Nestled in the scenic heart of Idaho, Camp Cascade stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and camaraderie. Located in Donnelly, within the picturesque region known for its breathtaking landscapes and proximity to notable landmarks such as the Payette Lake and Tamarack Resort, this camp offers a unique blend of natural beauty and accessible wilderness.

With a rich history that spans several decades, Camp Cascade has evolved from a modest outdoor retreat into a thriving community where young minds come to grow, explore, and challenge themselves. The camp’s origins are deeply rooted in a commitment to providing a safe, enriching environment for children and teens, fostering a sense of independence and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

The mission of Camp Cascade is simple yet profound: “To empower young individuals through outdoor experiences, encouraging them to discover their potential, cultivate lasting friendships, and develop a lasting respect for nature.” This philosophy is at the heart of everything the camp does, from its carefully curated programs to its dedication to environmental stewardship.

Camp Cascade welcomes boys and girls across various age groups, offering a diverse range of activities tailored to different interests and skill levels. Whether it’s hiking through the majestic forests, kayaking on serene lakes, or learning survival skills, campers are given the opportunity to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

Camp Cascade is more than just a summer destination; it’s a community where lifelong memories are made, and the spirit of adventure thrives. It stands as a testament to the power of nature to inspire, educate, and transform.

Programs Offered by Camp Cascade

Camp Cascade offers an extensive array of programs designed to ignite curiosity, foster growth, and create unforgettable experiences for campers of all interests and abilities. Here’s a glimpse into the diverse programs available:

Description of the Programs:

Outdoor Adventure: From hiking through lush forests to conquering ropes courses and scaling rock walls, their outdoor adventure program offers thrilling challenges and unforgettable experiences in nature.
Water Sports: Dive into the excitement with their water sports program, featuring activities such as swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing on the pristine waters of Payette Lake.
Arts and Crafts: Unleash creativity and self-expression through their arts and crafts program, where campers can explore a variety of mediums including painting, pottery, jewelry making, and more.
Sports and Recreation: Get active and hone your athletic skills with their sports and recreation program, featuring a variety of team sports, individual challenges, and friendly competitions.
Nature Exploration: Immerse yourself in the wonders of the natural world with their nature exploration program, including guided hikes, wildlife observation, and environmental education activities.

Length of Sessions: Camp Cascade offers flexible session lengths to accommodate various schedules and preferences. Sessions typically range from one week to multiple weeks, allowing campers to choose the duration that best suits their needs and interests. Additionally, they offer full-summer programs for campers seeking an immersive experience spanning the entire summer season.

Specialty Programs: In addition to their core programs, Camp Cascade offers specialty programs tailored to specific interests and passions. These may include:

Arts Camp: A dedicated program for budding artists to explore their creativity and develop their skills in visual arts, theater, and music.
Sports Camp: Intensive training and skill development in specific sports or activities such as soccer, basketball, tennis, or gymnastics.
STEM Camp: Hands-on exploration of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through engaging experiments, projects, and challenges.

Typical Daily Schedule: While each day at Camp Cascade is unique and filled with exciting opportunities, a typical daily schedule may include:

Morning: Breakfast followed by cabin cleanup and morning assembly.
Mid-Morning: Rotating activities such as outdoor adventure, water sports, arts and crafts, and sports and recreation.
Afternoon: Lunch followed by a rest period and optional elective activities or specialty workshops.
Late Afternoon: Group activities or free time for exploring, games, and socializing.
Evening: Dinner followed by campfire activities, themed events, or special presentations.
Nighttime: Evening reflections, stargazing, and bedtime routines before lights out.

At Camp Cascade, every day is a new adventure filled with laughter, learning, and meaningful connections. Join us for a summer of exploration, growth, and endless possibilities!

Accommodations in Camp Cascade

At Camp Cascade, they prioritize comfort, safety, and convenience to ensure that every camper’s experience is as enjoyable and memorable as possible.

Sleeping Arrangements: Campers will rest peacefully in their cozy cabins nestled amidst the tranquil beauty of the wilderness. Their cabins are designed to provide a home away from home, offering comfortable bunk beds and ample space for personal belongings. Each cabin is supervised by trained staff to ensure the well-being of their campers throughout their stay. Additionally, they provide separate accommodations for male and female campers, with designated counselors overseeing each area.

Dining Options: Their dining hall is a hub of delicious meals and lively conversation, where campers gather to refuel and connect with their fellow adventurers. They offer nutritious and diverse meal plans to cater to various dietary preferences and restrictions. Their experienced culinary team prepares wholesome dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, ensuring that every meal is both satisfying and nourishing. Whether campers have allergies, dietary restrictions, or simply prefer certain foods, they strive to accommodate their needs to the best of their ability.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities: Clean and well-maintained bathroom and shower facilities are essential for ensuring the comfort and hygiene of their campers. At Camp Cascade, they provide modern restroom amenities with hot showers, allowing campers to freshen up after a day of outdoor activities. Their facilities are regularly cleaned and stocked with essentials to ensure that campers feel comfortable and at ease throughout their stay.

At Camp Cascade, they understand the importance of creating a welcoming and supportive environment where campers can relax, recharge, and make lasting memories. Their accommodations are designed to foster a sense of belonging and community, allowing campers to focus on the joys of exploration and discovery in the great outdoors.

Activities in Camp Cascade

Camp Cascade offers a diverse array of activities designed to ignite the spirit of adventure, foster creativity, and promote personal growth. From outdoor exploration to artistic expression, there’s something for every camper to enjoy.

List of Activities Offered:

Swimming: Cool off and make a splash in their supervised swimming area, perfect for beating the summer heat and honing aquatic skills.
Hiking: Embark on guided hikes through scenic trails, where campers can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while learning about local flora and fauna.
Arts and Crafts: Summer camps unleash creativity in their arts and crafts sessions, where campers can express themselves through painting, pottery, and other hands-on activities.
Sports: Engage in friendly competition and teamwork with a variety of sports activities, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and more.
Outdoor Adventure: Challenge yourself with thrilling outdoor adventures such as zip-lining, rock climbing, and ropes courses, under the guidance of trained instructors.
Campfires and Sing-Alongs: Gather around the campfire for evenings filled with laughter, storytelling, and traditional sing-alongs, creating cherished memories with fellow campers.
Nature Exploration: Learn about the wonders of the natural world through guided nature walks, wildlife observation, and eco-friendly activities aimed at promoting environmental stewardship.

Special Events or Traditions:

Camp Olympics: Join in the excitement of their annual Camp Olympics, where campers compete in a series of fun and spirited challenges, fostering teamwork and sportsmanship.
Theme Nights: Immerse yourself in themed evenings filled with costumes, games, and entertainment, adding an extra layer of excitement to the camp experience.
Talent Show: Showcase your talents and creativity in their talent show, where campers have the opportunity to shine on stage and share their unique skills with the camp community.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Camp Cascade is more than just a place for fun and recreation; it’s also a platform for personal growth and skill development. Through their diverse range of activities and experiences, campers have the opportunity to:

Build confidence and resilience through outdoor challenges.
Develop leadership and teamwork skills through group activities and team-building exercises.
Cultivate creativity and self-expression through arts and crafts.
Learn valuable life skills such as communication, problem-solving, and decision-making in a supportive and nurturing environment.

At Camp Cascade, every activity is carefully designed to inspire curiosity, instill a love of learning, and empower campers to reach their full potential.

The staff of Camp Cascade

At Camp Cascade, they understand the importance of having a dedicated and qualified staff team to ensure the safety, well-being, and enjoyment of their campers. Their staff members are carefully selected, extensively trained, and committed to providing an enriching and memorable experience for every camper.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio: They maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and supervision throughout their stay. Their ratio exceeds industry standards, allowing us to prioritize the safety and individual needs of every camper.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications: Their hiring process is rigorous and thorough, with a focus on selecting individuals who demonstrate a genuine passion for working with children, a strong commitment to safety, and the ability to contribute positively to their camp community. Prospective staff members undergo comprehensive background checks, interviews, and reference checks to ensure that they meet their high standards.

Staff qualifications vary depending on the position, but all staff members are required to possess relevant experience, skills, and certifications. They seek individuals with backgrounds in education, recreation, outdoor leadership, or related fields, as well as those who possess specialized skills in areas such as lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, and specific activity instruction.

Training and Certifications: Once hired, staff members undergo thorough training to prepare them for their roles and responsibilities at camp. Their comprehensive training program covers topics such as child development, behavior management, emergency procedures, and risk management. Additionally, staff members receive certifications in CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and First Aid, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to respond effectively to medical emergencies.

For staff members involved in leading specific activities or programs, additional training and certifications may be required. This includes certifications in lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, ropes course facilitation, and other specialized areas.

At Camp Cascade, they are committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and quality in everything they do. Their staff members are not just employees; they are mentors, role models, and trusted allies who play a vital role in creating a positive and empowering camp experience for all their campers.

Safety and Health in Camp Cascade

At Camp Cascade, the safety and well-being of their campers are their top priorities. They have implemented comprehensive safety protocols, on-site health facilities, and well-trained staff to ensure a secure and nurturing environment for everyone.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Facility Inspections: Their facilities undergo regular inspections to ensure compliance with safety regulations and standards. This includes inspections of cabins, activity areas, dining halls, and waterfront facilities.
Activity Supervision: Trained staff members supervise all camp activities to ensure that they are conducted safely and responsibly. They adhere to industry best practices and guidelines for each activity, providing proper instruction, equipment, and supervision.
Emergency Drills: Regular emergency drills are conducted to prepare staff and campers for various scenarios, including fire evacuations, severe weather, and medical emergencies. These drills help familiarize everyone with evacuation routes and emergency procedures.
Risk Management: They conduct thorough risk assessments for all camp activities and facilities to identify potential hazards and implement appropriate mitigation measures. This includes assessing environmental risks, equipment safety, and participant capabilities.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Camp Cascade is equipped with a fully stocked health center staffed by qualified medical personnel. Their health center is equipped to handle minor injuries, illnesses, and medical emergencies.
Medical Staff: Trained medical professionals, including nurses and certified athletic trainers, are available on-site to provide medical care and assistance as needed. They are responsible for administering medications, treating injuries, and coordinating with local medical facilities if further treatment is required.
Medication Management: Their medical staff oversees the administration of medications for campers with specific medical needs. All medications are stored securely and dispensed according to prescribed instructions.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Cascade has a detailed emergency response plan in place to address a wide range of scenarios, including medical emergencies, natural disasters, and other unforeseen events. This plan outlines procedures for alerting staff, evacuating campers, and coordinating with emergency services.
Communication Protocol: In the event of an emergency, clear communication channels are established to ensure that staff, campers, and parents/guardians are promptly informed and updated on the situation.
Staff Training: Staff members receive training in emergency response procedures, including CPR, first aid, and evacuation protocols. They are prepared to act quickly and decisively to ensure the safety of campers and staff alike.

At Camp Cascade, they are committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment where campers can thrive, explore, and create lifelong memories. Their dedication to safety, combined with their experienced staff and robust protocols, ensures that every camper can enjoy a fun and fulfilling camp experience with peace of mind.

Cost and Registration in Camp Cascade

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes: The cost of attending Camp Cascade varies depending on the session length and any additional options chosen. Their fees typically include accommodations, meals, supervised activities, and access to facilities. Optional extras such as specialized workshops or off-site excursions may incur additional charges.

Registration Process and Deadlines: Their registration process is designed to be simple and convenient for families. You can register online through their secure portal or by completing a paper registration form available on their website. Registration typically opens several months before the start of each session, and they recommend registering early to secure your preferred dates. Deadlines for registration vary depending on the session and may be subject to availability.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies: They offer flexible payment plans to accommodate the financial needs of their camp families. Payment options may include full payment upfront or installment plans with scheduled payments leading up to the start of the session. Their cancellation policy allows for refunds within a specified timeframe, typically with a percentage retained for administrative fees. They understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, and they strive to work with families to find equitable solutions in such situations.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid: Camp Cascade is committed to making its programs accessible to all families, regardless of financial circumstances. They offer scholarships or financial aid opportunities for eligible campers based on demonstrated need. Families interested in financial assistance are encouraged to inquire during the registration process for more information on available options and application requirements.

At Camp Cascade, they believe that every child deserves the opportunity to experience the joys of camp and create lasting memories in a supportive and enriching environment. Their transparent registration process, flexible payment options, and commitment to financial accessibility reflect their dedication to serving the diverse needs of their camp community.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Cascade

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and parents alike. Here’s what you need to know to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at Camp Cascade:

Packing List:

Clothing: Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for outdoor activities, including shorts, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and rain gear.
Footwear: Sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for hiking and outdoor adventures, as well as sandals or flip-flops for water activities.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or bedding, pillow, and extra blankets for cozy nights in the cabins.
Toiletries: Personal hygiene items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, and towels.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to protect against UV rays during outdoor activities.
Insect Repellent: Bug spray or lotion to ward off mosquitoes and other insects.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight with extra batteries, refillable water bottle, backpack, and any necessary medications.

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: Camp Cascade encourages campers to unplug and immerse themselves in the outdoor experience. Therefore, they have a strict no-technology policy, including cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices. Campers are encouraged to embrace the opportunity to connect with nature and their fellow campers without distractions from screens.
Visitation: To ensure the safety and security of all campers, visitation during camp sessions is limited to designated visitation days/times. Parents/guardians are encouraged to communicate with camp staff if they have any concerns or special circumstances regarding visitation.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

Communicate Openly: Encourage your child to express any concerns or questions they may have about camp. Reassure them that it’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and nervousness.
Practice Independence: Help your child prepare for camp by practicing tasks such as packing their belongings, making their bed, and managing personal hygiene independently.
Embrace the Experience: Encourage your child to embrace new experiences and step out of their comfort zone. Camp is a fantastic opportunity for personal growth, friendship building, and creating lasting memories.
Stay Positive: As a parent, your attitude and enthusiasm can greatly influence your child’s perception of camp. Stay positive and supportive, and trust in the camp staff to provide a safe and enriching experience for your child.

At Camp Cascade, they strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment where campers can thrive, explore, and create lifelong memories. By following these tips and preparing accordingly, both campers and parents can look forward to an unforgettable summer adventure at Camp Cascade.

As they conclude their journey through the offerings and preparations of Camp Cascade, it’s clear that this haven nestled in the heart of Idaho’s wilderness is more than just a summer destination—it’s a vibrant community where friendships blossom, skills are honed, and memories are made to last a lifetime.

With a commitment to safety, a dedication to fostering personal growth, and a passion for outdoor exploration, Camp Cascade stands as a beacon of adventure and opportunity for campers of all ages. From the thrill of scaling towering cliffs to the serenity of starlit nights by the campfire, every moment at Camp Cascade is infused with the magic of possibility and the joy of discovery.

As campers prepare to embark on their journey, and parents entrust their children to their care, they stand ready to welcome them with open arms and open hearts. Together, we’ll explore the wonders of nature, forge new friendships, and create memories that will be cherished for years to come.