Camp Westminster, nestled in the serene surroundings of Conyers, Georgia, offers a unique blend of adventure, education, and spiritual growth. This distinguished camp is strategically located in the heart of the state, easily accessible yet far enough from the hustle and bustle to provide a peaceful retreat. Landmarked by the natural beauty of the Georgia landscape, Camp Westminster is not just a place; it’s a community where campers and staff alike forge lifelong friendships and memories.

The camp has a rich history that dates back to its establishment, deeply rooted in the tradition of fostering an environment where children can grow both personally and spiritually. Throughout the years, Camp Westminster has evolved, always staying true to its mission of providing a safe, fun, and meaningful camp experience.

At the heart of Camp Westminster lies its mission statement, which emphasizes the development of character, faith, and leadership skills in a nurturing environment. The camp is committed to offering programs that enrich the lives of its campers, encouraging them to explore their interests, challenge themselves, and develop a deeper understanding of their relationship with nature and with others.

Catering to boys and girls across a wide age spectrum, Camp Westminster offers a variety of programs designed to meet the needs of different age groups. Whether it’s through traditional camp activities, specialized workshops, or spiritual development sessions, each camper is given the opportunity to learn, grow, and have fun in a supportive and inclusive environment.

In sum, Camp Westminster in Conyers, GA, is more than just a summer camp—it’s a place where adventure meets purpose, where every camper is valued, and where the journey of personal growth is celebrated. Through its rich history, dedicated mission, and inclusive programs for boys and girls of various ages, Camp Westminster continues to be a beacon of light for the community, embodying the spirit of exploration and the joy of summer.

Programs Offered by Camp Westminster

Camp Westminster offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the varied interests and developmental stages of its campers. These programs are thoughtfully crafted to ensure a balanced mix of fun, learning, and personal growth, reflecting the camp’s mission to provide a nurturing environment for children to explore their interests and talents.

Description of Programs

Traditional Camp Programs: These programs encompass a wide range of activities, including outdoor adventures, team sports, arts and crafts, and water activities. Aimed at promoting teamwork, leadership, and self-confidence, these sessions offer something for everyone.
Specialty Programs: Camp Westminster shines with its specialty programs tailored to specific interests. These include:
- Arts Programs: From painting and sculpture to drama and dance, campers can explore their artistic side in a supportive and creative environment.
- Sports Camps: For the athletically inclined, there are sports camps focusing on specific sports such as soccer, basketball, and swimming, offering both skill development and competitive fun.
- Science and Nature Programs: Campers curious about the world around them can engage in hands-on science experiments, nature walks, and environmental stewardship activities, fostering a love and respect for nature.

Length of Sessions

Camp Westminster offers flexibility in session lengths to accommodate the needs of different families and campers. Options include:
- One-week sessions for those looking for a short-term camp experience or trying out camp for the first time.
- Two-week sessions that provide a deeper dive into camp life and allow for more intensive exploration of activities and personal interests.
- Full summer options are also available for campers who wish to immerse themselves in the Camp Westminster experience, offering a comprehensive journey through all that the camp has to offer.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Camp Westminster is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, free time, and community gatherings. While the schedule may vary depending on the session and age group, a general outline includes:

Morning: Campers start the day with a communal breakfast followed by a morning assembly. The morning activities might include group games, arts and crafts, or specialized workshops, depending on the program.
Afternoon: After lunch, campers often engage in water activities, and sports, or continue with their morning programs. This is also a time for nature exploration and science activities.
Evening: Dinner is followed by camp-wide events such as talent shows, campfires, and storytelling, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.
Night: The day concludes with quiet reflection time or small group discussions, allowing campers to unwind and reflect on their day before heading to bed.

Camp Westminster’s programs and daily schedules are designed to promote a harmonious balance between activity and rest, individual exploration, and community living, ensuring that every camper has a fulfilling and memorable summer experience.

Accommodations in Camp Westminster

Camp Westminster offers a rustic yet comfortable accommodation setup, designed to enhance the camping experience while ensuring the safety and comfort of all campers. The camp’s facilities are well-maintained, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings, and are equipped to meet the needs of modern campers.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodation at Camp Westminster is cabin-style lodging. These cabins are typically shared among campers of the same age group and gender, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and lighting. The cabins are designed to blend into the natural environment, offering a cozy and immersive camping experience.
Tents: For certain programs or special outdoor experiences, campers may have the opportunity to sleep in tents. This allows for a more traditional camping experience, connecting with nature under the stars.
Dorms: Depending on the session and age group, there may also be dormitory-style accommodations available. These dorms offer a more communal living experience, with multiple campers sharing a larger open space, complete with individual beds and storage areas.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Westminster provides a communal dining experience, with meals served in the camp dining hall. The meal plan is inclusive, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, prepared by the camp’s culinary staff. The menu is varied, designed to be both nutritious and appealing to young campers, with options to cater to the high energy demands of camp activities.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of accommodating dietary needs, Camp Westminster offers options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific food allergies or dietary restrictions. The camp asks for dietary requirements ahead of time to ensure that all campers have healthy and enjoyable meal options throughout their stay.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathrooms and Showers: The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities, strategically located near sleeping accommodations for easy access. These facilities are separated by gender and are designed to offer privacy and convenience. The bathrooms are regularly cleaned and maintained, ensuring hygiene and comfort for all campers.

Camp Westminster’s accommodations and facilities are crafted to ensure that every camper’s stay is comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. From the sleeping arrangements to the dining and bathroom facilities, every aspect of camp life is thoughtfully arranged to support a positive and enriching camping experience.

Activities in Camp Westminster

Camp Westminster is a hive of activity, offering a broad spectrum of programs that cater to various interests and skill levels. The camp’s activities are designed to encourage personal growth, foster a connection with nature, and build community among campers. From outdoor adventures to creative arts and skill development, there’s something for every camper to enjoy.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: A staple of the camp experience, swimming activities include instructional swimming, free swimming, and water games in the camp’s pool or lake.
Hiking: Exploring the natural beauty surrounding Camp Westminster, hiking activities range from short, leisurely walks to more challenging treks.
Crafts: Summer camps can unleash their creativity through a variety of crafts, including pottery, painting, beadwork, and woodworking.
Outdoor Adventures: Activities like canoeing, archery, rock climbing, and zip-lining offer thrilling experiences in a safe and controlled environment.
Team Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, and other team sports encourage camaraderie and physical fitness.
Nature Exploration: Programs designed to explore the local flora and fauna, star gazing, and environmental education promote a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, and music workshops allow campers to express themselves and develop their performance skills.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Westminster is rich in traditions and special events that highlight the camp session, including:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These ceremonies mark the beginning and end of each camp session, setting the tone and celebrating the campers’ achievements.
Campfire Nights: Stories, songs, and s’mores around the campfire are a cherished tradition, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Color Wars: A friendly and spirited competition where campers are divided into teams to compete in various activities, promoting teamwork and camp spirit.
Talent Shows: An opportunity for campers to showcase their talents, whether in music, dance, comedy, or other creative expressions.

Skill Development Opportunities

Camp Westminster is not just about fun and games; it’s also focused on meaningful skill development, including:

Leadership Training: Programs designed to build leadership qualities, team management, and confidence among older campers.
Environmental Stewardship: Educating campers on conservation practices, sustainability, and the importance of protecting the natural environment.
Personal Growth Workshops: Sessions that focus on building self-esteem, conflict resolution skills, and fostering independence.
Specialty Skill Clinics: For campers looking to improve in specific areas, clinics in sports, arts, and science offer focused instruction and practice.

At Camp Westminster, activities and programs are carefully curated to ensure a rich, enjoyable, and educational experience for all campers, blending fun with learning and personal development.

The staff of Camp Westminster

The staff at Camp Westminster plays a pivotal role in creating a safe, supportive, and enriching camp environment. Recognizing the importance of quality staff, Camp Westminster adheres to strict hiring standards and maintains an excellent staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Westminster is committed to providing a high level of supervision and guidance. The camp maintains an optimal staff-to-camper ratio, often exceeding industry standards, to ensure that every camper feels supported and engaged. This ratio allows staff to monitor the well-being of campers closely, facilitate small group activities effectively, and provide individual guidance when needed.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Hiring Process: The hiring process at Camp Westminster is thorough, starting with detailed applications, followed by interviews and comprehensive background checks. The camp seeks individuals who are not only skilled in their areas of expertise but also demonstrate a strong commitment to the camp’s values and philosophy.
Staff Qualifications: Camp Westminster recruits staff with diverse skills and backgrounds, including college students, educators, and professionals in various fields. Many staff members have grown up attending the camp themselves, adding a personal commitment to the camp’s legacy. All staff members are expected to have experience working with children and a passion for outdoor education and youth development.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo an extensive pre-camp training program. This training covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child development, behavior management strategies, and program-specific skills.
Certifications: Staff members are required to hold current certifications in CPR and First Aid as a minimum. Depending on their role, additional certifications may be necessary, such as lifeguarding for swimming activities, specific coaching certifications for sports programs, or wilderness first responders for outdoor adventure leaders.
Ongoing Education: Camp Westminster encourages and often facilitates ongoing education and professional development for its staff, ensuring they remain current in best practices for youth development, safety protocols, and specialty areas.

The dedicated staff at Camp Westminster is the backbone of the camp, providing a nurturing environment where campers can explore, learn, and grow. Through a rigorous hiring process, comprehensive training, and a commitment to maintaining high standards, Camp Westminster ensures that every camper has a positive, enriching, and safe summer camp experience.

Safety and Health in Camp Westminster

Safety and health are paramount at Camp Westminster, where comprehensive protocols and dedicated facilities are in place to ensure the well-being of all campers and staff. The camp’s approach to safety is proactive, focusing on prevention, preparedness, and prompt response to any issues that may arise.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Routine Safety Drills: Regularly scheduled drills to ensure that campers and staff are well-versed in emergency procedures, including fire evacuation, severe weather sheltering, and lockdown protocols.
Activity-Specific Safety Guidelines: Each activity offered at Camp Westminster adheres to strict safety guidelines, with appropriate gear and safety measures in place. This includes the use of helmets for biking and rock climbing, life jackets for water activities, and close supervision by certified instructors.
Secure Camp Environment: The camp maintains a secure environment with controlled access to the campgrounds, ensuring that only authorized personnel and campers are on-site. Regular safety inspections of facilities and equipment are conducted to maintain a safe and functional environment.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Westminster is equipped with an on-site health center, staffed by licensed healthcare professionals such as nurses or a physician. The health center is prepared to handle minor injuries and illnesses, with protocols in place for more serious concerns.
Medical Staff Availability: The medical staff is available 24/7, providing campers with access to care at any time. They are also responsible for managing and distributing medications according to parent and physician instructions.
Pre-Camp Health Screening: Prior to arrival, campers are required to submit a comprehensive health form, reviewed by the camp’s medical staff. This ensures that any existing health needs are known and can be accommodated.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Medical Response: In the event of a medical emergency, Camp Westminster’s staff is trained to respond swiftly, with protocols in place to ensure that the camper receives immediate care. If necessary, campers will be transported to the nearest hospital.
Communication with Families: Open and timely communication with families is a priority. In case of an emergency or illness, parents are notified as soon as possible, keeping them informed and involved in their child’s care.
Partnership with Local Authorities: Camp Westminster works closely with local emergency services and hospitals to ensure a coordinated response to any situation. Regular communication and joint drills with these entities ensure that everyone is prepared and protocols are aligned.

Through meticulous planning, rigorous training, and a commitment to maintaining a secure and healthy environment, Camp Westminster ensures that safety and well-being are at the forefront of the camp experience, allowing campers and parents alike to enjoy the camp season with peace of mind.

Cost and Registration in Camp Westminster

Camp Westminster is committed to providing an enriching and accessible camp experience for all. Understanding the financial considerations for families, the camp offers transparent pricing, a straightforward registration process, and options to assist with the cost of attendance.

Cost of Attendance

What It Includes: The cost of attendance at Camp Westminster covers all aspects of the camp experience, including accommodation, all meals, participation in scheduled activities, use of camp facilities and equipment, and 24-hour supervision by trained staff. The price may vary depending on the length of the session and the type of program selected. Additional costs might apply for certain specialty programs or optional activities.
Additional Costs: Families should be aware of any extra costs not included in the base price, such as transportation to and from camp, spending money for the camp store, or special equipment for certain activities.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Camp Westminster typically offers an online registration process through its website, where guardians can fill out forms, choose sessions, and submit necessary health and consent documents.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot in the desired session, as some programs may fill up quickly. The camp usually sets a registration deadline for each session, after which enrollment is subject to availability and may incur a late registration fee.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: To make camp more affordable, Camp Westminster often provides payment plan options, allowing families to spread the cost of attendance over several months.
Refunds and Cancellation: The camp’s refund and cancellation policies are designed to be fair while protecting the operational needs of the camp. Families can typically expect a full or partial refund if cancellation occurs by a specified date, with details outlined in the camp’s policy. Fees may be non-refundable after this date, except in cases of medical emergencies, which are considered on an individual basis.
Cancellation Insurance: Some families opt for cancellation insurance, which is offered through third-party providers, to safeguard against unexpected circumstances that require canceling camp attendance.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Availability: Camp Westminster believes in making camp experiences accessible to as many children as possible, offering scholarships and financial aid to families demonstrating financial need.
Application Process: The process for applying for financial assistance typically involves completing a separate application and providing documentation to support the financial need. The camp advises starting this process early, as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Camp Westminster’s approach to cost, registration, and financial assistance is designed to be inclusive and accommodating, ensuring that as many children as possible have the opportunity to experience the joys and benefits of summer camp.

Cost:

Day Camp:
- Ages 6-10: Day Trek – $300/session (with additional fees for before/after care)
Overnight Camp:
- Ages 6-9: First Timer – $340/session
- Ages 7-12: Adventure Sessions – $620/session (with additional fees for horseback riding)
- Ages 10-13: Trailblazer Sessions – $540-$620/session (depending on the week)
- Ages 13-15: Senior Blast – $665/session (with additional fees for horseback riding)
- Ages 15-16: SaLT – $450/session

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Westminster

Preparing for a stay at Camp Westminster is an exciting process for both campers and their parents. Being well-prepared ensures that the camp experience is enjoyable and stress-free. Here’s a guide to help with packing, understanding camp rules and policies, and providing tips for first-time campers and parents.

Packing List

A comprehensive packing list is crucial for ensuring that campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable camp experience. While specific items may vary depending on the session and activities chosen, a general packing list includes:

Clothing: Pack enough for the session length, considering the activities (e.g., swimwear, hiking boots). Include layers for cooler evenings and rain gear.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent.
Water Bottle: A durable, reusable water bottle.
Flashlight or Headlamp: With extra batteries.
Stationery: For writing letters home.
Specialty Gear: Specific to chosen activities (the camp will provide a list).

Rules and Policies

Understanding and adhering to the camp’s rules and policies is vital for ensuring a safe and positive experience for all campers. Key policies often include:

Technology Use: Many camps, including Camp Westminster, have a no-technology policy for campers, promoting engagement with the camp experience and reducing distractions.
Visitation: Camps may have specific visitation days or policies; some may restrict visitation to minimize disruptions and maintain the camp’s secure environment.
Behavior Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is a cornerstone of camp policies. Bullying, disrespectful behavior, or violation of camp rules can result in disciplinary action.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Communication: Discuss what the camp experience will be like, focusing on the fun and new opportunities for learning and making friends. Establish expectations around letters or emails if the camp allows them.
Practice Independence: Encourage your child to take on more responsibility at home in the weeks leading up to camp, such as packing their bag, choosing their clothes, and managing their hygiene independently.
Stay Positive: It’s normal for both campers and parents to feel anxious about being apart, especially for the first time. Focus on the positive aspects and growth opportunities that the camp provides.
Trust the Camp Staff: Remember that camp staff are experienced and trained to support campers, including helping them adjust to camp life and overcoming homesickness.

By following these preparation tips, packing appropriately, and understanding camp rules and policies, campers, and parents can set the stage for a fantastic summer experience at Camp Westminster. This preparation not only helps in smoothing the transition to camp life but also in building excitement and confidence about the adventures to come.

Camp Westminster stands out as a beacon of adventure, learning, and personal growth, nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Conyers, Georgia. With its comprehensive array of programs, Camp Westminster offers an enriching summer experience that caters to diverse interests and age groups, from traditional camp activities to specialty programs in arts, sports, and science. The camp prides itself on creating a nurturing environment where campers can explore their passions, develop new skills, and forge lasting friendships.

The dedication to safety, health, and well-being is paramount, ensuring a secure environment where campers can thrive under the guidance of carefully selected and trained staff. With accommodations that blend comfort with the rustic charm of camp life, and a dining experience that caters to various dietary needs, Camp Westminster ensures a home away from home.