Camp Togowoods, nestled in the scenic surroundings of Wasilla, Alaska, stands as a beacon of adventure and growth for young campers. This idyllic location, not only marked by its state but also by its unique positioning within the region, is flanked by the breathtaking views of the Alaskan wilderness, offering campers an unparalleled experience of nature and outdoor learning. Among its landmarks, the camp is privileged to be surrounded by the lush forests and pristine lakes that Alaska is celebrated for, providing a perfect backdrop for the array of activities and programs designed for its attendees.

The origins of Camp Togowoods trace back to its foundation with a deep-seated commitment to fostering leadership, resilience, and a profound appreciation for the natural world among its campers. It is built on a legacy of empowering young individuals to reach their fullest potential, encouraging them to explore, discover, and grow in a supportive and enriching environment.

The mission of Camp Togowoods is succinctly encapsulated in its philosophy: “Empowerment through Nature.” This guiding principle underscores the camp’s dedication to providing a platform where campers can engage with the environment, learn valuable skills, build lasting friendships, and develop a strong sense of self-confidence and independence. The camp is steadfast in its belief that through direct engagement with the natural world, young people can learn invaluable lessons about themselves and their capabilities.

Camp Togowoods is distinguished as a gender-inclusive camp, welcoming campers from various age groups. It meticulously designs its programs to cater to both boys and girls, offering a diverse range of activities that are tailored to meet the interests and developmental stages of each age group. Whether it’s through team-building exercises, environmental education, or outdoor adventures, the camp aims to provide a balanced and comprehensive experience that nurtures both the physical and emotional well-being of its campers.

In essence, Camp Togowoods in Wasilla, AK, is more than just a summer camp; it is a community and a transformative journey that leaves an indelible mark on the lives of those who pass through its gates. It stands as a testament to the power of nature in shaping young minds and hearts, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Programs Offered by Camp Togowoods

Camp Togowoods in Wasilla, AK, is dedicated to offering a wide array of programs designed to cater to the diverse interests and developmental needs of its campers. The camp’s programs are meticulously structured to ensure that each participant receives a rich, well-rounded experience that combines education, recreation, and personal growth. Here’s an overview of the programs offered, their durations, specialty focuses, and a glimpse into a typical day at Camp Togowoods.

Description of Programs

Camp Togowoods provides a variety of programs that span different lengths and cater to various interests:

Explorer Program: Designed for younger campers, focusing on introducing them to the basics of outdoor living, teamwork, and environmental stewardship.
Adventure Program: Geared towards older campers, offering more challenging outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, and wilderness survival skills.
Leadership Development Program: Aimed at teens, focusing on developing leadership skills, and community service, and preparing them for future roles as camp counselors or leaders in their communities.

Length of Sessions

One-week Sessions: Short-term camps are ideal for first-time campers or those looking to explore a specific interest.
Two-week Sessions: Offering a more immersive experience with a deeper dive into camp activities and personal development.
Full Summer Program: An extensive program for campers who wish to experience the full breadth of what Camp Togowoods has to offer, encompassing a wide range of activities and leadership training.

Specialty Programs

Camp Togowoods is proud to offer specialty programs that cater to specific interests, including:

Arts Program: Focuses on creative expression through painting, sculpture, photography, and theater.
Sports Program: Offers a variety of sports, including archery, canoeing, rock climbing, and team sports, emphasizing skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Science Program: Engages campers in environmental science, wildlife biology, and astronomy, promoting curiosity and a deeper understanding of the natural world.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Togowoods is structured to balance activity with reflection, and learning with fun. Here’s what a typical day might look like:

7:00 AM: Wake up and morning exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast and daily briefing
9:00 AM: Morning activity block (e.g., kayaking, arts and crafts, science experiments)
12:00 PM: Lunch and rest period
1:30 PM: Afternoon activity block (e.g., hiking, team sports, leadership workshops)
5:00 PM: Free time for campers to explore, relax, or engage in chosen activities
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening program (e.g., campfire, talent show, night hike)
9:00 PM: Reflections and lights out

This structured yet flexible schedule ensures that campers are engaged, learning, and having fun throughout their stay at Camp Togowoods. It embodies the camp’s commitment to fostering an environment where campers can grow, explore, and discover their potential in a supportive community setting.

Accommodations in Camp Togowoods

Camp Togowoods offers a variety of accommodations and facilities designed to ensure that campers have a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable stay while immersed in the natural beauty of Wasilla, AK. The camp’s accommodations cater to different preferences and provide a rustic yet cozy environment conducive to relaxation and camaraderie. Here’s an overview of the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom and shower facilities available at Camp Togowoods.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The camp features a series of well-constructed cabins that serve as the primary accommodation for campers. These cabins are designed to blend with the natural surroundings and are equipped with bunk beds, storage areas, and windows for natural light. Cabins are typically divided by age group and gender to ensure comfort and privacy. Each cabin houses a specific number of campers and is supervised by trained camp counselors.
Tents: For specific programs or expeditions, campers may have the opportunity to sleep in tents. This option is usually part of the adventure and leadership programs where campers learn about outdoor living skills. Tents are set up in safe, designated areas within the campgrounds, providing an authentic wilderness experience.
Dorms: Depending on the session and program, older campers or those participating in special workshops may be accommodated in dormitory-style facilities. These dorms offer individual or bunk beds, and communal living spaces, and are a bit more modern compared to the cabins.

Dining Options

Camp Togowoods places a strong emphasis on healthy, nutritious, and delicious meals to fuel its campers throughout their busy days. The camp offers:

Meal Plans: A comprehensive meal plan is provided, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Meals are served in the camp’s communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and share their day’s experiences. The dining environment is casual and fosters a sense of community among campers and staff.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, Camp Togowoods offers options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific dietary restrictions due to allergies or religious observances. Campers and parents are encouraged to communicate any dietary needs ahead of time so the camp can adequately prepare.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities that are conveniently located near cabins and dormitories. These facilities are segregated by gender and are designed to provide privacy and comfort. They are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and safety.
Eco-Friendly Practices: Camp Togowoods is committed to sustainability and incorporates eco-friendly practices in its facilities, including low-flow showers and toilets, and environmentally safe soaps and cleaning products.

Camp Togowoods aims to provide a home away from home for its campers, ensuring that their stay is as comfortable as it is adventurous. With thoughtful accommodations, a range of dining options, and well-maintained facilities, campers can fully immerse themselves in the enriching experiences that the camp has to offer.

Activities in Camp Togowoods

Camp Togowoods offers a wide variety of activities, special events, and skill development opportunities that cater to the diverse interests and abilities of its campers. The camp’s programs are thoughtfully designed to encourage exploration, creativity, teamwork, and personal growth. Here is an overview of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available at Camp Togowoods.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Summer Camps can engage in a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, and archery. These activities are designed to teach campers about the natural world, foster a sense of adventure, and build physical fitness.
Swimming: The camp offers swimming activities in its on-site lake or swimming pool, providing lessons for beginners and challenging activities for more advanced swimmers.
Crafts: A variety of crafting activities are available, allowing campers to express their creativity through painting, pottery, beadwork, woodworking, and more.
Environmental Education: Campers learn about local ecosystems, wildlife, and conservation efforts through interactive workshops and hands-on activities.
Team Sports: Sports such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, and ultimate frisbee are played, emphasizing teamwork, sportsmanship, and healthy competition.
Performing Arts: Activities such as drama, dance, and music allow campers to explore their artistic talents and perform for their peers.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These ceremonies mark the beginning and end of each camp session, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose among campers and staff.
Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings feature storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, creating memorable experiences and bonding opportunities.
Theme Days: Special theme days or weeks, such as “Pirate Day” or “Eco-Week,” bring fun and educational twists to camp activities.
Talent Shows: Campers have the opportunity to showcase their talents and skills in front of their peers, promoting self-confidence and mutual support.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs designed to develop skills in team management, problem-solving, and decision-making.
Outdoor Skills Workshops: These workshops cover survival skills, orienteering, wildlife identification, and environmental stewardship, empowering campers with knowledge and skills applicable in and beyond the camp setting.
Creative Workshops: Through various arts and crafts activities, campers can develop their creative skills and take home personal projects as souvenirs of their camp experience.
Personal Growth Activities: Activities such as team-building exercises and reflection sessions are designed to foster self-awareness, resilience, and emotional intelligence.

Camp Togowoods strives to offer a balance of fun, learning, and personal development, ensuring that every camper leaves with not only unforgettable memories but also new skills and a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

The staff of Camp Togowoods

The staff at Camp Togowoods plays a pivotal role in creating a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for campers. The camp is committed to maintaining a high staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and guidance. This ratio is carefully calculated to support the diverse range of activities and programs offered, typically aligning with best practices for outdoor and educational youth camps.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Togowoods strives for a low staff-to-camper ratio, often around 1:8 for most activities. This ratio ensures that campers have access to the support and supervision they need while participating in camp activities. For certain specialized or high-risk activities, such as swimming or outdoor adventures, the ratio may be even lower to enhance safety and provide more focused instruction.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

The hiring process at Camp Togowoods is rigorous, designed to select individuals who are not only skilled in their respective fields but who also share the camp’s commitment to fostering a positive and nurturing environment for campers. Candidates undergo thorough background checks, interviews, and reference checks. The camp seeks staff members who have experience in child development, education, recreation, or specific program areas relevant to the camp’s offerings.

Training and Certifications

All staff members at Camp Togowoods are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid as a minimum standard for health and safety. Additionally, staff members leading specialized activities may hold further certifications, such as lifeguarding for swimming activities, wilderness first responder for outdoor adventures, and specific coaching or teaching certifications for sports and arts programs.

Before the commencement of camp sessions, all staff undergo a comprehensive training program. This training covers camp policies and procedures, child development, emergency response protocols, and specific skill training related to the activities they will be leading. The aim is to equip staff with the knowledge and skills necessary to create a supportive, engaging, and safe camp environment.

Camp Togowoods is dedicated to continuous improvement and professional development. Throughout the camp season, staff members have opportunities for ongoing training and feedback, ensuring they remain aligned with the camp’s high standards of safety, quality, and camper engagement. This commitment to excellence in staffing is fundamental to providing campers with a memorable and impactful camp experience.

Safety and Health in Camp Togowoods

Camp Togowoods prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing comprehensive protocols and procedures to ensure a secure and healthy camp environment. Understanding the importance of preparedness and quick response, the camp has developed a robust safety infrastructure and clear policies for handling various emergencies.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Risk Assessment: Regular risk assessments are conducted for all activities and camp facilities to identify potential hazards and implement preventive measures.
Safety Training: Campers and staff receive safety training relevant to their activities, including proper equipment use, emergency response drills (fire, evacuation, lockdown), and wilderness safety for outdoor excursions.
Activity Supervision: All camp activities are supervised by trained staff members who are experienced in the specific activity they lead, ensuring that safety guidelines are followed at all times.
Equipment and Facility Maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance of all equipment and facilities are conducted to ensure they are in safe working condition.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Togowoods is equipped with an on-site health center, staffed by licensed healthcare professionals such as nurses or EMTs, available 24/7 to provide care and manage any health issues that may arise.
Health Screening: Upon arrival, campers undergo health screenings to identify any existing conditions or needs, ensuring that staff can provide appropriate care and accommodations.
Medication Management: The health center staff manages and administers medications according to prescribed guidelines, ensuring that campers’ medical needs are met throughout their stay.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Preparedness: The camp has a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan, which includes protocols for natural disasters, health emergencies, and other urgent situations. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication: Clear communication protocols are established to inform parents, guardians, and relevant authorities in the event of an emergency, ensuring timely and accurate information is provided.
Training: All staff participate in emergency response training, which is conducted before the camp session begins. This training includes CPR, First Aid, and specific emergency procedures relevant to the camp’s environment.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: Camp Togowoods maintains strong relationships with local health departments, emergency services, and law enforcement agencies to ensure coordinated responses to emergencies and access to additional resources when needed.

Safety and health are foundational to the mission of Camp Togowoods, ensuring that campers can explore, learn, and grow in a setting that is as safe as it is supportive. The camp’s dedication to maintaining rigorous safety standards and health protocols reflects its commitment to providing a positive and secure camping experience for all.

Cost and Registration in Camp Togowoods

Camp Togowoods aims to provide an enriching camping experience that is accessible to as many families as possible. Understanding the financial commitment involved, the camp offers transparent pricing, a straightforward registration process, and options to assist with the cost of attendance.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Camp Togowoods varies depending on the length of the session, the type of program selected, and the accommodation options. Typically, the cost would cover all aspects of the camp experience, including:

Accommodations (cabins, tents, or dorms, based on the selected program)
All meals and snacks, with options to accommodate dietary restrictions
Participation in all activities and access to all camp facilities
Supervision and guidance from trained camp staff
Basic health services provided by the on-site health center

Additional costs may apply for specialty programs, off-site excursions, or specific personal equipment. Parents are encouraged to review the camp’s brochure or website for detailed pricing information for each session and program.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Camp Togowoods typically offers an online registration platform, where parents can fill out forms, select sessions and programs, and submit necessary health and emergency contact information.
Deadlines: It’s important to note registration deadlines, as popular sessions can fill up quickly. Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot in the desired program.
Confirmation: Upon completing the registration and payment, families will receive confirmation and a welcome packet with additional information about preparing for camp.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding the financial planning required for summer camp, Camp Togowoods often provides payment plan options, allowing families to spread the cost over multiple months.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp has a clear policy regarding refunds and cancellations, which typically includes deadlines for cancellations with partial refunds and conditions under which refunds may not be available (such as cancellations close to the session start date). It’s crucial to review these policies before registration.
Insurance: Some families opt for camp insurance to cover unexpected cancellations or interruptions.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Togowoods is committed to making camp accessible and offers scholarships based on financial need. These scholarships can cover a portion or the entirety of camp fees.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, the camp may have other financial aid options or discounts (e.g., early registration, multiple siblings attending).
Application for Assistance: Families seeking financial assistance are encouraged to apply early, as funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Families interested in Camp Togowoods are encouraged to explore all options for assistance and engage with the camp’s registration team for any questions or concerns regarding cost, registration, or financial aid. The goal is to ensure that all campers have the opportunity to experience the transformative power of Camp Togowoods, regardless of financial background.

Costs:

Camp rental:
- Beaver Lodge: $100/night. It has heat, electricity, a stove for cooking, a wood stove, a fridge, water, and latrines nearby. It also has board games, snowshoes, and ice skates. There is a loft with mattresses that can sleep about 15 people.
- Hohokam and Kuvluk cabins: $50/night. These one-room cabins have wood stoves for heat, a propane stove for cooking, and propane lights. Mattresses on the ground can sleep about 10 people. Latrines are nearby. Wood and water are provided. Troops staying in the cabins also have access to snowshoes.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Togowoods

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, Camp Togowoods provides detailed information on what to bring, rules and policies for campers, and tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

A well-prepared packing list is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable camp experience. Camp Togowoods recommends including:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing (e.g., rain gear, warm layers), including enough clothes for the entire session since laundry facilities may be limited. Include sturdy footwear for hiking and water shoes for aquatic activities.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (depending on the accommodation type), and a pillow.
Personal Items: Toiletries, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small first aid kit. Don’t forget personal medications, with clear instructions for camp health staff.
Gear: Flashlight or headlamp, water bottle, backpack, and any specific gear required for selected camp activities (the camp will provide a list of any specialized items needed).
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, or small games for downtime. Cameras (disposable or digital) are often allowed, but check the camp’s policy on electronics.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Togowoods typically enforces a policy to limit or prohibit the use of personal electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, to encourage campers to fully engage with the camp experience and their fellow campers.
Visitation: There are specific guidelines regarding visitation to ensure the safety and security of campers. These often include designated visiting days and requirements for visitor registration.
Behavior: Expectations for camper behavior are communicated clearly, emphasizing respect, cooperation, and positive interaction within the camp community.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Prepare Together: Go through the packing list and prepare for camp together. This can help set expectations and build excitement for the upcoming adventure.
Discuss Homesickness: It’s normal for campers (especially first-timers) to feel homesick. Have open discussions about these feelings and strategies for coping, such as making new friends and engaging fully in activities.
Communication: Understand the camp’s policies on communication (e.g., mail, emails, or scheduled calls) and discuss with your camper how you’ll stay in touch during their session.
Set Goals: Encourage your camper to set personal goals for their time at camp, such as trying a new activity, learning a new skill, or making a new friend. This can help make their camp experience more meaningful and rewarding.
Trust the Process: Camp is a time for growth, independence, and learning. Trust the camp staff and the experience itself to provide your child with a safe and enriching environment.

By following these preparation tips and adhering to the camp’s guidelines, parents and campers can ensure that their time at Camp Togowoods will be an unforgettable adventure filled with fun, learning, and personal growth.

Camp Togowoods stands out as a beacon of adventure, learning, and personal growth in the stunning backdrop of Wasilla, Alaska. With its comprehensive programs, dedicated staff, and a strong emphasis on safety and health, the camp offers a unique and enriching experience tailored to young girls of various age groups. From the immersive outdoor activities and creative arts to the science explorations and skill development opportunities, Camp Togowoods is dedicated to fostering a nurturing environment where campers can discover their strengths, forge lasting friendships, and develop a deep appreciation for the natural world.

The camp’s thoughtful accommodations, detailed preparation guidelines for parents and campers, and commitment to accessibility through financial aid and scholarships ensure that the Camp Togowoods experience is within reach for families from diverse backgrounds. The camp’s rules and policies further underscore its commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive community where every camper feels valued and empowered.