Welcome to Camp Carlo, a serene retreat nestled in the scenic landscapes of Huttonsville, West Virginia. Located within the lush, rolling hills of the Appalachian region, this camp is conveniently positioned near notable landmarks such as the Monongahela National Forest, providing an immersive natural experience for all who visit.

Established with the vision of fostering growth and development in young minds, Camp Carlo has a rich history of offering transformative experiences to its campers. Since its inception, the camp has dedicated itself to creating a nurturing environment where children can explore their interests, develop new skills, and form lasting friendships.

At the heart of Camp Carlo’s philosophy is the mission to “empower youth to achieve their full potential through structured educational and recreational activities.” This guiding principle shapes all aspects of the camp’s programming and operations, ensuring that every camper receives a supportive and enriching experience.

Camp Carlo is a facility that welcomes boys and girls across various age groups, typically ranging from 7 to 17 years old. With a broad array of activities tailored to different age levels and interests, the camp provides a dynamic and inclusive environment where every child can thrive. Whether through sports, arts, or outdoor adventures, Camp Carlo is committed to helping each camper grow both personally and socially, guided by a team of dedicated staff who emphasize respect, integrity, and community.

Programs Offered by Camp Carlo

Camp Carlo offers a diverse range of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental needs of children aged 7 to 17. Each program is crafted to provide engaging, fun, and educational experiences, ensuring that every camper has a memorable and enriching summer.

Description of Programs

Camp Carlo’s programs are divided into various categories, including arts, sports, and science, allowing campers to explore their passions or discover new interests. The camp also emphasizes personal growth and team-building through structured activities and free play, ensuring a well-rounded experience.

Length of Sessions

The camp offers flexible session lengths to accommodate the needs of different families and schedules:

One-week sessions are perfect for younger campers or first-timers who are getting a taste of camp life.
Two-week sessions offer a more immersive experience, allowing for deeper engagement in activities and stronger bonds among campers.
Full summer options are available for those who wish to enjoy Camp Carlo’s offerings throughout the season, providing a comprehensive and continuous development experience.

Specialty Programs

Arts: Camp Carlo’s arts program includes activities like painting, sculpture, drama, and music. These sessions are designed to encourage creativity and self-expression among campers.
Sports: The sports program covers a wide range of activities from swimming and soccer to archery and kayaking, focusing on physical fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Science: For those interested in STEM, the science program offers hands-on projects and experiments that make learning fun and engaging. Topics may include astronomy, biology, and robotics.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Carlo is structured to provide a balance of activities, meals, social time, and rest. Here’s what a typical day might look like:

7:30 AM – Wake Up: Start the day with a refreshing morning routine.
8:00 AM – Breakfast: Fuel up with a nutritious breakfast.
9:00 AM – Morning Activities: Engage in the first block of scheduled activities (e.g., arts and crafts, science projects).
12:00 PM – Lunch: Regroup and recharge with a well-balanced meal.
1:00 PM – Quiet Time: A brief period for relaxation or letter writing.
2:00 PM – Afternoon Activities: Participate in sports or specialty workshops.
5:00 PM – Free Time: Campers enjoy some free time to socialize, play, or relax.
6:00 PM – Dinner: Gather for a communal dinner.
7:00 PM – Evening Program: Enjoy camp-wide games, bonfires, or talent shows.
9:00 PM – Lights Out: For younger campers, with older campers following at 10:00 PM.

This schedule ensures that every camper at Camp Carlo has a day filled with fun, learning, and opportunities to build lasting memories and friendships.

Accommodations in Camp Carlo

Camp Carlo is designed to ensure that every camper feels comfortable and at home during their stay, providing well-maintained and functional facilities that cater to the needs of young adventurers.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary sleeping arrangement at Camp Carlo consists of cozy, rustic cabins that house 8-10 campers each. These cabins are designed to foster a sense of community and camaraderie among campers. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings. Cabins are grouped by age and gender to ensure comfort and appropriateness.
Tents: For older campers or those enrolled in specific adventure programs, there are opportunities to sleep in tents during special overnight outings. This allows campers to experience a more rugged and authentic outdoor experience.
Dorms: Some specialty programs, particularly those focused on older teenagers, may use dormitory-style accommodations. These facilities are similar to those found in college campuses, with shared rooms and common social areas.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Carlo offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, along with snacks. Meals are served in a communal dining hall where campers gather to eat together, enhancing the community feel. The dining hall is a hub of activity where campers can socialize and share their daily experiences.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to diverse dietary needs, Camp Carlo’s kitchen staff is equipped to handle various dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-specific meals. Parents can discuss their child’s dietary needs with the camp staff ahead of time to ensure appropriate meals are provided.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathrooms and Showers: The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities that are strategically located near the cabins and main activity areas. These facilities are separated by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort. Each bathroom area includes multiple stalls and sinks to accommodate several campers at once, minimizing wait times and ensuring privacy.
Additional Amenities: Hot water is available in all shower facilities, and there are ample hooks and shelves for personal items to keep the area tidy and functional.

Camp Carlo’s accommodations are thoughtfully designed to ensure safety, comfort, and a positive living experience, all of which are integral to creating an unforgettable summer camp adventure.

Activities in Camp Carlo

Camp Carlo provides a wide array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels. The goal is to offer fun, education, and skill development through a mix of traditional camp activities and unique, specialized options.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Daily swim sessions in the camp’s pool or natural lake, including free swim and instructional swimming.
Hiking: Guided hikes through the nearby trails of the Appalachian region, offering varying levels of difficulty to accommodate all fitness levels.
Crafts: Arts and crafts sessions where campers can create everything from pottery to friendship bracelets.
Sports: A variety of sports activities such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water sports on the camp’s lake, teaching skills like paddling and water safety.
Climbing: Both rock climbing and a ropes course that challenge campers physically and mentally while ensuring safety.
Nature Workshops: Educational sessions that explore local flora and fauna, fostering environmental awareness and responsibility.
Theater and Music: Opportunities for campers to perform in skits, plays, and musical performances.
Science and Robotics: Hands-on experiments and projects that make learning STEM subjects fun and engaging.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Regular evenings spent around the campfire, featuring storytelling, marshmallow roasting, and singing.
Color Wars: A camp-wide team competition that spans several days and includes various physical and mental challenges.
End-of-Summer Gala: A formal night where campers can celebrate the end of the season with awards, performances, and a dance.
Parents’ Day: An event where families are invited to visit and participate in activities, showcasing what campers have learned and created.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Summer camps have access to leadership programs that teach them how to lead younger groups and manage camp activities.
First Aid and Survival Skills: Courses in basic first aid, CPR, and wilderness survival are offered to interested campers.
Arts and Crafts Mastery: Advanced classes in specific art forms like pottery or painting for campers looking to refine their skills.
Sports Clinics: Specialized clinics to improve skills in individual sports, coached by experts.

The diverse activities at Camp Carlo not only provide fun and entertainment but also contribute to personal growth, social skills development, and a deeper appreciation for nature and teamwork. These experiences are crafted to leave lasting impressions and valuable skills with each camper.

The staff of Camp Carlo

The staff at Camp Carlo plays a pivotal role in providing a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers. Ensuring high standards in staff selection, training, and camper engagement is a priority to maintain the camp’s reputation for excellence and care.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Carlo is committed to providing a high level of supervision and personal attention to each camper. The camp maintains a staff-to-camper ratio of 1:8, ensuring that every staff member is responsible for no more than eight campers at a time. This ratio allows staff to closely monitor the safety and well-being of campers, provide individualized attention, and foster a nurturing environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Hiring Process: The hiring process at Camp Carlo is thorough, beginning with a detailed application form, followed by personal interviews and background checks. This ensures that only the most qualified and dedicated individuals join the camp team.
Qualifications: Staff members typically have previous experience in child care, education, or specific activity areas. Many are college students or graduates in fields related to education, sports, arts, or sciences. The camp also prefers candidates who have previous camping experience, whether as a camper or staff member, to ensure they are familiar with the camp environment and its demands.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: All staff undergo a comprehensive training program before the start of camp, which covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and activity leadership. This training ensures that all staff members are prepared to handle a wide range of situations that may arise at camp.
Certifications: Staff members are required to hold current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Instructors for specific activities such as swimming, climbing, or boating are also required to have relevant certifications and proven competency in their areas (e.g., Lifeguard certification for swimming instructors).
Ongoing Education: Camp Carlo encourages and often sponsors further education and training for staff, such as advanced first aid, child psychology workshops, and leadership development courses. This commitment to staff development not only enhances the safety and quality of the camp but also contributes to a highly motivated and knowledgeable team.

The dedication to maintaining a skilled and well-trained staff reflects Camp Carlo’s commitment to the highest standards of safety, education, and fun, ensuring that each camper has an enriching and memorable experience.

Safety and Health in Camp Carlo

Camp Carlo prioritizes the safety and well-being of all campers and staff, implementing stringent safety protocols and maintaining well-equipped health facilities. These measures ensure a secure environment where campers can enjoy activities without undue risk.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: Camp Carlo conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuation drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures in the event of an emergency.
Activity-Specific Safety: Each activity offered at the camp is supervised by staff trained in that specific area, and safety gear is mandatory for activities like swimming, climbing, and archery. The equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to meet safety standards.
Supervision: Constant supervision is provided while campers are engaged in activities, during meals, and even during free time. The camp’s layout is designed to prevent unsupervised access to potentially hazardous areas like the lake or the woods.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Carlo is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and on-call physicians. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with essential medications and first-aid supplies.
Medical Protocols: The health center operates 24/7, ensuring that medical care is available at all times. Upon arrival at camp, each camper’s health history is reviewed to tailor care accordingly and address any pre-existing conditions or allergies.
Partnerships with Local Hospitals: For more severe medical issues, Camp Carlo has established protocols with nearby hospitals and emergency services to provide quick transportation and specialized care.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Carlo has a detailed emergency response plan that outlines the steps to be taken in various scenarios, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical situations. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to new safety standards or environmental conditions.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, the camp has a clear communication protocol to inform parents, guardians, and relevant authorities. This includes the use of emergency contact information provided by the parents at the time of registration.
Training and Preparedness: All staff members receive training on how to handle emergencies, including administering first aid, executing evacuation plans, and managing camper anxiety or panic. This ensures that they are prepared to act effectively and efficiently under pressure.

Camp Carlo’s comprehensive approach to safety and health underscores its commitment to providing a secure and caring environment where campers can thrive both physically and emotionally.

Cost and Registration in Camp Carlo

Camp Carlo aims to provide an enriching summer experience for children with a clear and inclusive cost structure, a straightforward registration process, and options for financial support.

Cost of Attendance

Cost Structure: The cost of attending Camp Carlo varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs chosen. For example, one-week sessions may cost around $500, two-week sessions around $950, and full summer options can range up to $3,500.
What’s Included: The fees cover all lodging, meals, activities, and equipment. Additional costs might be associated with special outings or optional activities that are not included in the standard camp program. Transportation to and from the camp is generally not included unless specifically stated.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration Process: Parents can register their children online, where they will fill out registration forms, select session dates, and choose any specific programs. Registration typically opens in January and it is advisable to register early as spots fill up quickly.
Deadlines: Most registration deadlines are set for the end of April. Early registration benefits may include discounts or guaranteed spots in high-demand programs.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Camp Carlo offers flexible payment plans that allow families to spread the cost of camp over several months leading up to the summer. These plans can be tailored during the registration process.
Refunds: A full refund is generally available if cancellation occurs within a specified timeframe, often several months before the session begins. Closer to the camp start date, partial refunds may be provided, and typically no refunds are offered once the session has started.
Cancellation Policies: Specific details of cancellation policies are provided during registration, including how late cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness are handled.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Carlo offers a number of scholarships each year to families who demonstrate financial need. These scholarships can cover the partial or full costs of camp sessions.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, need-based financial aid is available and can be applied for during the registration process. Camp Carlo works to ensure that no child is turned away due to financial constraints.
Community Support Programs: The camp often partners with local businesses and organizations to fund places for children from lower-income families or to support specific groups such as military families.

By providing comprehensive details on costs, flexible payment options, and financial assistance, Camp Carlo ensures that its enriching summer camp experience is accessible to as many children as possible, fostering diversity and inclusion within its community.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Carlo

To ensure that both campers and their parents are well-prepared for the summer camp experience at Camp Carlo, here are essential guidelines, including a packing list, camp rules, and useful tips for first-time campers and parents.

Packing List

Campers should come prepared with items that will support their daily activities and personal needs. Here’s a suggested packing list:

Clothing: Enough comfortable clothing for the session duration, including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, and sweatshirts. Include swimwear, a rain jacket, and at least one set of warmer clothes for cooler evenings.
Footwear: Sneakers, sandals, and waterproof boots if applicable.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary personal hygiene products.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, water bottle, hats, sunglasses.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and small personal items that will make the camper feel at home.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Carlo generally discourages the use of personal electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops. This policy helps campers engage more fully with their surroundings and activities. Exceptions might be made for devices used as cameras or for contacting parents on designated days.
Visitation: Parents are welcome on specific visitation days, which are scheduled to minimize disruption to camp activities and routines. Outside of these days, unscheduled visits are not allowed to ensure the safety and structure of the camp program.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and camp property is a must. Camp Carlo enforces policies regarding behavior, and parents are informed of these during the registration process.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Engage in activities even if they are new or challenging. It’s a great way to learn and make new friends.
- Keep an open mind and positive attitude. Homesickness is normal, but staying active and involved can help you overcome it.
For Parents:
- Discuss what camp will be like well before your child leaves, focusing on the fun and growth opportunities.
- Write letters or send care packages to provide comfort and a connection from home.
- Trust the process. Camp staff are trained to handle nearly every situation that might arise.

By following these guidelines, packing appropriately, and understanding the camp’s rules and policies, both parents and campers can feel more confident and prepared for an enjoyable and memorable experience at Camp Carlo.

Camp Carlo stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and personal growth nestled in the scenic landscapes of Huttonsville, West Virginia. With its wide array of activities ranging from arts and crafts to outdoor sports and science workshops, the camp offers something for every young explorer. The dedication to safety, skilled staffing, and a nurturing environment ensures that each camper’s experience is not only fun but also enriching and secure.

The camp’s philosophy of empowering youth through structured educational and recreational activities resonates through every aspect of its operations. From the first-time camper to the seasoned attendee, Camp Carlo fosters a sense of community, teamwork, and respect among all participants. The well-thought-out programs and facilities are designed to promote healthy living, creativity, and the development of lifelong skills.