Welcome to Camp Adams, a serene retreat nestled in the lush forests of Molalla, Oregon. Situated in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, this camp is surrounded by the natural beauty of towering trees and the tranquil sounds of the Molalla River. Established to provide a nurturing environment away from the bustling city life, Camp Adams has been a haven for young adventurers and nature enthusiasts for decades.

Their mission at Camp Adams is to foster personal growth, community building, and a deep appreciation for nature among all campers. They believe in creating a space where individuals can explore their potential in a supportive, inclusive, and fun environment.

Camp Adams offers a variety of programs tailored for different age groups, including specialized camps for boys and girls. Whether it’s learning survival skills, engaging in arts and crafts, or exploring the surrounding wilderness, Camp Adams provides a comprehensive camping experience that caters to the interests and developmental needs of children and teenagers alike. Here, every camper is encouraged to embrace adventure, make lasting friendships, and build memories that will last a lifetime.

Programs Offered by Camp Adams

Camp Adams offers a wide range of programs designed to cater to various interests and age groups, ensuring that every camper finds something exciting to engage in during their stay. Here’s an overview of the programs and what a typical day looks like at Camp Adams:

Programs Offered

Explorer Camps:
- Age Group: 6-12 years
- Length: One-week sessions
- Focus: General activities including hiking, swimming, and nature crafts.
Adventure Camps:
- Age Group: 13-17 years
- Length: Two-week sessions
- Focus: More challenging activities like advanced hiking, overnight wilderness stays, and survival skills training.
Specialty Programs:
- Arts Camp: Focuses on painting, sculpture, and performance arts.
- Sports Camp: Includes training in soccer, basketball, and archery.
- Science Camp: Features experiments, astronomy nights, and nature conservation projects.
- Length for Specialty Camps: Typically one to two weeks, depending on the focus area.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:00 AM – Wake-Up Call: Start the day with a refreshing morning exercise or a peaceful yoga session.
8:00 AM – Breakfast: Energize with a nutritious meal.
9:00 AM – Morning Activity Block: Campers head to their scheduled activities like arts and crafts, sports, or nature hikes.
12:00 PM – Lunch: A time to refuel and relax with friends.
1:00 PM – Quiet Time: Campers can write letters, read, or rest.
2:00 PM – Afternoon Activity Block: This could include swimming, science projects, or specialty workshops.
5:00 PM – Free Time: Campers choose from a variety of unstructured activities.
6:00 PM – Dinner: Enjoy a hearty meal and share the day’s experiences.
7:00 PM – Evening Program: Evening activities vary daily, ranging from campfires and storytelling to talent shows.
9:00 PM – Cabin Time: Time to wind down and prepare for bed.
10:00 PM – Lights Out: Rest up for another fun-filled day.

Each day at Camp Adams is thoughtfully structured to balance active engagement with ample time for rest and personal reflection, ensuring that every camper has a fulfilling and memorable experience.

Accommodations in Camp Adams

Camp Adams provides comfortable and functional accommodations to ensure that all campers have a pleasant and safe stay. Here are the details regarding the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom and shower facilities at the camp:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers are housed in cozy, rustic cabins that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Each cabin sleeps 8-10 campers and is equipped with bunk beds. Cabins are grouped by age and gender to ensure a comfortable and appropriate living environment.
Tents: For those in adventure camps, there may be opportunities to sleep in tents during specific overnight wilderness excursions. These are typically provided and set up by camp staff, offering a more immersive nature experience.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Adams offers a full meal plan that includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals are served in the communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and socialize.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of nutrition and inclusivity, the camp provides various meal options to cater to different dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any specific allergies. Parents are encouraged to discuss their child’s dietary needs with camp staff during registration to ensure these are met throughout their stay.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Separate bathroom and shower facilities for males and females are centrally located near the cabin areas for easy access. These facilities are well-maintained and cleaned regularly to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Privacy and Accessibility: Each bathroom and shower area is designed to ensure privacy and is equipped with individual stalls and changing areas. Accessibility for campers with disabilities is a priority, with accommodations made to ensure that all campers can use these facilities comfortably and safely.

Camp Adams is committed to providing a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment for all campers, ensuring that their basic needs are met with care and consideration so they can focus on enjoying their camping experience.

Activities in Camp Adams

Camp Adams offers a diverse array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels, along with special events and traditions that enhance the camping experience. Here’s a detailed look at the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Includes hiking, canoeing, archery, and fishing.
Water Activities: Summer camps, swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding.
Creative Arts: Offers crafts like pottery, painting, and woodworking.
Performing Arts: Includes drama, dance, and music workshops.
Sports: Basketball, soccer, volleyball, and ultimate frisbee.
Nature Exploration: Bird watching, nature walks, and star gazing.
Survival Skills: Teaches campfire building, orienteering, and wilderness first aid.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Campfire: A welcoming event where campers gather around a campfire for introductions, songs, and games, setting the tone for the session.
Theme Days: Days where activities are centered around a specific theme, such as “Pirate Day” or “Wild West”, encouraging creative costumes and themed activities.
Camp Olympics: A friendly competition where campers participate in various sports and activities, fostering teamwork and camp spirit.
Talent Show: An evening where campers showcase their talents, whether in music, dance, magic, or comedy, promoting self-expression and confidence.
Closing Ceremony: A tradition to end the session, featuring awards, reflections on camp memories, and the passing of the camp flag to the next session’s leaders.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs that involve mentoring younger campers, planning activities, and leading small groups.
Environmental Education: Programs that focus on teaching campers about local ecosystems, sustainability practices, and conservation efforts.
Arts and Crafts Mastery: Opportunities to advance skills in various artistic disciplines, with guidance from skilled instructors.
Sports Clinics: Specialized coaching in specific sports, helping campers improve their technique, understanding of game rules, and teamwork.
Adventure Skills: Advanced courses in outdoor skills, including rock climbing, backcountry navigation, and safety protocols.

Camp Adams is committed to offering a rich, immersive experience that promotes personal growth, fosters a sense of community, and instills a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors and the arts. Through its varied programs and special traditions, it ensures that every camper finds something to love and learn from during their time at the camp.

The staff of Camp Adams

The staff at Camp Adams is carefully selected and trained to ensure the highest standards of safety, guidance, and fun are upheld during every camp session. Here’s a detailed overview of the staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, staff qualifications, and the training and certifications required:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Ratio: Camp Adams maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and greater supervision. Typically, the ratio is 1 staff member for every 6-8 campers.
Specific Activities: For certain activities that require more intensive supervision or specialized skills, such as swimming or rock climbing, the ratio may be even lower, around 1 staff member for every 4-5 campers.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Staff are recruited from a variety of sources including local universities, teacher recommendations, and through networks of former campers who age into staff roles.
Selection Process: Potential staff members undergo a rigorous selection process that includes multiple interviews, background checks, and reference checks to ensure they are not only skilled but also have the right temperament and dedication to work with children.
Qualifications: Staff typically includes a mix of college students, educators, and professionals in fields related to youth services. Many staff members are pursuing or have completed degrees in education, psychology, recreation management, or related fields.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season starts, all staff undergo intensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, activity planning, and child psychology.
CPR and First Aid: All camp staff are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training such as AED (Automated External Defibrillator) usage is also provided.
Specialized Certifications: For activities that require specific skills, such as lifeguarding at the pool or rock climbing, staff members must hold appropriate certifications from recognized authorities.
Ongoing Education: Throughout the camp season, staff participate in ongoing training sessions to refine their skills and adapt to any new camping guidelines or safety protocols.

Camp Adams is committed to maintaining a staff that is not only highly qualified but also deeply passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of campers. This commitment to excellence ensures a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers.

Safety and Health in Camp Adams

Camp Adams places a high priority on safety and health, ensuring that all campers and staff are well-protected and prepared for any situation. Here’s an outline of the safety protocols, on-site health facilities, and policies for handling emergencies:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: Camp Adams conducts regular safety drills, including fire drills and emergency evacuation procedures, to ensure everyone knows how to act in case of an emergency.
Activity-Specific Safety Protocols: Each activity at Camp Adams follows a set of safety protocols designed to prevent accidents. For instance, all aquatic activities are supervised by certified lifeguards, and equipment for sports and outdoor activities is regularly inspected for safety.
Secure Environment: The camp maintains a secure environment with controlled access to ensure that only authorized staff and campers are on the premises. All visitors are required to check in at the main office and receive a visitor’s badge.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Adams is equipped with a well-staffed health center that operates 24 hours a day during camp sessions. The center is prepared to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is equipped with the necessary medications and medical equipment.
Medical Staff: The health center is staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, including registered nurses (RNs) and/or a part-time visiting doctor. Staff are trained to handle a range of medical situations that might arise in a camp setting.
Medication Management: Camp staff manage and dispense medications according to the physician’s instructions. Parents are required to provide detailed information about any medications, including dosage and administration times, during registration.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Adams has a comprehensive emergency response plan that outlines procedures for handling different types of emergencies, from injuries and illnesses to natural disasters. This plan is reviewed and updated annually.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, the camp has protocols in place for communicating quickly and effectively with all camp staff and, if necessary, parents. The camp also maintains contact with local emergency services to ensure a rapid response time.
Evacuation Routes and Shelters: Clear evacuation routes are established and well-marked throughout the camp, and there are designated shelters for use in case of severe weather or other emergencies.

Camp Adams’ commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy environment is reflected in its thorough preparation and proactive management of safety and health protocols. This commitment ensures that campers can enjoy their activities and time at camp with peace of mind, knowing that their well-being is a top priority.

Cost and Registration in Camp Adams

Camp Adams is dedicated to providing a rewarding and accessible camp experience. Here’s a detailed overview of the cost of attendance, the registration process, payment options, and financial aid availability:

Cost of Attendance

Inclusions: The cost of attending Camp Adams includes all lodging, meals, activities, and equipment used. Additional costs may apply for certain specialty camps or optional excursions that are outside the standard program offerings.
Fee Structure: Fees can vary depending on the length of the camp session and the type of program selected. Typically, one-week sessions might range from $400 to $600, while two-week sessions could be between $800 and $1,200.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children for camp via Camp Adams’ online portal. The registration process includes filling out camper information, health history, and emergency contacts.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months in advance of the camp season, with early registration discounts available. Deadlines for registration are usually set about a month before the start of each session to allow for proper planning and staffing.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Camp Adams offers flexible payment plans that allow parents to spread the cost of camp over several months, making it more manageable. These plans can be arranged through the camp’s registration office.
Refunds and Cancellations: A full refund is generally available if cancellation occurs within a specified period before the camp start date, often around 30 days prior. Cancellations made after this period may result in partial refunds or the application of fees toward a future camp session.
Insurance: Parents are encouraged to consider purchasing camp insurance to cover unexpected cancellations due to illness or other unforeseen circumstances.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Adams offers a number of scholarships each year to families who demonstrate financial need. These scholarships can cover a portion or all of the camp fees.
Financial Aid Application: Interested families must apply for financial aid, typically by submitting an application that includes financial information and a personal statement. The application deadline is usually earlier than the general registration deadline to allow time for processing and award decisions.

Camp Adams strives to ensure that no child is turned away due to financial constraints. The camp’s accessible pricing, flexible payment options, and scholarship opportunities are all aimed at making the camp experience available to as many children as possible.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Adams

Camp Adams ensures that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the camp experience with clear guidelines and helpful tips. Below is an overview of the essential preparation steps including packing lists, rules and policies, and advice for first-time campers and their parents:

Packing List

To ensure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable camp experience, here is a suggested packing list:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing, including rain gear, swimwear, and sturdy footwear for hiking.
Bedding: Sleeping bag, pillow, and an extra blanket for cooler nights.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Personal Items: Water bottle, flashlight or headlamp, and optional items like books or a camera.
Special Gear: Any specific equipment needed for specialty camps, such as musical instruments or sports gear.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To encourage engagement and interaction, Camp Adams typically has a no electronics policy, asking campers to leave devices like smartphones and tablets at home. Emergency contact is facilitated through the camp office.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to minimize disruptions and maintain the camp schedule. All visitors must check in at the camp office upon arrival.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow camp rules, respect others, and participate actively in scheduled activities. Policies regarding discipline and the handling of behavioral issues are clearly communicated to parents at the time of registration.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the fun aspects and the new friends and skills to be gained. Address any anxieties and emphasize the positive.
Communication: Explain how and when you’ll communicate during camp. Many camps allow letters, and explaining this can help ease any separation anxiety.
Practice: For younger campers, consider a trial sleepover at a friend’s or relative’s house to simulate being away from home.
Set Goals: Encourage your camper to set personal goals for camp, like trying a new activity or making a new friend, to give them a sense of purpose and excitement.
Relaxation Techniques: Teach your child some basic relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or visualization, to help them manage any moments of homesickness or anxiety.

By providing detailed preparation guidelines and supportive tips, Camp Adams aims to ensure that both campers and their parents are confident and ready for the upcoming camp experience, making it enjoyable and enriching for everyone involved.

Camp Adams stands out as a premier destination for youth seeking adventure, learning, and personal growth in the scenic heart of Oregon. With its diverse range of activities, dedicated staff, and robust safety protocols, the camp provides a nurturing environment where children can explore their interests, develop new skills, and make lifelong friendships. The commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, evidenced by comprehensive financial aid programs and meticulous preparation guidance, ensures that all campers have the opportunity to enjoy a fulfilling camp experience.

Whether a first-time camper or a seasoned participant, Camp Adams is a place where memories are made and the joys of childhood are celebrated in a safe and engaging setting. For parents and campers alike, choosing Camp Adams means choosing an unforgettable summer packed with fun, learning, and adventure.