Nestled in the heart of Virginia, just outside the picturesque town of Palmyra, Camp Friendship stands as a beacon of joy and learning for young minds. Founded in a serene setting where nature meets nurture, this camp is located in a region famed for its rolling hills and clear starlit skies, close to historical landmarks that enrich the camping experience with a touch of history.

Camp Friendship was established with a heartfelt mission to foster an environment where children can grow and learn through play, exploration, and meaningful relationships. The camp’s philosophy centers on building confidence, nurturing empathy, and encouraging creativity, all while offering a safe and inclusive environment. This ethos guides every activity, counselor interaction, and program designed at Camp Friendship.

Designed to cater to boys and girls of various age groups, Camp Friendship offers a range of programs that are tailored to meet the developmental needs of each age group, ensuring that every camper finds something that ignites their passion and enhances their summer experience. From the spirited cheers at team competitions to the quiet moments of personal growth, Camp Friendship is more than just a camp; it’s a community where every child belongs and thrives.

Programs Offered by Camp Friendship

Camp Friendship offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to various interests and ages, ensuring that every camper has the opportunity to explore their passions and discover new ones. Here’s a glimpse into the vibrant life at Camp Friendship through its programs:

1. General Camp Programs:

Duration: Campers can choose from different session lengths including one-week, two-week, and full-summer options. This flexibility allows families to plan around their summer schedules, providing time for campers to fully immerse themselves in the Camp Friendship experience.
Activities: These programs include a wide range of activities such as swimming, horseback riding, water sports, and traditional camp games. The aim is to offer campers a well-rounded experience that balances physical activity, creativity, and social skills.

2. Specialty Programs:

Arts: For those inclined toward creativity, the arts program offers classes in painting, sculpture, theater, and music. These sessions are designed to foster creativity and self-expression, allowing campers to showcase their talents during camp-wide exhibitions and performances.
Sports: Camp Friendship provides intensive sports programs that focus on skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition. Sports offered include soccer, basketball, tennis, and archery, catering to all levels of ability and interest.
Science and Nature: This program allows campers to engage with the natural world through hands-on activities like hiking, star-gazing, and environmental education. It’s perfect for young explorers eager to learn about ecology, biology, and sustainability.

3. Leadership Training:

Duration: Typically offered as two to four-week sessions, this program is designed for older campers who are interested in developing leadership skills. It includes workshops on team management, conflict resolution, and leadership ethics.
Objective: The goal is to prepare campers for roles as future leaders at camp and beyond, emphasizing responsibility, communication skills, and community service.

Typical Daily Schedule:

Morning: After waking up and enjoying a communal breakfast, campers split into their program groups for morning activities. This might include arts and crafts sessions, sports practices, or nature walks.
Afternoon: Post lunch, there is a rest period followed by afternoon activities, which often involve swimming or specialized workshops depending on the camper’s chosen program.
Evening: Evenings at Camp Friendship bring everyone together for dinner followed by camp-wide games, talent shows, or storytelling sessions around the campfire.
Night: As the day winds down, campers return to their lodges for some downtime before lights out, ready to start another day of adventure and friendship.

Each day at Camp Friendship is structured to provide a balance of activity, personal growth, and fun, all in the safe and supportive environment that defines Camp Friendship.

Accommodations in Camp Friendship

Camp Friendship ensures that every camper feels comfortable and at home, with accommodations and facilities designed to enhance the overall camping experience. Here’s a detailed overview of the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and hygiene facilities available at Camp Friendship:

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: Campers stay in cozy, rustic cabins that are nestled among the trees, offering a classic camp experience. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and comfortably houses 8-10 campers along with a counselor. The cabins are grouped by age and program to ensure a supportive and safe environment for all campers.
Tents: For older campers seeking a more adventurous experience, there are options to participate in overnight camping trips using tents. These are typically part of the leadership and outdoor adventure programs.
Dorms: Special accommodations such as dormitory-style housing are available for specific programs or larger groups, providing a bit more of a structured environment similar to school trips.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: Camp Friendship provides three nutritious meals a day served in the communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and share their daily experiences. The dining hall is the heart of the camp, promoting a sense of community and friendship.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, Camp Friendship offers vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options. Parents can specify any dietary restrictions on their child’s registration form to ensure their needs are met throughout their stay.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Bathrooms: Strategically located near each cabin and dorm, the bathrooms are equipped with multiple stalls and sinks to accommodate the needs of the campers. They are maintained and cleaned regularly to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Showers: Separate shower facilities are available with private stalls, providing campers privacy and convenience. The showers are designed to be environmentally friendly, using water-saving fixtures and encouraging campers to be mindful of their water usage.

Camp Friendship is committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and enriching environment for all campers, ensuring that their stay is not only fun but also conducive to personal growth and development.

Activities in Camp Friendship

Camp Friendship offers a plethora of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and ages, fostering both fun and skill development. Here’s an outline of the activities, special events, and opportunities for skill development available:

List of Activities Offered:

Water Activities: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, and kayaking take place in the camp’s private lake. Safety is a priority, with lifeguards always on duty.
Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing are popular, providing campers with the thrill of exploration and physical challenge.
Arts and Crafts: From pottery to painting and crafting, these sessions allow campers to express themselves creatively.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, and music programs culminate in performances where campers can showcase their talents.
Sports: Facilities for soccer, tennis, basketball, and archery cater to sports enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Equestrian Programs: Horseback riding lessons and trail rides are available for an additional fee, offering a unique way to explore the camp’s extensive grounds.

Special Events or Traditions:

Opening Bonfire: A camp-wide gathering on the first night where campers learn camp songs, participate in ice-breaking games, and set the tone for their session.
Color Wars: This camp tradition splits the camp into teams for a multi-day competition involving sports, trivia, and arts challenges.
Talent Shows: Held weekly, these allow campers to display their unique skills and celebrate the diversity of talents at camp.
International Day: Celebrating the international campers and staff, this day includes food, music, and cultural activities from around the world.
Closing Ceremony: Reflecting on the session with awards, recognitions, and shared memories before saying goodbye.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Skills: Older campers can participate in leadership programs that include team management, problem-solving, and public speaking.
Environmental Awareness: Activities and workshops focused on sustainability practices and the importance of conservation.
Personal Growth: Through various team-building activities and individual challenges, campers develop confidence, resilience, and independence.

Camp Friendship’s diverse offerings ensure that every camper can find something they love while being introduced to new experiences that might become new passions. The blend of fun, learning, and growth makes Camp Friendship an ideal place for children to spend their summer.

The staff of Camp Friendship

At Camp Friendship, the staff is carefully selected and trained to ensure that they meet the highest standards of care and professionalism, providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all campers. Here’s an overview of the staff structure, hiring process, and training at Camp Friendship:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

General Staffing: Camp Friendship maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure individual attention and high-quality supervision. Typically, the ratio is about 1 staff member for every 5 campers, which enhances the ability to monitor, engage, and interact with each camper effectively.
Specialized Activities: For activities that require more intensive instruction or supervision, such as swimming, horseback riding, and rock climbing, the ratios are even lower to ensure safety and personalized instruction.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Recruitment: Camp Friendship recruits staff from across the United States and internationally, focusing on individuals with a strong background in child development, education, and specific activity expertise.
Qualifications: All staff members are required to have previous experience working with children, and those in specialized roles (like lifeguards or equestrian instructors) must have relevant certifications. Educational backgrounds in fields such as education, psychology, and sports science are common among the staff.
Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks, including criminal records and references, are mandatory for all staff to ensure the safety and security of the camp environment.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season starts, all staff undergo intensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and activity-specific safety. This training ensures that staff are well-prepared to handle any situation that might arise.
Certifications: Staff members involved in medical and safety-related activities are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Those leading more risk-associated activities, such as rock climbing or water sports, have additional certifications relevant to their area of expertise (e.g., lifeguarding, wilderness first responder).
Ongoing Education: Camp Friendship is committed to the continuous professional development of its staff, offering ongoing training sessions throughout the camp season to refine skills and update staff on best practices in child care and activity leadership.

The dedicated staff at Camp Friendship are not just supervisors; they are mentors, role models, and the backbone of the camp’s community, ensuring that every camper’s experience is safe, fun, and enriching.

Safety and Health in Camp Friendship

Camp Friendship is committed to maintaining a secure and healthy environment for all campers and staff. Here’s how safety and health are prioritized through well-defined protocols, on-site medical facilities, and clear emergency handling policies:

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Regular Drills: The camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown procedures, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with what to do in an emergency.
Activity-Specific Safety: Each activity area has specific safety protocols that are rigorously enforced. For example, all aquatic activities are supervised by certified lifeguards, and equipment used in sports and adventure programs is regularly inspected for safety.
Secure Campus: The camp is monitored with appropriate security measures to ensure camper safety. These include controlled access to the campgrounds and supervision by staff at all times.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Camp Friendship houses a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor. The center is equipped to handle minor injuries and common illnesses, ensuring prompt and effective medical care.
Medical Supplies and Equipment: The health center maintains a stock of essential medical supplies and equipment, including first aid kits that are accessible throughout the camp for immediate response to any incident.
24/7 Availability: Healthcare staff are available 24/7, providing round-the-clock care to address any health concerns that may arise during the camp session.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a comprehensive emergency response plan that outlines the steps to be taken in various scenarios, including natural disasters, health emergencies, or other critical situations. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to new challenges or regulations.
Communication Protocol: In the event of an emergency, there is a clear communication protocol to inform parents and guardians. This includes immediate notifications through phone calls and emails, followed by regular updates as the situation evolves.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: Camp Friendship works closely with local emergency services and hospitals to ensure a quick response in more serious situations. This collaboration is crucial for comprehensive emergency planning and execution.

Overall, the safety and health of campers at Camp Friendship are supported by stringent protocols, qualified medical staff, and a strong emphasis on preventative measures and quick response to emergencies. This ensures a safe and positive camping experience for all participants.

Cost and Registration in Camp Friendship

Camp Friendship offers a variety of programs with detailed cost structures, registration guidelines, and financial support options to ensure accessibility for all families. Below is a comprehensive overview of the costs, registration process, and financial policies.

Cost of Attendance: Camp Friendship’s fees vary depending on the program and duration. Generally, prices range from:

1-week sessions: $1,200 – $1,500
2-week sessions: $2,400 – $2,800
3-week sessions: $3,600 – $4,000
4-week sessions: $4,800 – $5,200

These fees typically include:

Accommodations
All meals and snacks
Daily activities and programs
Evening entertainment
Basic health center care
Camp t-shirt

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Online Registration: Parents can register their children through an online. The registration process includes filling out detailed forms regarding the camper’s medical information, dietary needs, and preferred activities.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged as spaces in popular programs fill up quickly. Typically, registration for summer sessions opens several months in advance, around January or February.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: Recognizing the financial commitment, Camp Friendship offers flexible payment plans that allow families to spread the cost of camp over several months. Details and arrangements can be made through the camp’s finance office.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp provides a structured refund policy where full or partial refunds are available up to a certain date before the camp session begins. After this date, refunds may not be available unless due to medical reasons or family emergencies, for which documentation will be required.
Cancellation Policy: If the camp must cancel a session due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., extreme weather events, health advisories), families are typically offered the option to roll over the registration to the next available session or receive a full refund.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Camp Friendship believes in making camp accessible to all children and offers a variety of scholarship opportunities based on need, merit, or both. Families are encouraged to apply early as funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available to families demonstrating significant need. The application process for financial aid is confidential and requires documentation of income and expenses.

Camp Friendship aims to be as inclusive as possible by providing various financial options to ensure that all children have the opportunity to experience the joys and learning opportunities of camp. Interested families are encouraged to contact the camp’s administration for more details on costs, scholarships, and registration procedures.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Friendship

Preparing for camp is an exciting process for both parents and campers, especially if it’s the first time. Camp Friendship provides comprehensive guidelines to ensure everyone is well-prepared. Below are details on what to pack, camp rules and policies, and tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List:

Clothing: Pack comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, and a jacket. Include a swimsuit, a hat, and sturdy footwear for hiking and sports. Don’t forget pajamas and enough underwear and socks for the session.
Bedding: Campers should bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, along with a pillow.
Toiletries: Include toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and other personal hygiene items. Sunscreen and insect repellent are also must-haves.
Miscellaneous: A flashlight, batteries, water bottle, and small backpack are useful for daily activities. Label all items with the camper’s name to avoid loss.

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, personal electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and gaming devices are usually not allowed. Cameras for photography may be permitted but should be used responsibly.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to respect the camp schedule, with designated visiting days typically provided to avoid disrupting the camp routine. Details on visitation days and times are provided ahead of the camp session.
Behavior Expectations: Campers are expected to follow the camp’s code of conduct which includes respecting others, participating in scheduled activities, and adhering to safety guidelines.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

Camper Preparation: Talk about what camp will be like focusing on the fun activities and new friends to be made. Discussing what to expect can help alleviate any anxiety.
Emotional Preparation: It’s normal for both parents and children to feel a bit nervous about camp. Parents can help by expressing confidence and excitement about the opportunities that await.
Communication: Teach your child how to use provided communication channels to stay in touch. Camps often encourage letter writing; send your child with pre-addressed, stamped envelopes.
Practice Sleepovers: If your child has not spent much time away from home, consider arranging a few sleepovers at friends’ or relatives’ homes to simulate the camp experience.
Check-in Regularly: Make use of any parent portals or updates provided by the camp to stay informed about your child’s experience and any issues that may arise.

By following these guidelines and preparation tips, parents and first-time campers can ensure a smooth transition into camp life, making the experience enjoyable and memorable for everyone involved.

Camp Friendship is not just a place, but a vibrant community where every child is welcomed, nurtured, and celebrated. It’s a sanctuary where campers engage in diverse activities that spark creativity, enhance physical prowess, and deepen respect for nature. Beyond the laughter and the spirited games, Camp Friendship is dedicated to fostering lifelong skills and friendships in a safe, inclusive environment.

As each summer season unfolds, campers leave with cherished memories, newfound confidence, and stories of adventure. The well-rounded programs, dedicated staff, and robust safety measures ensure that every camper’s experience is filled with joy and learning. Parents can trust that their children are cared for, their individuality respected, and their summers well spent.