Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Lynchburg, Virginia, Camp Sacajawea offers a unique blend of adventure, tradition, and educational experiences. Located in a region known for its rich history and beautiful natural landscapes, the camp is conveniently situated near notable landmarks such as the Blue Ridge Mountains and the James River, providing an ideal backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities.

Camp Sacajawea has a storied history of fostering growth and exploration in young minds since its inception. As a place where traditions are cherished and new skills are embraced, the camp continues to build on its legacy of empowering youth through structured outdoor educational programs.

The mission of Camp Sacajawea is to provide a safe, inclusive, and stimulating environment where girls from various age groups can explore their potential, develop essential life skills, and gain lifelong friendships. Their philosophy centers on nurturing leadership, promoting self-reliance, and instilling respect for nature and community.

As a girls-only camp, Sacajawea caters to various age groups, offering tailored programs that challenge and inspire campers to reach new heights. Each session is designed to ensure that every camper has an enriching, fun, and memorable experience that builds character and a love for the outdoors.

Join us at Camp Sacajawea for a summer of adventure, learning, and growth!

Programs Offered by Camp Sacajawea

Camp Sacajawea provides a diverse array of programs tailored to cater to different interests and developmental stages, ensuring a rich and varied experience for all campers. Here’s an overview of the programs, their durations, specialty focuses, and a glimpse into a typical day at camp:

Program Descriptions

Explorer Series: Designed for younger campers, the Explorer Series introduces them to the basics of outdoor skills, teamwork, and environmental stewardship through fun and engaging activities.
Adventure Tracks: Older campers can participate in the Adventure Tracks, where they dive deeper into specific skills such as orienteering, advanced camping techniques, and wildlife studies.
Leadership Development Program: This program is targeted at teens interested in developing strong leadership skills. It includes workshops on effective communication, problem-solving, and team management.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: Perfect for first-time campers or those looking for a short but impactful experience.
Two-Week Sessions: These sessions offer a more immersive experience, allowing for deeper skill development and stronger community bonding.
Full Summer Program: Spanning several weeks, this option is designed for campers who wish to experience the full spectrum of activities and personal growth opportunities offered at Camp Sacajawea.

Specialty Programs

Arts Camp: Focuses on creative expressions such as painting, theater, music, and crafts.
Sports Camp: Includes a variety of sports with an emphasis on teamwork and physical fitness, such as soccer, archery, and swimming.
Science Camp: Engages campers in hands-on science activities, nature explorations, and experiments designed to spark curiosity and learning.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercises
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activity session (varies by program)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time/Rest
2:00 PM: Afternoon activity session
5:00 PM: Free time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfire, storytelling, night hikes)
9:00 PM: Lights out

Each day at Camp Sacajawea is structured to balance active learning with ample time for rest and social interaction, ensuring that campers enjoy a holistic and enriching summer experience. Whether your child is an aspiring artist, a budding scientist, or an adventurous explorer, Camp Sacajawea offers a nurturing environment where they can thrive.

Accommodations in Camp Sacajawea

Camp Sacajawea is dedicated to providing comfortable and functional accommodations that enhance the camping experience while respecting the natural environment. Here’s what campers can expect in terms of sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Camp Sacajawea offers rustic yet cozy cabins that are designed to blend into the scenic surroundings. Each cabin sleeps 8-10 campers and is equipped with bunk beds, storage areas, and electricity. Cabins are grouped in clusters, with each cluster having a common area where campers can gather for activities and socializing.
Tents: For a more traditional camping experience, there are designated areas where campers can pitch tents. This option is typically part of specific programs aimed at teaching survival skills and outdoor living.
Dorms: Available primarily for older campers and those involved in the leadership programs, dormitory-style accommodations provide a more communal living experience, with shared rooms and communal gathering spaces.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Sacajawea operates a central dining hall where all meals are served buffet-style. The meal plans are designed to be hearty and healthy, providing the energy campers need for active days. Breakfast might include options like oatmeal, pancakes, and fruit, while lunch and dinner offer a variety of meats, vegetables, and starches.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding that some campers have specific dietary needs, Camp Sacajawea offers vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options. Parents are encouraged to communicate any special dietary requirements prior to arrival to ensure that these needs are met throughout their child’s stay.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathroom Facilities: Strategically located throughout the camp, modern bathroom facilities are accessible from all sleeping and activity areas. These facilities are equipped with flush toilets and sinks.
Shower Facilities: Separate shower facilities are provided for campers, with separate areas for boys and girls. Showers are private and offer hot and cold water. They are cleaned and maintained regularly to ensure hygiene and comfort.

Camp Sacajawea’s accommodations are carefully designed to ensure that campers can comfortably enjoy their time while fostering independence and community living. The camp’s infrastructure supports its mission of providing a safe, inclusive, and enriching environment for all participants.

Activities in Camp Sacajawea

Camp Sacajawea offers a vibrant array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels, fostering both personal growth and community spirit. Here’s a detailed look at the various activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Supervised swimming sessions in the camp’s natural lake, with lessons available for all skill levels.
Hiking: Summer camps, and guided hikes along scenic trails that range in difficulty to accommodate different age groups and abilities.
Crafts: A wide array of arts and crafts activities including pottery, beadwork, painting, and more.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water-based activities on the lake, teaching basic paddling techniques and water safety.
Archery: Instruction in archery, focusing on technique, safety, and sportsmanship.
Nature Exploration: Programs designed to explore local flora and fauna, including bird watching and nature walks.
Outdoor Survival Skills: Workshops on building shelters, reading maps, and using compasses.
Sports: Organized sports such as soccer, volleyball, and basketball.
Performing Arts: Opportunities in drama, dance, and music, culminating in performances for fellow campers.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Bonfire: A tradition that marks the start of the camp season, featuring storytelling, introductions, and s’mores.
Camp Olympics: A multi-day event where campers compete in various sports and activities, promoting teamwork and camp spirit.
End-of-Season Gala: A festive occasion that includes a camper-led showcase of skills learned during the camp, such as performances from the performing arts sessions and displays from craft classes.
Environmental Stewardship Day: A day dedicated to learning about and participating in conservation efforts, such as tree planting and lake clean-up.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Programs specifically designed to enhance leadership skills, including problem-solving, team management, and decision-making.
Environmental Education: Educative sessions that focus on teaching campers about sustainability practices and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
Creative Workshops: Sessions that allow campers to explore their creativity and learn new crafts under the guidance of skilled instructors.
Personal Development Workshops: Workshops aimed at building self-confidence, communication skills, and personal resilience.

Camp Sacajawea is dedicated to providing a balanced program that encourages fun, learning, and personal growth. Through its diverse activities, special events, and targeted skill development opportunities, the camp creates an environment where every camper can discover new interests, develop essential skills, and make lasting friendships.

The staff of Camp Sacajawea

Camp Sacajawea is committed to providing a safe, educational, and enjoyable environment for all campers, which is greatly supported by a dedicated and well-trained staff. Here’s an overview of the staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, qualifications, and the training and certifications required for the camp staff.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Sacajawea maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and supervision. The ratio is typically set at one staff member for every eight campers, which helps to ensure that each camper receives the guidance and support they need.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Hiring Process: The process begins with a thorough screening that includes background checks, reference checks, and interviews. The camp seeks individuals who are not only skilled in various camp activities but also have a strong passion for working with children and a proven track record of leadership and responsibility.
Staff Qualifications: Candidates are typically required to have previous experience in child care or a related field. Preference is given to applicants who have educational backgrounds in fields such as education, psychology, or recreation. Knowledge of and experience in camp activities such as outdoor sports, arts, or science are also highly valued.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are crucial for ensuring that staff can respond effectively to any health or safety emergencies that may arise.
Additional Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, child behavior management techniques, safety protocols, and specific training related to their assigned activities.
Specialized Training: For staff involved in specific activities like swimming or archery, additional certifications such as lifeguarding or archery instructor certification may be required. Staff responsible for leading hikes or any wilderness excursions are often trained in wilderness first aid and rescue procedures.

Continuous Professional Development

Camp Sacajawea encourages continuous learning and professional development for its staff. This includes attending workshops during the off-season, ongoing training sessions throughout the camp season, and opportunities to gain additional certifications that enhance their skills and knowledge in their specific areas of responsibility.

The commitment to a highly qualified and well-trained staff ensures that Camp Sacajawea remains a place where campers can safely enjoy a rewarding and enriching summer experience. The camp prides itself on creating an environment where both campers and staff can grow, learn, and have fun together.

Safety and Health in Camp Sacajawea

At Camp Sacajawea, the safety and well-being of campers and staff are paramount. Comprehensive safety protocols, well-equipped health facilities, and rigorous emergency procedures are integral to the camp’s operations. Here’s an overview of the measures in place to ensure a safe and healthy camp environment:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Daily Safety Checks: Regular inspections of all camp facilities and equipment are conducted to ensure everything is in safe working order. This includes sports equipment, play structures, and transportation vehicles.
Safety Training: All campers participate in orientation sessions at the beginning of their stay to learn about camp safety rules, emergency procedures, and how to use safety equipment.
Activity-Specific Safety Protocols: Each activity offered at Camp Sacajawea has specific safety protocols. For example, water activities require life jackets at all times, and all adventure sports are supervised by staff with relevant qualifications and experience.
Weather-Related Safety: The camp has protocols for handling adverse weather conditions, including designated safe areas for shelter and policies for modifying activities based on weather alerts.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Sacajawea is equipped with a well-staffed health center that operates 24/7 during camp sessions. The center is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and a rotating on-call physician.
Medical Supplies and Equipment: The health center is stocked with essential medical supplies and equipment necessary for treating a wide range of minor injuries and illnesses. More complex medical cases are referred to a nearby hospital.
Health Screenings: Upon arrival, each camper undergoes a health screening to identify any existing conditions or needs, which helps in managing individual health care effectively throughout their stay.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan that includes procedures for fire, severe weather, health emergencies, and other potential risks. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to new challenges.
Communication Protocol: In the event of an emergency, there are clear communication protocols in place to notify staff, campers, and parents promptly. The camp uses a variety of communication tools including alarms, loudspeakers, and mobile communications.
Evacuation Procedures: Clear evacuation routes and procedures are established and communicated to everyone on the campgrounds. Regular drills are conducted to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with evacuation procedures.
Training for Handling Specific Emergencies: Staff receive specialized training to handle specific types of emergencies, such as aquatic rescues, lost camper scenarios, and medical crises. This training is integral to ensuring that staff are prepared to act swiftly and efficiently in any situation.

By maintaining rigorous safety standards and protocols, Camp Sacajawea ensures a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities without undue risk, and parents can rest assured that their children are cared for and protected.

Cost and Registration in Camp Sacajawea

Camp Sacajawea strives to offer an enriching and accessible camping experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the cost of attendance, the registration process, and financial options including scholarships and aid.

Cost of attendance: Camp Sacajawea offers various session lengths and programs, with costs typically ranging from $400 for a week-long day camp to $2,000 for a two-week residential session. The fee generally includes:

All meals and accommodation (for residential camps)
Program activities and materials
Use of camp facilities and equipment
Camp t-shirt
Trained staff supervision

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Camp Sacajawea offers an online registration platform where parents can fill out forms, select sessions, and submit required health and consent documents.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months before the start of the camp season, with early bird discounts available. Deadlines for registration are usually set one month before the start of each session to ensure adequate preparation for the arrival of campers.
Waitlist: Popular sessions fill up quickly. Once full, prospective campers can opt to be placed on a waitlist and will be notified if spots become available.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: To accommodate different financial needs, Camp Sacajawea offers structured payment plans that allow parents to pay the camp fees in installments over a period of months leading up to the session.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp provides a detailed refund policy where full or partial refunds are available up to a certain date before the session begins. Cancellations made after this date may not be eligible for a refund, depending on the circumstances.
Cancellation Insurance: Families are encouraged to purchase cancellation insurance to cover potential losses due to unexpected cancellations.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Sacajawea is committed to making camp accessible to all children and offers a variety of scholarship options based on need, merit, or both.
Financial Aid: Needs-based financial aid is available to families who qualify, and applications are reviewed confidentially. The camp works to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent any child from attending.

Camp Sacajawea’s pricing, registration, and financial policies are designed to be transparent and fair, ensuring a straightforward process for families. By providing various financial options, the camp aims to be accessible to a broader community, allowing more children to experience the joys and benefits of summer camp.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Sacajawea

To ensure that both campers and their parents are fully prepared for the summer camp experience, Camp Sacajawea provides detailed guidelines on packing, rules, and policies, along with tips for first-time campers and their families.

Packing List

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

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing including T-shirts, shorts, jeans, swimwear, and rain gear. Also, pack a jacket for cooler evenings.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals for showers, and athletic shoes for sports.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or blankets and sheets for the camp bed, along with a pillow.
Personal Items: Toiletries, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat for sun protection.
Equipment: Flashlight, water bottle, and any specific gear related to the activities (like musical instruments or sports equipment).
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and small games or cards.
Prohibited Items: To ensure safety and compliance with camp policies, items like knives, fireworks, and non-prescription drugs are not allowed.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Sacajawea encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage more fully with their surroundings and each other. Personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are generally not allowed.
Visitation: Parents are allowed to visit on designated days, typically at the beginning and end of sessions. Specific visitation guidelines are provided to ensure minimal disruption to camp activities.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for others, positive behavior, and engagement in activities are expected from all campers. The camp has a strict policy against bullying and other forms of disruptive behavior.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Communication: Discuss what the camp experience will involve, focusing on the exciting opportunities and activities that await. Establish expectations about communication, such as letters, since regular phone calls may not be allowed.
Practice Independence: Encourage your child to practice skills they’ll need at camp, like organizing their belongings, making their bed, and choosing their clothes.
Emotional Preparation: It’s normal for first-time campers (and their parents) to feel anxious. Talk openly about these feelings and reassure your child that it’s an opportunity for growth and fun.
Visit the Camp Virtually or in Person: If possible, visit the camp beforehand or explore it online to familiarize your child with the environment and reduce anxiety.
Packing Together: Involve your child in the packing process using the packing list provided by the camp. This can help them take ownership of the experience and feel more prepared.

By following these guidelines and tips, parents can help ensure that their child is well-prepared for their camp experience at Camp Sacajawea, setting the stage for a summer filled with growth, learning, and fun.

Camp Sacajawea stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and personal growth, nestled in the beautiful surroundings of Lynchburg, Virginia. With its comprehensive range of programs, from arts and sports to science and leadership development, the camp promises a rich and diverse experience tailored to each camper’s interests and age group. Safety and well-being are paramount, with robust protocols and dedicated facilities ensuring a secure environment where parents can rest assured their children are cared for. The thoughtful accommodations, from rustic cabins to modern dorms, cater to comfort and foster a sense of community among campers.

Camp Sacajawea’s commitment to accessibility is evident in its flexible payment options, scholarships, and financial aid, making it possible for all children to enjoy the transformative experience of summer camp. The carefully crafted rules and packing lists, along with supportive tips for first-timers, ensure that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the journey ahead.