Nestled in the heart of East Texas, near the small town of Timpson, Camp Huawni is a treasured retreat that offers a rich, nostalgic summer camp experience. This idyllic setting is surrounded by natural beauty, providing a perfect backdrop for unforgettable childhood adventures.

Founded over fifty years ago, Camp Huawni began as a vision to create a place where children could escape the fast-paced world and enjoy simple, pure fun amidst the beauty of nature. This vision has blossomed into a cherished institution that generations of families have come to love and trust.

At the core of Camp Huawni is a heartfelt mission to “provide an environment where children are loved unconditionally, allowing them to be themselves and discover that they are enough just as they are.” This philosophy drives every activity, interaction, and decision at the camp, ensuring that each camper not only has immense fun but also gains self-esteem, lifelong friendships, and cherished memories.

Camp Huawni is designed to cater to boys and girls aged 5 to 16, offering both separate and coeducational sessions. Each session is carefully crafted to meet the developmental needs and interests of different age groups, providing a safe, joyful, and enriching summer camp experience that children look forward to year after year.

Whether it’s exploring the nearby woods, participating in traditional camp games, or simply enjoying a quiet moment by the campfire, Camp Huawni offers a return to simpler times and a chance to grow in a loving community.

Programs Offered by Camp Huawni

Camp Huawni prides itself on offering a diverse array of programs that cater to the interests and growth of every child. Here’s an overview of what campers can expect during their stay:

Description of the Programs

Camp Huawni offers a wide range of activities designed to engage campers in fun, friendship, and discovery. The programs encompass traditional camp activities such as swimming, archery, and canoeing, as well as creative arts like drama, dance, and crafts. Sports enthusiasts can participate in various athletic activities including soccer, basketball, and volleyball. For those interested in exploring the natural world, environmental education and outdoor survival skills are also a significant part of the curriculum.

Length of Sessions

The flexibility in session length allows families to choose the best fit for their schedule and the camper’s comfort level:

One-Week Sessions: Ideal for younger campers or first-timers who are just getting acquainted with the camp experience.
Two-Week Sessions: These sessions provide a deeper, more immersive experience, allowing for more personal growth and community building.
Full Summer: For the ultimate Camp Huawni experience, campers can stay the entire summer, enjoying a comprehensive program that builds on skills and friendships developed over the weeks.

Specialty Programs

Camp Huawni also offers specialty programs that cater to specific interests:

Arts Program: Campers can explore various forms of artistic expression, from painting and sculpture to performance arts like drama and music.
Sports Clinics: These clinics are designed to improve skills in specific sports, with coaching from experienced instructors.
Science Adventures: This program encourages curiosity and learning about the natural world through hands-on experiments and activities.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Camp Huawni is structured to provide a balance of activity, creativity, and relaxation, ensuring that campers remain engaged and energized throughout their stay. Here’s what a typical day might look like:

7:30 AM – Wake Up
8:00 AM – Flag Raising and Morning Exercise
8:30 AM – Breakfast
9:15 AM – Morning Activities (Rotations among different activities)
12:00 PM – Lunch
1:00 PM – Siesta (Rest period)
2:00 PM – Afternoon Activities
5:00 PM – Free Time
6:00 PM – Dinner
7:00 PM – Evening Program (campfire, talent show, etc.)
9:00 PM – Cabin Time and Reflection
10:00 PM – Lights Out

This schedule is designed to keep campers active and involved, while also giving them plenty of time to relax and reflect on their experiences, ensuring that they have a wholesome and joyful camp experience.

Accommodations in Camp Huawni

Camp Huawni is designed to offer a comfortable, safe, and memorable camping experience. Here’s an overview of the accommodations provided at the camp:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers stay in cozy, well-maintained cabins that blend rustic charm with modern safety features. Each cabin houses a small group of campers, typically with one counselor for every four to six campers, ensuring personalized attention and care. Cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal items, creating a homey and communal living environment.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Huawni prides itself on its nutritious and delicious meal offerings, prepared daily by experienced kitchen staff. The camp provides three well-balanced meals per day, along with healthy snacks to keep campers energized throughout their activities.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to all campers, Camp Huawni is committed to accommodating special dietary needs including allergies, and vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Families are encouraged to communicate any specific dietary requirements during the registration process to ensure that these needs are met throughout the camp session.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Each cabin group has access to modern bathroom and shower facilities, which are strategically located for easy access. The facilities are designed to ensure privacy and cleanliness, with separate areas for boys and girls. Regular maintenance and cleaning are performed multiple times a day to uphold high standards of hygiene.
Environmentally Friendly Practices: In line with its commitment to nature and the outdoors, Camp Huawni incorporates environmentally friendly practices in its bathroom facilities, including water-saving fixtures and the use of biodegradable soaps and cleaning products.

These accommodations are carefully maintained to ensure that every camper’s stay is comfortable, safe, and conducive to an enjoyable and enriching summer experience.

Activities in Camp Huawni

Camp Huawni offers a wide array of activities that cater to the interests and skills of campers of all ages, fostering a fun and enriching environment. Here’s a detailed look at the activities and special opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Swimming, hiking, canoeing, and fishing are staples, utilizing the natural lakes and trails around the camp.
Sports: Summer camps can participate in a variety of sports, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, archery, and tennis.
Creative Arts: Those inclined towards creativity can enjoy crafts, drama, dance, and music sessions, encouraging self-expression and innovation.
Skill-Based Activities: For hands-on learning, there are activities like woodworking, gardening, and cooking classes.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Huawni is rich in tradition and hosts several special events that are eagerly anticipated each year:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These are vibrant events that mark the beginning and end of each camp session, featuring performances, speeches, and a recap of sessions.
Color Wars: A camp-wide competition where campers are divided into teams to compete in various fun and spirited activities, fostering teamwork and camp spirit.
Talent Shows: An opportunity for campers to showcase their unique talents, be it singing, dancing, magic tricks, or any other special skill.
Themed Nights: Regularly scheduled themed nights, such as Western Night or Pirate Night, add a fun and imaginative twist to the evening activities.

Skill Development Opportunities

Camp Huawni not only focuses on fun and games but also emphasizes personal growth and skill development:

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to develop leadership skills through specific programs designed to prepare them for potential future roles as counselors or in other leadership positions.
Environmental Education: Activities that promote environmental awareness and education, like nature walks and conservation projects, help campers understand and appreciate their natural surroundings.
Personal Challenges: Activities like a ropes course or rock climbing encourage campers to set personal goals and overcome challenges, boosting their confidence and resilience.

Overall, Camp Huawni is committed to providing a balanced mix of fun, learning, and personal growth, ensuring that every camper has a fulfilling and memorable experience.

The staff of Camp Huawni

At Camp Huawni, the staff is carefully chosen and trained to ensure that every camper receives attentive, high-quality care and guidance. The camp’s staff is central to creating a safe, nurturing, and fun environment.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Ratio: Camp Huawni maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and superior supervision. Typically, the ratio is one staff member for every four to six campers, which helps foster a close-knit, family-like atmosphere at the camp.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Selection Process: The hiring process at Camp Huawni is rigorous and includes multiple interviews, reference checks, and background screenings. The camp seeks individuals who are not only skilled in various recreational areas but also possess strong moral character and a genuine passion for working with children.
Qualifications: Staff members often come from diverse backgrounds, including education, psychology, sports, and the arts. Many are returning staff who have grown up as campers at Huawni themselves, deeply understanding the camp’s culture and values.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Prior to the arrival of campers, all staff undergo extensive training that covers child development, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and activity leadership. This ensures that every staff member is prepared to provide a safe, enjoyable, and enriching camp experience.
Certifications: All staff members are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additional training is provided for specific activities; for example, those leading canoeing or archery hold relevant certifications, and lifeguards are always certified and trained in water safety.
Ongoing Development: Throughout the camp season, staff receive ongoing training and feedback to continually enhance their skills and address any emerging needs or situations at the camp.

The comprehensive approach to staff training and development at Camp Huawni ensures that all campers are in safe, capable hands, allowing them to thrive in a supportive and fun-filled environment.

Safety and Health in Camp Huawni

Camp Huawni is dedicated to ensuring the highest standards of safety and health for all campers and staff. The camp has developed thorough protocols and maintains equipped facilities to manage health and safety efficiently.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: The camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures in various emergency situations.
Activity-Specific Safety Measures: Each activity at camp is guided by specific safety protocols. Equipment is regularly inspected, and activities are supervised by staff trained in the relevant skills, whether it’s archery, swimming, or any other activity.
Secure Environment: The camp is designed to be a secure environment with controlled access, ensuring that only authorized personnel and campers are on the premises. Staff are trained to be vigilant and to ensure that all campers are accounted for at all times.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Huawni is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by qualified medical professionals, including nurses and, at times, a visiting doctor. The health center is prepared to handle routine health care needs as well as minor emergencies.
Medical Readiness: The health center is stocked with the necessary medical supplies and equipment to address a wide range of health issues. This includes first aid kits, emergency medication, and tools for basic diagnostic procedures.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Action Plans: The camp has detailed action plans for various types of emergencies, from individual health issues to larger-scale incidents. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to new challenges or changes in guidelines.
Communication: In case of an emergency, there are clear protocols for communication within the camp and with external emergency services. Parents are promptly informed according to the nature of the emergency and the established communication policies.
Training and Collaboration: All staff participate in training sessions on emergency procedures and collaborate closely with local emergency services to ensure a coordinated response when necessary.

By maintaining rigorous safety protocols, comprehensive health facilities, and clear policies for emergency situations, Camp Huawni ensures a safe and healthy environment where campers can enjoy their activities with peace of mind.

Cost and Registration in Camp Huawni

Camp Huawni aims to provide a transparent and straightforward registration process, with clear information on costs, payment options, and financial aid availability to ensure all families can plan effectively for their child’s camp experience.

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes

Cost: The cost of attending Camp Huawni varies depending on the length of the session chosen. Prices typically cover all aspects of the camp experience, including lodging, meals, activities, equipment, and 24-hour supervision by trained staff.
Included Services: The fee includes participation in all regular camp activities, daily meals and snacks, medical services at the on-site health center, and a camp t-shirt. Additional costs might apply for special events or optional activities that require extra fees.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Registration for Camp Huawni is conveniently handled online. Prospective campers can fill out an application form, select session dates, and submit required documents all in one place.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged as some sessions may fill up quickly. Families are advised to check these dates to ensure they secure a spot.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: To accommodate different financial situations, Camp Huawni offers flexible payment plans. Families can choose to pay in installments leading up to the start of the chosen session.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp has a clear refund policy. A deposit is required at the time of registration, which is typically non-refundable. Full or partial refunds of the remaining fees depend on the timing of the cancellation relative to the start date of the session.
Cancellation Policy: Detailed information on cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances like illness or family emergencies is available, ensuring families understand their options.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Huawni offers scholarships to help reduce the financial burden on families. These scholarships are awarded based on need and merit, and the application process involves submitting a detailed application with supporting documents.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, the camp may offer other forms of financial aid or discounts, such as early bird registration discounts or multiple sibling discounts.

Camp Huawni is committed to making its transformative summer experience accessible and enjoyable, ensuring that finances do not hinder a child’s opportunity to enjoy a memorable and enriching summer.

The summer camp fees at Camp Huawni in Timpson TX depend on the specific program and session chosen.

Age Groups: Camp Huawni offers programs for campers from 1st to 11th grade. However, availability for girls and boys may vary depending on the session.
Sessions and Costs:
- Starter 1: $1,695
- Main 1: $3,695
- Main 2: $3,695
- Main 3: $3,695
- Starter 2: $1,495

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Huawni

To ensure that both parents and campers are well-prepared for their Camp Huawni experience, here is a comprehensive guide covering the packing list, rules and policies, and some helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

Essentials:

Clothing for warm and cool weather (t-shirts, shorts, pants, jackets)
Undergarments and socks
Swimwear
Comfortable footwear (sneakers, sandals, hiking boots)
Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
Bedding (sleeping bag or sheets and blankets for a twin bed)
Pillow
Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, etc.)
Towels (for both swimming and showering)
Insect repellent and sunscreen
Water bottle

Optional Items:

Flashlight or headlamp
Camera (non-smartphone)
Books or magazines
Stationery and stamps for sending letters

Items to Leave at Home:

All electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, laptops)
Expensive jewelry or watches
Excessive cash

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Huawni has a no-technology policy to encourage campers to engage fully with their surroundings and peers. All electronic devices should be left at home to help foster a more immersive camp experience.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to respect the visitation policies, which are designed to allow campers to adjust fully to camp life. Specific visiting days are scheduled during longer sessions, and details are provided before the camp session begins.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for others, positive behavior, and participation in camp activities are expected from all campers. Rules and consequences for not adhering to these expectations are clearly communicated to campers and parents beforehand.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:

Stay Open and Positive: Embrace the new experiences and opportunities that come your way.
Be Ready to Make New Friends: Camp is a great place to meet new people and build lasting friendships.
Participate Fully: Try to participate in as many activities as you can, even those that might be outside of your comfort zone.

For Parents:

Communicate Any Concerns Beforehand: If your child has specific needs or concerns, communicate these with the camp staff before the session starts.
Prepare for Homesickness: Talk to your child about homesickness and how it is a normal part of being away from home. Discuss strategies to cope with these feelings.
Stay Informed: Make use of the camp’s communication channels, which may include emails, newsletters, or a camp blog, to stay updated on your child’s experience.

By following these guidelines and preparations, first-time campers and their parents can ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and memorable camp experience at Camp Huawni.

Camp Huawni, with its rich history and commitment to fostering a nurturing environment, remains a beloved destination for children seeking a traditional summer camp experience. Nestled in the scenic surroundings of East Texas, the camp offers a diverse array of activities designed to promote fun, friendship, and personal growth. From swimming and hiking to arts and crafts, each activity is thoughtfully curated to ensure that every camper enjoys a fulfilling and enriching summer.

The dedicated staff at Camp Huawni ensures a high standard of care and safety, maintaining an optimal staff-to-camper ratio and adhering to rigorous training and certification standards. This commitment extends to providing comprehensive support and guidance to both campers and their parents, preparing them thoroughly for the camp experience with detailed packing lists, clear rules, and helpful tips.