Camp Augusta is nestled in the scenic foothills of Nevada City, California, a region known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich historical significance during the Gold Rush era. This unique camp is located amidst the lush forests and sparkling lakes of Northern California, offering campers a serene backdrop for their adventures and a connection to the great outdoors.

Founded with a vision to provide an enriching experience for children and teens, Camp Augusta has been creating unforgettable memories for its campers for many years. With its roots deeply embedded in the values of community, personal growth, and environmental stewardship, the camp has a rich history of empowering young individuals to discover their inner strengths, foster a sense of independence, and build lifelong friendships.

The mission of Camp Augusta is to bring children, families, and communities closer to nature and each other. It operates under a philosophy centered on personal growth through challenges, freedom to explore, and fostering a deep connection with the natural world. The camp is dedicated to creating a supportive environment where campers can learn, play, and grow in a setting that values creativity, imagination, and the spirit of adventure.

Camp Augusta offers a coeducational camping experience, welcoming boys and girls across a wide range of age groups. The camp provides a variety of programs tailored to meet the needs and interests of campers from different age brackets, ensuring that each child receives a personalized and age-appropriate experience. Whether it’s through traditional camp activities, wilderness expeditions, or creative arts, Camp Augusta is committed to offering an inclusive, engaging, and transformative experience for all its campers.

Programs Offered by Camp Augusta

Camp Augusta offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental needs of children and teens of various ages. The camp emphasizes a holistic approach to child development, incorporating elements of adventure, creativity, personal growth, and environmental stewardship into each program. Here is an overview of the programs offered, their duration, specialty areas, and a glimpse into a typical day at camp:

General Camp Programs

Description: These programs focus on a broad range of activities including outdoor adventures, arts and crafts, team sports, water activities, and more. The goal is to provide campers with a well-rounded experience that encourages exploration, teamwork, and personal growth.
Length of Sessions: Camp Augusta offers sessions ranging from one week to two weeks, allowing families to choose the best fit for their schedule and the camper’s comfort with being away from home.
Specialty Programs: Within the general camp framework, there are opportunities for campers to delve deeper into specific areas of interest such as wilderness survival skills, equestrian activities, or creative arts.

Specialty Camps

Description: These camps are designed for campers with particular interests or talents. Examples might include camps focused on science and nature, performing arts, sports clinics, or leadership development.
Length of Sessions: Specialty camps typically run for one to two weeks, providing an immersive experience in the campers’ area of interest.
Specialty Programs: Each specialty camp has a focused curriculum designed to deepen campers’ skills and knowledge in the program’s specific area, whether it’s robotics, basketball, theater, or environmental science.

Leadership Training Programs

Description: Aimed at older campers, these programs focus on developing leadership skills, teamwork, and personal growth. Participants engage in workshops, team-building activities, and hands-on leadership experiences.
Length of Sessions: Leadership programs can range from two weeks to a full summer, depending on the level of training and age group.
Specialty Programs: These might include Counselor-In-Training (CIT) programs, wilderness leadership expeditions, and community service projects.

Typical Daily Schedule

While each day at Camp Augusta is unique, a typical day might look something like this:

7:30 AM: Wake Up & Morning Reflection
8:00 AM: Breakfast and Camp Clean-Up
9:00 AM: Morning Activities (rotating through different stations or specialty program content)
12:00 PM: Lunch and Rest Time
1:30 PM: Afternoon Activities (focused on skill development in specialty areas or free choice among various offerings)
5:30 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening Program (camp-wide games, talent shows, or themed nights)
9:00 PM: Campfire and Reflection Time
10:00 PM: Lights Out (varies by age group)

This schedule is designed to strike a balance between structured activities and free time, allowing campers to explore their interests while fostering a sense of community and belonging. Each day is a new adventure at Camp Augusta, with programs crafted to inspire, challenge, and delight campers of all ages.

Accommodations in Camp Augusta

Camp Augusta provides a rustic yet comfortable camping experience, ensuring that all campers feel at home while immersed in the beauty of the Northern California wilderness. The accommodations are designed to foster a sense of community and connection with nature, while also providing the necessary comforts and conveniences.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodations for campers at Camp Augusta are cabins. These cozy structures are nestled among the trees, providing a safe and comfortable place for campers to rest after a day full of activities. Cabins are typically equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal belongings. They are grouped by age and program to ensure a supportive and age-appropriate environment for all campers.
Tents: For certain programs or outdoor expeditions, campers may have the opportunity to sleep in tents. This allows for a more immersive outdoor experience, teaching campers basic camping skills and fostering a deeper connection with the natural world.
Dorms: Although cabins are the main form of accommodation, some programs, particularly those for older campers or specific leadership camps, might utilize dormitory-style accommodations for parts of their stay, providing a different communal living experience.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Augusta offers comprehensive meal plans that include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals are served in a communal dining hall where campers and staff come together to enjoy nutritious and delicious food. The camp prides itself on serving a variety of meals that are both kid-friendly and health-conscious.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to the dietary needs of all campers, Camp Augusta provides options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific dietary restrictions due to allergies or religious practices. The camp requests that any dietary needs be communicated in advance so that the kitchen staff can prepare accordingly.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Bathroom and shower facilities at Camp Augusta are communal, with separate facilities for boys and girls. These facilities are strategically located near the cabins and main camp areas for easy access. The camp ensures that these facilities are kept clean and sanitary, with regular maintenance and cleaning schedules.
Privacy and Comfort: Understanding the importance of privacy, especially for older campers, the camp’s bathroom and shower facilities are designed to ensure a comfortable and respectful environment. Private shower stalls and changing areas are available.

Camp Augusta’s accommodations are thoughtfully designed to enhance the camping experience, combining the rustic charm of outdoor living with the comforts of home. The camp’s commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment is evident in its attentive approach to sleeping arrangements, dining options, and facility maintenance.

Activities in Camp Augusta

Camp Augusta is dedicated to providing a wide array of activities that cater to diverse interests and skill levels, ensuring every camper has the opportunity to explore new hobbies, develop skills, and create lasting memories. The camp’s picturesque setting in Nevada City, California, offers the perfect backdrop for a variety of outdoor and creative endeavors.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Summer Camps can immerse themselves in nature through activities like hiking, canoeing, rock climbing, and archery. The camp’s location allows for unique experiences such as horseback riding through trails and overnight wilderness camping trips.
Water Activities: The presence of a lake and pools enables a host of water-based activities, including swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Safety is a priority, with lifeguards and instructors ensuring that all campers have a fun and secure experience.
Creative Arts: For those inclined towards creativity, the camp offers arts and crafts, theater, music, and dance. These activities are designed to encourage self-expression and creativity, allowing campers to explore their artistic side.
Sports and Games: A variety of sports and games are available for campers, including soccer, basketball, tennis, and frisbee. These activities promote physical fitness, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Skill Workshops: Camp Augusta hosts workshops on a range of skills, from wilderness survival and orienteering to leadership and team-building. These sessions are geared towards personal growth and skill development.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Augusta is rich in traditions and special events that foster a sense of community and belonging among campers. These might include:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These ceremonies mark the beginning and end of camp sessions, helping campers feel connected to the camp’s community.
Theme Days: Special days where activities revolve around a specific theme, encouraging creativity and participation from everyone at camp.
Campfires: Regular campfire gatherings include storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
Talent Shows: An opportunity for campers to showcase their talents and celebrate the diversity of skills within the camp community.

Skill Development Opportunities

Camp Augusta places a strong emphasis on the personal development of each camper, offering numerous opportunities for skill advancement:

Leadership and Teamwork: Through group activities and specific leadership programs, campers learn valuable skills in communication, problem-solving, and collaboration.
Environmental Awareness: Activities and workshops focused on nature and conservation help campers develop a deeper appreciation for the environment and understand their role in preserving it.
Personal Challenges: The camp encourages campers to set personal goals and challenges, whether it’s mastering a new skill or overcoming a fear, promoting resilience and self-confidence.

Camp Augusta’s diverse program offerings ensure that every camper has the opportunity to engage in activities that spark their interest, challenge them, and contribute to their growth and development.

The staff of Camp Augusta

Camp Augusta is dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment for all campers. This commitment is reflected in the camp’s approach to staffing, which prioritizes a high staff-to-camper ratio, rigorous hiring processes, and comprehensive staff training and certifications.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Augusta maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and care. This ratio is designed to foster a close-knit community atmosphere where campers feel supported and valued. While the exact ratio may vary depending on the session and age group, the camp aims to exceed industry standards to provide a high level of supervision and interaction.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Selection Process: The camp’s hiring process is thorough, involving multiple interviews, reference checks, and background screenings. This rigorous selection ensures that all staff members are not only qualified but also share the camp’s values and commitment to creating a positive impact on campers’ lives.
Qualifications: Staff members typically have experience in education, recreation, or related fields, and possess a genuine passion for working with children and youth. Many are returning staff who have a deep understanding of the camp’s culture and traditions, while new hires bring fresh perspectives and skills to the camp community.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before campers arrive, all staff undergo extensive pre-camp training that covers camp policies, child development, behavior management techniques, and activity leadership. This training ensures that staff are well-prepared to provide a safe, enjoyable, and enriching camp experience.
CPR and First Aid: All camp staff are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are critical for ensuring the health and safety of campers and staff alike.
Specialized Certifications: For staff leading specific activities such as swimming, rock climbing, or horseback riding, additional certifications may be required (e.g., lifeguard certification, climbing instructor certification). This ensures that all activities are led by staff members who are not only passionate about the activity but also have the necessary skills and knowledge to teach it safely.

Camp Augusta’s commitment to a highly qualified and well-trained staff ensures that campers have a safe, positive, and memorable experience. The staff’s dedication to the camp’s mission and philosophy helps create an environment where children can grow, learn, and thrive.

Safety and Health in Camp Augusta

Camp Augusta takes the safety and health of its campers and staff very seriously, implementing comprehensive protocols and maintaining facilities to ensure a secure and nurturing environment. The camp’s approach to safety and health is proactive, focusing on prevention, preparedness, and rapid response to any issues that may arise.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Camp Augusta has established a set of rigorous safety protocols and procedures that are adhered to at all times:

Activity-Specific Training: Staff members are trained in the specific safety protocols for each activity offered at camp, ensuring that all activities are conducted in a manner that prioritizes camper safety.
Emergency Preparedness: The camp conducts regular drills for various emergency scenarios, including fire, natural disasters, and medical emergencies, to ensure that both staff and campers are prepared and know how to respond.
Equipment and Facility Safety: Regular inspections and maintenance of all camp facilities and equipment are conducted to ensure they are in safe working order.
Safety Guidelines: Campers are educated on safety guidelines and best practices for each activity, emphasizing the importance of following instructions and using equipment properly.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Augusta is equipped with an on-site health center, staffed by qualified healthcare professionals such as nurses or EMTs, who are available 24/7 to attend to any health concerns or emergencies.
Medical Protocols: The camp has established protocols for handling common health issues, such as allergies, asthma, or minor injuries. These protocols include initial assessment, treatment, and, if necessary, referral to local medical facilities.
Medication Management: The health center staff is responsible for the safe storage and administration of medications for campers who require them, following strict guidelines to ensure accuracy and confidentiality.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Immediate Response: In the event of an emergency, camp staff are trained to respond immediately, providing necessary first aid and stabilizing the situation until further medical help can be obtained if needed.
Communication: The camp has clear policies in place for communicating with parents and guardians in the event of an emergency, ensuring that they are informed and involved in decisions regarding their child’s health and safety.
Partnerships with Local Services: Camp Augusta maintains strong relationships with local emergency services and healthcare facilities, ensuring a rapid response in the event that additional medical intervention is required.

Camp Augusta’s comprehensive approach to safety and health underscores its commitment to providing a safe, enjoyable, and healthy camp experience for all participants. Through meticulous planning, training, and adherence to safety protocols, the camp ensures that parents can have peace of mind while their children explore, learn, and grow in the beautiful setting of Nevada City, California.

Cost and Registration in Camp Augusta

Camp Augusta aims to provide a memorable and enriching camp experience while ensuring that its programs are accessible and affordable for families. Understanding the financial commitment involved, the camp outlines clear information regarding the cost of attendance, registration processes, and financial assistance options.

Cost of Attendance

What It Includes: The cost of attending Camp Augusta covers not only the camp session but also encompasses all meals, accommodations, and access to a wide range of activities and equipment. Additionally, the fee includes any special events, instructional materials needed for various programs, and a camp T-shirt. Transportation to and from the camp, if offered, might incur an additional fee.
Variability: The cost can vary depending on the length of the session (e.g., one week, two weeks) and the type of program selected (e.g., general camp, specialty camps). Detailed pricing information is typically available on the camp’s website or through their registration office.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Camp Augusta usually offers an online registration process through its website, where parents can fill out forms, select session dates, and choose programs.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged as spaces fill up quickly. Specific deadlines for registration are provided each year, with early bird rates available for those who register before a certain date.
Required Documents: In addition to the registration form, parents may need to submit health records, emergency contact information, and any relevant information regarding dietary restrictions or special needs.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding the financial burden that camp fees can pose, Camp Augusta often offers flexible payment plans to spread the cost over several months.
Refunds and Cancellation Policies: The camp typically outlines specific policies regarding refunds and cancellations, including deadlines for cancellations with partial refunds and the conditions under which refunds are not available (e.g., late cancellations, and early departures).
Insurance: Some families opt for camp insurance to cover unexpected cancellations or early departures due to illness or injury.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Availability: Camp Augusta is committed to making its programs accessible to all children and offers scholarships or financial aid to families who demonstrate financial need.
Application Process: Families interested in applying for financial aid are usually required to fill out an application detailing their financial situation, which is then reviewed by the camp’s financial aid committee.
Donations and Fundraisers: The camp may also engage in fundraising activities and accept donations to fund its scholarship program, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent any child from experiencing the joy and growth that the camp offers.

Camp Augusta’s approach to cost, registration, and financial assistance is designed to be as inclusive and accommodating as possible, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to enjoy a summer filled with adventure, learning, and fun.

Camp Augusta’s summer camp fees depend on the program length:

They range from $375 to $500 per person.
Two-week sessions are generally cheaper than one-week sessions.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Augusta

Preparing for a session at Camp Augusta involves several steps to ensure both campers and their parents are ready for the upcoming adventure. The camp provides comprehensive information on what to bring, rules and policies to adhere to, and tips to make the experience as enjoyable and smooth as possible.

Packing List

Camp Augusta recommends packing items that are practical, comfortable, and suited to the range of activities offered. While specific lists can vary based on the session and activities chosen, a general packing list might include:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing, including layers for cooler evenings, swimwear, sturdy footwear (hiking boots and closed-toe shoes), hats, and rain gear.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or blankets, pillow, and a fitted sheet for the bunk beds.
Toiletries: Personal hygiene items, including soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, and insect repellent.
Equipment: Flashlight or headlamp, water bottle, and sunscreen.
Optional Items: Books, stationary for writing home, and a disposable camera (if desired).

Camp Augusta encourages labeling all personal items with the camper’s name to help keep track of belongings.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To encourage connection with nature and each other, the use of personal electronic devices (smartphones, tablets, etc.) is typically restricted or not allowed. This policy helps campers to engage fully with the camp experience and fosters social interaction.
Visitation: Policies on visitation can vary, but most camps have specific days and times for parents to visit or may discourage visitation to help campers adjust to camp life. Parents are advised to check with Camp Augusta for their specific visitation policies.
Behavior: Camp Augusta expects campers to adhere to a code of conduct that respects the rights and safety of others. This includes following the instructions of camp staff, participating in activities, and showing respect to fellow campers and the environment.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting opportunities and adventures that await. Address any anxieties or questions your child may have.
Independence: Encourage independence in your child by practicing skills they might need at camp, such as making their bed, organizing their belongings, and personal hygiene.
Communication: Explain how you’ll communicate during camp, whether through letters, emails, or calls, depending on the camp’s policies.
Positive Attitude: Maintain a positive attitude about the camp experience, as children often reflect their parents’ feelings. Highlight the positive aspects and growth opportunities.
Trust: Reassure your child (and yourself) that the camp staff are trained and prepared to provide a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience.

By following these guidelines and taking advantage of the resources and information provided by Camp Augusta, parents, and campers can feel prepared and excited for the unique experiences that await at camp.

Camp Augusta stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and growth in the beautiful setting of Nevada City, California. With its wide array of activities, from outdoor adventures and creative arts to water sports and leadership training, the camp offers something for every camper to explore and enjoy. Through its carefully designed programs, Camp Augusta fosters an environment where children and teens can develop skills, forge lasting friendships, and build confidence in a safe and supportive community.

The camp’s commitment to personal growth, environmental stewardship, and fostering a sense of belonging ensures that every camper leaves with not just memories but also valuable life lessons. The emphasis on safety, health, and preparation further reassures parents that their children are in good hands, allowing them to experience the joys of childhood in an enriching and nurturing setting.