Nestled in the piney woods of East Texas, Camp Gilmont is a serene retreat located in Gilmer, TX, just a stone’s throw away from the famed Lake O’ the Pines. This camp has a rich history of providing a nurturing environment for youth since its establishment. Its location not only offers picturesque views but also a perfect setting for a variety of outdoor activities, making it an ideal getaway for campers seeking adventure and tranquility.

Camp Gilmont operates with a mission to “foster personal growth and a spirit of community through fun, faith-based programs in a natural setting.” The camp embodies this philosophy by offering programs that promote spiritual and personal development in a safe and inclusive environment.

Catering primarily to boys and girls across various age groups, Camp Gilmont provides a dynamic range of activities suitable for different age brackets. These programs are designed to challenge the campers, help them grow in their faith, and enable them to form lasting friendships. From summer camps to retreats and environmental education programs, Camp Gilmont ensures a holistic and enriching experience for all attendees.

Programs Offered by Camp Gilmont

Camp Gilmont offers a variety of programs tailored to meet the needs and interests of its diverse camper population. Each program is designed to enrich the campers’ experience, foster personal growth, and enhance community building. Here’s an overview of the programs, session lengths, specialty offerings, and a glimpse into a typical day at Camp Gilmont:

Program Descriptions:

Summer Camps: Traditional camp programs that focus on outdoor activities, spiritual development, and teamwork. These camps are the heart of Gilmont’s offerings, ensuring that each camper enjoys a fulfilling and fun experience.
Retreats: Designed for both youth and adults, these retreats offer a peaceful setting for spiritual renewal and personal reflection.
Environmental Education: This program provides hands-on learning experiences about the natural world, encouraging environmental stewardship among campers.

Length of Sessions:

Summer Camps: Typically, these camps run for one or two-week sessions throughout the summer months.
Retreats: The length can vary, ranging from weekend retreats to week-long events.
Environmental Education Programs: These are usually structured as week-long sessions, often integrated into school curriculums.

Specialty Programs:

Arts: Includes crafts, music, and drama, allowing campers to express themselves creatively.
Sports: Features a variety of sports, including archery, swimming, and hiking, focusing on physical health and teamwork.
Science: Campers engage in explorations and experiments, fostering a love for science and inquiry.

Typical Daily Schedule:

7:30 AM: Wake up and personal time
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning Chapel/Devotional
10:00 AM: Activity Session 1 (e.g., Arts and Crafts or Environmental Education)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet Time/Rest
2:00 PM: Activity Session 2 (e.g., Sports or Science Experiments)
4:00 PM: Free Time/Optional Activities
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening Program (Games, Campfire, Night Hikes)
9:00 PM: Cabin Time/Reflections
10:00 PM: Lights Out

This structured schedule ensures that each camper participates in a variety of activities designed to educate, entertain, and inspire. Whether it’s through spiritual development in a chapel, learning new skills in workshops, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, Camp Gilmont provides an enriching camp experience that leaves lasting memories.

Accommodations in Camp Gilmont

Camp Gilmont ensures that every camper feels comfortable and well cared for during their stay. The camp’s accommodations are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings while providing all necessary amenities for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers stay in cozy, rustic cabins that are nestled among the tall pine trees. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings. The cabins are grouped into clusters, with each cluster sharing common outdoor areas for social activities and gatherings.
Dorms: For larger groups or specific programs, dormitory-style accommodations are available. These dorms feature multiple beds in a larger, open room, providing a communal living experience.
Tents: For those looking for a more traditional camping experience, there are options to stay in tents. This allows campers to connect more closely with nature and enjoy the true essence of outdoor living.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Gilmont offers full meal plans for all campers, with three well-balanced meals served daily in the communal dining hall. The meals are prepared by experienced staff, ensuring that campers receive nutritious and energy-boosting food throughout their stay.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, the camp provides options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific food allergies or dietary restrictions. Campers or their guardians are encouraged to communicate any dietary needs in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathroom and shower facility, ensuring easy access for all campers. These facilities are well-maintained and cleaned regularly, equipped with multiple shower stalls, toilets, and sinks to accommodate the needs of campers efficiently.
Privacy and Safety: Privacy and safety are paramount in the design of these facilities. Separate accommodations are provided for male and female campers, and all areas are well-lit and secure.

Camp Gilmont’s accommodations are carefully planned to ensure that every camper’s stay is not only fun and educational but also comfortable and safe. The camp’s facilities allow campers to relax and recharge after a day full of activities, ensuring they are ready to engage fully in the camp experience.

Activities in Camp Gilmont

Camp Gilmont offers a wide array of activities designed to engage campers in fun, learning, and personal growth. Each activity is tailored to cater to different interests and skill levels, ensuring a rewarding experience for every participant. Here’s a detailed look at the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered:

Swimming: Supervised swimming sessions in the camp’s pool or lake, focusing on safety and fun.
Hiking: Guided nature hikes through the surrounding pine forests, exploring local flora and fauna.
Crafts: A variety of arts and crafts activities that allow campers to express their creativity and bring home handmade souvenirs.
Canoeing: Water-based adventures in canoes, teaching basic paddling techniques and safety on the water.
Archery: Instruction in archery, focusing on technique, safety, and precision.
Campfires: Evening campfires with storytelling, songs, and marshmallow roasting.
Sports: Various sports activities including soccer, volleyball, and basketball, promote teamwork and physical fitness.
Nature Studies: Educational sessions on local wildlife and ecosystems, fostering environmental awareness and responsibility.

Special Events or Traditions:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These are times of celebration and reflection, marking the beginning and end of camp sessions.
Theme Days: Special days where activities are centered around a specific theme, such as “Pirate Day” or “Wild West,” adding a fun and immersive twist to the camp experience.
Talent Shows: An opportunity for campers to showcase their talents and enjoy performances by their peers.
Overnight Campouts: Campers have the chance to experience sleeping under the stars and learning basic camping skills.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Training: Summer camps can participate in leadership programs designed to develop skills in team management, problem-solving, and communication.
Environmental Education: Campers engage in activities that teach sustainable practices and the importance of conserving natural resources.
Artistic Skills: Through various arts and crafts, music, and drama activities, campers explore and develop their artistic talents.
Physical Education: Sports and outdoor activities help improve physical health, coordination, and team-playing abilities.

Camp Gilmont provides a dynamic environment where campers not only enjoy themselves but also gain valuable skills and experiences. Each activity is an opportunity to learn, grow, and make lasting memories in a supportive community setting.

The staff of Camp Gilmont

Camp Gilmont is committed to ensuring the highest level of care and supervision for all campers through a dedicated and well-trained staff team. The camp’s staffing policies focus on the safety, skill, and personal development of each camper. Here are details about the staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, staff qualifications, and the training they undergo:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Gilmont maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care. This ratio is typically set around 1:8, meaning there is one staff member for every eight campers. This ratio may be even lower for activities that require more intensive supervision such as swimming or hiking.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: The camp recruits staff from a variety of sources, including local universities, teacher recommendations, and through networks of former campers who return as staff members.
Qualifications: Candidates must have a genuine interest in working with children, previous experience in camps or related fields, and a background that aligns with the camp’s values and mission.
Background Checks: All potential staff members undergo thorough background checks, including criminal history and references, to ensure the safety and well-being of the campers.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season starts, all staff members participate in an intensive training program. This training covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, activity planning, and child psychology.
Certifications: Staff involved in specific activities such as swimming or archery are required to hold relevant certifications. Additionally, a significant number of the staff, including all who are involved in outdoor activities, are certified in CPR and First Aid.
Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, staff members receive ongoing training and support to handle the dynamic camp environment effectively. This includes regular updates on safety protocols and instructional techniques.

Camp Gilmont’s staff are not only equipped with the necessary skills and certifications to ensure camper safety but are also trained to foster an environment of fun, learning, and growth. The rigorous hiring and training process guarantees that every staff member is fully prepared to contribute positively to the camp experience, making each camper’s stay both enjoyable and secure.

Safety and Health in Camp Gilmont

Camp Gilmont prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing comprehensive protocols and maintaining on-site health facilities to ensure a secure and supportive environment. Here’s an overview of the safety protocols, health facilities, and emergency handling policies at Camp Gilmont:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: The camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure everyone knows how to act in case of an emergency.
Activity-Specific Safety Gear: All activities requiring specific safety gear, such as helmets for biking or life jackets for water activities, adhere strictly to safety standards.
Supervised Activities: All activities are supervised by trained staff members who ensure that campers are following safety guidelines.
Check-In/Check-Out Procedures: Strict procedures are in place for the check-in and check-out of campers to ensure that only authorized individuals can pick up campers.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Gilmont is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses and/or a visiting doctor.
Medical Supplies: The health center is stocked with necessary medical supplies and equipment to handle minor injuries and illnesses. For more severe cases, protocols are in place for quick transportation to a nearby hospital.
Health Checks: Upon arrival, campers undergo health screenings to identify any existing conditions or needs, ensuring that all campers receive appropriate care throughout their stay.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan, which is regularly reviewed and updated. This plan includes procedures for evacuation, shelter-in-place, and communication with parents and local authorities.
Local Hospital Collaboration: Camp Gilmont coordinates closely with local hospitals to ensure a quick response in case of medical emergencies requiring more advanced care.
Communication with Parents: In case of an emergency, the camp has a clear protocol for promptly informing parents or guardians, including details of the situation and the actions being taken.

Camp Gilmont’s commitment to safety and health is integral to its operations. By maintaining rigorous safety protocols, a well-equipped health center, and clear emergency procedures, the camp ensures a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities worry-free, knowing that their well-being is a top priority.

Cost and Registration in Camp Gilmont

Camp Gilmont is dedicated to providing an accessible and enriching camping experience. The cost of attendance, registration details, and financial support options are structured to accommodate families with various needs. Here’s an overview of the financial aspects of attending Camp Gilmont:

Cost of Attendance

Fees: The cost of attending Camp Gilmont varies depending on the program and length of stay. Typically, fees cover all accommodations, meals, activities, and program materials. Additional costs might be associated with specialty programs or optional excursions.
What’s Included: The attendance fee generally includes lodging, three daily meals, all scheduled activities, and access to camp facilities and equipment.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children for Camp Gilmont through an online registration portal available at the camps. This portal opens on a specific date and remains open until all spots are filled.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged as some programs fill up quickly. Specific deadlines for each session are posted well in advance on the camp’s.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: To ease the financial burden, Camp Gilmont offers flexible payment plans that allow parents to pay the camp fees over several months.
Refunds: The camp has a refund policy in place, which typically includes a non-refundable deposit at the time of registration. Full or partial refunds (excluding the deposit) are available until a certain date before the camp session begins.
Cancellation Policy: In case of cancellation, fees may be partially refunded based on the date of cancellation. The policy is designed to be fair and transparent, taking into account the planning and resources involved in preparing for each camper.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Gilmont provides scholarships to help reduce the cost for families in need. These scholarships are often based on financial need and sometimes merit or specific criteria such as leadership qualities or community involvement.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available through donations and sponsorships from alumni, local businesses, and community organizations. Families are encouraged to apply early for financial aid, as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Camp Gilmont’s comprehensive registration and financial policies ensure that many families have the opportunity to experience the enriching environment the camp offers. By providing detailed information on costs, flexible payment options, and financial assistance, Camp Gilmont strives to be accessible to a wide range of participants.

The summer camp fees for Camp Gilmont Gilmer TX depend on the program and age of the participant:

Campers (Ages 5-12):
- Early bird rate: $190
- Regular rate: $175
- Discounted rate for families with 3+ children: $150 per child

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Gilmont

To ensure that both parents and campers are well-prepared for their camp experience, Camp Gilmont provides comprehensive guidelines, including a packing list, rules and policies, and helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

Clothing: Pack comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, including T-shirts, shorts, long pants, and layers for cooler evenings. Include a raincoat or poncho for rainy days.
Footwear: Bring sturdy shoes for hiking and other outdoor activities, plus sandals or flip-flops for showers and around the camp.
Bedding and Toiletries: Include a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (depending on the accommodation), pillow, towels, and personal toiletry items.
Swimwear and Sun Protection: Don’t forget a swimsuit, sunscreen, and a hat for protection against the sun.
Bug Spray: An essential item to keep mosquitoes and other insects at bay.
Flashlight or Headlamp: Necessary for evening activities and moving around camp after dark.
Reusable Water Bottle: Keeps campers hydrated throughout the day.
Medications: Clearly labeled and accompanied by dosage instructions. Be sure to inform the camp health staff about any medical needs.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Gilmont generally discourages the use of personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. This policy helps campers engage fully with their surroundings and fellow campers.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to help maintain the program’s structure and security.
Behavior: The camp enforces a strict code of conduct that promotes respect, inclusivity, and safety among all campers and staff.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Familiarize with the Camp: Review the camp’s website and materials together to familiarize yourselves with the facilities, schedule, and what to expect.
Discuss Expectations: Talk about what the camp experience will be like, including the exciting activities and the potential for homesickness, which is normal.
Practice Independence: Encourage your child to practice skills they’ll need at camp, like organizing their belongings, making their bed, and choosing their clothes.
Stay Positive: Express confidence in your child’s ability to have a great time and handle being away from home.

By preparing effectively, parents can help ensure that their child’s camp experience is enjoyable and rewarding. Camp Gilmont aims to support first-time campers and their parents by providing detailed information and guidance to make the transition to camp life smooth and stress-free.

Camp Gilmont stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and personal growth in the picturesque pine forests of East Texas. With its comprehensive array of programs, from arts and crafts to environmental education, and its commitment to safety and community, Camp Gilmont offers a unique environment where campers of all ages can explore their interests, develop new skills, and forge lasting friendships. The camp’s thoughtful accommodations, dedicated staff, and robust safety measures ensure that each camper’s experience is not only enjoyable but also enriching and secure.

For parents and first-time campers, Camp Gilmont provides thorough preparation guidelines and support, making the transition to camp life seamless and stress-free. By maintaining a spirit of inclusivity and a focus on personal development, Camp Gilmont embodies its mission to foster growth and community through fun, faith-based programs in a natural setting.