Located in the scenic region of Casper, Wyoming, near the historic landmarks of Casper Mountain and the North Platte River, Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp offers a unique blend of adventure and education in a breathtaking natural setting. Established with a vision to provide a nurturing environment for children with visual impairments, the camp has expanded its mission to embrace all children, offering them a place to grow, explore, and enjoy the great outdoors.

The camp’s philosophy is deeply rooted in empowerment and inclusivity, aiming to foster independence, confidence, and social skills among its campers through a variety of activities tailored to their abilities. At Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp, the belief is that every child, regardless of their challenges, should have the opportunity to experience the joys and learning opportunities that camp life provides.

The camp welcomes boys and girls from various age groups, ensuring that activities are age-appropriate and accessible. The camp provides a safe, supportive environment where children can thrive and discover new strengths, making it more than just a summer retreat—it’s a place of transformation and lifelong memories.

Programs Offered by Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp

Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp provides a diverse range of programs tailored to enhance the camping experience for children with visual impairments, as well as for those without disabilities. The camp’s programs are meticulously designed to promote inclusivity, personal growth, and fun in a supportive environment.

Program Descriptions

The camp offers a variety of session lengths to accommodate different needs and preferences, including one-week and two-week sessions. This flexibility allows families to choose a program that best fits their summer schedules and the camper’s comfort level.

Specialty Programs

Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp is renowned for its specialty programs that cater to a wide array of interests:

Arts: Campers engage in visual and performing arts, including crafts, music, and theater, adapted to be fully accessible for children with visual impairments.
Sports: The camp offers a range of sports activities, such as swimming, archery, and adapted athletics, promoting physical fitness and teamwork in a safe setting.
Science: Explorative science programs allow campers to engage in hands-on activities, such as nature walks, environmental studies, and basic experiments, designed to spark curiosity and a love for learning.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, meals, rest, and free time, ensuring that all campers have a fulfilling and enjoyable experience. The schedule usually includes:

Morning: After breakfast, campers start their day with a major activity session, which might include arts and crafts or a sports event.
Midday: Lunch is followed by a rest period, allowing campers to recharge before afternoon activities.
Afternoon: Campers participate in a second activity session, often focusing on different skills or experiences than the morning session.
Evening: Following dinner, evening activities typically include campfires, storytelling, or group games, culminating in a community-building experience that underscores the camp’s inclusive philosophy.

Each day is carefully planned to ensure that campers not only enjoy themselves but also learn new skills, make friends, and build confidence in a supportive community setting.

Accommodations in Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp

Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp is dedicated to providing a comfortable and safe environment for all campers, with accommodations designed to meet the needs of children with visual impairments and other disabilities.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers stay in well-equipped cabins that are designed to be safe and accessible. Each cabin houses a small group of campers, allowing for personalized attention and care from the staff. The cabins are equipped with comfortable bedding and have been configured to ensure ease of movement for all campers.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: The camp provides three nutritious meals per day, prepared by experienced kitchen staff. Meal times are not only about eating but also about social interaction and building community among campers.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, the camp offers meal options that accommodate allergies, dietary restrictions, and preferences. Families can communicate specific dietary needs prior to the camp session to ensure that all requirements are met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Bathrooms and shower facilities at the camp are fully accessible. They are equipped with features such as grab bars and non-slip surfaces to ensure the safety and independence of campers. Facilities are maintained with high standards of cleanliness and hygiene, with staff available to assist campers as needed.

Overall, Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp strives to create a home away from home for its campers, where they can feel comfortable, safe, and free to enjoy their summer camp experience to the fullest.

Activities in Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp

Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp offers a wide range of activities designed to engage campers of all abilities, promoting both fun and developmental growth in a supportive environment.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Accessible swimming facilities allow all campers to enjoy water activities under the supervision of trained lifeguards.
Hiking: Guided hiking trips on adapted trails are designed to accommodate campers with visual impairments, providing a safe and enjoyable nature experience.
Crafts: A variety of arts and crafts activities enable campers to express their creativity and develop fine motor skills.
Sports: Activities such as adapted basketball, soccer, and archery cater to various skill levels, emphasizing teamwork and physical fitness.
Music and Drama: These programs encourage self-expression and confidence through performance, which are tailored to be inclusive for all participants.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings foster a sense of community and tradition, featuring storytelling, sing-alongs, and marshmallow roasting.
End-of-Session Talent Show: This event allows campers to showcase their talents and achievements from their time at camp, celebrating individual and group accomplishments.
Theme Days: Special themed days, such as Superhero Day or Backwards Day, add a fun and whimsical twist to the camp schedule, encouraging creativity and participation.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Summer camps can participate in leadership programs designed to develop skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and responsibility.
Environmental Education: Activities focused on environmental conservation and education teach campers about sustainability and the importance of protecting nature.
Adaptive Skills Training: Specific sessions are dedicated to teaching life skills in an adaptive format, helping campers with visual impairments gain independence.

Through these activities, Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp aims to provide a rich, engaging, and educational experience that helps campers develop physically, emotionally, and socially.

The staff of Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp

Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp prioritizes the safety and well-being of its campers by maintaining a high standard for staff selection, training, and camper supervision.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

The camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and care. Typically, the ratio is approximately one staff member for every four to six campers. This ratio allows staff to closely monitor the safety, participation, and enjoyment of each camper, ensuring a supportive and secure environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Hiring Process: The camp employs a thorough hiring process that includes background checks, references, and interviews to assess the suitability of candidates for working in a dynamic and demanding camp environment.
Staff Qualifications: Staff members are typically required to have prior experience in child care, education, or a related field. Special preference is given to applicants who have experience working with children with disabilities, particularly visual impairments.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: All staff members undergo comprehensive pre-camp training that covers camp policies, child safety, emergency procedures, and the specific needs of children with visual impairments.
Certifications: Staff are required to hold current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additional training in areas such as lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, and adaptive sports is provided depending on the staff’s role at the camp.
Ongoing Education: The camp encourages continuous professional development and offers ongoing training sessions throughout the camp season to ensure that staff remain updated on the best practices in child care and camp management.

Through these rigorous staffing practices, Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp ensures that its team is well-equipped to provide a safe, enriching, and enjoyable camping experience for all participants.

Safety and Health in Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp

Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp is deeply committed to ensuring the safety and health of all its campers. The camp has established comprehensive safety protocols and maintains on-site medical facilities staffed with qualified health professionals to handle any situation that may arise.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Routine Checks: Regular safety drills and checks are conducted to ensure all equipment and facilities are in safe working order. This includes everything from sports equipment to fire safety systems.
Supervision: Constant supervision is provided by trained staff, with special attention given to activities that involve higher risks, such as swimming or hiking.
Accessibility: All facilities and activities are designed to be accessible and safe for children with visual impairments and other disabilities, with specific adaptations in place to prevent accidents.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: The camp features a well-equipped health center that is accessible 24 hours a day. This center is staffed by licensed nurses and a visiting physician to handle routine and emergency health issues.
Medication Management: The health staff is responsible for administering any medications and ensuring that all medical needs of the campers are met throughout their stay.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan in place, which includes procedures for dealing with various types of emergencies, from minor injuries to major medical incidents and natural disasters.
Training: All staff members are trained in emergency response and understand their specific roles and responsibilities during an emergency.
Communication: The camp has systems in place for rapid communication with local emergency services and parents. In the event of an emergency, parents are promptly informed of the situation and the actions being taken.

These measures ensure that Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp remains a safe and healthy environment where children can enjoy their camp experience with peace of mind for both them and their families.

Cost and Registration in Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp

Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp strives to make its enriching summer experiences accessible to as many children as possible, providing detailed information on costs, registration procedures, and financial support options.

Cost of Attendance

Cost Inclusion: The fee for attending the camp typically covers all lodging, meals, activities, and round-the-clock supervision. The camp aims to keep costs affordable while ensuring the highest quality of care and programming.
Additional Expenses: Some special activities or excursions might require an additional fee, which is communicated upfront during the registration process.

The cost for a week-long session at Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp is $350 per camper.

Registration Process and Deadlines

How to Register: Parents can register their children online. The website provides forms and additional information needed to complete the registration.
Deadlines: Registration usually opens several months before the camp season starts and remains open until all spots are filled. Early registration is encouraged as spaces are limited and tend to fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: The camp offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of attendance. These plans can be arranged on a monthly or quarterly basis.
Refunds and Cancellation: The camp’s policy typically includes a refund option up to a certain date before the camp begins, less a non-refundable deposit. Details about cancellation fees and timelines are clearly outlined in the registration materials.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp offers scholarships to families who demonstrate financial need. These scholarships can cover the partial or full cost of the camp, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent any child from attending.
Financial Aid: Information about how to apply for financial aid is available online. The camp encourages all interested families to apply, as numerous options are available to assist with funding.

These provisions ensure that Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp is an inclusive, accessible option for families seeking a meaningful and supportive summer experience for their children.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp

Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp provides comprehensive guidelines and tips to help parents and campers prepare for their camp experience, ensuring everyone is well-informed and ready for a summer of fun and learning.

Packing List

Essential Clothing: Pack enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for the session, including layers for cooler evenings.
Footwear: Durable shoes for hiking and a pair of sandals or water shoes for aquatic activities.
Bedding and Towels: Include sleeping bags or bedding for cabin beds and towels for both swimming and showering.
Toiletries: Basic toiletries, including toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo. Sunscreen and insect repellent are also essential.
Special Equipment: Any specific gear related to the camp’s activities, such as goggles for swimming or a musical instrument for campfire nights.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, the camp generally restricts the use of personal electronic devices like smartphones and tablets. Emergency contact is maintained through camp devices.
Visitation: Parents are usually allowed to visit during specific times, such as family days or end-of-session celebrations. Regular visitations during camp are generally not permitted to help maintain the camp schedule and dynamics.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like, focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities to make new friends. This can help alleviate any nervousness.
Communication: Explain how and when they will be able to communicate with home. Knowing there are designated times for letters or calls can help ease separation anxiety.
Independence: Encourage independence by practicing skills like packing their own bags or managing basic personal care independently.
Positive Reinforcement: Reinforce the positive aspects of camp, such as learning new skills and building self-confidence.

By providing these guidelines, Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp ensures that both parents and campers are well-prepared and can look forward to a positive and enriching camp experience.

Allen H. Stewart Lions Camp in Casper, Wyoming, stands out as a beacon of inclusion, empowerment, and fun in the world of summer camps. With its comprehensive programming tailored to meet the needs of children with visual impairments and other disabilities, the camp fosters an environment where all campers can thrive and discover their potential. From swimming and hiking to arts and leadership training, the activities offered are designed to build confidence, foster social skills, and promote independence.

The camp’s commitment to safety, health, and high-quality staffing ensures that every camper enjoys a secure and supportive environment. Flexible registration, financial aid options, and thorough preparation guidelines make the camp accessible to families from various backgrounds, allowing them to experience the transformative power of the camp without financial strain.