Nestled in the scenic heart of Virginia Beach, Virginia, Camp Hope Haven stands as a beacon of growth and inspiration for young minds. Situated conveniently near local landmarks, this camp offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and accessibility, making it an ideal location for a summer retreat.

Founded with a strong commitment to nurturing young lives, Camp Hope Haven has a rich history of providing transformative experiences for children and teenagers. The camp’s mission, deeply rooted in its activities and community interactions, is to foster a nurturing environment that encourages personal growth, community involvement, and the development of lifelong skills.

Camp Hope Haven welcomes boys and girls across various age groups. It is specifically designed to cater to the needs and interests of children from different age brackets, ensuring that each camper receives the right balance of guidance, freedom, and opportunity to explore their potential.

Through its diverse programs and inclusive environment, Camp Hope Haven remains dedicated to not just meeting, but exceeding the developmental needs of each camper, aligning with its philosophy of empowering young individuals to achieve their highest potential.

Programs Offered by Camp Hope Haven

Camp Hope Haven offers an enriching selection of programs designed to cater to the diverse interests and developmental needs of children and teens. Each program is thoughtfully curated to ensure a balance of education, recreation, and personal growth, set against the backdrop of Virginia Beach’s natural beauty.

Programs Description

Adventure and Exploration: This program focuses on outdoor activities and learning survival skills, encouraging campers to engage with and appreciate the natural world around them.
Creative Arts: From painting and sculpture to performance arts, campers can explore their artistic side, guided by skilled instructors.
Sports and Recreation: Offering a variety of sports, this program is designed to promote physical health, teamwork, and sportsmanship among campers.
Science and Discovery: Geared towards curious minds, this program involves experiments, projects, and field trips that make learning about science fun and interactive.

Length of Sessions

Camp Hope Haven offers flexibility in session lengths, accommodating different family needs and schedules:

One-week sessions are perfect for first-time campers or those looking for a short but fulfilling camp experience.
Two-week sessions provide a more immersive experience, allowing for deeper exploration of camp activities and programs.
Full summer options are available for those who wish to enjoy the camp’s offerings throughout the summer, fostering stronger bonds and comprehensive skill development.

Specialty Programs

In addition to general programs, Camp Hope Haven offers specialty programs that focus on specific interests:

Environmental Leadership: This program educates campers on environmental conservation and sustainable practices.
Performing Arts Workshop: Dedicated to the arts, this workshop includes acting, dance, and music, culminating in a camper-led performance at the end of the session.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Hope Haven is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, learning, and free time, ensuring that each camper has a fulfilling and enjoyable experience:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercises
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning program session (e.g., Arts, Science, Sports)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time or free play
2:00 PM: Afternoon program session
5:00 PM: Free time and optional activities
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfires, storytelling, games)
9:00 PM: Bedtime for younger campers
10:00 PM: Bedtime for older campers

This schedule is designed to be flexible, adapting to the needs and interests of the campers while ensuring they gain the most from their time at Camp Hope Haven.

Accommodations in Camp Hope Haven

Camp Hope Haven ensures that all campers feel comfortable and well-cared for during their stay, offering a range of accommodations and amenities designed to meet the needs of children and teens from various backgrounds.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary sleeping arrangement at Camp Hope Haven is cabins, which are spacious and well-ventilated. Each cabin houses a specific number of campers, usually between 8 to 12, allowing for a close-knit community feel. Cabins are separated by age group and gender to ensure comfort and privacy.
Tents: For specific programs focused on adventure and survival skills, there are opportunities for campers to sleep in tents. This allows for a full immersion into the natural environment, enhancing the outdoor experience.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Hope Haven offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three balanced meals per day, plus snacks. Meals are served in a communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and socialize.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining options, the camp is equipped to cater to various dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive options. Parents can discuss their child’s dietary requirements with the camp staff during registration to ensure all needs are met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathroom Facilities: Strategically located near the sleeping quarters, bathrooms are accessible and maintained with high hygiene standards. Separate bathroom facilities are provided for male and female campers, and staff members ensure cleanliness is upheld throughout the camp.
Shower Facilities: Showers are available in separate areas from the bathrooms, offering privacy and convenience. They are equipped with individual stalls and are scheduled for use to manage time efficiently and maintain privacy.

Camp Hope Haven prioritizes the safety and comfort of its campers, ensuring that all facilities are up to date and appropriately accommodating for all participants, creating a home away from home.

Activities in Camp Hope Haven

Camp Hope Haven offers a vibrant array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and abilities, promoting both fun and educational experiences. Alongside these activities, the camp hosts special events and fosters skill development through various programs.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: With supervised pool and lake access, swimming is a favorite among campers for both leisure and lessons.
Hiking: Exploring the scenic trails around Virginia Beach, hiking activities are guided and vary in difficulty to suit all age groups.
Crafts: A wide range of crafting activities such as pottery, beading, and painting allows campers to express their creativity.
Sports: Facilities for basketball, soccer, and volleyball are available, along with instruction and free play sessions.
Archery: Under careful supervision, campers can learn and practice archery, a popular and rewarding precision sport.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water sports are a thrill at the camp, providing basic and advanced paddling lessons.
Nature Workshops: These include bird watching, star gazing, and environmental education sessions that connect campers with nature.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Ceremony: Marks the beginning of the camp season with introductions and an overview of what campers can expect.
Campfire Nights: Held weekly, these include storytelling, s’mores, singing, and other campfire traditions.
Color Wars: A camp-wide team competition that spans various activities, fostering team spirit and camaraderie.
Talent Shows: Summer camps can showcase their talents, whether in music, dance, magic, or comedy, in a supportive environment.
End-of-Season Carnival: A festive event featuring games, food, and fun as a celebratory close to the camp season.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs, which prepare them for roles as future counselors or leaders in their communities.
Safety and First Aid Workshops: Essential skills in safety and first aid are taught, emphasizing preparedness and responsibility.
Arts and Crafts Masterclasses: For those particularly interested in arts, specialized classes are available to hone their skills in specific crafts.
Environmental Stewardship: Programs designed to educate campers about conservation and sustainable practices, encouraging them to become proactive about environmental issues.

Camp Hope Haven is dedicated to providing a rich, fulfilling experience that balances fun with learning and personal growth, ensuring every camper has the opportunity to explore new activities, build new skills, and make lasting memories.

The staff of Camp Hope Haven

Camp Hope Haven is committed to maintaining a high standard of safety and quality in its programming, which is reflected in its diligent staff hiring practices, comprehensive training, and favorable staff-to-camper ratios.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Staffing: Camp Hope Haven adheres to a strict staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives adequate supervision and support. Typically, the camp maintains a ratio of one staff member for every eight campers, which allows for personalized attention and a safe, controlled environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: The hiring process at Camp Hope Haven involves rigorous screening, including background checks, reference checks, and interviews. This ensures that all staff members are not only qualified but also dedicated to the ethos of the camp.
Qualifications: Staff members are typically required to have prior experience in childcare or education, with a strong preference for those who have worked in camp settings before. Educational requirements vary by role, with lead positions often requiring higher education credentials in relevant fields such as education, psychology, or recreation.
Specialized Staff: For specific activities such as swimming or archery, staff members are hired with specialized skills and certifications to ensure expert instruction and safety.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: All staff undergo comprehensive pre-camp training which covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child behavior management, and specific training related to their assigned roles.
CPR and First Aid: Certifications in CPR and First Aid are mandatory for all camp staff. This training is often provided by the camp prior to the start of the season if the staff have not already obtained these certifications.
Ongoing Education: Throughout the camp season, staff participate in ongoing training sessions to refine their skills and adapt to any emerging needs or challenges.

Camp Hope Haven’s commitment to a well-qualified and well-trained staff ensures a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment for all campers. This foundation of professional and dedicated staff is essential to the camp’s mission of fostering personal growth and lasting memories in a fun and safe setting.

Safety and Health in Camp Hope Haven

Camp Hope Haven places paramount importance on the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing robust protocols and maintaining on-site health facilities to ensure a secure and responsive environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Daily Check-ins and Check-outs: The camp enforces strict check-in and check-out procedures to monitor who is on the campgrounds, enhancing child safety.
Safety Drills: Regularly scheduled drills for fire, weather emergencies, and other potential hazards are conducted to ensure that both campers and staff are prepared to respond effectively in an emergency.
Activity-Specific Safety Protocols: Each activity offered at Camp Hope Haven follows specific safety guidelines, which include using appropriate gear and ensuring that activities are age-appropriate and led by qualified staff.
24/7 Supervision: Campers are under constant supervision, with staff members strategically placed throughout the camp, including living quarters, activity areas, and dining facilities.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Hope Haven is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses and/or a visiting physician. The health center is prepared to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is equipped with necessary medical supplies.
Medication Management: The health center also manages medications for campers with prescriptions, ensuring that they are stored safely and administered correctly according to healthcare guidelines.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a comprehensive emergency response plan in place, which is reviewed and updated annually. This plan includes protocols for evacuation, communication, and coordination with local emergency services.
Immediate Response: In case of an emergency, staff are trained to respond immediately, providing first aid and stabilizing the situation while the emergency services are alerted.
Communication with Parents: Camp Hope Haven maintains a clear policy on communication with parents. In the event of an emergency, parents are notified as soon as possible with updates on the situation and any actions taken.
Coordination with Local Authorities: The camp has established relationships with local emergency services, including hospitals, fire departments, and police, to ensure a swift response when additional support is needed.

Through these rigorous safety and health protocols, Camp Hope Haven ensures a camping experience that prioritizes the well-being of its campers and staff, creating a safe and supportive environment for everyone involved.

Cost and Registration in Camp Hope Haven

Camp Hope Haven strives to provide a memorable and enriching camp experience that is accessible and affordable for families. Here are the details regarding cost, registration, and financial assistance:

Cost of Attendance

Cost Overview: The cost of attending Camp Hope Haven varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs chosen. Typically, one-week sessions may cost between $300 to $500, while two-week sessions range from $600 to $1000. The full summer options can cost upwards of $2000.
What’s Included: The fees cover all lodging, meals, activities, and supplies needed for the camp programs. Additional costs might be incurred for special outings or optional extras.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Early Registration: Parents are encouraged to register early as some sessions fill up quickly. Early registration often comes with a discount.
Registration Steps: Registration can typically be completed online. This includes filling out camper information, and health history, and selecting session dates and preferred programs.
Deadlines: Registration deadlines are usually set a few months before the start of the session. Specific deadlines are communicated online and through promotional materials.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Camp Hope Haven offers flexible payment plans that allow families to pay the camp fees in installments. Details and schedules of these plans can be discussed with the camp’s administrative office.
Refunds and Cancellation: The camp provides a structured refund policy where a full or partial refund is available depending on the cancellation date relative to the start of the session. Typically, a full refund is available if cancellation occurs several weeks before the session starts, decreasing as the camp date approaches.
Non-refundable Deposits: A non-refundable deposit is usually required at the time of registration to secure a spot.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Hope Haven offers scholarships to help reduce the cost for families in need. These scholarships are typically need-based, and applications require proof of income.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available through various grants and funding from donors who support the camp’s mission. Details and application procedures for these aids are available through the camp’s office.

Camp Hope Haven’s commitment to accessibility ensures that no child is turned away due to financial constraints. Families are encouraged to contact the camp directly to explore all available options for financial assistance, ensuring a diverse and inclusive camper demographic.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Hope Haven

Camp Hope Haven aims to make the preparation process as smooth as possible for both parents and campers, especially those who are experiencing camp for the first time. Here’s a guide on what to pack, understanding camp rules and policies, and tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

Essentials:

Clothing for all weather conditions (including rain gear and warm layers)
Comfortable footwear (sneakers, sandals, hiking boots)
Bathing suits and towels
Personal hygiene products (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo)
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Hat and sunglasses
Water bottle

Optional Items:

Camera (disposable or digital)
Books and magazines
Sports equipment (like gloves, balls)
Musical instruments (if participating in related activities)

Items to Leave at Home:

Valuable jewelry or electronics
Excessive cash
Knives or weapons of any kind

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Hope Haven generally promotes a technology-free environment to encourage social interaction and connection with nature. Mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are usually discouraged or only allowed at specific times under supervision.
Visitation: Parents are welcome to visit on designated days, which are usually communicated ahead of time. Unscheduled visits can disrupt the camp program and are typically not allowed.
Behavioral Expectations: The camp enforces rules regarding respect, inclusion, and safety. Bullying, discrimination, and disruptive behavior are not tolerated, and campers are expected to participate in activities and follow the guidance of camp leaders.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:

Be open to making new friends and trying new activities. Camp is a great place to learn new skills and discover new interests.
Remember that it’s okay to feel homesick. Most campers feel this way at some point, and camp staff are trained to help.

For Parents:

Discuss what to expect with your child beforehand, including how to handle homesickness and the importance of participating in activities.
Ensure all forms, especially medical and emergency contact forms, are completed and submitted on time.
Trust the process. Camp staff are experienced in helping children adjust and thrive in the camp environment.

By preparing adequately and understanding the camp’s operations, both parents and campers can ensure that the experience is enjoyable and enriching.

Camp Hope Haven is more than just a summer camp—it’s a community where children come to grow, learn, and create lasting memories. With its diverse array of programs, from arts and sciences to sports and outdoor adventures, the camp offers every camper an opportunity to explore their interests and develop new skills in a safe and supportive environment. The dedicated staff, comprehensive safety protocols, and robust health facilities ensure that parents can rest easy, knowing their children are in good hands.

Whether it’s through participating in a talent show, mastering a new sport, or simply making new friends around the campfire, Camp Hope Haven provides a rich, engaging experience that promotes personal growth and independence. The camp’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, through its scholarships and financial aid programs, underscores its mission to make the transformative camp experience available to all children.