Nestled in the lush surroundings of Fair Play, South Carolina, Wilderness Way Girls Camp stands as a beacon of growth and learning for young women. Situated in a region known for its breathtaking natural beauty, this camp is easily identifiable by its proximity to the serene Lake Hartwell. Founded with a deep commitment to fostering independence and resilience, Wilderness Way has enriched the lives of numerous girls through its comprehensive outdoor programs.

The camp’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that challenging outdoor activities, coupled with supportive mentorship and a community-oriented environment, can profoundly impact a girl’s development. This belief is encapsulated in the camp’s mission statement: “To empower young women through wilderness education and adventure.”

Wilderness Way is specifically designed for girls, offering a range of activities tailored to various age groups. The camp provides a safe, nurturing space where girls can explore their capabilities, develop leadership skills, and build lasting friendships. Through its dedicated approach, Wilderness Way continues to be a place where girls can truly flourish.

Programs Offered by Wilderness Way Girls Camp

Wilderness Way Girls Camp offers a variety of programs that cater to the interests and developmental needs of young girls, ensuring a rich and engaging summer experience. Here’s an overview of the programs and the typical daily schedule:

Programs Offered

Adventure Program: Focused on outdoor skills and wilderness survival, this program includes activities like hiking, canoeing, and orienteering. Sessions typically last two weeks, immersing campers in nature and teaching them essential outdoor survival skills.
Leadership Development: Designed for older campers, this program aims to develop leadership qualities through team-building exercises and leadership challenges. It runs for three weeks and includes mentorship from experienced camp leaders.
Environmental Education: This program spans one week and integrates science with practical outdoor activities. It’s designed to foster a deep appreciation and understanding of the natural world through hands-on environmental studies.
Arts and Crafts: Encouraging creativity, this session includes activities like pottery, painting, and crafting with natural materials. It’s a one-week session that allows girls to explore their artistic talents in a natural setting.
Water Sports Program: Taking full advantage of Lake Hartwell, this program includes swimming, canoeing, and basic sailing. Sessions last two weeks and are perfect for girls who love water activities.

Specialty Programs

Equestrian Program: For those interested in horseback riding, this specialty program teaches riding skills, horse care, and equestrian safety. The program runs for two weeks.
Science Explorers: This program focuses on different areas of science, from biology to astronomy, encouraging inquiry-based learning and curiosity. This one-week session includes experiments and science-related activities.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:00 AM: Wake up and morning jog
7:30 AM: Breakfast
8:30 AM: Morning session (activity specific to the program)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time/rest
2:00 PM: Afternoon session (continuation of morning activities or new activity)
5:00 PM: Free time / Optional activities
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfire, storytelling, night hikes)
9:00 PM: Lights out

Each day at Wilderness Way Girls Camp is structured to provide a balance of scheduled activities and free time, allowing campers to explore their interests while gaining new skills in a supportive environment. The aim is to create a memorable and transformative summer experience for each camper.

Accommodations in Wilderness Way Girls Camp

Wilderness Way Girls Camp provides comfortable and rustic accommodations designed to enhance the camping experience while ensuring safety and comfort for all campers.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers stay in wooden cabins that blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural environment. Each cabin houses 8-10 campers and is equipped with bunk beds, windows for natural light, and storage space for personal items. The cabins are strategically placed to foster a sense of community and easy access to camp facilities.
Tents: For specific programs that involve overnight wilderness trips, campers will have the opportunity to sleep in tents. This allows them to fully immerse in the outdoor experience, learning how to set up tents and live sustainably in nature.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: The camp provides three well-balanced meals per day, prepared by experienced camp chefs. Meals are served in the communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and share their day’s experiences. The dining hall is a central part of camp life, designed to promote camaraderie and community among campers.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, Wilderness Way offers vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive options. Parents can specify their child’s dietary requirements during registration, ensuring that every camper receives nutritious and accommodating meals throughout their stay.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathrooms: Separate bathroom facilities for campers and staff are located centrally for easy access from all cabins. The bathrooms are equipped with flush toilets and sinks and are maintained multiple times a day to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
Shower Facilities: Shower facilities are located in a separate building near the cabins. These facilities include private shower stalls with changing areas to ensure privacy and comfort. Hot water is available, and the use of biodegradable soaps is encouraged to protect the local environment.

The accommodations at Wilderness Way Girls Camp are thoughtfully designed to ensure that while campers are living in a rustic setting, they still enjoy the comforts and conveniences necessary for a pleasant stay. This setup not only supports the camp’s mission of fostering independence and resilience but also ensures that campers feel secure and cared for throughout their adventure.

Activities in Wilderness Way Girls Camp

Wilderness Way Girls Camp offers a diverse array of activities designed to engage campers in both fun and educational experiences, fostering personal growth and skill development. Here’s a detailed look at the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Summer camps can enjoy swimming in the pristine waters of Lake Hartwell, with activities ranging from leisurely swims to structured water games.
Hiking: Exploring the trails surrounding the camp, girls learn about local flora and fauna while developing their navigation and wilderness survival skills.
Crafts: A variety of crafting activities such as pottery, jewelry making, and painting allow campers to express their creativity using natural and recycled materials.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Paddling on the lake not only is great exercise but also helps campers develop teamwork and paddling skills.
Archery: Campers learn archery techniques, focusing on safety, precision, and patience.
Ropes Course: Includes both low and high elements, promoting team-building, confidence, and problem-solving skills.
Environmental Education Workshops: These workshops cover topics like conservation, wildlife biology, and sustainable living practices.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings include storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and tradition.
End-of-Camp Banquet: A formal dinner at the end of each session where achievements are celebrated, and campers can share their experiences and highlights.
Spirit Days: Themed days where campers and staff dress up and participate in special activities, promoting camp spirit and unity.
Parent Visit Days: Days when families are invited to visit the camp, observe activities, and participate in special programs designed to show the skills their children have learned.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs, where they mentor younger girls, lead activities, and manage small projects.
Survival Skills Workshops: These include fire-building, shelter-making, and orienteering, equipping campers with critical outdoor survival skills.
Artistic Skills: Through various arts and crafts activities, campers enhance their artistic abilities and learn new crafts.
Physical Fitness: Through swimming, hiking, and sports, campers improve their physical health and endurance.

Wilderness Way Girls Camp provides a comprehensive environment where girls can explore interests, develop skills, and build lasting friendships, all within a supportive and enriching community. The blend of activities, traditions, and skill development opportunities ensures that each camper leaves with not only memories but also valuable life skills.

The staff of Wilderness Way Girls Camp

Wilderness Way Girls Camp prioritizes a safe, supportive, and educational environment, which is largely facilitated by a highly qualified and dedicated staff. The camp maintains an optimal staff-to-camper ratio and ensures that all staff members are well-trained and equipped to handle any situation that may arise during the camp sessions.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Ratio: Wilderness Way maintains a staff-to-camper ratio of 1:6, ensuring that every camper receives personalized attention and support.
Specialized Activities: For activities requiring more intensive instruction or safety measures, such as swimming or climbing, the ratio is often lower, around 1:4, to ensure enhanced supervision and safety.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: The camp recruits staff from a variety of sources, including university job boards, camping professional networks, and through referrals from trusted educational and recreational leaders.
Qualifications: Candidates must have prior experience in youth programs, education, or a related field. For specialized roles, such as lifeguarding or equestrian instruction, specific skills and experience are required.
Background Checks: All potential hires undergo thorough background checks, including criminal history and references, to ensure the safety and well-being of campers.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Before the commencement of the camp, all staff members participate in an extensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and conflict resolution.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training in Advanced First Aid is provided for those involved in wilderness trips and high-adventure activities.
Specialized Certifications: Depending on their roles, staff may also hold certifications such as Lifeguarding, Wilderness First Responder, or specific sports coaching certifications.

Continuous Education

Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, staff participate in ongoing training sessions to review procedures and introduce new safety protocols.
Professional Development: Wilderness Way encourages staff development through workshops and seminars that enhance their skills and knowledge in areas relevant to their roles, such as child development, environmental education, and leadership.

The comprehensive approach to staff recruitment, training, and development at Wilderness Way Girls Camp ensures that all campers enjoy a safe, educational, and enjoyable camping experience. This dedication to quality staffing helps to uphold the camp’s mission of empowering young women through wilderness education and adventure.

Safety and Health in Wilderness Way Girls Camp

Wilderness Way Girls Camp places a high priority on the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing rigorous protocols and maintaining well-equipped health facilities to ensure a secure environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: The camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure that campers and staff are familiar with emergency procedures.
Activity-Specific Protocols: Each activity offered at the camp has tailored safety protocols, which are strictly enforced. These include gear checks, safety briefings, and constant supervision by trained staff.
Secure Environment: The camp is secured with appropriate fencing and controlled access points to prevent unauthorized entry and to ensure the safety of all campers and staff.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Wilderness Way features a fully equipped health center staffed by a licensed nurse available 24/7 during camp sessions. The health center is capable of treating minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with necessary medical supplies.
Health Checks: Upon arrival, each camper undergoes a health check to identify any existing conditions or allergies, which helps in customizing care if needed. Regular health checks are also conducted as needed throughout their stay.
Partnerships with Local Hospitals: For more serious injuries or illnesses, the camp has arrangements with nearby hospitals to ensure quick transportation and professional care.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Action Plans: The camp has detailed emergency action plans for various scenarios, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical situations. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication Protocols: In the event of an emergency, there are clear communication protocols in place to inform parents, guardians, and relevant authorities promptly and effectively. The camp also uses a secure system to keep parents updated about the camp’s status and their child’s well-being.
Training in Emergency Response: All staff members receive training in emergency response and crisis management, ensuring they are prepared to act swiftly and efficiently in any situation.

By maintaining stringent safety protocols, a well-equipped on-site health facility, and clear policies for emergency situations, Wilderness Way Girls Camp ensures a safe and healthy environment where campers can enjoy their activities with peace of mind. These measures reflect the camp’s commitment to the well-being of every participant, supporting their mission to provide a transformative and enriching outdoor experience for young girls.

Cost and Registration in Wilderness Way Girls Camp

Wilderness Way Girls Camp aims to provide an accessible and enriching experience for all attendees, offering structured costs, a straightforward registration process, and options for financial assistance. Here’s a detailed overview:

Cost of Attendance

Basic Cost: The cost of attending Wilderness Way Girls Camp typically includes lodging, all meals, activities, and any program materials needed. Costs can vary depending on the length of the session and the type of program chosen, but a standard two-week session might range from $1,200 to $1,500.
What It Includes: The fee covers full accommodation in cabins or tents, three daily meals, all scheduled activities, 24/7 supervision, and access to health care services on-site.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children, where they will fill out necessary forms, choose sessions, and submit medical information.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months in advance of the camp season and remains open until all spots are filled. Early registration is encouraged as spaces are limited and some sessions fill up quickly.
Confirmation and Pre-Camp Information: Once registration is completed and payment is received, families are sent a confirmation packet that includes a packing list, detailed program information, and a schedule of events for the session.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: The camp offers flexible payment plans that allow families to spread the cost over several months leading up to the summer. These plans can be customized during the registration process.
Refunds and Cancellation: A full refund is typically available if cancellation occurs within a specified period before the camp starts, often around 30 days prior. After this period, partial refunds may be available, except in cases of medical emergencies where more lenient considerations are applied.
Cancellation Insurance: Families are also offered the option to purchase cancellation insurance to cover potential losses due to unexpected cancellations.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Wilderness Way Girls Camp offers a number of scholarships each year to families in need. These scholarships can cover part or all of the camp fees.
Application for Financial Aid: Financial aid applications are available during the registration process. These applications require documentation of financial need and a written statement. Decisions on aid are typically made well in advance of the camp season to allow families adequate preparation time.
Community Sponsorships: In some cases, local businesses or community organizations partner with the camp to sponsor additional scholarships, broadening the opportunities for financial assistance.

Wilderness Way Girls Camp is committed to making its programs available to as many young girls as possible, understanding that the camp experience can be pivotal in a child’s growth and development. The camp’s comprehensive financial aid and flexible payment options ensure that financial constraints do not hinder potential campers from participating in this enriching experience.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Wilderness Way Girls Camp

Preparing for a stay at Wilderness Way Girls Camp involves careful planning and understanding of the camp’s rules and expectations. Here’s a guide to help parents and first-time campers get ready for an enriching camping experience:

Packing List

To ensure campers have everything they need, the following items are typically recommended:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate attire including T-shirts, shorts, long pants, a jacket, and a raincoat. Include a swimsuit, hat, and sturdy footwear (hiking boots and sandals).
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Personal Items: Towels, toiletries, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.
Special Gear: Depending on the activities chosen, specific items like a flashlight, batteries, or a camera (non-smartphone) might be needed.
Medications: Clearly labeled and with instructions.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement with the camp experience and nature, personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are typically not allowed. Cameras that are not part of a phone may be permitted to capture memories.
Visitation: Parents are usually welcome to visit on designated days, which are communicated ahead of time. Outside these times, visits are discouraged to maintain the camp schedule and dynamics.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for others, positive participation in activities, and adherence to safety rules are fundamental. Bullying, possession of prohibited items, or other serious rule violations can result in a camper being sent home.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Emotional Preparation: Discuss what the camp will be like focusing on the exciting opportunities and adventures. Address any anxieties and assure them of the safety measures and fun environment.
Practice Camp Skills: If possible, practice skills like packing a backpack, making a bed or setting up a tent.
Set Communication Expectations: Explain the communication policy of the camp, including how often and through what means they can expect updates.
Involve Your Child in Packing: This helps them know what they have with them and fosters independence.

For Parents

Stay Positive: Your enthusiasm about the camp experience can greatly influence your child’s outlook.
Understand the Camp’s Philosophy and Policies: Familiarize yourself with the camp’s values and operational guidelines. This will help you align your expectations and support your child’s camp experience.
Prepare for Homesickness: Even if your child is excited, prepare them for potential homesickness. Discuss strategies like writing letters home or talking to counselors.

Preparing well for Wilderness Way Girls Camp not only helps ensure that campers have a smooth and enjoyable experience but also eases any anxieties parents might have about their child’s time away. This preparation allows both campers and parents to focus on the growth and fun that the camp promises.

Wilderness Way Girls Camp offers a vibrant and enriching environment where young girls can thrive and explore their potential. Nestled in the picturesque settings of Fair Play, South Carolina, the camp provides a perfect backdrop for adventure, learning, and personal growth. With a broad range of activities tailored to different interests and age groups, campers are encouraged to develop new skills, forge lasting friendships, and build confidence in their abilities.

The camp’s commitment to safety, health, and comprehensive camper support ensures a nurturing atmosphere where parents can feel secure about their children’s well-being. From the detailed preparation guides for parents and first-time campers to the thoughtful accommodation of dietary needs and health care, every aspect of Wilderness Way is designed to create a positive and memorable experience.