Camp Spalding Newport WA

Nestled in the scenic Pacific Northwest, Camp Spalding is a serene retreat located in Newport, Washington. Positioned near the enchanting surroundings of Davis Lake and enveloped by the dense, lush forests characteristic of eastern Washington, the camp offers a picturesque setting ideal for adventure and exploration.

Established with a commitment to fostering growth and enrichment in youth, Camp Spalding has a rich history of providing memorable camp experiences that extend beyond simple recreation. Through its programs, the camp seeks to develop both the spiritual and personal facets of young campers, adhering to its philosophy of nurturing the “whole child” in an environment that celebrates faith, community, and nature.

Camp Spalding operates primarily as a camp, welcoming boys and girls across various age groups. The camp designs its programs to cater to different age ranges, ensuring that each activity is age-appropriate and engaging, thereby promoting a healthy, inclusive, and supportive camping experience.

With a mission to inspire lifelong growth and a love for the outdoors, Camp Spalding remains a cherished destination for many families seeking a meaningful and vibrant camping adventure.

Programs Offered by Camp Spalding

Camp Spalding offers a diverse array of programs designed to engage campers in a variety of activities while fostering personal growth and a connection with nature. Each program is crafted to cater to different age groups and interests, providing a comprehensive and enriching camp experience. Here’s a detailed look at the programs available:

General Camp Programs

• Explorer Camps: Tailored for younger campers, these one-week sessions introduce the basics of outdoor living and recreation, with activities like swimming, hiking, and crafts.
  
• Adventure Camps: For older children and teenagers, these two-week sessions involve more challenging activities, including advanced hiking, overnight backpacking trips, and leadership training.
  
• Full Summer Camp: A select group of campers participate in activities throughout the summer, rotating through different specialties and taking on progressive challenges and responsibilities.

Specialty Programs

• Arts Camp: Focused on creativity, this program includes workshops in painting, sculpture, drama, and music, encouraging campers to explore and develop their artistic talents.
  
• Sports Camp: Aimed at active and athletic campers, this program offers coaching in various sports such as soccer, basketball, and archery, focusing on skill development and teamwork.
  
• Science Camp: This program engages campers in the wonders of science and nature through experiments, environmental education, and exploration of the local ecosystem.

Typical Daily Schedule

• Morning:
  • Wake-up and morning assembly
  • Breakfast in the communal dining hall
  • Morning activities (varies by program, e.g., art projects, science experiments, sports training)
    
• Afternoon:
  • Lunch and rest period
  • Afternoon activities (continuation of morning sessions or new activities)
  • Free time for swimming, hiking, or personal projects
    
• Evening:
  • Dinner followed by camp-wide games or free play
  • Evening campfire with storytelling, songs, and group reflections
  • Lights out

Through these programs, Camp Spalding ensures that each camper experiences personal growth, community involvement, and an unforgettable summer filled with fun and learning.

Accommodations in Camp Spalding

Camp Spalding offers comfortable and accommodating facilities designed to enhance the camping experience while ensuring safety and convenience for all campers. Here’s an overview of the accommodations provided:

Sleeping Arrangements

• Cabins: The primary accommodation at Camp Spalding is rustic cabins that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and can house up to 10 campers along with one or two camp counselors. The cabins are strategically placed to offer beautiful views of the lake or forests, providing a tranquil environment for campers to rest after a day of activities.
  
• Tents: For specific programs, especially those involving adventure trips or older age groups, tents are used to give campers a more immersive outdoor experience. These are typically used during special sessions or overnight excursions away from the main campsite.
  
• Dorms: Available primarily for larger groups or special events, dormitory-style accommodations provide a communal sleeping environment, are equipped with modern amenities, and are used particularly during off-season retreats or conferences.

Dining Options

• Meal Plans: Camp Spalding operates a full-service dining hall where all meals are provided. The camp offers a set menu with a variety of options at each meal to ensure that campers have the energy they need for their busy days. The dining hall is a communal space where campers gather to eat and share their daily experiences.
  
• Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining options, Camp Spalding is committed to accommodating special dietary needs. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive meals are available upon request. Parents are encouraged to communicate any specific dietary requirements during the registration process to ensure that these needs are met throughout the camper’s stay.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

• Facilities: Each cabin group has access to modern bathroom and shower facilities, which are shared among a small number of cabins to ensure accessibility and cleanliness. These facilities are equipped with flush toilets, sinks, and private shower stalls.
  
• Maintenance: The cleanliness and hygiene of bathroom facilities are of utmost importance at Camp Spalding. The staff ensures that all facilities are cleaned and sanitized regularly and that supplies like soap and toilet paper are replenished daily.

With these accommodations, Camp Spalding ensures that all campers have a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable stay, making their camping experience as carefree and rewarding as possible.

Activities in Camp Spalding

Camp Spalding provides a broad range of activities designed to engage campers of all ages and interests, promoting both fun and developmental growth. Here’s a detailed look at the various activities and special offerings:

List of Activities Offered

• Swimming: The camp features supervised swimming sessions in Davis Lake, allowing campers to cool off and learn water safety skills.
• Hiking: Guided hikes through the surrounding forested areas offer a chance to explore local flora and fauna and learn about environmental stewardship.
• Crafts: A variety of crafting sessions are available, from basic arts like painting and drawing to more complex projects involving woodworking and pottery.
• Canoeing and Kayaking: Watercraft activities provide campers with basic paddling instruction and safety while exploring the lake.
• Archery: Taught by certified instructors, archery sessions focus on safety, technique, and accuracy.
• Climbing: For the adventurous, the camp offers climbing on natural and artificial structures, teaching safety and climbing techniques.
• Team Sports: Organized games such as soccer, basketball, and volleyball promote teamwork and physical fitness.
• Nature Workshops: These sessions involve educational activities focused on local wildlife, conservation, and outdoor survival skills.
• Drama and Music: Summer camps can express themselves through performing arts, participating in camp skits, plays, and musical performances.

Special Events or Traditions

• Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend the camp sessions, setting the tone and reflecting on the experiences shared.
• Campfire Nights: Regularly scheduled campfire gatherings include storytelling, songs, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and tradition.
• Theme Days: Special theme days or weeks, such as “Pirate Day” or “Wild West Week,” encourage creative dressing and themed activities.
• Color Wars: A camp-wide competition where campers are divided into teams to compete in various challenges, promoting spirit and camaraderie.

Skill Development Opportunities

• Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to participate in leadership training sessions, preparing them for potential roles as future counselors or leaders in their communities.
• Environmental Education: Through hands-on activities, campers learn about sustainable practices, wildlife conservation, and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
• Personal Growth Workshops: Workshops focus on developing personal skills such as communication, conflict resolution, and self-esteem building.

These activities and special events at Camp Spalding not only enrich the campers’ summer experience but also contribute to their personal growth and development, ensuring they take away more than just fun memories from their time at camp.

The staff of Camp Spalding

Camp Spalding prides itself on maintaining a dedicated and highly qualified staff team that ensures a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers. Here’s an overview of the staff structure, qualifications, and the training they undergo:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

• Camp Spalding maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and care. Typically, the ratio is approximately one staff member for every six campers. This ratio allows for effective supervision, safety, and a more personalized camping experience.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

• Recruitment: Camp Spalding recruits staff from a variety of sources, including local universities, teacher networks, and through referrals from current and former staff. Prospective staff members are carefully selected based on their experience, enthusiasm for working with children, and alignment with the camp’s mission.
  
• Qualifications: All staff members are required to have prior experience in childcare or education, and a background check is mandatory. Preference is given to applicants with additional skills in areas such as sports, arts, or outdoor activities, that align with the camp’s programs.

Training and Certifications

• Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo comprehensive training that includes child safety, emergency procedures, activity planning, and effective communication. This training ensures that staff are prepared to handle a variety of situations and can provide the best possible environment for campers.
  
• CPR and First Aid: All staff members must be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are crucial for ensuring the health and safety of campers and are regularly updated through re-certification courses.
  
• Specialized Training: For activities that require specific skills, such as swimming, climbing, or archery, staff receive specialized training from certified instructors. This training is necessary to provide high-quality instruction and to ensure that all activities are conducted safely.

Camp Spalding also encourages continuous professional development and offers ongoing training sessions throughout the camp season. These sessions help staff stay current with the latest in educational and recreational best practices, further enhancing their skills and the overall camp experience for attendees.

Through these stringent hiring standards and thorough training protocols, Camp Spalding ensures that its staff is not only equipped to provide excellent care and instruction but also to create a nurturing and dynamic environment for all campers.

Safety and Health in Camp Spalding

Camp Spalding is committed to ensuring the highest levels of safety and health for all campers and staff. The camp’s comprehensive safety protocols, well-equipped health facilities, and emergency response policies are designed to manage any situation effectively. Here’s an in-depth look at these measures:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

• Regular Drills: Camp Spalding conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures in various emergency scenarios.
  
• Activity-Specific Safety Rules: Each activity offered at Camp Spalding comes with its set of safety rules, which are rigorously enforced. These rules are designed to prevent accidents and ensure that all activities are conducted in a safe environment.
  
• Equipment Checks: All equipment used in camp activities is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure it meets safety standards. This includes sports equipment, boating gear, and any tools used for crafts or construction projects.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

• Health Center: Camp Spalding is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including a nurse available 24/7 during camp sessions. The health center is prepared to handle routine health care needs and initial emergency care.
  
• Healthcare Protocols: Upon arrival, all campers undergo a health check to identify any existing conditions or medications, ensuring that the health staff is aware and prepared to manage individual health needs. Parents are required to provide a detailed health history and authorization for emergency treatment.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

• Emergency Response Plan: Camp Spalding has a detailed emergency response plan that outlines the steps to be taken in case of various types of emergencies, from injuries and illness to natural disasters and other urgent situations.
  
• Communication: In the event of an emergency, the camp has protocols in place to ensure timely and clear communication with all relevant parties. This includes contacting parents, coordinating with local emergency services, and informing camp staff of necessary actions.
  
• Transportation for Medical Emergencies: For emergencies requiring hospital care, Camp Spalding has arrangements with local transportation services to quickly transfer affected individuals to the nearest hospital. The camp maintains updated information on the best routes and contact information for these services.

Through these detailed safety and health measures, Camp Spalding creates a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities with peace of mind, knowing that they are well cared for in all aspects of their camp experience.

Cost and Registration in Camp Spalding

Camp Spalding offers a structured and transparent approach to the cost of attendance, registration, and financial considerations, ensuring that families can plan effectively for their children’s summer camp experience. Here are the details regarding these aspects:

Cost of Attendance: The cost of attending Camp Spalding varies depending on the specific program and duration. Generally, prices range from $300 to $600 per week for summer camps. This typically includes:

• Lodging
• All meals and snacks
• Program activities and materials
• Access to camp facilities

Registration Process and Deadlines

• Online Registration: Camp Spalding offers an online registration platform where parents can fill out necessary forms, choose sessions, and submit their children’s medical and dietary information.
  
• Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot, as some sessions fill up quickly. Specific deadlines for registration are usually several months before the start of the camp season, with exact dates provided online.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

• Payment Plans: Understanding that families have different financial capabilities, Camp Spalding offers payment plans that allow for installment payments leading up to the start of the session.
  
• Refunds: A refund policy is in place, which typically allows families to receive a full or partial refund up until a certain date before the camp session begins. After this date, refunds may be partial or non-existent unless cancellation is due to medical reasons or family emergencies.
  
• Cancellation Policies: Detailed cancellation policies are provided during the registration process, outlining how late cancellations are handled and under what circumstances exceptions might be made.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Scholarships: Camp Spalding believes that financial constraints should not prevent a child from attending camp. As such, scholarships are available based on need. These scholarships can cover a portion or the entirety of the camp fees.
  
• Financial Aid Application: To apply for financial aid, parents are typically required to submit an application that includes information about their financial situation, often accompanied by documentation such as tax returns or income statements.
  
• Availability: Availability of scholarships and financial aid may vary each year based on funding, and applicants are encouraged to apply early.

By offering these financial options and detailed information about costs and registration, Camp Spalding aims to make the camp experience accessible and manageable for as many families as possible.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Spalding

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure everyone is well-prepared and informed, Camp Spalding provides comprehensive guidelines on packing, rules, and policies, and tips for first-time campers and their families. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Packing List

• Essentials:
  • Clothing for all weather conditions (t-shirts, shorts, pants, sweaters, rain gear)
  • Sturdy shoes for hiking and another pair for general activities
  • Bathing suit and towel
  • Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo)
  • Bedding or sleeping bag, pillow
    
• Optional Items:
  • Camera (disposable or digital)
  • Books and magazines
  • Flashlight with extra batteries
    
• Prohibited Items: To ensure safety and focus on the experience, Camp Spalding prohibits certain items such as personal electronics (smartphones, tablets), excessive cash or valuables, and personal sports equipment unless specifically requested for a particular activity.

Rules and Policies

• Technology Use: Camp Spalding promotes a technology-free environment to encourage campers to engage fully with their surroundings and each other. Personal electronic devices are collected upon arrival and stored safely until departure.
  
• Visitation: Parents and guardians are welcome to visit on designated days, typically organized midway through longer sessions. These visits are structured to allow families to see the camp in action and participate in special activities.
  
• Behavioral Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is emphasized. Policies regarding acceptable behavior are clearly communicated during the registration process and upon arrival at camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

• For Campers:
  • Be open to making new friends and trying new activities. Camp is a great place to learn new skills and discover new interests.
  • Communicate with your counselors. They are there to help you have the best time possible and to support you if you’re feeling homesick or have any concerns.
    
• For Parents:
  • Discuss what to expect at camp with your child, including the activities they will participate in and the camp’s daily schedule.
  • Address any anxieties your child might have about being away from home. Reassure them about the safety measures and the supportive staff at camp.
  • Label all personal items with your child’s name to prevent loss.

By providing this information, Camp Spalding aims to ensure that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the camp experience, helping to alleviate any uncertainties and set the stage for a fun and memorable summer.

Camp Spalding stands out as a beacon of adventure, learning, and personal growth in the beautiful surroundings of Newport, Washington. With its diverse array of programs, from swimming and hiking to arts and sciences, the camp offers something for every young enthusiast. The emphasis on safety, community, and development ensures that each camper not only enjoys a plethora of activities but also gains valuable life skills and lasting friendships.

The staff’s commitment to creating a nurturing and inclusive environment is evident through their careful selection, rigorous training, and genuine passion for youth development. Camp Spalding’s facilities provide a safe and comfortable setting, while the carefully structured activities promote teamwork, self-confidence, and respect for nature.