Nestled on the serene shores of Bass Lake in the heart of California, Skylake Yosemite Camp is a picturesque retreat that offers an unforgettable experience for youth seeking adventure, friendship, and personal growth. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, just a stone’s throw away from the majestic Yosemite National Park, this camp is a beacon for nature lovers and young explorers alike.

Skylake Yosemite Camp boasts a rich history that spans over several decades, having welcomed campers since its establishment. It was founded with the vision of creating a safe, engaging, and enriching environment for children to connect with nature, learn new skills, and forge lasting friendships. Over the years, Skylake has evolved, but its core mission has remained steadfast: to inspire young individuals to reach their full potential, embrace challenges, and cultivate a deep respect for the natural world.

The camp operates with a philosophy centered on personal growth, outdoor adventure, and community building. It is committed to providing a nurturing space where campers can explore their interests, develop leadership qualities, and become responsible stewards of the environment.

Skylake Yosemite Camp caters to boys and girls across various age groups, offering a diverse range of activities tailored to meet the interests and abilities of each camper. Whether it’s hiking in the shadows of towering sequoias, canoeing on the tranquil waters of Bass Lake, or stargazing under the clear mountain sky, Skylake provides a backdrop for experiences that campers will cherish for a lifetime.

Embracing the spirit of adventure and discovery, Skylake Yosemite Camp is more than just a summer getaway—it’s a place where young hearts and minds come together to create memories, learn life lessons, and grow in ways they never imagined possible.

Programs Offered by Skylake Yosemite Camp

At Skylake Yosemite Camp, they pride ourselves on offering a wide array of programs designed to cater to the diverse interests and developmental needs of their campers. Each program is carefully curated to ensure a balance of adventure, creativity, learning, and fun, all while fostering a deep connection with the natural world.

Description of the Programs

Their camp programs are structured to provide an immersive experience of the wonders of nature and the joy of summer camp life. From outdoor adventures that take advantage of their unique location near Yosemite National Park to creative arts and sports activities, there’s something for every camper to enjoy.

Length of Sessions

To accommodate the preferences and schedules of their families, Skylake Yosemite Camp offers flexible session lengths:

One-Week Sessions: Perfect for first-time campers or those with limited summer availability, these sessions offer a taste of all the camp’s highlights.
Two-Week Sessions: Their most popular option, allows for a deeper dive into camp life and more opportunities to explore, learn, and bond with fellow campers.
Full Summer: For the ultimate Skylake experience, campers can immerse themselves in the camp lifestyle, participating in a wide range of activities and special events throughout the summer.

Specialty Programs

Arts: Their arts program encourages creativity and self-expression through painting, sculpture, photography, and craft-making, guided by experienced instructors.
Sports: With a focus on both individual and team sports, campers can engage in soccer, basketball, volleyball, swimming, and more, promoting physical fitness and sportsmanship.
Science and Nature Exploration: Leveraging their proximity to Yosemite National Park, this program offers hands-on learning experiences in environmental science, ecology, and conservation efforts.

Typical Daily Schedule

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

7:30 AM: Wake Up & Morning Dip in Bass Lake (optional)
8:00 AM: Breakfast and Day Briefing
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Morning Activity Blocks (Campers split into groups for pre-selected activities)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Siesta/Rest Time
2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Afternoon Activity Blocks (A second round of activities, different from the morning sessions)
5:30 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM: Evening Program (Camp-wide games, talent shows, campfires, etc.)
8:30 PM: Younger Campers’ Bedtime
9:30 PM: Older Campers’ Bedtime

Their programs are designed to offer a balanced mix of structured activities and free time, allowing campers the flexibility to explore their interests and make the most of their summer camp experience. At Skylake Yosemite Camp, every day is an adventure waiting to be discovered!

Accommodations in Skylake Yosemite Camp

Skylake Yosemite Camp provides a classic summer camp environment with accommodations and facilities designed to blend comfort with the rustic charm of outdoor living. Here’s a closer look at what campers can expect during their stay:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The camp primarily offers cabin living, where campers are housed in comfortable, well-constructed cabins that fit seamlessly into the natural landscape. These cabins are typically divided by age and gender, ensuring a supportive and safe environment for all campers. Each cabin houses a specific number of campers, often with bunk beds, and is supervised by trained, caring counselors who stay in the cabin or nearby.
Tents: For certain adventure programs or specific activities like overnight hikes, campers might have the chance to sleep in tents. This allows for a full immersion into the wilderness experience, teaching campers basic camping skills and fostering a deeper connection with nature.
Dorms: While cabins are the primary form of accommodation, certain sessions or special programs may utilize dormitory-style facilities, especially if they’re geared towards older campers or specific thematic camps. Dorms, when available, offer a communal living experience with shared sleeping quarters and common areas.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Skylake Yosemite Camp understands the importance of nutritious, delicious meals to fuel a day of activities. The camp offers comprehensive meal plans that include breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Meals are served in a communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat, socialize, and relax.
Dietary Accommodations: Recognizing the diverse dietary needs of campers, Skylake provides options to accommodate various dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-specific meals. The camp’s kitchen staff are experienced in handling special dietary requirements with the utmost care to ensure every camper enjoys healthy and satisfying meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathrooms and Showers: The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities, strategically located near cabins and common areas for easy access. Facilities are gender-specific and offer privacy, with individual stalls and shower cubicles. Hot and cold water is available, and cleanliness is a top priority, with facilities regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.

At Skylake Yosemite Camp, the accommodations and facilities are designed to enhance the camping experience, providing a balance of outdoor living with the comforts of home. The camp’s dedication to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment is evident in every aspect of its accommodations, from the cozy cabins and communal dining to the well-maintained bathroom and shower facilities. It’s all part of ensuring that campers have an unforgettable summer filled with adventure, friendship, and personal growth.

Activities at Skylake Yosemite Camp

Skylake Yosemite Camp is renowned for its dynamic and engaging activity program, designed to offer campers a broad spectrum of experiences and opportunities for growth. From exhilarating outdoor adventures to creative arts and skill development, the camp provides a nurturing environment where every camper can find something they love.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Enjoy swimming in the pristine waters of Bass Lake, with supervised swim times and lessons for all skill levels.
Hiking: Explore the breathtaking trails of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Yosemite National Park, ranging from gentle walks to challenging hikes.
Crafts: Get creative with a variety of arts and crafts projects, including painting, pottery, jewelry making, and more.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Paddle on the serene waters of Bass Lake, learning canoeing and kayaking skills under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Rock Climbing: Experience the thrill of rock climbing on natural and artificial walls, catering to beginners and advanced climbers.
Archery: Summer camps can learn the basics of archery or hone your skills with the help of their skilled archery instructors.
Nature Studies: Engage in hands-on environmental education, exploring the local flora, fauna, and ecological practices.
Sports: Participate in a variety of sports, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and more, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
Stargazing: Marvel at the night sky through stargazing sessions, learning about constellations and celestial events.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Gather around the campfire for storytelling, songs, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.
Theme Days: Participate in fun and spirited theme days, where campers and staff dress up and engage in themed activities.
Talent Shows: Showcase your talents or cheer on your friends during their talent show nights, celebrating the diverse abilities of their camp community.
End-of-Session Banquet: Mark the end of each session with a special banquet, where achievements are celebrated and friendships are commemorated.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership training programs, developing skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and communication.
Environmental Stewardship: Learn about conservation efforts and environmental stewardship through hands-on activities and projects.
Outdoor Survival Skills: Gain valuable outdoor survival skills, including orienteering, fire-building, and shelter construction.
Personal Growth Workshops: Engage in workshops focused on personal growth, self-esteem, and building resilience.

At Skylake Yosemite Camp, they believe in the power of outdoor experiences and creative exploration to foster personal growth and lifelong skills. Their activities, special events, and skill development opportunities are designed to inspire campers to push their boundaries, discover new passions, and build lasting friendships.

The staff of Skylake Yosemite Camp

At Skylake Yosemite Camp, they understand that the quality of their staff is integral to providing a safe, enriching, and memorable camp experience. Their dedicated team is carefully selected and trained to meet the highest standards of leadership, safety, and camper care.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Skylake Yosemite Camp maintains an optimal staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that every camper receives personalized attention and support. Their ratio is designed to meet and exceed industry standards, typically ranging from 1:6 to 1:8, depending on the age group and activity. This ratio allows their staff to foster a nurturing environment where all campers feel valued, safe, and engaged in their camp experience.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Hiring Process: The hiring process at Skylake Yosemite Camp is rigorous and comprehensive, involving detailed applications, interviews, and background checks. They seek individuals who are not only skilled in their respective fields but also possess a genuine passion for working with children and a strong commitment to their camp’s values.
Staff Qualifications: Their staff members come from diverse backgrounds, including education, outdoor recreation, arts, and sports. All potential staff members must demonstrate previous experience working with children, excellent interpersonal skills, and a dedication to creating a positive and inclusive camp environment.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the start of camp, all staff members undergo an intensive pre-camp training program. This training covers a wide range of topics, including child development, behavior management techniques, emergency procedures, and the specific protocols of Skylake Yosemite Camp.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to hold current certifications in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are essential for ensuring the health and safety of their campers and staff alike.
Specialized Certifications: Depending on their roles, some staff members may also hold additional certifications, such as lifeguarding, wilderness first responder, or specific coaching certifications. These specialized certifications enable us to offer a wide range of activities safely and professionally.

Their staff’s expertise, enthusiasm, and dedication to their campers’ well-being are the cornerstones of the Skylake Yosemite Camp experience. By maintaining high staff-to-camper ratios and ensuring that their team is well-qualified and extensively trained, they strive to create an environment where campers can thrive, learn, and create lasting memories.

Safety and Health in Skylake Yosemite Camp

Ensuring the safety and health of all campers and staff at Skylake Yosemite Camp is their utmost priority. They are committed to providing a secure environment where children can enjoy their camp experience while parents have peace of mind. To achieve this, they implement comprehensive safety protocols, maintain on-site health facilities, and have clear policies for handling emergencies.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Continuous Training: All staff undergo regular training in safety protocols, emergency procedures, and crisis management to ensure they are well-prepared to handle any situation that may arise.
Activity Safety: Each activity offered at the camp is led by staff members who are specifically trained and, where necessary, certified in that activity. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained, and safety gear must be used at all times.
Supervision: Campers are supervised at all times by their experienced staff, whether during activities, in the cabins, or at meal times. The staff-to-camper ratio is designed to ensure that supervision is constant and effective.
Risk Assessment: Regular risk assessments are conducted for all aspects of camp life, from outdoor adventures to on-site facilities. These assessments help in identifying potential hazards and implementing measures to mitigate them.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Skylake Yosemite Camp is equipped with a well-stocked health center, staffed by licensed healthcare professionals such as nurses or EMTs. The health center is designed to handle first aid, minor illnesses, and injuries promptly and efficiently.
Healthcare Staff: Their healthcare staff are available 24/7 to provide care and support to campers. They work closely with the camp directors and activity leaders to monitor the health and wellness of all camp participants.
Medication Management: For campers who require medication, their health center staff oversees secure storage and timely administration according to the prescriptions and parent instructions.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Plans: Skylake Yosemite Camp has detailed emergency response plans for a variety of scenarios, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen events. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, the camp has protocols for communicating quickly and effectively with all camp staff, campers, and parents. This includes the use of emergency contact information provided at registration.
Evacuation Procedures: Should an evacuation be necessary, the camp has pre-established routes and procedures to ensure everyone’s safety. Staff are trained to facilitate an orderly and efficient evacuation to designated safe areas.

At Skylake Yosemite Camp, they believe that a proactive approach to safety and health is fundamental to a successful camp experience. By implementing rigorous safety protocols, maintaining on-site health facilities staffed by professionals, and having clear policies for handling emergencies, they ensure that their campers can explore, learn, and grow in a safe and nurturing environment.

Cost and Registration in Skylake Yosemite Camp

Skylake Yosemite Camp is dedicated to providing an enriching and adventurous summer camp experience. Understanding the investment families make, they strive to ensure transparency and flexibility in their cost, registration, and financial policies.

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes

The cost of attending Skylake Yosemite Camp varies depending on the session length and program selected. Generally, fees cover:

Accommodation: Stay in well-maintained cabins, tents, or dorms, depending on the program.
Meals: Three nutritious meals per day, plus snacks, all of which can cater to specific dietary needs.
Activities: Full access to all camp activities, including specialized programs such as arts, sports, and nature exploration.
Supervision and Care: Around-the-clock supervision by trained and experienced camp staff, including healthcare professionals.
Equipment and Materials: Use of all necessary equipment and materials for activities and programs.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Registration for Skylake Yosemite Camp typically opens several months before the summer session begins. Families can complete the registration process online, including the selection of session dates and any specialty programs.
Deadlines: Spaces are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Early registration is recommended to secure a spot in the desired session and to take advantage of any early bird discounts.
Required Documentation: During registration, families will need to provide medical information, dietary restrictions, and any other pertinent details to ensure the camper’s health and safety.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: To accommodate different financial situations, Skylake Yosemite Camp offers various payment plan options. Details and arrangements can be made during the registration process.
Refunds and Cancellation: The camp has a cancellation policy that outlines conditions under which refunds can be issued. Typically, cancellations made well in advance of the session start date are eligible for a full or partial refund, minus a processing fee. However, cancellations close to the start date may receive limited or no refund.
Insurance: Families are encouraged to consider camp insurance to cover unexpected cancellations.

Scholarships or Financial Aid

Scholarships: Skylake Yosemite Camp is committed to making camp accessible to as many children as possible. A limited number of scholarships may be available based on financial need, merit, or other criteria.
Financial Aid: Information on how to apply for financial aid or scholarships is available on the camp’s website. Families are encouraged to apply early, as funds are limited.

At Skylake Yosemite Camp, they believe in the transformative power of camp experiences and work diligently to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder any child from participating. Through clear communication, flexible payment options, and support for families in need, they aim to welcome a diverse group of campers each summer.

Skylake Yosemite Camp offers two main session lengths: two weeks and four weeks. Here’s a breakdown of their fees:

Two Week Sessions:
- Session A: $4,550
- Session B: $4,550
Four Week Sessions:
- First Session (combines A & B): $8,300
- Second Session (combines C & D): $8,300

They also offer sibling discounts:

$200 off each enrollment for 2 siblings
$300 off each enrollment for 3 siblings

Parent and Camper Preparation in Skylake Yosemite Camp

Preparing for a summer at Skylake Yosemite Camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure that everyone is ready for the adventure, it’s important to understand what to pack, be aware of camp rules and policies, and have some tips for making the most of the camp experience, especially for first-time campers and their families.

Packing List

A well-prepared packing list ensures campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable camp experience:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate attire including t-shirts, shorts, long pants, sweatshirts, and a jacket. Include a sturdy pair of hiking boots, sneakers, and sandals or water shoes. Don’t forget swimwear, a hat for sun protection, and pajamas.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or blankets and sheets, pillow, and a small comfort item like a stuffed animal or a family photo for first-time campers who might feel homesick.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a towel. Pack these in a waterproof bag or container.
Gear: Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries, a water bottle, sunglasses, and a daypack for hikes and outdoor activities.
Optional Items: Writing materials to send letters home, a disposable or digital camera, and a book or two for quiet time.

Label all items with the camper’s name to avoid mix-ups or loss.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Skylake Yosemite Camp encourages campers to disconnect from their gadgets and connect with nature. Therefore, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is highly restricted or not allowed. Cameras for photography may be permitted, but check the camp’s specific policy.
Visitation: To ensure the safety and security of campers and to foster independence, visitation during camp sessions is usually limited or restricted to specific visiting days. Be sure to understand the camp’s policies on visitation.
Behavior Expectations: Respect, kindness, and cooperation are expected from all campers. Bullying, possession of prohibited items, and disregard for camp rules can result in disciplinary action or dismissal from camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Familiarize with Camp: Review the camp’s website or promotional materials together to familiarize your child with the camp setting, activities, and daily schedule. This can help reduce anxiety and increase excitement.
Pack Together: Involve your child in the packing process to give them a sense of control and to ensure they know what they’re bringing.
Set Goals: Discuss what your child hopes to achieve at camp, whether it’s making new friends, trying a specific activity, or becoming more independent.
Communicate: Talk about homesickness and how it’s normal. Discuss coping strategies and how they can engage with counselors and peers.
Stay Positive: Express confidence in your child’s ability to have a great time and handle being away from home. Avoid making “rescue calls” or promises about picking them up early if they’re not enjoying it.

Preparing for Skylake Yosemite Camp is a collaborative effort between campers, parents, and camp staff. By following these guidelines, packing appropriately, understanding the camp’s policies, and discussing what to expect, you can help ensure your child has an enriching and memorable summer camp experience.

Skylake Yosemite Camp stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and personal growth amidst the natural splendor of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the proximity of Yosemite National Park. With its diverse array of activities, dedicated staff, and a strong commitment to safety and community, the camp offers an unparalleled summer experience for children and teens. From the moment campers arrive, they are embraced by a culture of exploration, creativity, and respect for the natural world, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones and discover new passions.

The carefully curated programs and activities ensure that every camper finds something to love, whether they’re scaling a rock face, paddling quietly on Bass Lake, or crafting a masterpiece. The emphasis on personal growth, teamwork, and environmental stewardship prepares campers not just for the duration of their stay but for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in life.