Welcome to Camp Louise in Highfield-Cascade, Maryland, a scenic retreat nestled in the picturesque Catoctin Mountains. This distinguished camp has been a beacon of adventure, friendship, and personal growth since its founding, providing young girls with a unique environment in which to thrive.

Situated just a short distance from the historically significant landmarks of Gettysburg and Antietam, and within reach of the tranquil Catoctin Mountain Park, Camp Louise offers an idyllic setting for campers to explore both the natural world and their own potential. The camp’s location not only allows for breathtaking views and numerous outdoor activities but also helps inculcate a deep appreciation for nature among its campers.

From its early days, Camp Louise has been dedicated to nurturing the talents and spirits of young girls. Established with the aim of creating a supportive and empowering environment, the camp offers a variety of programs that cater to different interests and age groups, ranging from 7 to 17. These programs are carefully designed to foster self-esteem, encourage creative expression, and promote physical and emotional well-being.

The mission of Camp Louise is to provide a welcoming, safe, and vibrant community where every girl is valued and given the opportunity to develop character, acquire new skills, and make lifelong friendships. The camp upholds a philosophy of building strong female leaders through positive reinforcement, teamwork, and respect for diversity.

At Camp Louise, we offer a girls-only summer camp experience where campers can indulge in a wide range of activities from arts and crafts to outdoor adventures, all the while being guided by a dedicated staff committed to creating a memorable and enriching summer experience. Come join us and be a part of a community that believes in the power of girls to change the world.

Programs Offered by Camp Louise

Camp Louise offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental stages of young girls aged 7 to 17. Each program is thoughtfully structured to ensure a balanced mix of fun, learning, and personal growth, set within the camp’s beautiful, nature-rich environment.

Programs and Session Lengths

General Camp Program: This foundational program spans either one or two weeks and introduces campers to a broad spectrum of activities, focusing on arts, sports, and team-building exercises. It’s ideal for first-time campers and younger girls who are exploring their interests.
Specialty Camps:
- Arts Camp: A two-week session dedicated to various forms of creative expression including painting, drama, music, and dance. Campers engage in intensive workshops and culminate the session with a showcase of their works or performances.
- Sports Camp: Also lasting for two weeks, this program focuses on sportsmanship and physical skills through activities like swimming, archery, and team sports. The emphasis is on enjoying the sport and personal improvement rather than competition.
- Adventure and Science Camp: This unique two-week program combines outdoor adventures with a hands-on learning experience in nature and science, ideal for the curious and adventurous spirit.

Specialty Programs

Leadership Development Program: Designed for older campers, this program spans four weeks and focuses on developing leadership skills through advanced camp responsibilities, team leadership tasks, and special workshops.
Environmental Stewardship Program: A special program that runs intermittently throughout the summer, focusing on conservation practices, wildlife studies, and sustainability projects within the campgrounds and surrounding areas.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Camp Louise is structured to provide a balanced routine with ample opportunities for both learning and leisure:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercises
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning Activity Block (e.g., arts workshops, sports practice, science experiments)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet Time/Rest
2:00 PM: Afternoon Activity Block (e.g., hiking, swimming, leadership activities)
5:00 PM: Free time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (e.g., campfires, night hikes, talent shows)
9:00 PM: Preparing for bed
10:00 PM: Lights out

This schedule ensures that each camper experiences a full day of engagement and interaction, with time set aside for both structured activities and personal rest and reflection, fostering a well-rounded camp experience.

Accommodations in Camp Louise

At Camp Louise, the accommodations are carefully designed to ensure that every camper feels comfortable, secure, and part of a close-knit community. Here’s a detailed look at the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities available at the camp:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers stay in cozy, rustic cabins that blend well with the natural surroundings. Each cabin houses between 8 to 12 campers, depending on the size, and is supervised by trained counselors who stay in the cabin or in adjacent quarters. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and personal storage spaces for each camper. They also have electricity and are designed to provide both comforts during the night and a communal living experience that fosters friendship and teamwork.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Louise offers a full meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, served in the camp’s communal dining hall. The meals are designed to be nutritious and appealing to young campers, providing the energy needed for an active day. The dining hall serves as a hub of activity where campers gather to share meals, discuss their day, and engage in group activities.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to diverse dietary needs, Camp Louise is committed to providing options that accommodate vegetarian, vegan, kosher, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive diets. Parents are encouraged to discuss their child’s specific dietary requirements with the camp staff during registration to ensure all needs are met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Each cabin cluster at Camp Louise is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities that are shared among a small group of campers. These facilities are maintained multiple times a day to ensure cleanliness and hygiene. The bathrooms are equipped with multiple stalls and sinks, and the shower areas have private changing spaces and showers to ensure privacy and comfort.
Accessibility: All facilities at Camp Louise, including sleeping quarters, dining areas, and bathrooms, are designed to be accessible to ensure that campers with mobility challenges can navigate easily and comfortably.

Camp Louise prides itself on providing a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment. The accommodations and facilities are an integral part of creating a welcoming atmosphere where campers can enjoy their summer experience to the fullest.

Activities in Camp Louise

Camp Louise is a vibrant community where girls have ample opportunities to explore a wide range of activities, develop new skills, and participate in special events that have become cherished traditions over the years. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities at Camp Louise.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Includes swimming, hiking, canoeing, and archery. The camp’s location in the Catoctin Mountains allows for exciting exploration and nature-based activities.
Arts and Crafts: Summer camps can engage in various creative endeavors such as painting, pottery, jewelry making, and woodworking. These activities encourage creativity and provide a tangible sense of accomplishment.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, and music are key components of the camp experience, with opportunities for campers to perform in talent shows and end-of-session performances.
Sports: Activities like soccer, basketball, volleyball, and softball are available, promoting physical fitness and teamwork.
Skill Workshops: These include photography, cooking classes, and environmental science workshops, allowing campers to explore new interests or deepen existing ones.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend the camp sessions, fostering a sense of community and celebration. The closing ceremony often includes an awards presentation to acknowledge the achievements and growth of campers.
Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings are a staple, featuring storytelling, sing-alongs, and marshmallow roasting. These nights are essential for building camaraderie and creating lasting memories.
Color Wars: This multi-day event is a camp-wide competition involving various sports and challenges, promoting spirit, teamwork, and friendly competition.
International Day: Celebrating the diversity of the camp community, this day features food, music, and presentations from different cultures represented by the campers and staff.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs designed to develop skills necessary for team management, problem-solving, and effective communication.
Environmental Stewardship: Through guided nature walks, conservation projects, and sustainability workshops, campers learn about environmental protection and responsible living.
Advanced Arts and Sports Clinics: For campers who wish to specialize, focused clinics offer intensive instruction and improvement opportunities in specific arts or sports disciplines.

Camp Louise not only provides a fun and engaging summer experience but also focuses on holistic development, ensuring that each camper leaves with new skills, stronger friendships, and cherished memories.

The staff of Camp Louise

Camp Louise is committed to ensuring a safe, nurturing, and professional environment for all campers, with a highly trained and dedicated staff. Below are details about the staff-to-camper ratio, the hiring process, and the training and certifications required for the staff.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Louise maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and support. The general ratio is 1 staff member to every 6 campers. This ratio allows for a personalized approach to supervision, mentoring, and facilitation of activities, ensuring a safe and rewarding experience for all campers.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Camp Louise carefully selects staff members through a rigorous recruitment process that includes extensive background checks, personal interviews, and reference checks. The hiring process aims to attract individuals who are not only qualified but also passionate about working with children and embody the camp’s values of integrity, community, and leadership.
Qualifications: Prospective staff members typically have experience in child care, education, or related fields. Many are also former campers who have a deep understanding of the camp’s culture and operations. It is crucial for staff members to have a strong work ethic, excellent interpersonal skills, and a genuine interest in youth development.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, child psychology, conflict resolution, activity planning, and emergency procedures. This training ensures that staff are well-prepared to manage both daily activities and any unexpected situations.
Certifications: All staff members are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Instructors for specific activities such as swimming or archery are also required to hold additional relevant certifications, ensuring that they can provide safe and knowledgeable instruction.
Ongoing Education: Camp Louise supports continual professional development, offering ongoing training sessions throughout the camp season and encouraging staff to stay updated with the latest in educational and recreational methodologies.

The dedicated staff at Camp Louise are instrumental in creating an enriching camp environment that promotes safety, learning, and fun. Their comprehensive training and genuine passion for youth development play a crucial role in making Camp Louise a memorable and impactful experience for every camper.

Safety and Health in Camp Louise

Camp Louise prioritizes the safety and health of all its campers and staff, implementing rigorous protocols and maintaining excellent on-site health facilities to ensure a secure and supportive environment. Here’s an overview of the camp’s safety protocols, health facilities, and emergency handling policies.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Training: All staff undergo regular safety protocol training, including emergency response drills and situational awareness to handle various scenarios from minor accidents to major emergencies.
Activity-Specific Safety: Each activity offered at the camp follows strict safety guidelines, with appropriate gear and supervision. For example, all aquatic activities are supervised by certified lifeguards, and equipment for activities like archery is regularly inspected for safety.
Secure Environment: The camp is equipped with secure facilities, and monitored entry and exit points, and staff are trained to ensure that all campers remain within safe boundaries. Nighttime security and a strict visitor policy further safeguard campers and staff.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Louise hosts a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed medical professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor. The health center is prepared to handle routine healthcare needs as well as to assess and treat minor injuries or illnesses.
Medication Management: The health staff manage and administer all camper medications according to physician instructions, ensuring that campers receive their prescribed doses at the correct times.
Accessibility: Medical staff are available 24/7, ensuring that immediate medical attention is available at all times. The health center is also equipped to accommodate overnight observation if needed.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Action Plans: Camp Louise has detailed action plans for a range of potential emergencies, including natural disasters, health epidemics, and accidents. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated to align with best practices and local regulations.
Communication Protocols: In the event of an emergency, Camp Louise has a clear communication protocol to inform all relevant parties, including staff, campers, and parents. This includes immediate steps to manage the situation and coordinated efforts with local emergency services.
Training in Emergency Response: All camp staff receive training in basic emergency response, including how to effectively use communication tools, perform first aid, and execute evacuation procedures safely and efficiently.

Through these comprehensive safety protocols, health facilities, and emergency policies, Camp Louise ensures a camp environment that is not only fun and enriching but also exceedingly safe and well-prepared to handle any situation that may arise.

Cost and Registration in Camp Louise

Camp Louise offers a structured and transparent approach to cost, registration, and financial policies to ensure that families can plan effectively and access a rewarding camp experience for their children. Here’s a detailed overview of the cost of attendance, registration details, and financial policies including payment plans, refunds, and available scholarships.

Cost of Attendance

What It Includes: The cost of attending Camp Louise includes lodging in comfortable, secure cabins, all meals (with attention to dietary restrictions), and full participation in all camp activities, including specialty programs and materials. Transportation to and from the camp, personal items, and optional extras like camp merchandise are not typically included.
Fees: Costs vary depending on the length of stay and the specific program chosen. General one-week sessions might start at a lower fee, while specialized or longer sessions such as the four-week leadership program will have higher fees. Prices are generally all-inclusive for the duration of the camp session to simplify budgeting for families.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration Process: Registration for Camp Louise is conducted online through the camp’s website. Prospective campers must fill out a detailed application that includes medical history, dietary needs, and emergency contact information.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months before the start of the summer session and remains open until all spots are filled. Early registration is encouraged as some programs may fill quickly. Specific deadlines for each session are listed on the camp’s website.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Recognizing that families have different budgeting needs, Camp Louise offers flexible payment plans. These plans allow families to spread the cost of camp over several months leading up to the session.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp has a structured refund policy where full refunds minus a registration fee are available up to a certain date. Beyond this date, partial refunds may be offered depending on the timing of the cancellation. In cases of cancellation due to medical reasons, the camp tries to be accommodating, often offering camp credit for future sessions.
Cancellation Insurance: Families are also offered cancellation insurance to cover unforeseen withdrawals from the camp due to illness or injury.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Louise is committed to making camp accessible to as many girls as possible and offers scholarships based on financial need. These scholarships can cover a significant portion of the camp fees.
Financial Aid: The camp works with various organizations and sponsors to provide additional financial assistance to families who demonstrate substantial need. Details and applications for financial aid are available through the camp’s administration.

Camp Louise offers two different long sessions for summer camp:

Long Session 1: costs $6,750
Long Session 2: costs $5,555

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Louise

Camp Louise ensures that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the camp experience by providing detailed guidelines on packing, adherence to camp rules, and tips for first-time participants. This preparation helps set the stage for a positive and enriching summer camp experience.

Packing List

Camp Louise provides a recommended packing list to ensure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay:

Clothing: Enough clothes for the session, including t-shirts, shorts, long pants, and warm layers for cooler evenings. Waterproof jackets, swimwear, and a hat for sun protection are also essential.
Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots, sandals, and athletic shoes.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary personal items.
Other Essentials: Flashlight, water bottle, and any required medications.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a camera (non-smartphone).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Louise encourages campers to disconnect from digital devices to fully engage with the camp experience. Smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices are typically not allowed. Exceptions may be made for devices used as cameras, but these should not have internet capabilities.
Visitation: To ensure the safety and structure of the camp program, visitation by family and friends during the session is generally restricted. Special family visit days may be organized, and details of these are provided ahead of time.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules, respect other campers and staff, and participate actively in scheduled activities. Positive behavior is reinforced through a system of rewards and recognition.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Stay Open: Try new activities, even those that might initially seem challenging or unfamiliar.
- Make Friends: Be open to making new friends. Everyone is in the same situation and likely feeling just as nervous.
- Communicate: If you’re feeling homesick or facing any issues, talk to your counselor. They’re there to help!
For Parents:
- Communication: Discuss what camp will be like before your child leaves. Talk about the exciting activities and the new experiences they will gain.
- Packing: Help your child pack using the camp’s checklist, and involve them in the process so they know where everything is packed.
- Emotional Preparation: Prepare your child for the experience of being away from home. Discuss how they can manage feelings of homesickness and reassure them that it’s normal to feel this way.

By providing this comprehensive preparation guide, Camp Louise helps ensure that both campers and their parents are well-prepared for the upcoming camp adventure, fostering a smooth transition and a memorable summer experience.

Camp Louise in Highfield-Cascade, Maryland, stands out as a premier destination for young girls seeking a summer filled with growth, adventure, and lifelong memories. Nestled in the serene Catoctin Mountains, the camp offers a rich blend of outdoor activities, creative arts, and personal development programs, all tailored to nurture and empower its campers. With a strong emphasis on safety, community, and respect, Camp Louise provides an ideal environment for girls to explore their interests, develop new skills, and forge friendships in a supportive and vibrant setting.

The dedicated staff, comprehensive preparations for campers and parents, and a firm commitment to inclusivity through scholarships and financial aid ensure that Camp Louise remains accessible and appealing to a diverse group of young women. Whether it’s through participating in traditional campfires, engaging in leadership training, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings, Camp Louise offers a unique and enriching experience that leaves a lasting impact on its campers.