can choose to pay in installments over several months leading up to the camp session.
Refunds: A full or partial refund is typically available if cancellation occurs by a specified date, usually a few weeks before the session begins. Details and specific dates are provided at the time of registration.
Cancellation Policy: In the event of cancellation after the specified deadline, a portion of the camp fee may be retained to cover administrative costs and potentially committed expenses. Exceptions are often made for medical or family emergencies, with documentation required.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Availability: Scholarships and financial aid are available to ensure that the camp is accessible to all girls regardless of financial circumstances. These scholarships can cover the partial or full costs of camp attendance.
Application Process: Interested families need to apply for financial aid during or after the registration process, providing the required documentation to demonstrate financial need.
Eligibility and Distribution: Scholarships are awarded based on financial need, and availability may vary. Priority is typically given to applicants on a first-come, first-served basis, among other criteria.

Camp Marydale is dedicated to making sure that every girl who wishes to participate in their camp has the opportunity to do so, regardless of financial limitations. They encourage families seeking financial assistance to apply early to increase their chances of receiving a scholarship.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Girl Scouts Camp Marydale

Ensuring a successful and enjoyable experience at Girl Scouts Camp Marydale starts with proper preparation for both campers and their parents. Here’s some essential information on what to pack, rules and policies, and helpful tips for first-time campers and their families.

Packing List:

When packing for Camp Marydale, it’s important to include items that are necessary for a comfortable and safe camping experience:

Clothing: Pack weather-appropriate clothing including t-shirts, shorts, long pants, a jacket, and a raincoat. Include a swimsuit, hat, and sturdy shoes suitable for hiking as well as sandals for showers.
Bedding: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, and a pillow.
Toiletries: Include personal hygiene items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Other Essentials: Flashlight, water bottle, and any necessary medications (to be handed over to camp health staff upon arrival).
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a camera (non-smartphone if possible).

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: Camp Marydale encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and fellow campers. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are generally discouraged or required to be handed to camp staff at the beginning of the session.
Visitation: To ensure the safety and structure of the camp program, visitation during sessions is typically restricted. Special visiting days may be organized, and parents will be informed of these opportunities in advance.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules and respect both staff and fellow campers. Rules regarding behavior, safety, and camper interactions are clearly communicated at the beginning of camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

For Campers:
- Be open to new experiences and making new friends.
- Participate actively and try different activities.
- Communicate with camp staff if you’re uncomfortable or need help.
For Parents:
- Discuss what to expect at camp with your child, focusing on the fun and learning opportunities.
- Label all belongings with your child’s name to prevent loss.
- Encourage your child to express any concerns they have about camp and reassure them about the safety measures and the presence of caring staff.
Emotional Preparation: Especially for first-time campers, it’s useful to prepare them for being away from home. Practice overnight stays at friends’ or relatives’ homes to ease the transition to being away at camp.

By following these guidelines and being well-prepared, campers and parents can ensure that the experience at Girl Scouts Camp Marydale is both enjoyable and enriching. Preparing effectively can help alleviate any anxieties and set the stage for a wonderful and memorable summer.

Girl Scouts Camp Marydale offers a unique and enriching experience that goes beyond the typical summer camp. Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of St. Francisville, Louisiana, it provides a perfect setting for girls to explore, learn, and grow. With a diverse array of activities ranging from outdoor adventures to creative arts and environmental education, Camp Marydale nurtures all aspects of personal development in a fun and supportive environment.

The camp’s commitment to safety, comprehensive programming, and inclusive community ensures that every camper feels valued, finds a sense of belonging, and leaves with lifelong memories and skills. Whether it’s their first time at camp or they’re returning for another exciting summer, campers at Marydale are guaranteed an experience filled with adventure, friendship, and the joy of discovery.