Nestled in the picturesque region of Camas, Washington, Camp Currie offers a stunning retreat amidst the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Situated near prominent landmarks such as the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood, the camp provides a scenic backdrop that is both tranquil and inspiring.

Camp Currie was established with a vision to create a nurturing environment that fosters personal growth and a connection with nature. Over the years, it has become a cherished destination for young adventurers seeking to explore the outdoors and develop new skills.

The mission of Camp Currie is to empower young individuals by providing them with opportunities to challenge themselves, build character, and forge lasting friendships. Through a variety of outdoor activities and guided experiences, campers are encouraged to push their boundaries and discover their potential in a supportive community setting.

Camp Currie is a camp that welcomes boys and girls across various age groups. With programs tailored to accommodate different developmental stages, it ensures that each camper receives an age-appropriate experience that is both safe and enriching. Whether it’s through team-building exercises, environmental education, or adventure sports, Camp Currie is dedicated to creating unforgettable summer experiences that leave a positive impact on young lives.

Programs Offered by Camp Currie

Camp Currie offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to a wide range of interests and age groups. Each program is carefully structured to maximize learning, fun, and personal development within a safe and nurturing environment.

Programs and Session Lengths

Explorer Program (Ages 7-10): This introductory program offers one-week sessions, ideal for younger campers experiencing overnight camp for the first time. Activities include basic wilderness skills, arts and crafts, and nature hikes.
Adventurer Program (Ages 11-13): Designed for pre-teens, this two-week session delves deeper into outdoor skills, team sports, and environmental science, providing more challenging adventures.
Leadership Development (Ages 14-16): For older campers, these four-week sessions focus on leadership skills, advanced outdoor activities, and community service projects. It’s a comprehensive program aimed at building confident and responsible young leaders.

Specialty Programs

Arts Camp: Available during select one-week sessions, campers engage in various artistic disciplines such as painting, music, drama, and dance, culminating in a camp-wide showcase at the end of the session.
Sports Camp: Focusing on sportsmanship and physical fitness, this program includes activities like soccer, basketball, swimming, and archery. It runs as a two-week session during the summer.
Science Explorers Camp: This specialty camp, offered in two-week sessions, allows campers to engage in hands-on science experiments, robotics, and environmental studies, encouraging curiosity and scientific understanding.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Camp Currie is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, meals, free time, and rest. Here’s what a day might look like:

7:30 AM: Wake Up and Morning Exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning Activity Block (rotating through chosen specialty or program activities)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet Time/Rest
2:00 PM: Afternoon Activity Block (different set of activities from the morning)
5:00 PM: Free Time (campers choose from a variety of recreational activities)
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening Program (campfires, skits, guest speakers, or night hikes)
9:00 PM: Return to Cabins and Lights Out

Through these structured yet flexible schedules, Camp Currie ensures that each camper has an enriching experience that promotes growth, learning, and fun in a community-oriented atmosphere.

Accommodations in Camp Currie

Sleeping Arrangements Camp Currie provides comfortable and rustic accommodations designed to enhance the camp experience while ensuring safety and comfort. Campers are housed in cabins that are nestled within the camp’s lush surroundings. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and sleeps up to 12 campers, along with 2 camp counselors. The cabins are grouped by age and gender to create a supportive and age-appropriate environment for all campers. For those interested in a more immersive nature experience, Camp Currie also offers supervised tent camping sessions, where campers can sleep under the stars in designated campgrounds equipped with modern camping gear.

Dining Options Camp Currie is committed to providing nutritious and delicious meals to fuel campers throughout their busy days. The camp dining hall serves three well-balanced meals per day, with menus crafted by a professional chef and a registered dietitian. Meal plans are designed to accommodate a wide range of dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies or specific dietary restrictions. The communal meals are not only a time for nourishment but also for camaraderie and sharing the day’s adventures.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities that are centrally located for convenient access from the cabins and main activity areas. Separate facilities are provided for male and female campers, and all facilities are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort. Hot and cold running water is available, and there are ample showers and toilet stalls to accommodate the camp population without long waits.

Through these thoughtful accommodations, Camp Currie ensures that all campers have a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable stay, allowing them to focus on the fun and learning aspects of their camp experience.

Activities in Camp Currie

Camp Currie offers a broad spectrum of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels. The camp’s beautiful natural setting and well-equipped facilities provide the perfect backdrop for a variety of fun and educational activities.

List of Activities Offered:

Swimming: Supervised by certified lifeguards in the camp’s outdoor pool or lake.
Hiking: Guided trails around the camp and into the nearby forested areas, suitable for different fitness levels.
Crafts: A wide range of creative arts such as pottery, weaving, and painting in the camp’s arts and crafts center.
Canoeing and Kayaking: On the camp’s private lake, under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Archery: Taught by skilled instructors, focusing on safety and technique.
Rock Climbing: On a natural rock or a well-equipped climbing wall, with challenges suited to various age groups and abilities.
Team Sports: Including soccer, basketball, and volleyball on the camp’s sports fields.
Nature Studies: Educational sessions on local flora and fauna, conservation practices, and outdoor survival skills.
Drama and Music: Summer camps can participate in drama games, skits, and musical performances.

Special Events or Traditions:

Campfire Nights: Regular evenings spent around the campfire, featuring storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting.
Color Wars: An end-of-session event where campers are divided into teams to compete in various sports and creative challenges.
International Day: Celebrating diverse cultures with food, music, and educational activities from around the world.
End-of-Camp Gala: A formal night where campers showcase their talents through performances and display their artistic projects.

Skill Development Opportunities: Camp Currie is dedicated to not only providing fun but also fostering skill development in various domains. These include:

Leadership Skills: Through team-leading activities and participation in the Leadership Development program.
Environmental Awareness: Through hands-on ecological projects and nature studies.
Creative Expression: Through arts and crafts, drama, and music programs.
Physical Fitness: Through sports, swimming, and outdoor adventure activities.
Social Skills: Through group activities and structured social events.

Each activity at Camp Currie is designed to encourage personal growth, teamwork, and a deeper appreciation of the natural world, ensuring that campers leave with memories to last a lifetime and new skills to apply in their daily lives.

The staff of Camp Currie

Camp Currie is committed to providing a safe, educational, and enjoyable environment for all campers. The camp prioritizes high-quality staffing to ensure that every camper receives attentive care and expert guidance.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio: Camp Currie maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and supervision. Typically, the ratio is 1 staff member to every 6 campers. This allows staff to effectively monitor and engage with each camper, ensuring safety and fostering a supportive atmosphere.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Recruitment: Camp Currie recruits staff from a variety of sources, including universities, teacher networks, and through referrals from educational professionals.
Selection Process: Potential staff members go through a rigorous selection process that includes background checks, interviews, and reference checks to assess their suitability for working with children and their ability to handle the responsibilities of camp life.
Qualifications: Staff members are often pursuing or have completed degrees in education, psychology, recreation, or related fields. Many have prior experience working with children in educational or recreational settings.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season starts, all staff undergo an intensive training program that covers camp policies, child behavior management, safety protocols, and specific training related to their assigned activities.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Training is provided by the camp if needed, and certifications are kept current.
Specialized Training: Staff members leading specific activities such as swimming, rock climbing, or archery receive additional specialized training to ensure they are competent and confident in providing safe and effective instruction.
Ongoing Professional Development: Throughout the camp season, staff participate in ongoing training sessions to refine their skills and adapt to any emerging needs or challenges.

The comprehensive hiring, training, and certification process at Camp Currie ensures that the staff is well-equipped to provide a high standard of care and education to all campers, making each camp session safe, enjoyable, and enriching.

Safety and Health in Camp Currie

Camp Currie is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of safety and health to ensure a secure environment for all campers and staff. The camp implements stringent safety protocols and procedures and is equipped with adequate health facilities to manage both routine and emergency health needs.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Regular Drills: Camp Currie conducts regular safety drills, including fire drills and emergency evacuation procedures, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with how to react in different scenarios.
Activity-Specific Safety Rules: Each activity at Camp Currie has a set of specific safety rules that are strictly enforced. Instructors are trained to oversee all activities with constant vigilance and adherence to these rules.
Equipment Checks: All equipment used for camp activities, such as sports gear, climbing harnesses, and watercraft, is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure it meets safety standards.
Supervised Sessions: All activity sessions are closely supervised by qualified staff members to ensure that safety guidelines are followed.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Camp Currie is equipped with a well-staffed health center that operates 24/7 during camp sessions. The center is managed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor.
Facilities: The health center includes facilities for treating minor injuries and illnesses, as well as spaces for campers to rest under medical supervision if they are not feeling well.
Medication Management: The health staff at Camp Currie is responsible for the storage and administration of medications for campers, adhering to strict protocols to ensure that each camper receives their prescribed doses at the correct times.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Currie has a comprehensive emergency response plan that includes protocols for handling various types of emergencies, from injuries and illnesses to natural disasters.
Local Hospital Collaboration: The camp maintains a relationship with the nearest hospital to ensure a quick response in case of serious medical emergencies. Transportation is always available to facilitate rapid transfer to medical facilities if needed.
Communication with Parents: In the event of an emergency, Camp Currie’s policy is to promptly communicate with the parents or guardians of the affected camper. The camp ensures that emergency contact information is up-to-date and easily accessible.

Through these meticulous safety and health protocols, Camp Currie ensures that the welfare of campers and staff is prioritized, providing peace of mind for parents and a safe environment for campers to explore and grow.

Cost and Registration in Camp Currie

Camp Currie aims to provide a transparent and straightforward registration process, ensuring that families can easily access all necessary information regarding costs, payment options, and financial aid.

Cost of Attendance:

The cost of attending Camp Currie varies depending on the program and session length. Typically, one-week sessions cost $500, two-week sessions are priced at $950, and the four-week leadership development program costs $1800.
What It Includes: The fees cover all costs associated with the camp experience, including lodging, meals, all scheduled activities, equipment use, and 24-hour supervision by trained staff. Transportation to and from the camp is usually not included, except for special outings or field trips that are part of the camp program.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Online Registration: Families can register their children for Camp Currie through an online registration. This platform allows families to select their preferred session(s) and fill out necessary medical and consent forms.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January and remains open until sessions are full. Early registration is encouraged as some sessions, especially specialty programs, tend to fill up quickly.
Confirmation: Upon completing registration and payment, families receive a confirmation email with a packet of pre-camp information, including a packing list, itinerary, and detailed instructions for arrival day.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: Camp Currie offers flexible payment plans that allow families to pay the camp fees in installments. These plans can be set up at the time of registration.
Refunds: The camp provides a full refund if cancellation occurs more than 30 days before the session start date. Cancellations within 30 days receive a 50% refund, except in cases of illness or family emergency, where a more flexible approach may be considered.
Cancellation Policy: In the event that Camp Currie must cancel a session due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., extreme weather conditions), families are offered a full refund or the option to transfer their registration to another session.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Camp Currie offers a limited number of scholarships each year to families needing financial assistance. These scholarships are need-based and can cover part or all of the camp fees.
Application for Aid: To apply for financial aid, families must complete a scholarship application form available online and submit it along with documentation of financial need. The application deadline is typically set in early March.

By providing detailed information on costs, a straightforward registration process, flexible payment options, and financial aid, Camp Currie ensures that as many children as possible have the opportunity to enjoy a transformative camp experience regardless of their family’s financial situation.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Currie

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. Camp Currie provides comprehensive guidelines to help ensure that families are well-prepared for the camp experience. Here’s a detailed look at what to expect and how to prepare:

Packing List:

Clothing: Enough clothing for the session, including t-shirts, shorts, pants, underwear, socks, a jacket, and rain gear. Include a swimsuit, hat, and sturdy shoes for hiking as well as sandals for showers.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, comb or brush, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, water bottle, laundry bag, and any necessary medications (to be turned over to camp health staff upon arrival).
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and disposable cameras (if campers wish to take pictures).

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: Camp Currie encourages a technology-free environment to help campers fully engage with their surroundings and peers. Therefore, all personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are not permitted during the camp session.
Visitation: To ensure the safety and structure of the program, visitation is generally not allowed except on designated family days, which are communicated ahead of time to parents.
Behavioral Expectations: Camp Currie promotes a culture of respect, inclusion, and cooperation. Bullying, aggressive behavior, and non-cooperative attitudes are not tolerated and may result in a camper being asked to leave the program.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

Communication: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the fun and new experiences to be gained. Establish expectations about communication during camp, as many camps have specific times for sending and receiving mail or emails.
Practice Sleepovers: For campers who have not spent much time away from home, practice sleepovers at friends’ or relatives’ homes can ease the transition to being away at camp.
Packing Together: Involve your child in the packing process to give them a sense of control and responsibility. Use the packing list provided by the camp as a guide.
Emotional Preparation: Address any anxieties. Reassure your child that it’s normal to feel nervous and that counselors are there to help them adjust.
Set Goals: Encourage your child to think about what they want to achieve or learn at camp, whether it’s making new friends, trying a particular activity, or simply having fun.

By following these guidelines and preparing in advance, parents and campers can ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and rewarding experience at Camp Currie.

Camp Currie stands out as a premier destination for young adventurers seeking a blend of fun, education, and personal growth. Nestled in the beautiful landscape of Camas, Washington, the camp offers a variety of programs tailored to different age groups and interests, all structured to foster independence, teamwork, and a deeper connection with nature. With its strong emphasis on safety, a wide range of activities, and dedicated staff, Camp Currie ensures a nurturing environment where every camper can thrive.

Whether engaging in exciting outdoor activities, forming lifelong friendships, or developing new skills, campers leave Camp Currie with not just memories, but also experiences that shape their character and future. For parents seeking a safe, enriching, and memorable summer experience for their children, Camp Currie represents an exceptional choice.