Welcome to Camp Alabama, located in the picturesque village of Choudrant in Northern Louisiana. Nestled among lush green landscapes near the serene D’Arbonne Lake, Camp Alabama offers an idyllic setting for young campers to explore, learn, and grow.

Established in 1998, Camp Alabama has developed a rich history of fostering youth development through outdoor activities, team-building exercises, and educational programs. Their mission is to empower young individuals by providing opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and lifelong learning in a safe and supportive environment.

Camp Alabama is a that welcomes boys and girls across various age groups, typically from 6 to 16 years. Each program is carefully designed to meet the developmental needs of each age group, ensuring that every camper receives a fulfilling and enriching experience.

Join us at Camp Alabama, where adventure meets education, and every day brings a new opportunity to make lasting memories and friendships.

Programs Offered by Camp Alabama

Camp Alabama offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to different age groups, interests, and durations. Here is an overview of the enriching programs, session lengths, specialty options, and a snapshot of a typical day at the camp:

Programs Description

Nature Explorers: For ages 6-8, this program introduces campers to the wonders of the natural world through hands-on activities like hiking, plant identification, and basic survival skills.
Adventure Seekers: Designed for ages 9-12, this program enhances outdoor skills with canoeing, rock climbing, and team-oriented challenges that promote problem-solving.
Leadership Development: For ages 13-16, this program focuses on cultivating leadership qualities through advanced camp responsibilities, mentorship roles, and community service projects.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: These short sessions are perfect for younger campers or those new to the camp experience, providing a taste of what Camp Alabama has to offer.
Two-Week Sessions: Offering a deeper dive into specific skills and activities, these sessions allow for more personal growth and development.
Full Summer Program: Spanning several weeks, this immersive option is ideal for campers who wish to experience the full spectrum of activities and forge lasting friendships.

Specialty Programs

Arts Program: Including visual arts, theatre, and music, this program encourages creative expression and skill development in various artistic disciplines.
Sports Program: Focusing on physical education, team sports, and individual fitness activities, this program promotes health, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Science Program: Engaging campers in environmental science, astronomy, and physics through experiments and exploratory learning, this program nurtures a curiosity about the world.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:00 AM – Wake-up Call
7:30 AM – Morning Exercise: Yoga, jogging, or calisthenics.
8:00 AM – Breakfast
9:00 AM – Morning Activity Session: Campers attend their scheduled program activity.
12:00 PM – Lunch
1:00 PM – Siesta/Free Time: Campers relax or engage in light activities.
2:00 PM – Afternoon Activity Session: Continuation of program-specific activities or specialized workshops.
5:00 PM – Free Time/Optional Sports: Campers can participate in optional sports or leisure activities.
6:00 PM – Dinner
7:00 PM – Evening Program: Including campfires, talent shows, or guest speakers.
9:00 PM – Preparing for Bed
10:00 PM – Lights Out

This schedule is designed to balance structured activities with ample free time, allowing campers to explore their interests, make new friends, and develop new skills in a fun, safe environment at Camp Alabama.

Accommodations in Camp Alabama

Camp Alabama provides a comfortable and accommodating environment for all campers, ensuring that their stay is enjoyable, safe, and conducive to the camp experience. Here’s an overview of the accommodations available:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers are housed in rustic yet modern cabins that blend into the natural surroundings. Each cabin sleeps 8-10 campers and is equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and air conditioning to ensure comfort during the warm summer months.
Tents: For older campers or those in specific adventure programs, there are opportunities to sleep in tents. This allows for a more immersive nature experience. Tents are typically pitched in secure areas designated for camping with all necessary safety measures in place.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Alabama offers a full board meal plan that includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals are served in the communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and socialize. The menu is varied each day to provide a balanced diet and cater to the energy needs of active campers.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dietary practices, the camp is equipped to accommodate various dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Parents are encouraged to communicate any specific dietary needs their children have before arrival so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathrooms and Showers: Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathroom and shower facility. These facilities are gender-segregated and designed to ensure privacy and convenience. They are equipped with multiple stalls and showers to prevent crowding and are maintained regularly to uphold cleanliness and hygiene standards.
Additional Facilities: For campers staying in tents, portable bathrooms and shower units are provided near the camping areas, ensuring easy access and maintaining hygiene standards similar to those in the cabin areas.

Camp Alabama is committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment for every camper, helping them to focus fully on their camp experience without concerns about basic comforts and needs.

Activities in Camp Alabama

Camp Alabama offers a wide array of activities designed to engage campers in fun, learning, and personal growth. Here’s a detailed look at the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Supervised swimming sessions in their on-site pool, tailored to different skill levels.
Hiking: Guided hikes along scenic trails that explore the local flora and fauna.
Crafts: A variety of arts and crafts projects that allow campers to express their creativity and take home personal souvenirs.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Summer camps, water-based activities on the nearby lake, focusing on safety and technique.
Archery: Instruction in archery fundamentals, emphasizing safety and precision.
Rock Climbing: Both natural and artificial rock climbing experiences are designed to challenge campers and build confidence.
Sports: A range of team sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and baseball.
Nature Workshops: Educational sessions that focus on environmental science, wildlife, and conservation.
Astronomy Nights: Stargazing events that introduce campers to the basics of astronomy using telescopes and guided observation.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Ceremony: A festive start to the session where campers are introduced and the camp’s values and expectations are outlined.
Campfire Nights: Regular evenings spent around a campfire, featuring storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting.
Color Wars: A multi-day, camp-wide competition where campers are divided into teams to compete in various sports and challenges.
Talent Show: An opportunity for campers to showcase their talents in front of their peers, whether it’s playing a musical instrument, dancing, magic, or other skills.
Closing Banquet: A formal dinner on the last night of camp where achievements are recognized, and campers can celebrate their experiences together.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Programs designed for older campers to develop leadership skills through activities that require team coordination, problem-solving, and mentorship.
Environmental Stewardship: Activities and discussions that promote understanding of ecological systems and encourage responsible environmental behaviors.
Artistic Expression: Workshops in various arts that encourage creativity and provide skills in different media.
Physical Fitness: Daily activities that promote health and fitness, teaching the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle.
Personal Responsibility: Encouraging campers to take responsibility for their personal space and belongings, as well as communal areas, fostering a sense of ownership and community.

Camp Alabama provides a rich, engaging environment where campers not only have fun but also gain valuable skills and experiences that contribute to their growth as young individuals.

The staff of Camp Alabama

Camp Alabama is committed to providing a safe, educational, and fun environment for all campers, upheld by a highly qualified and well-trained staff. Here’s a detailed look at the staff-to-camper ratio, the hiring process, staff qualifications, and the training and certifications required for their staff:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Alabama maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and care. The ratio is approximately 1 staff member for every 8 campers, which helps in maintaining a controlled, attentive, and responsive environment throughout various activities and daily routines.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Prospective staff members are recruited from a variety of sources, including universities, teaching networks, and through referrals from current or past staff. This broad recruitment strategy helps in selecting candidates from diverse backgrounds and with various skills.
Interviews and Background Checks: All potential staff members undergo a rigorous interview process and must pass comprehensive background checks, including criminal records and reference checks, to ensure the safety and well-being of their campers.
Qualifications: Staff are typically required to have experience in child care or education, a passion for working with children, and specific skills pertinent to the activities offered at the camp. Many are also pursuing or have completed degrees in relevant fields such as education, psychology, or sports and recreation.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Before the beginning of each camp season, all staff undergo a mandatory training program that covers camp policies, child behavior management, safety protocols, and emergency procedures.
CPR and First Aid Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are crucial for ensuring that all personnel can respond effectively to any health or safety emergency at camp.
Activity-Specific Training: Staff involved in specific activities such as swimming, archery, or rock climbing receive additional specialized training to meet the safety standards and instructional needs of those activities. For example, swimming instructors are required to have lifeguard certification.
Continuous Education: Camp Alabama encourages continuous professional development and offers ongoing training sessions throughout the camp season to ensure staff skills and knowledge are current and comprehensive.

The dedication to maintaining a highly qualified and well-trained staff reflects Camp Alabama’s commitment to excellence and safety, ensuring that all campers have a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

Safety and Health in Camp Alabama

At Camp Alabama, the safety and health of their campers and staff are their top priorities. They implement rigorous safety protocols and procedures, maintain well-equipped on-site health facilities, and have clear policies for handling emergencies to ensure a secure environment for everyone.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: Camp Alabama conducts regular safety drills, including fire drills, weather-related emergency drills, and lockdown procedures, to ensure that both campers and staff are prepared for any potential emergencies.
Activity-Specific Safety Rules: Each activity offered at the camp comes with its own set of safety rules and guidelines, which are strictly enforced by the staff. Equipment is regularly inspected for safety, and all activities are supervised by trained professionals.
Night-Time Security: The camp maintains a secure environment with controlled access and night-time security personnel to ensure the safety of all campers and staff during the night.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Alabama is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including a registered nurse available 24/7 during camp sessions. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with necessary medical supplies and medications.
Health Screening: Upon arrival, all campers undergo a health screening to identify any existing medical conditions or allergies, which helps in customizing care and ensuring the well-being of each camper throughout their stay.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Alabama has a comprehensive emergency response plan in place, which includes protocols for evacuation, shelter-in-place, and communication with local emergency services. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to new safety challenges and ensure effectiveness.
Communication Protocol: In the event of an emergency, there is a clear communication protocol to notify parents, guardians, and relevant authorities. The camp ensures that emergency contact information is up-to-date for each camper and that parents are informed of the situation as quickly and accurately as possible.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: Camp Alabama maintains strong relationships with local health departments, fire departments, and law enforcement agencies. These partnerships ensure a rapid and coordinated response to any emergency, whether medical or security-related.

Through these measures, Camp Alabama strives to create a safe and healthy environment where campers can enjoy their activities without concern, knowing that they are well-protected and cared for during their time at camp.

Cost and Registration in Camp Alabama

Camp Alabama is committed to providing a fun and enriching summer experience for children and teens, with transparent and manageable costs, a straightforward registration process, and options for financial support. Here are the details regarding cost, registration, and financial aid:

Cost of Attendance

Cost Breakdown: The cost of attending Camp Alabama varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Generally, one-week sessions cost approximately $500, two-week sessions are around $950, and full summer programs can range up to $2,800. These fees include all lodging, meals, activities, and supplies needed for the duration of the camp.
What’s Included: The fee covers accommodation in cabins or tents, three meals per day plus snacks, all program materials, professional instruction for all activities, and access to all camp facilities. Additional costs may include optional extras such as special outings or branded merchandise.

Registration Process and Deadlines

How to Register: Registration for Camp Alabama can be completed online through their website. Prospective campers will need to fill out a detailed form that includes medical information, dietary preferences, and emergency contacts.
Deadlines: Early registration typically opens in January and continues until all spots are filled. It’s advisable to register early as some programs may fill up quickly. Deadlines for specific sessions are usually set for about a month before each session starts, but late registrations may be accepted if space is available.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Recognizing that families may need flexibility in managing the cost of camp, Camp Alabama offers structured payment plans that allow families to pay in installments over several months leading up to the camp session.
Refunds and Cancellation: If you need to cancel a registration, a full refund minus a non-refundable deposit ($100) is available up to six weeks before the session begins. Cancellations made within four weeks of the start date may receive a 50% refund. No refunds are typically offered for cancellations within two weeks of the session start date unless due to medical reasons, for which documentation is required.
Insurance: Families are encouraged to consider purchasing camp insurance to cover potential last-minute cancellations or early departures due to illness or injury.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Alabama offers a limited number of scholarships each year to families in need. These scholarships can cover up to 50-100% of the camp fee depending on the applicant’s financial situation.
Financial Aid: Applications for financial aid are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and assistance is awarded based on demonstrated financial need and availability of funds. Families are encouraged to apply early as financial aid is limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Camp Alabama aims to be accessible to all children and teens and is dedicated to working with families to ensure that no child misses out due to financial constraints.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Alabama

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure that everyone is ready for a great experience at Camp Alabama, here are some guidelines on what to pack, camp rules and policies, and helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents:

Packing List

To make sure campers have everything they need, here’s a suggested packing list:

Clothing: Enough comfortable clothing for the session (including items that can get dirty), pajamas, swimwear, rain gear, and a jacket for cooler evenings.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals with back straps, and an extra pair of sneakers.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (depending on the accommodation), pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small first aid kit.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, water bottle, hat, sunglasses, and any necessary medications (with instructions).
Optional: Books, disposable cameras, writing materials, and small games or sports equipment.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement with the camp experience and promote social interaction, the use of personal electronic devices (such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops) is restricted to specific times and areas. These devices are generally collected upon arrival and returned for limited use.
Visitation: For the safety and structure of the program, visitation is usually limited to designated visiting days. Parents are encouraged to check the camp schedule and adhere to the established visitation guidelines.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules, and respect other campers, staff, and the environment. Bullying, violence, or possession of prohibited items will result in disciplinary action.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Engage Fully: Try new activities, even if they seem challenging or outside your comfort zone.
- Stay Positive: Homesickness is normal. Stay focused on the fun aspects of camp and talk to your counselors if you’re feeling down.
- Make Friends: Be open to making new friends. Camp is a great place to meet people from different backgrounds.
For Parents:
- Communicate: Talk to your child about what to expect at camp, and discuss any anxieties they might have.
- Pack Together: Help your child pack so they know where their things are and feel a part of the preparation process.
- Stay Informed: Understand the camp’s communication policies in case of emergencies or updates during the camp session.

By following these guidelines and preparations, campers and parents can ensure that the camp experience is both joyful and memorable. Camp Alabama is dedicated to making every camper’s stay safe, fun, and enriching.

Camp Alabama stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and personal growth. With its wide range of activities tailored to various interests and age groups, a commitment to safety and well-being, and a beautiful natural setting, the camp provides an ideal environment for young people to explore their potential and develop lifelong skills. Through structured programs, expertly trained staff, and a community-oriented atmosphere, Camp Alabama offers more than just a summer getaway—it offers a transformative experience.

Parents can trust that their children are in a nurturing environment, where the emphasis on character development, leadership, and respect for nature prevails. Campers leave with not only memorable experiences but also enhanced self-confidence, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the outdoors.