Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Navasota, Texas, Camp Allen provides an idyllic setting for personal growth and exploration. Located in the heart of the Lone Star State, this camp is situated near the serene expanse of the Navasota River, offering a picturesque backdrop for camp activities and learning. Established as part of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas’ outreach efforts, Camp Allen has been serving young individuals and families with enriching experiences since 1921.

Camp Allen operates with a profound mission to “enrich lives through hospitality, worship, and learning.” This philosophy underscores every aspect of the camp’s operations, from daily activities to long-term objectives, aiming to cultivate a supportive and nurturing environment where every camper feels valued and inspired.

As a comprehensive retreat and conference center, Camp Allen offers a variety of programs tailored to different age groups and interests. It accommodates both boys and girls, providing age-specific programming that ensures every camper has an opportunity to thrive. Whether it’s summer camp experiences for children and teenagers or spiritual retreats for adults, Camp Allen is dedicated to fostering a community of respect, growth, and joy.

Programs Offered by Camp Allen

Camp Allen offers a wide range of programs designed to cater to different age groups, interests, and session lengths, ensuring that every camper finds something that sparks their enthusiasm and fits their schedule.

General Camp Programs

Summer Camp Sessions: These sessions typically run from one to two weeks during the summer months. They are designed for children and teenagers, providing them with an immersive experience in a variety of outdoor activities, team-building exercises, and personal development workshops.
Family Camps: These are weekend or week-long programs that allow families to experience the beauty and activities of Camp Allen together. Family camps often occur during holiday weekends or special seasonal events.

Specialty Programs

Arts Camps: These sessions focus on creative arts including painting, music, drama, and crafts. They are designed to encourage creativity and expression in a natural setting.
Sports Camps: Geared towards physical activity and skill development, these camps offer everything from swimming and archery to team sports like soccer and basketball.
Environmental Science Programs: These programs are designed to educate campers about local ecology, wildlife, and environmental stewardship through hands-on activities and explorations in the surrounding natural areas.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Allen is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, free time, and community interactions:

Morning: After breakfast, campers typically engage in morning worship or a motivational talk, followed by the first activity session of the day, which might be a sport, art project, or environmental exploration.
Afternoon: After lunch, there is often a quiet time or rest period followed by more activity sessions. These sessions are usually more intensive and might include specialized workshops or guest speakers.
Evening: Dinner is followed by an evening program that varies daily, such as campfires, talent shows, or night hikes. Before bed, there might be a reflection time or night worship to end the day on a thoughtful note.

Each program at Camp Allen is designed to promote personal growth, foster a sense of community, and create lifelong memories in a beautiful and supportive environment.

Accommodations in Camp Allen

Camp Allen provides comfortable and well-maintained accommodations designed to enhance the camping experience while ensuring safety and convenience for all campers.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodation for campers at Camp Allen consists of cabins that are strategically placed throughout the property. These cabins are designed to blend with the natural surroundings and are equipped with air conditioning and heating to provide comfort in all seasons. Each cabin houses multiple campers and is typically segmented by age group and gender to ensure a safe and appropriate environment.
Dormitory Style: For specific programs or larger groups, Camp Allen also offers dormitory-style accommodations. These facilities are more akin to what one might find at a retreat or conference, with multiple beds per room and shared living spaces.
Tent Camping: For those looking for a more rustic experience, there are designated areas for tent camping. These spots are perfect for older campers or special leadership programs, providing a true outdoors experience.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Allen offers comprehensive meal plans that include three balanced meals per day, served in the camp dining hall. The dining environment is communal, which fosters a sense of community and allows campers to connect over meals.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, Camp Allen’s kitchen staff is equipped to handle special dietary requirements. Whether it’s allergies, vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets, the staff can accommodate these needs with prior notification.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities in Cabins: Many of the cabins at Camp Allen are equipped with their own bathroom and shower facilities, allowing for comfort and convenience. These facilities are maintained with high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
Central Bathhouses: For cabins and tents without their own bathrooms, Camp Allen provides centrally located bathhouses. These facilities are divided by gender and are strategically placed to be easily accessible from all areas of the camp. The bathhouses are equipped with multiple stalls and showers, and they are cleaned and restocked regularly to ensure hygiene and convenience for all campers.

These accommodations at Camp Allen are designed to ensure that all campers have a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable stay, making their time at camp both memorable and rewarding.

Activities in Camp Allen

Camp Allen offers a diverse array of activities that cater to the interests and skills of campers of all ages. These activities are designed not only for fun but also for personal growth and skill development.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps, hiking, canoeing, and fishing take advantage of Camp Allen’s extensive natural surroundings. The camp also features high and low ropes courses, providing challenges that foster teamwork and personal confidence.
Swimming: The camp has a swimming pool that is used for free swim times as well as structured water games and swim lessons.
Sports: Facilities are available for a variety of sports, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery, allowing campers to either learn a new sport or continue developing their skills in one they already enjoy.
Crafts: A dedicated crafts area provides materials and guidance for a range of creative projects from pottery to painting, encouraging artistic expression among campers.
Environmental Education: Programs are designed to engage campers with the local environment through activities such as bird watching, nature walks, and educational sessions about local flora and fauna.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfires: Regular campfire gatherings are a cornerstone of the Camp Allen experience, featuring storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting.
Themed Nights: Special evenings, such as talent shows, costume parties, or cultural celebrations, add an extra layer of excitement and community bonding.
End-of-Session Banquet: A tradition at Camp Allen, the banquet is a formal dinner where campers and staff celebrate the session’s achievements and memorable moments.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to participate in leadership training programs, where they learn skills in group management, conflict resolution, and program planning.
Environmental Stewardship: Through hands-on environmental education sessions, campers learn about conservation practices and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
Artistic and Athletic Development: Dedicated sessions for advanced instruction in arts and sports offer campers the chance to hone specific skills, whether they’re refining their technique in archery or enhancing their artistic abilities in sculpture or drawing.

These activities and opportunities at Camp Allen not only make for an exciting and enjoyable camp experience but also contribute to the development of lifelong skills and passions.

The staff of Camp Allen

The quality and dedication of the staff at Camp Allen are central to its mission of providing a safe, enriching, and enjoyable experience for all campers. The camp prides itself on a high standard of staff recruitment, training, and supervision to ensure that every camper has the best possible experience.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Allen maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and greater supervision. The ratio varies depending on the age of the campers and the nature of the activities, but generally, it aims for one staff member for every six to eight campers. This ratio helps foster a safe, nurturing, and responsive environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: The hiring process at Camp Allen involves a thorough screening that includes background checks, reference checks, and interviews. The camp seeks individuals who are not only skilled in their specific areas of activity but also have a genuine passion for working with children and youth.
Qualifications: Staff members typically have experience in education, child development, recreation, or related fields. Many are returning staff who bring valuable experience and continuity to the camp environment. Additionally, staff often include college students pursuing relevant fields of study, educators, and professionals with a strong background in leadership and youth activities.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the commencement of camp sessions, all staff undergo extensive pre-camp training. This training covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, activity planning, and child psychology.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. This ensures that they are prepared to handle any health or safety emergencies that may arise.
Specialized Certifications: Depending on their roles, some staff members also hold additional certifications. For example, those leading water activities might be certified lifeguards, while those involved in the ropes courses may have specific training in ropes safety and rescue techniques.

Through its diligent staffing policies, Camp Allen ensures that each camper is in safe, capable hands, allowing parents to feel secure about their child’s camp experience and campers to benefit from expert guidance and care. This commitment to quality staffing is a cornerstone of Camp Allen’s reputation and success.

Safety and Health in Camp Allen

Camp Allen is committed to providing a secure and healthy environment for all campers and staff. The camp has implemented comprehensive safety protocols and maintains well-equipped health facilities to manage any issues that may arise during camp sessions.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: Camp Allen conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuation drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with safety procedures.
Activity Safety: Each activity area, whether it’s the swimming pool, archery range, or ropes course, has specific safety protocols in place. Equipment is regularly inspected, and safety gear is mandatory for activities deemed higher risk.
Nighttime Security: The camp employs nighttime security measures, including curfews and staff patrols, to ensure the safety of campers after dark. All cabins are locked during the night, and staff members are strategically stationed to provide quick responses if needed.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Allen features an on-site health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses and, during peak sessions, a visiting doctor. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries, illnesses, and the administration of medication.
Medication Management: Campers who require regular medications have their treatments managed and administered by the health center staff. Parents are required to provide detailed medical information and medications in original containers with clear instructions.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Allen has a comprehensive emergency response plan that outlines the procedures for handling various types of emergencies, including severe weather, health crises, and missing campers.
Communication with Families: In the event of an emergency, the camp has protocols for promptly informing families. This includes direct phone calls, emails, and updates through the camp’s online portal, depending on the nature of the emergency.
Coordination with Local Authorities: Camp Allen maintains strong relationships with local emergency services, including the fire department, police, and hospitals. These relationships ensure a quick and efficient response should external assistance be required during an emergency.

Camp Allen’s commitment to safety and health is designed to ensure that all campers and staff can enjoy a secure and worry-free camp experience, allowing them to focus on the fun, learning, and growth that Camp Allen aims to provide.

Cost and Registration in Camp Allen

Camp Allen aims to make its programs accessible and manageable for families through clear cost structures, straightforward registration processes, and supportive financial policies.

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes

Cost: The cost of attending Camp Allen varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program. Generally, fees cover all aspects of the camp experience including lodging, meals, activities, and any program materials. Prices typically range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on the session length and the nature of the program.
What’s Included: The registration fee includes:
- Accommodation in cabins or dormitory-style rooms.
- Three meals per day, plus snacks.
- All scheduled activities and use of camp facilities.
- 24-hour supervision and care from camp staff.
- Basic health services at the on-site health center.

The summer camp fee for Camp Allen is $894 for all camp sessions.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children for Camp Allen through an online registration system available on the camp’s website. This system guides them through filling out necessary forms, selecting sessions, and providing essential camper information.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months in advance of the summer season and remains open until sessions are full. Early registration is encouraged to ensure a spot in the desired session, as some programs fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Camp Allen offers payment plans to help families manage the cost of camp. These plans allow parents to pay the camp fees in installments over a period leading up to the start of the camp session.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp has a structured refund policy where full or partial refunds are available until a certain date, which is usually a few weeks before the session begins. After this date, refunds may not be available unless the cancellation is due to medical reasons or other significant family emergencies.
Cancellation Policy: If Camp Allen cancels a session, a full refund is usually offered. However, this is rare and would likely be due to extraordinary circumstances.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Allen provides scholarships to help families who might not otherwise afford the camp experience. These scholarships are typically need-based and require an application that may include financial information, a camper statement, and sometimes recommendations.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, financial aid may be available through special funds or grants, especially for families experiencing significant financial hardships or for children with particular needs or talents.

Camp Allen’s goal is to ensure no child misses out on a camp experience due to financial constraints, and their accommodating cost, registration, and financial aid policies reflect this commitment.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Allen

Preparing for camp, especially for first-time campers and their parents, involves understanding what to pack, knowing the camp’s rules and policies, and receiving tips to make the transition smoother and more enjoyable.

Packing List

Clothing: Pack enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for the duration of the camp, including t-shirts, shorts, pants, and a jacket for cooler evenings. Include swimwear, a sun hat, and sturdy footwear for hiking and sports.
Bedding: Bring bedding such as a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, plus a pillow, unless provided by the camp.
Toiletries: Essential toiletries include toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and sunscreen. Insect repellent is also recommended.
Other Essentials: A water bottle, flashlight or headlamp, and a small backpack for day trips are important. Also, include a towel for swimming and showers.
Optional Items: Books, a camera, and writing materials can be included for leisure time.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Allen generally promotes a technology-free environment to encourage campers to engage fully with their surroundings and peers. Mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are usually not allowed or their use is strictly regulated.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to minimize disruptions and help campers adjust to the camp routine. Details about visiting days and times are provided prior to the start of camp.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules, show respect to fellow campers and staff, and participate actively in scheduled activities.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships. Address any anxieties about being away from home.
Communication: Explain how and when campers can communicate with home. Camp Allen may allow letters, emails, or calls at specific times.
Pack Together: Involve your child in the packing process to ensure they know what they’re bringing and to give them a sense of control.
Set Goals: Help your child set personal goals for camp, such as trying a new activity or making new friends, to personalize their experience.
Goodbyes: Keep goodbyes brief and positive on drop-off day to ease the separation.

These preparations help ensure that both parents and campers feel ready and excited for the Camp Allen experience, making it as rewarding and fun as possible.

Camp Allen stands out as a premier destination for children, families, and groups seeking a meaningful and enriching outdoor experience. With its diverse range of programs, Camp Allen caters to all ages and interests, ensuring that every camper finds something that excites and challenges them. From arts and crafts to sports and environmental education, the activities offered are designed to promote personal growth, teamwork, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

The camp’s commitment to safety, health, and high-quality staff ensures that every camper’s experience is not only fun but also secure and supportive. The beautiful, well-maintained facilities, including comfortable sleeping accommodations and extensive recreational areas, provide the perfect setting for adventures and relaxation alike.