Nestled in the picturesque town of Dumfries, Virginia, Camp Under the Stars offers a tranquil escape for young adventurers seeking a connection with nature and each other. This camp, established with the vision of creating a community where young people can explore the outdoors, lies in the heart of Virginia’s lush landscapes, not far from the historic Potomac River. The region’s rich history and natural beauty provide the perfect backdrop for the camp’s activities.

From its inception, Camp Under the Stars has been driven by a philosophy centered on fostering independence, camaraderie, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. The camp’s mission is to empower young individuals by providing them with a safe, supportive environment where they can learn, grow, and create lasting memories under the open sky.

Catering to boys and girls across various age groups, Camp Under the Stars offers a range of programs designed to accommodate different interests and developmental stages. This inclusivity ensures that every camper finds something that excites and challenges them, from wilderness explorations to creative arts and communal activities.

Programs Offered by Camp Under the Stars

Camp Under the Stars in Dumfries, VA, offers a diverse array of programs tailored to inspire and engage campers of various interests and ages. Here’s an overview of the key programs and what a typical day looks like at the camp:

Programs Offered

Adventure Programs: Focused on outdoor skills and exploration, these sessions include activities like hiking, canoeing, and orienteering. They are designed to teach survival skills and foster a connection with nature.
Creative Arts: These programs encourage self-expression through arts and crafts, drama, music, and dance. They allow campers to explore their creative sides in a supportive environment.
Sports and Recreation: From traditional sports like soccer and basketball to unique offerings like archery and rock climbing, these sessions focus on physical fitness, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Science and Discovery: Geared towards curious minds, these programs involve hands-on experiments, environmental science projects, and STEM activities that make learning fun and engaging.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: Ideal for younger campers or first-timers, providing a taste of camp life without a long commitment.
Two-Week Sessions: These allow for deeper exploration of activities and more profound bonding with fellow campers.
Full Summer Options: Extended sessions for a comprehensive experience, where campers can fully immerse themselves in various activities and personal development.

Specialty Programs

Leadership Training: For older campers, these sessions focus on developing leadership skills through advanced camp responsibilities and mentoring younger campers.
Environmental Stewardship: Campers engage in activities that promote sustainability and conservation, learning about local ecosystems and how to protect them.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercises
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activity session (campers split into groups based on their program)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time/rest period
2:00 PM: Afternoon activity session
5:00 PM: Free time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfire, storytelling, group games)
9:00 PM: Wind-down time
10:00 PM: Lights out

Each day at Camp Under the Stars is structured to provide a balance of activity, learning, and free time, ensuring that all campers have an enriching and memorable experience.

Accommodations in Camp Under the Stars

At Camp Under the Stars in Dumfries, VA, the accommodations are thoughtfully designed to enhance the camping experience while providing comfort and safety. Here’s a detailed look at the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities available to campers:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The camp features rustic yet comfortable cabins that house campers in small groups, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and windows for natural light and ventilation.
Tents: For those seeking a more traditional camping experience, there are designated tent areas where campers can sleep under the stars. These are typically used during specific adventure programs or special camp nights to give campers a true outdoors experience.
Dormitory Style: For larger groups or specific programs, dormitory-style accommodations are available, featuring larger communal sleeping areas with bunk beds and shared facilities.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Under the Stars offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, prepared by experienced kitchen staff. Meals are served in a communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and share their day’s experiences.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, the camp provides options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly meals. Parents can discuss specific dietary requirements with camp staff during registration to ensure their child’s needs are met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Central Bathhouses: The camp is equipped with several centrally located bathhouses that serve the cabin and tent areas. These facilities are separated by gender and include multiple showers, sinks, and toilets to accommodate the needs of all campers efficiently.
Ensuite Facilities in Dorms: In the dormitory-style accommodations, bathrooms, and showers are available within the building, providing easy access for those staying in these areas.

Camp Under the Stars emphasizes the importance of cleanliness and convenience, ensuring that all facilities are well-maintained and regularly cleaned. This attention to detail in accommodations allows campers to focus on their activities and adventures in comfort and safety.

Activities in Camp Under the Stars

Camp Under the Stars in Dumfries, VA, provides a wide range of activities that cater to different interests and skill levels, fostering both personal growth and enjoyment. Below are the key activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available to campers:

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Supervised swimming sessions in the camp’s pool, focusing on safety and fun.
Hiking: Guided hikes along scenic trails in and around the campsite, suitable for different fitness levels.
Crafts: A variety of arts and crafts workshops where campers can create projects using different materials and techniques.
Archery: Instruction and practice in archery, emphasizing safety and skill.
Canoeing: Water-based activities on the nearby river, including canoeing and kayaking under expert supervision.
Rock Climbing: Both natural and artificial rock climbing experiences are designed to challenge campers.
Nature Workshops: Educational sessions about local flora and fauna, conservation, and environmental stewardship.
Sports: A range of team sports including soccer, basketball, and volleyball.
Theater and Performance Arts: Opportunities for campers to act, dance, and perform, culminating in performances for fellow campers.
Cooking Workshops: Sessions where campers can learn basic cooking skills and prepare simple dishes.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Regular evenings spent around a campfire with storytelling, songs, and marshmallow roasting.
Color Wars: A camp-wide, multi-day event featuring teams competing in various sports and challenges.
Talent Shows: Summer camps showcase their talents and skills in a supportive, fun environment.
End-of-Summer Carnival: A festive event with games, food, and activities to celebrate the end of the camp season.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Programs designed for older campers to develop leadership skills through activities that involve responsibility, like leading a team or organizing an event.
Environmental Education: Focused activities that teach campers about sustainability, wildlife, and conservation practices.
Artistic Expression: Encouragement and support for developing skills in various arts, from painting and sculpture to music and drama.
Physical Fitness: Emphasis on personal fitness and healthy lifestyles through sports and outdoor activities.
Social Skills Development: Group activities and communal living settings help enhance interpersonal and communication skills.

Camp Under the Stars aims to provide a balanced mix of fun, learning, and growth, ensuring that each camper not only enjoys their time but also gains valuable skills and experiences that they can carry with them long after the summer ends.

The staff of Camp Under the Stars

The staff at Camp Under the Stars in Dumfries, VA, play a crucial role in ensuring that campers have a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience. Here’s an overview of the staff-to-camper ratio, the hiring process, qualifications, and the training that staff members undergo:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Under the Stars maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and a high level of supervision. Typically, the ratio is about 1 staff member for every 8 campers, which allows staff to effectively monitor, engage, and interact with each camper, providing a safe and supportive environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: The camp recruits staff from a variety of sources, including colleges, teacher networks, and referrals from educational professionals. Priority is given to candidates with prior experience in camping, education, or child development.
Background Checks: All potential staff members undergo thorough background checks, including criminal records and references, to ensure the safety and integrity of the camp environment.
Interviews: Candidates go through a rigorous interview process that assesses their skills, experience, and suitability for working in a dynamic camp setting. This includes scenario-based questions to evaluate their problem-solving and interpersonal skills.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Certifications: All staff members are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additional training in lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, or specific sports and activities certifications are required for staff involved in particular programs.
Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff participate in an extensive training program that covers camp policies, child psychology, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and specific training for their assigned activities.
Ongoing Development: Throughout the camp season, staff receive ongoing support and training, including weekly meetings to discuss camper progress, share experiences, and refine approaches to camp management and child engagement.

Specialized Staff Roles

Activity Specialists: For specific activities like swimming, rock climbing, or arts, specialists with relevant skills and certifications are hired to ensure expert guidance for campers.
Counselors: These are often college students or young adults who have a passion for working with children. They are trained to provide not only supervision but also mentorship, ensuring each camper’s social and emotional needs are met.

Camp Under the Stars is committed to maintaining a highly qualified and dedicated staff, ensuring that all campers enjoy a safe, nurturing, and enriching camp experience. The investment in quality staff training and development reflects the camp’s commitment to excellence and safety.

Safety and Health in Camp Under the Stars

Camp Under the Stars in Dumfries, VA, prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing comprehensive safety protocols and maintaining well-equipped health facilities. Here’s how the camp ensures a secure and responsive environment:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Safety Training: All staff members undergo rigorous safety training, which includes emergency response drills, hazard recognition, and the proper use of safety equipment.
Activity-Specific Safety Rules: Each activity at the camp has tailored safety guidelines, which are rigorously enforced. For example, there are specific protocols for water activities, climbing, and any off-site excursions.
Regular Inspections: Equipment and facilities are regularly inspected to ensure they are in safe working condition. This includes sporting equipment, play structures, and transportation vehicles.
Supervision: Constant supervision is maintained in all areas of the camp, especially in high-risk activities like swimming and climbing. The low staff-to-camper ratio ensures that supervision is effective and personalized.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: The camp maintains a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and/or a visiting doctor. The center is prepared to handle a range of medical issues from minor injuries to more serious conditions.
Medication Management: The health center staff manages and administers all camper medications according to physician instructions. Parents are required to provide detailed health and medication information before camp begins.
Accessibility: The health center is accessible 24 hours a day, and all camp staff have radios or phones to communicate instantly with health center personnel in case of an emergency.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Action Plans: The camp has detailed action plans for a variety of emergencies, including severe weather, fire, injury, and other critical situations. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated.
Training in Emergency Procedures: During pre-camp training, all staff members learn how to execute emergency action plans. Drills are conducted at the start of the camp season and intermittently to ensure readiness.
Communication with Parents: In the event of an emergency involving their child, parents are notified immediately according to the contact preferences they have provided. The camp also has protocols for broader communication needs, such as informing all parents of a situation affecting the campsite or community.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: The camp maintains strong relationships with local emergency services, including fire, police, and hospitals, to ensure quick response times and coordinated efforts during emergencies.

Camp Under the Stars takes a proactive and prepared approach to health and safety, incorporating ongoing education, clear protocols, and quick-response systems to ensure that every camper and staff member can enjoy a safe, healthy, and fun camping experience.

Cost and Registration in Camp Under the Stars

Camp Under the Stars in Dumfries, VA, offers a structured and transparent registration process, clear pricing, and various financial options to make the camp experience accessible and manageable for families. Here’s a detailed guide to the cost, registration, and financial support options available:

Cost of Attendance: The base cost for a 2-week session at Camp Under the Stars is $1,800. This includes:

Lodging in our rustic cabins
All meals and snacks
Activity supplies and equipment use
Trained counselor supervision
Camp t-shirt and water bottle

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Families can register their campers through an online. The process includes filling out camper details, and health information, and selecting session dates and programs.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot, as some sessions fill up quickly. The camp typically sets registration deadlines a few months before the start of the season. Early registration often comes with a discount, incentivizing early decision-making.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding that families have different financial capabilities, Camp Under the Stars offers structured payment plans. These plans allow families to pay for camp in installments leading up to the session start date.
Refunds: The camp has a clear refund policy. If cancellation occurs by a certain date, a full or partial refund is available, minus a non-refundable deposit. The specifics of the refund percentage and cut-off dates for cancellations are clearly outlined during registration.
Cancellation Policy: In case the camp needs to cancel a session due to unforeseen circumstances such as extreme weather or other emergencies, families are typically offered the choice between a full refund or credit for future sessions.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Under the Stars offers a scholarship program to assist families in need. Scholarships may cover part or all of the camp fees based on the financial situation of the applicant.
Financial Aid Application: Families interested in financial aid can apply through a separate application process, which requires documentation of income and a written statement of need.
Community Partnerships: The camp often partners with community organizations to provide sponsored camp placements for children who might otherwise not have the opportunity to attend.

By providing detailed information on costs, offering flexible payment options, and ensuring access through scholarships, Camp Under the Stars aims to be accessible to a broad range of families, encouraging a diverse group of campers to experience the joys and learning opportunities of summer camp.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Under the Stars

Camp Under the Stars in Dumfries, VA, provides comprehensive guidance to ensure both parents and campers are well-prepared for the camp experience. Here’s an overview of the essentials for packing, understanding camp rules and policies, and tips to help first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing including T-shirts, shorts, long pants, and a jacket. Include a raincoat or poncho for wet days and a swimsuit for water activities. It’s also wise to pack a hat and sturdy shoes for hiking as well as flip-flops for showers.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or bed linens and a pillow, depending on the type of accommodation.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small first aid kit.
Equipment: Flashlight or headlamp, water bottle, and any specific gear related to their chosen activities (though most specialized equipment is provided by the camp).
Optional Items: Books, disposable cameras (if digital devices are restricted), and writing materials to send letters home.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, Camp Under the Stars generally discourages the use of personal electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, or laptops. If allowed, usage is typically limited to specific times.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to minimize disruptions and homesickness. All visitors must check in at the camp office upon arrival.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules, show respect to staff and fellow campers, and participate actively in scheduled activities.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Engage Fully: Try to participate in as many activities as possible to gain the full experience.
- Be Open to Making New Friends: Camp is a great place to meet new people and develop lasting friendships.
- Communicate: If you’re feeling homesick or have any concerns, talk to your counselor. They’re there to help!
For Parents:
- Stay Positive: Your enthusiasm about the camp experience will help your child feel excited and less anxious.
- Pack Together: Help your child pack so they know where their belongings are and feel a part of the preparation process.
- Set Expectations: Discuss what camp will be like, focusing on the fun aspects but also preparing them for the realities of camp life, like sharing space with others.
- Write Letters: Sending mail can be a great way to stay connected and encourage your camper.

By following these guidelines, first-time campers and their parents can feel more confident and prepared, ensuring a smooth transition to camp life and a successful summer experience at Camp Under the Stars.

Camp Under the Stars in Dumfries, VA, offers an enriching and transformative experience for young campers, blending adventure, creativity, and personal growth in a supportive and scenic environment. With a broad range of activities tailored to foster independence and teamwork, state-of-the-art facilities, and a committed staff, the camp ensures a safe, engaging, and fun-filled summer for all attendees. The thoughtful preparation guidelines and support for first-time campers and their parents underscore the camp’s dedication to providing a memorable and impactful experience.

Whether your child is exploring the lush trails, engaging in spirited campfire nights, or learning new skills, Camp Under the Stars promises a summer to remember, filled with new friendships, adventures, and opportunities for personal development. This camp is not just a place to spend the summer; it’s a place to grow, learn, and shine under the open sky.