Nestled in the scenic heart of Washington State, Camp Wahoo stands as a beacon of adventure and growth for young campers. Located in the serene and picturesque region of Cle Elum, this camp is ideally positioned near the majestic Cascade Mountains, providing a stunning backdrop and a playground for a variety of outdoor activities.

Camp Wahoo has a rich history of providing transformative experiences to young people. Founded with the intention of creating a space where children can explore the natural world safely and joyously, it has grown into a cherished summer destination that many return to year after year. The camp prides itself on fostering an environment where independence, teamwork, and personal growth are not just encouraged but flourished.

The philosophy of Camp Wahoo is deeply rooted in the belief that outdoor experiences are fundamental to a child’s development. The camp’s mission statement emphasizes building character, learning leadership skills, and developing a profound appreciation for nature among its campers.

Camp Wahoo is an inclusive summer camp catering to boys and girls across various age groups. With programs specifically tailored to meet the developmental needs and interests of each age group, Camp Wahoo ensures that every camper receives both the challenge and support necessary to grow and have fun in a safe, nurturing environment. Whether it’s hiking, horseback riding, or learning survival skills, Camp Wahoo offers an enriching summer experience that leaves lasting memories and skills with its young adventurers.

Programs Offered by Camp Wahoo

Camp Wahoo provides a diverse array of programs designed to engage children in a variety of activities while promoting personal growth and a deep connection with nature. Here’s an overview of the programs, session lengths, specialty offerings, and a glimpse into a typical day at Camp Wahoo.

Description of Programs

Camp Wahoo offers a dynamic range of activities that cater to the interests and abilities of different age groups. The primary focus is on outdoor adventures which include horseback riding, hiking, canoeing, and archery. The camp also incorporates environmental education, teaching campers about local wildlife, plant life, and conservation practices to foster a responsible attitude toward nature.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: These are designed for younger campers or first-timers who might be experiencing their first overnight camp. It provides a brief but intense introduction to all the camp activities.
Two-Week Sessions: Recommended for returning or older campers, these sessions offer a more in-depth experience with increased opportunities for skill development and personal growth.
Full Summer Option: A select group of campers can choose to spend the entire summer at Camp Wahoo, rotating through different activities and possibly assisting in mentoring younger campers.

Specialty Programs

Arts: While primarily focused on outdoor activities, Camp Wahoo also offers arts and crafts sessions where campers can express their creativity through projects like pottery, painting, and nature crafts.
Sports: Besides the traditional camp sports like archery and canoeing, there are organized games and competitions to promote teamwork and physical fitness.
Science: The environmental education component is robust, with structured explorations into botany, zoology, and geography. Campers engage in hands-on learning about the ecosystem of the Cascade Mountains.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:00 AM: Wake up and morning stretch
7:30 AM: Breakfast
8:30 AM: Morning activities (e.g., horseback riding, hiking)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest period or free time
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (e.g., arts and crafts, environmental education)
5:00 PM: Free play or organized sports
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfire, storytelling, star gazing)
9:00 PM: Lights out for younger campers
10:00 PM: Lights out for older campers

Each day at Camp Wahoo is structured to balance active engagement with the opportunity for campers to explore their individual interests and relax in a supportive community setting.

Accommodations in Camp Wahoo

Camp Wahoo offers well-thought-out accommodations designed to enhance the camping experience while ensuring comfort and safety. From sleeping arrangements to dining options, every aspect is tailored to meet the needs of campers and staff alike.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodation for campers at Camp Wahoo is rustic yet comfortable cabins. Each cabin houses a specific number of campers, usually between 8 and 12, allowing for a cozy and communal living experience. The cabins are gender-separated and are grouped by age to ensure that campers are with peers of similar maturity and interests.
Tents: For specific programs or older camper groups, there are opportunities to sleep in tents. This is often part of a more rugged outdoor experience, such as overnight hiking trips or survival skills camps, providing campers with a true wilderness adventure.
Dorms: While primarily a cabin and tent camp, certain sessions or special events might utilize dormitory-style accommodations for larger groups or during inclement weather conditions.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Wahoo provides three well-balanced meals per day, cooked on-site by a dedicated kitchen staff. Meals are designed to be nutritious and energy-packed, necessary for active campers. The camp dining hall is a communal space where campers and staff gather to eat and share their daily experiences.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, Camp Wahoo offers options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific dietary restrictions such as gluten-free or dairy-free diets. Parents can discuss their child’s dietary needs prior to arrival to ensure that appropriate accommodations are made.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathrooms: Located centrally in relation to the cabins and common areas, the bathroom facilities are equipped with multiple stalls and sinks to accommodate the camp population efficiently. Bathrooms are separated by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Showers: Separate shower facilities are available, providing hot and cold water. Shower times are typically scheduled to manage the usage efficiently, ensuring that all campers have adequate access without overcrowding. Like the bathrooms, shower facilities are gender-separated and are maintained with high cleanliness standards.

Overall, the accommodations at Camp Wahoo are designed to ensure that campers have a comfortable and enjoyable stay, with all the necessary amenities to support an active summer camp experience.

Activities in Camp Wahoo

Camp Wahoo is a hub of vibrant activity, offering a wide range of programs that cater to various interests and skill levels. The camp is dedicated to providing a fun, educational, and memorable summer experience through its diverse offerings.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: These include hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, and archery, allowing campers to explore the natural beauty of the Cascade Mountains.
Water Activities: Swimming in the natural lakes and streams is a popular choice, along with boating and fishing, providing ample opportunities for water-based enjoyment and learning.
Crafts: A creative arts program lets campers engage in activities such as pottery, painting, and nature crafts, fostering artistic expression and skill.
Team Sports: Activities like soccer, volleyball, and basketball are organized to promote physical fitness, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Survival Skills: Summer camps can learn essential outdoor skills like orienteering, fire-building, and shelter construction, enhancing their confidence and self-reliance.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfires: Evening campfires are a staple at Camp Wahoo, featuring storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, which enhance the communal spirit.
End-of-Session Banquet: A celebratory banquet marks the end of each session, where achievements are recognized, and campers can share their experiences and highlights.
Themed Days: Special-themed days, such as Pirate Day or Wild West Day, add a fun and exciting twist to the camp routine, encouraging creativity and participation.
Color Wars: This camp-wide competition splits campers into teams to compete in various sporting, artistic, and intellectual challenges, fostering spirit and camaraderie.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to take on leadership roles, perhaps assisting with younger groups or leading certain activities, which helps develop valuable leadership and organizational skills.
Environmental Education: Through guided walks and interactive lessons, campers learn about local ecology, conservation, and the importance of environmental stewardship.
Personal Growth Workshops: Workshops that focus on skills like communication, conflict resolution, and self-esteem are offered, supporting the personal development of each camper.

Through these activities, special events, and skill development opportunities, Camp Wahoo ensures that every camper not only enjoys their summer but also leaves with new skills, friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

The staff of Camp Wahoo

At Camp Wahoo, the commitment to safety, education, and fun begins with its highly qualified and enthusiastic staff. The camp ensures a supportive and secure environment through rigorous hiring standards, comprehensive training, and an optimal staff-to-camper ratio.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Wahoo maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and supervision. Typically, the ratio is approximately one staff member to every six campers. This ratio allows staff to monitor and engage effectively with each camper, ensuring safety and a fulfilling camp experience.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Camp Wahoo recruits staff from a variety of sources, including universities, teacher networks, and referrals from current and former staff. This diverse recruitment approach helps in selecting a team with varied skills and backgrounds.
Qualifications: Candidates typically have experience in education, child development, or a related field. Many are returning staff who have grown up with the camp themselves or have a profound passion for outdoor education and youth leadership.
Interviews and Background Checks: All potential staff members undergo a thorough interview process, which includes personality and situational judgment tests, followed by strict background checks to ensure the safety and security of the campers.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Certifications: All staff members are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Depending on their role, additional certifications may be required, such as Lifeguarding for those involved in water activities or Wilderness First Aid for those leading hiking and camping excursions.
Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff participate in an intensive pre-camp training session. This training covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and specific training related to their assigned activities.
Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, staff receive ongoing training and support, including regular reviews and feedback sessions to ensure high standards of safety and camper engagement are maintained.

By maintaining a well-qualified and thoroughly trained staff, Camp Wahoo ensures that every aspect of the camp experience is conducted safely and effectively, promoting an environment where campers can thrive and explore confidently.

Safety and Health in Camp Wahoo

Ensuring the safety and health of every camper and staff member is a top priority at Camp Wahoo. The camp has established comprehensive safety protocols, well-equipped health facilities, and clear policies for handling emergencies to create a secure environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Routine Safety Drills: Regularly scheduled drills ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures for fires, severe weather, and other potential emergencies.
Activity-Specific Training: Prior to engaging in activities like swimming, horseback riding, or archery, campers receive specific safety instructions tailored to the risks associated with each activity.
Equipment Checks: All equipment used in camp activities is regularly inspected and maintained to meet safety standards, preventing accidents due to equipment failure.
Supervised Activities: All activities are supervised by qualified staff members who are trained to enforce safety rules and manage groups effectively to minimize risks.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Wahoo is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by a licensed nurse who is available 24/7 during the camp session. The health center is prepared to handle routine health issues such as minor injuries, allergies, and illnesses.
Health Assessments: Upon arrival, each camper undergoes a health check to identify any existing conditions or needs, ensuring that individual health plans are understood and followed by the camp staff.
Medication Management: The health center staff is responsible for storing and administering any medications that campers need, adhering strictly to the prescribed dosages and schedules.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Wahoo has a detailed emergency response plan that outlines specific procedures for different types of emergencies, from medical situations to natural disasters. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated as needed.
Communication Protocol: In case of an emergency, the camp has a clear communication protocol to inform staff, campers, and parents. This includes internal communication systems and established procedures for contacting external emergency services and parents.
Training for Unforeseen Events: Staff are trained not only in standard emergency procedures but also in adaptive response techniques to handle unforeseen situations effectively.

With these safety protocols, health facilities, and emergency policies, Camp Wahoo strives to maintain a safe and healthy environment where campers can enjoy their activities with peace of mind, and parents can feel confident about their children’s safety and well-being.

Cost and Registration in Camp Wahoo

Camp Wahoo offers a structured and transparent registration process, along with detailed information on costs, payment options, and financial support to ensure that all families can consider the camp for their children.

Cost of Attendance

What It Includes: The cost of attendance at Camp Wahoo covers all lodging, meals, and scheduled activities. It also includes any equipment needed for camp-specific activities, such as arts and crafts supplies, archery equipment, and life jackets for water activities. Transportation to and from the camp is typically not included unless specified.
Fees: The cost varies depending on the length of the session. One-week sessions might cost around $500, two-week sessions approximately $950, and a full summer could be around $4,500. These are approximate figures and can vary based on specific sessions or additional offerings.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Registration is primarily conducted online. Families can access registration forms, fill them out, and submit them electronically.
Deadlines: Early registration typically opens around January and can offer lower rates or guaranteed spots before general registration begins. Final deadlines for summer sessions are usually set for late spring, around the end of May.
Required Documentation: Along with the registration form, parents must submit health forms completed by a physician, a record of immunizations, and any relevant documentation regarding dietary needs or special accommodations.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding that paying for camp can be a significant expense, Camp Wahoo offers payment plans that allow families to pay in installments. These plans can be arranged on a monthly or quarterly basis leading up to the start of the camp session.
Refunds: Full refunds are typically available until a certain cut-off date, which is generally a month before the session begins. After this date, partial refunds may be offered, minus a non-refundable deposit. No refunds are usually given once the session has started unless there are extenuating circumstances such as a medical emergency.
Cancellation Policy: If a family needs to cancel their registration, they are advised to notify the camp as early as possible to increase the likelihood of a refund and to potentially open a spot for another camper.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Wahoo offers a limited number of scholarships each year to families who require financial assistance. These scholarships can cover a portion or the full cost of the camp, depending on the family’s needs and the availability of funds.
Financial Aid: Families seeking financial aid are encouraged to apply early, providing necessary documentation to demonstrate financial need. The camp often works with community organizations to identify candidates for financial support and to allocate resources effectively.

By providing clear cost breakdowns, flexible payment options, and opportunities for financial assistance, Camp Wahoo ensures that its enriching camp experience is accessible to as many children as possible.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Wahoo

Preparing for camp can be exciting for both parents and campers, especially if it’s their first time. Camp Wahoo provides detailed guidelines on packing, rules, and policies, along with tips to ensure that everyone is well-prepared for the upcoming camp experience.

Packing List

Camp Wahoo recommends the following items for a comfortable and safe camping experience:

Clothing: Pack weather-appropriate clothing, including t-shirts, shorts, long pants, a jacket, and rain gear. Include swimsuits, hats, and sturdy footwear (hiking boots and sandals).
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Personal Items: Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo), towels, sunscreen, insect repellent.
Equipment: Water bottle, flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries, daypack.
Optional Items: Camera (non-digital if possible to avoid loss), books, writing materials.
Medications: Any necessary medications, must be turned in to the camp health center upon arrival with instructions.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, Camp Wahoo discourages the use of personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Cameras for photography may be allowed but should be used responsibly.
Visitation: Parents are generally encouraged to say goodbye at the drop-off and welcome their children back at pick-up. Specific visitation days may be arranged during longer sessions for the family to visit and participate in camp activities.
Behavior: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules and respect both staff and fellow campers. Rules regarding behavior, including bullying and respect for property, are strictly enforced to ensure a positive environment for all.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Stay Open: Try new activities, make new friends, and be open to the camp experience. It’s a time to learn and grow!
- Communicate: If you’re feeling homesick or have any concerns, talk to your counselors. They are there to help you have the best time possible.
For Parents:
- Stay Positive: Your enthusiasm about camp can help alleviate any anxieties your child might feel about being away from home.
- Pack Together: Packing together can help your child feel prepared and ensure they know what they have packed.
- Set Expectations: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the fun and growth opportunities. Prepare them for the experience of being away from home by encouraging independence in daily routines.

By providing clear guidance and support, Camp Wahoo helps ensure that both parents and campers are well-prepared and excited for their camp experience. This preparation helps foster a smooth transition to camp life, ensuring that campers are ready to dive into activities and make lasting memories.

Camp Wahoo in Cle Elum, Washington, offers a distinctive blend of adventure, learning, and personal growth, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Cascade Mountains. With a commitment to safety, a diverse array of programs, and a supportive community environment, Camp Wahoo ensures a memorable summer experience for every camper. From engaging in outdoor activities and creative arts to essential life skills and leadership training, the camp fosters an atmosphere where children can thrive both personally and socially.

The camp’s robust staff training, comprehensive safety protocols, and attentive care cater to the well-being of each camper, allowing parents to feel confident in their choice. Additionally, the camp’s thoughtful accommodations, detailed preparation guidelines, and supportive resources for first-time campers and parents make starting the camp journey smooth and exciting.