Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Battle Ground, Washington, Camp Lewis stands as a beacon of adventure and learning. Positioned strategically within the Pacific Northwest region, this camp is surrounded by the natural beauty of towering forests and expansive green fields, making it an ideal location for youth to explore and grow.

Established with the vision of nurturing young minds, Camp Lewis boasts a rich history of fostering leadership, teamwork, and personal development. It is a place where traditions are born and friendships flourish, guided by a mission to empower campers to reach their fullest potential through engaging activities and meaningful interactions.

Camp Lewis is designed to accommodate both boys and girls across various age groups, ensuring a diverse and inclusive environment. The camp programs are meticulously crafted to cater to different interests and developmental stages, providing a balanced mix of education, recreation, and personal growth opportunities.

Through its commitment to excellence and a nurturing philosophy, Camp Lewis continues to be a cherished destination, shaping the leaders of tomorrow in the heart of Washington.

Programs Offered by Camp Lewis

Camp Lewis offers a variety of programs that cater to different interests and age groups, ensuring every camper has an enriching and enjoyable experience. The camp provides sessions ranging in length from one week to two weeks, as well as options for campers who wish to stay the entire summer. This flexibility allows families to choose the best fit for their schedules and their children’s needs.

Specialty Programs

Arts: The arts program at Camp Lewis encourages creativity through classes in painting, sculpture, theater, and music. Campers are guided by experienced instructors who help them explore various artistic mediums and express themselves creatively.
Sports: This program focuses on physical fitness and team sports, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and swimming. It’s designed not only to improve skills but also to foster teamwork, leadership, and healthy competition among campers.
Science: The science program offers hands-on activities that spark curiosity and critical thinking. Projects range from basic astronomy to environmental science, offering campers the chance to conduct experiments and learn about the world around them.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM – Wake Up: Start the day with a refreshing morning routine.
8:00 AM – Breakfast: A nutritious meal to fuel the day’s adventures.
9:00 AM – Morning Activities: Campers split into their specialty programs for focused learning and fun.
12:00 PM – Lunch: Time to refuel with a hearty lunch and some free time.
1:00 PM – Afternoon Activities: A continuation of morning sessions or a switch to a different activity, ensuring a diverse daily experience.
3:30 PM – Free Time: Campers have the opportunity to explore other camp amenities, such as the lake, hiking trails, or arts and crafts areas.
5:00 PM – Dinner: A communal time to enjoy delicious meals and chat about the day.
6:00 PM – Evening Activities: These often include campfires, group games, talent shows, and storytelling.
8:00 PM – Wind Down: Begin to wind down the day with quieter activities.
9:00 PM – Lights Out: Rest up for another exciting day ahead.

Each day at Camp Lewis is carefully structured to balance active learning, physical play, and ample downtime, ensuring campers are engaged, energized, and entertained throughout their stay.

Accommodations in Camp Lewis

Camp Lewis offers well-planned and comfortable accommodations designed to enhance the camping experience and ensure safety and convenience for all campers.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodation at Camp Lewis consists of cozy cabins that blend rustic charm with modern necessities. Each cabin houses 8 to 12 campers and is supervised by trained camp staff, ensuring a safe and supportive environment. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings, providing a communal and friendly living space.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Lewis provides three well-balanced meals per day, prepared by experienced kitchen staff. The dining hall is a communal space where campers gather to eat and share their daily experiences. Meals are designed to be nutritious and energy-boosting, catering to the needs of active children and teens.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to diverse dietary needs, Camp Lewis offers options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific dietary restrictions such as gluten-free and lactose-free diets. Parents are encouraged to communicate any special dietary needs their children might have before the beginning of camp, ensuring that every camper has healthy and suitable meals throughout their stay.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Each cabin cluster has access to modern bathroom and shower facilities that are centrally located for easy access. The bathrooms are separated by gender and are equipped with multiple stalls and showers to accommodate the number of campers in nearby cabins. These facilities are maintained multiple times a day to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
Privacy and Safety: Privacy and safety are paramount at Camp Lewis. The design of the bathroom facilities ensures privacy for all users, and camp staff are trained to promote and maintain a safe and respectful environment.

Through these accommodations, Camp Lewis ensures that every camper’s stay is comfortable, safe, and conducive to an enjoyable and enriching camping experience.

Activities in Camp Lewis

Camp Lewis is dedicated to providing a wide range of activities that cater to various interests and encourage personal growth, skill development, and fun. Here is an overview of the activities and special events that define the camp experience.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Supervised swimming sessions in the camp’s private lake, teaching water safety and offering free swim times.
Hiking: Guided hikes along scenic trails that traverse the surrounding natural beauty, suitable for various fitness levels.
Crafts: A creative arts program that includes pottery, woodworking, beadwork, and more, allowing campers to express their creativity and take home personal souvenirs.
Sports: Organized sports activities including soccer, basketball, archery, and more, which focus on skill improvement and teamwork.
Nature Exploration: Programs that teach about local flora and fauna, conservation, and outdoor survival skills.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water-based adventures that teach paddling techniques and water safety.
Climbing: A climbing wall for beginners and challenging routes for more experienced climbers, emphasizing safety and technique.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend the camp sessions, fostering a sense of community and celebrating the achievements of campers.
Campfire Nights: Regular evenings spent around the campfire, where campers and staff share stories, sing songs, and participate in talent shows.
Color Wars: A multi-day event where campers are divided into teams to compete in various activities, promoting spirit, cooperation, and friendly competition.
International Day: A celebration of cultures where campers and staff share their heritage through food, dance, and storytelling.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Summer camps have opportunities to lead groups, manage camp projects, and develop leadership skills that are applicable both at camp and in their everyday lives.
Environmental Stewardship: Educational sessions on environmental conservation and sustainability practices, encouraging campers to become mindful about their impact on the world around them.
Artistic Expression: Programs designed to refine skills in various arts, offering platforms for performance and exhibition.
Sports Coaching: Professional coaching in specific sports, aiming to improve skills, understanding of the game, and teamwork.

Camp Lewis is committed to providing a holistic experience that fosters personal growth, skill development, and a deep appreciation for community and nature. Each activity and event is designed to create lasting memories and meaningful experiences for all campers.

The staff of Camp Lewis

Camp Lewis prides itself on having a dedicated, skilled, and caring staff team that ensures a safe, educational, and enjoyable environment for all campers. The camp’s commitment to quality staffing is evident in its favorable staff-to-camper ratio, stringent hiring processes, and comprehensive training programs.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Ratio: Camp Lewis maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio, typically around 1:8, ensuring that each camper receives personalized attention and support. This ratio helps in closely monitoring camper safety, facilitating more effective teaching, and providing a supportive environment for personal development.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Hiring Process: The hiring process at Camp Lewis is rigorous and thorough. Candidates undergo multiple rounds of interviews, background checks, and reference checks to ensure they are fit for the role and can uphold the camp’s standards and values.
Qualifications: Staff members are typically required to have prior experience in childcare, education, or a related field. Specific roles, such as those in specialized activities like climbing or water sports, require additional expertise and certifications relevant to the activity.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: All staff members undergo a comprehensive training program before the start of camp. This training covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and conflict resolution to prepare them for the variety of situations they may encounter.
Certifications:
- CPR and First Aid: Every staff member at Camp Lewis is required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are crucial for ensuring the immediate health and safety of campers.
- Specialized Certifications: For activities that require specific skills, such as lifeguarding, climbing, or handling sports equipment, staff members must hold current and relevant certifications. For instance, aquatic staff are required to have lifeguard certifications from recognized authorities.

The staffing strategy at Camp Lewis is designed to create a nurturing and safe environment where children can learn, grow, and enjoy their camp experience to the fullest. The camp’s commitment to high standards in staffing ensures that every camper has a rewarding and memorable stay.

Safety and Health in Camp Lewis

Camp Lewis places the highest priority on the safety and well-being of all campers and staff. Comprehensive safety protocols, well-equipped on-site health facilities, and stringent emergency handling policies are all integral to ensuring a secure environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Training: All staff at Camp Lewis undergo regular safety training sessions, including emergency drills and situation handling, to ensure they are prepared for any eventuality.
Activity-Specific Safety Measures: Each activity offered at Camp Lewis is guided by a set of specific safety measures. For example, all aquatic activities are supervised by certified lifeguards, and equipment for sports and outdoor activities is regularly inspected and maintained.
Supervision: Constant, vigilant supervision is provided throughout all camp activities. Campers are never left unattended, and staff are always accessible.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Lewis is equipped with a well-staffed health center that operates 24 hours a day during camp sessions. The center is managed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and, at times, a visiting doctor.
Facilities: The health center is outfitted to handle a range of medical issues from minor injuries to more serious ailments. It is stocked with the necessary medical supplies and equipment to ensure timely and efficient treatment.
Medication Management: The health center staff also manages medication distribution for campers who require it, ensuring that medications are stored securely and administered correctly.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Lewis has a detailed emergency response plan tailored to various scenarios, including natural disasters, health emergencies, and accidents. This plan is reviewed and updated regularly to adapt to new safety standards and environmental conditions.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, Camp Lewis has protocols in place to ensure timely and clear communication with all camp staff and, crucially, with parents and guardians. The camp maintains updated contact information for immediate outreach.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: Camp Lewis works closely with local emergency services and authorities to ensure quick response times and coordinated efforts in the case of serious emergencies or evacuations.

These comprehensive measures reflect Camp Lewis’s commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy environment where campers can enjoy their experiences without compromise. Safety and health are not just part of the policy at Camp Lewis; they are embedded in the culture and everyday practices of the camp.

Cost and Registration in Camp Lewis

Camp Lewis offers a structured and transparent approach to costs, registration, and financial accommodations, ensuring that families can plan effectively and that camp experiences are accessible to a wide range of participants.

Cost of Attendance

What It Includes: The cost of attending Camp Lewis covers all aspects of the camp experience, including lodging in cabins, all meals, access to all programs and activities, and supervision by trained staff. Additionally, the fee includes any equipment needed for special activities, such as arts and crafts supplies, sports equipment, and safety gear.
Cost Structure: Fees may vary depending on the length of the camp session, the age of the camper, and the type of program selected. Typically, a one-week session could range from $500 to $700, while longer sessions and specialty programs might have higher costs.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration Process: Registration for Camp Lewis can be completed online. The process includes filling out necessary forms, providing medical information, and selecting preferred sessions and activities.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged to ensure availability as some sessions fill up quickly. Specific deadlines for registration are typically set a few months before the start of the summer camp season, often around March or April.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Camp Lewis offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of the camp. These plans allow payments to be spread over several months, leading up to the start of the selected session.
Refunds and Cancellation Policies: The camp provides a structured refund policy which typically allows for a full or partial refund up to a certain date before the camp begins. After this date, refunds may not be available, or only a partial refund may be offered depending on the circumstances of the cancellation.
Cancellation due to Illness or Emergency: Special considerations are taken into account for cancellations due to illness or family emergencies, where more flexible refunds or credits for future sessions may be offered.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Lewis is committed to making camp experiences accessible to all children and offers a variety of scholarships based on need, merit, or both. These scholarships can significantly reduce the cost for families needing financial assistance.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available based on the family’s income, the camper’s situation, and other factors. Families are encouraged to apply early for these opportunities as funds are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

These policies ensure that Camp Lewis remains an inclusive, accessible option for families seeking a comprehensive and enriching camp experience for their children.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Lewis

Ensuring that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the camp experience is crucial. Camp Lewis provides detailed guidance on what to pack, the camp’s rules and policies, and offers tips for first-time campers and their parents to help make the transition smoother and more enjoyable.

Packing List

Clothing: Pack enough comfortable clothing for the duration of the camp, including t-shirts, shorts, and pants. Include swimwear, a rain jacket, and a warm sweater or jacket for cooler evenings. Don’t forget hats, sunglasses, and sturdy footwear like sneakers and hiking boots.
Bedding: Campers should bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, along with a pillow, for their bunk beds.
Toiletries: Essential toiletries include toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and sunscreen. Insect repellent and a small first aid kit could also be very useful.
Miscellaneous: Flashlights, batteries, water bottles, and laundry bags are also important. Books, writing materials, and disposable cameras (if parents prefer campers not to have digital cameras or smartphones).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Lewis generally encourages a break from digital devices to help campers fully engage with their surroundings and peers. Therefore, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is restricted or prohibited except for specific allotted times.
Visitation: Parents are typically allowed to visit on specific visiting days which are designated by the camp. Outside of these days, to ensure the safety and structure of the camp experience, unscheduled visits are not permitted.
Behavioral Expectations: Camp Lewis has a strict policy regarding behavior. Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is mandatory. Bullying, aggressive behavior, and non-compliance with camp rules can result in disciplinary actions or dismissal from camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Engage Fully: Try to participate in as many activities as possible to get the most out of the camp experience.
- Stay Open: Be open to making new friends and learning new things. Camp is a great place to discover new interests and abilities.
For Parents:
- Stay Positive: When discussing camp, focus on the exciting opportunities and fun your child will have. This helps alleviate any anxiety they might feel.
- Pack Smart: Label all belongings with your child’s name to prevent loss. Pack a personal item like a stuffed animal or a family photo to comfort your child in their new environment.
- Communicate Needs: Clearly communicate any medical or dietary needs your child has with camp staff before the session begins.

By following these guidelines, campers and parents can ensure that their experience at Camp Lewis is both memorable and rewarding.

Camp Lewis in Battle Ground, Washington, stands out as a premier destination for young adventurers seeking a summer filled with growth, learning, and fun. With its diverse range of programs, dedicated staff, and a strong emphasis on safety and community, Camp Lewis is more than just a summer camp—it’s a transformative experience. The camp’s well-rounded approach ensures that every camper enjoys a balance of educational activities, physical exercise, and creative expression, all while forging lasting friendships in a supportive environment.

The commitment to accessibility and inclusivity through scholarships and financial aid programs underscores Camp Lewis’s dedication to providing every child with the opportunity to benefit from its enriching programs. Whether it’s through swimming in the lake, hiking through lush forests, or learning new skills in arts and crafts, Camp Lewis offers a plethora of activities that cater to diverse interests and promote a range of valuable life skills.