Nestled in the stunning wilderness of Kamas, Utah, YMCA Camp Roger offers a scenic retreat where youth can immerse themselves in nature and discover new adventures. Positioned in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, this camp is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, including the nearby Mirror Lake, providing an idyllic backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities.

Founded with a commitment to fostering the development of young people, YMCA Camp Roger has a rich history of creating memorable camping experiences that last a lifetime. The camp’s mission is to build strong, confident, and responsible individuals by promoting personal growth, teamwork, and environmental stewardship through its dynamic programs.

YMCA Camp Roger is a facility that welcomes boys and girls across various age groups, typically ranging from 8 to 15 years old. It offers a broad spectrum of activities tailored to nurture both the mind and body, making it not just a place to be during the summer, but a place to grow, learn, and connect with peers in a supportive community environment.

Programs Offered by YMCA Camp Roger

YMCA Camp Roger offers a wide range of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental needs of its campers, emphasizing outdoor education, personal growth, and fun. The camp provides various session lengths, from one-week stays to multiple-week experiences, allowing families to choose the duration that best fits their summer schedules.

Programs Offered

Traditional Camp Programs:
- Length: 1 to 2 weeks
- Description: These sessions focus on a broad array of activities including hiking, swimming, archery, and campfire programs. Campers engage in daily adventures and team-building exercises, fostering a sense of community and individual confidence.
Specialty Programs:
- Outdoor Adventure: This program emphasizes skills like orienteering, wilderness survival, and environmental education, tailored for those who seek a deeper connection with nature.
- Arts Camp: Focused on creativity, this program includes activities such as painting, crafts, and drama, encouraging campers to express themselves artistically.
- Sports Camp: Designed for campers interested in physical activities, this camp includes structured sports like soccer, basketball, and water sports, focusing on skill development and teamwork.
- Science Camp: Engages campers in hands-on science activities, experiments, and explorations that make learning exciting and relevant to the natural world around them.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:00 AM: Wake Up
7:30 AM: Flag Raising and Morning Exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning Activity Session (e.g., Hiking, Arts and Crafts)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest Time
2:00 PM: Afternoon Activity Session (Specialty program activities or elective choices)
5:00 PM: Free Time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening Activities (e.g., Campfires, Talent Shows)
9:00 PM: Cabin Time and Lights Out

The structure of each day at YMCA Camp Roger is designed to provide a balanced mix of scheduled activities and free time, allowing campers to explore their interests while gaining new skills and making lasting friendships. This combination of structured and leisure time helps to create a wholesome, enriching summer camp experience that encourages personal growth and community involvement.

Accommodations in YMCA Camp Roger

YMCA Camp Roger is thoughtfully equipped to provide a comfortable and inclusive camping experience for all its attendees. The camp’s accommodations and facilities are designed to enhance the rustic outdoor experience while ensuring safety and convenience.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers stay in cozy, rustic cabins that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Each cabin houses a specific number of campers, typically ranging from 8 to 12, along with at least two camp counselors. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, providing each camper with their own personal sleeping space. These structures are strategically placed throughout the camp to offer beautiful views of the surrounding forest and to facilitate easy access to the camp’s central facilities.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: YMCA Camp Roger provides three well-balanced meals each day, served in a communal dining hall that fosters a family-style dining atmosphere. Meals are designed to be nutritious and energizing, catering to the needs of active campers.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining options, the camp is committed to accommodating special dietary needs including allergies, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. Campers or parents are encouraged to communicate any dietary restrictions to the camp staff ahead of the camp session to ensure appropriate meal preparations.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Separate bathroom and shower facilities for boys and girls are conveniently located near the cabins. These facilities are well-maintained and equipped with multiple stalls and showers to accommodate the needs of campers and staff, ensuring privacy and minimal wait times.
Hygiene: The camp emphasizes cleanliness and hygiene, with daily cleaning schedules maintained by the camp staff. Additionally, campers are encouraged to uphold personal and communal hygiene standards.

Overall, YMCA Camp Roger’s accommodations and facilities are carefully designed to ensure that campers can enjoy their summer experience in a safe, comfortable, and healthy environment. The camp’s infrastructure supports its mission to provide a nurturing setting that promotes personal growth and community building.

Activities in YMCA Camp Roger

YMCA Camp Roger provides a diverse array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels, fostering both fun and educational experiences. The camp’s setting in the natural beauty of the Utah wilderness offers unique opportunities for outdoor exploration and learning.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Supervised swimming sessions in natural lakes, focusing on safety and fun.
Hiking: Guided hikes through the surrounding national forest, tailored to different age groups and abilities.
Crafts: A variety of arts and crafts sessions where campers can express their creativity through painting, sculpting, and more.
Archery: Instruction and practice in archery, emphasizing safety and skill improvement.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water-based activities that teach paddling skills and water safety.
Rock Climbing: Both natural and artificial climbing experiences that promote physical strength and problem-solving.
Environmental Education: Programs designed to educate campers about local flora and fauna, conservation, and sustainable practices.
Campfire Programs: Evening gatherings that include storytelling, songs, skits, and learning about the natural world.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening/Closing Ceremonies: Special events that mark the beginning and end of each camp session, establishing and celebrating the camp community.
Theme Days: Fun and engaging themed activities that encourage camp participation and spirit.
Overnight Campouts: Summer camps have the opportunity to experience overnight stays in tents, learning basic camping and survival skills.
Talent Shows: An event where campers can showcase their talents to their peers, promoting confidence and entertainment.
Color Wars: A camp-wide competition involving various physical and creative challenges, fostering team spirit and camaraderie.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Programs specifically designed for older campers to develop leadership skills, including team management and decision-making.
First Aid and Safety Workshops: Educational sessions on basic first aid, CPR, and wilderness safety to promote safety awareness and preparedness.
Environmental Stewardship Projects: Opportunities for campers to participate in conservation projects, such as tree planting or wildlife habitat restoration.
Skill Badges: Campers can earn badges as they master specific skills in various activities, motivating continued learning and achievement.

YMCA Camp Roger’s extensive range of activities not only provides entertainment and fun but also incorporates significant educational components, making each camper’s experience both enriching and memorable. Through these activities, campers learn vital life skills, develop a deep appreciation for the natural world, and build lasting friendships.

The staff of YMCA Camp Roger

YMCA Camp Roger is committed to maintaining a high standard of safety, education, and care through its staff, ensuring that all campers have a positive and enriching experience. The camp prioritizes a structured approach to staff hiring, training, and camper supervision.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

YMCA Camp Roger maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and care. The typical ratio is approximately 1 staff member for every 6 to 8 campers. This ratio is designed to provide a safe, supervised environment where staff can effectively manage and engage all campers in activities.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: The camp recruits individuals who are passionate about working with children and who have prior experience in camping, education, or child care. Prospective staff members are usually recruited from educational institutions, local communities, and through referrals from existing staff.
Background Checks: All potential hires undergo thorough background checks, including criminal record checks and references, to ensure the safety and integrity of the camp environment.
Interview Process: Candidates go through a rigorous interview process that assesses their skills, experience, and suitability for working in a dynamic camp setting.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: All staff members are required to participate in a comprehensive pre-camp training program. This program covers camp policies, child behavior management, emergency procedures, and specific training related to their assigned duties.
CPR and First Aid: Staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are often provided by the camp itself before the start of the camp season to ensure all staff are prepared to handle medical and emergency situations.
Specialized Training: For activities that require specific skills, such as swimming, archery, or rock climbing, staff receive additional specialized training to ensure they are proficient and can safely instruct campers.

Continuous Development

YMCA Camp Roger encourages ongoing development and training throughout the camp season. Regular staff meetings and feedback sessions help to address any issues and reinforce the camp’s standards and expectations.

The staff at YMCA Camp Roger are not only caretakers and supervisors but also role models and educators who contribute significantly to the positive and developmental experiences of the campers. This comprehensive approach to staff recruitment, training, and management ensures that the camp provides a safe, enjoyable, and enriching environment for all participants.

Safety and Health in YMCA Camp Roger

YMCA Camp Roger prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing rigorous protocols and maintaining robust facilities to address any issues that may arise during camp sessions. The camp’s safety and health policies are designed to provide a secure environment that allows for fun and learning without compromising on care.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: The camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire drills and emergency evacuation exercises, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures in case of an emergency.
Activity Safety: Each activity offered at the camp adheres to specific safety protocols, such as the use of helmets for biking or climbing and life jackets for water activities. These rules are strictly enforced to prevent accidents.
Night Patrols: To ensure the safety of campers and staff during the night, Camp Roger has staff who perform night patrols and are trained to handle any issues that may arise.
Check-In/Check-Out Systems: The camp maintains a strict check-in and check-out system for campers to monitor who enters and leaves the camp, enhancing child security.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: YMCA Camp Roger is equipped with a health center staffed by qualified healthcare providers, including nurses who are present 24/7 during camp sessions. The center is prepared to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is equipped with necessary medical supplies and equipment.
Health Checks: Upon arrival, campers undergo health screenings to identify any existing conditions or medications that staff should be aware of, ensuring personalized care.
Partnerships with Local Hospitals: For more serious health issues that cannot be managed on-site, the camp has established relationships with nearby hospitals to provide quick and efficient medical attention.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Action Plans: YMCA Camp Roger has detailed emergency action plans that cover a range of potential scenarios, from natural disasters to medical emergencies. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication: In case of an emergency, the camp has protocols for communicating with parents and guardians, including timely updates and information on the status of their child.
Staff Training: All staff members receive training in emergency response, including the use of AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) and managing specific medical emergencies like allergic reactions or asthma attacks.

YMCA Camp Roger’s comprehensive approach to safety and health ensures that all possible measures are in place to protect campers and staff, allowing parents to feel confident in the safety of the camp environment. This rigorous attention to safety and health protocols makes YMCA Camp Roger a trusted choice for parents looking for a secure summer camp experience for their children.

Cost and Registration in YMCA Camp Roger

YMCA Camp Roger aims to provide an enriching and accessible camping experience for all children, with transparent information on costs, a straightforward registration process, and options for financial assistance.

Cost of Attendance

Cost: The cost to attend YMCA Camp Roger varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program selected. Prices typically range from $500 to $1,500 per session.
Inclusions: The cost includes all lodging, meals, activities, and supplies needed for the various programs and sessions. Additional costs may apply for special outings or optional activities that are outside the standard camp offerings.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Registration for camp sessions can be completed online. This platform provides an efficient way to fill out necessary forms and select preferred sessions.
Deadlines: It’s recommended to register early as sessions can fill up quickly. Typically, registration opens several months in advance of the summer season, with early registration discounts often available.
Required Documents: During registration, parents will need to provide medical information, emergency contacts, and any necessary consent forms as part of the process.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: YMCA Camp Roger offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of the camp. These plans can often be customized to fit different budgets, allowing payments to be spread out over several months.
Refunds and Cancellation: The camp has a structured policy for refunds and cancellations, generally offering a full refund up to a certain date before the start of the session, minus a non-refundable deposit. After this date, refunds may be partial or non-existent, depending on the timing of the cancellation.
Insurance: Some families choose to purchase camp insurance to cover the costs in case of unexpected cancellations due to illness or other emergencies.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: YMCA Camp Roger is committed to making camp accessible for all children and offers scholarships based on financial need. These scholarships can cover a significant portion of the camp fees.
Application for Financial Aid: Parents seeking financial assistance are required to fill out an application detailing their financial situation. This application is typically due as part of the registration process or soon after.
Community Support: The camp also partners with local organizations and businesses that sponsor children to attend, further increasing accessibility for families in need.

YMCA Camp Roger’s policies are designed to be family-friendly, ensuring that as many children as possible can benefit from the camp experience. Families are encouraged to contact the camp directly with any questions about costs, registration, or financial aid, ensuring they receive the most current and relevant information.

Parent and Camper Preparation in YMCA Camp Roger

YMCA Camp Roger aims to ensure that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the camp experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help with packing, understanding camp rules and policies, and tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

To make sure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay, the following items are recommended:

Clothing: Enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for the session, including long pants, shorts, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and a jacket.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals for showers, and an extra pair of shoes.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, bug spray, and a towel.
Miscellaneous Gear: Flashlight, water bottle, hat, sunglasses.
Optional Items: Camera, books, writing materials, and small games or sports equipment.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: YMCA Camp Roger encourages a tech-free environment to help campers fully engage with their surroundings and peers. Personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are generally not allowed.
Visitation: For the safety and security of campers, visitation is typically restricted to designated visiting days. Parents are encouraged to check the camp’s schedule and adhere to the guidelines provided.
Behavior: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules and respect both staff and fellow campers. Guidelines will be provided regarding appropriate behavior to ensure a safe and positive environment for everyone.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friends. Address any anxieties by talking about homesickness and how to cope with it.
Communication: Learn about the camp’s communication policies. Some camps allow letters and emails, which can be a great way for campers to stay in touch with their families.
Independence: Encourage your child to practice independence before camp starts, such as helping with packing their bags and making choices about what to bring.
Positive Attitude: Maintain a positive attitude when discussing camp. If parents are excited and confident about the camp experience, children are more likely to feel secure and optimistic.

YMCA Camp Roger strives to provide a supportive environment where children can explore new activities, develop skills, and make lifelong friends. Proper preparation ensures that both campers and their parents have a positive and memorable camp experience.

YMCA Camp Roger stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and personal growth, nestled in the heart of Utah’s majestic landscapes. With its commitment to fostering an inclusive, safe, and vibrant camping environment, it offers young individuals an unparalleled opportunity to explore the natural world. The camp’s carefully crafted programs and activities are designed to build skills, confidence, and lasting friendships, all while campers enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

From swimming and hiking to arts and crafts, YMCA Camp Roger ensures a rich, engaging summer experience tailored to each camper’s interests and abilities. The supportive staff, robust safety protocols, and a commitment to each camper’s personal development make it an ideal choice for parents seeking a meaningful summer camp experience for their children.