Nestled in the scenic heart of the Pacific Northwest, Walla Walla Valley Camps is a serene haven located in College Place, Washington. Situated near the lush foothills of the Blue Mountains, this camp offers breathtaking views and a tranquil environment that encourages exploration and personal growth. Established with the goal of fostering a strong sense of community and environmental stewardship, Walla Walla Valley Camps has been a cornerstone of youth development in the region for over two decades.

The camp’s mission is to provide a safe, inclusive, and vibrant camping experience that promotes character-building, leadership skills, and a deep appreciation for nature. This philosophy is woven into every activity and program offered at the camp, ensuring that each camper leaves with lasting memories and valuable life lessons.

Walla Walla Valley Camps is a facility that welcomes boys and girls aged 6 to 16. The camp offers a variety of programs ranging from outdoor adventure and sports to arts and environmental education, catering to a diverse set of interests and enabling campers to thrive in a supportive, engaging environment.

Programs Offered by Walla Walla Valley Camps

Walla Walla Valley Camps offers a dynamic range of programs designed to cater to diverse interests, ensuring that every camper finds something that sparks their enthusiasm and helps them grow. These programs are structured into sessions of varying lengths, allowing families to choose what best fits their summer schedules.

Programs Description

Outdoor Adventures: This program focuses on teaching survival skills, environmental stewardship, and outdoor sports such as hiking, climbing, and canoeing. It’s perfect for those who love to be in nature and want to learn how to navigate the great outdoors responsibly.
Arts and Crafts: Campers can explore their creative sides through activities like painting, pottery, and performing arts. This program encourages artistic expression and creativity in a supportive and inspiring environment.
Sports Enthusiasts: Tailored for athletic campers, this program includes coaching in various sports such as soccer, basketball, and swimming. It focuses on teamwork, physical fitness, and healthy competition.
Science and Discovery: Aimed at young explorers and budding scientists, this program offers hands-on experiments and activities in fields like biology, astronomy, and physics. It’s designed to spark curiosity and foster a love of learning.

Session Lengths

One-Week Sessions: These short sessions are perfect for younger campers or those trying camp for the first time. They provide a taste of what summer camp is like and include a little bit of everything.
Two-Week Sessions: Offering more depth, these sessions allow campers to dive deeper into their chosen activities and build stronger connections with fellow campers.
Full Summer Option: For the ultimate camp experience, campers can stay the whole summer, rotating through different programs and experiencing comprehensive personal and skill development.

Specialty Programs

Leadership Development: For teens, there’s a leadership program designed to hone their leadership skills through practical leadership tasks and mentoring younger campers.
Environmental Stewardship: This specialty program focuses on teaching campers about conservation, wildlife biology, and sustainable living practices.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM – Wake up and morning exercises
8:00 AM – Breakfast
9:00 AM – Morning program session
12:00 PM – Lunch
1:00 PM – Rest time/Free time
2:00 PM – Afternoon program session
5:00 PM – Free time/Optional activities
6:00 PM – Dinner
7:00 PM – Evening activities (campfires, group games, storytelling)
9:00 PM – Prep for bed
10:00 PM – Lights out

This structured schedule balances active learning with ample downtime, ensuring that campers remain engaged and energized throughout their stay at Walla Walla Valley Camps.

Accommodations in Walla Walla Valley Camps

At Walla Walla Valley Camps, the accommodations are designed to blend comfort with the authentic outdoor experience, ensuring that all campers feel secure and rested throughout their stay. The camp provides a variety of sleeping arrangements, dining options, and well-maintained facilities to meet the needs of each camper.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodation at Walla Walla Valley Camps consists of rustic yet comfortable cabins. Each cabin houses 8-10 campers along with 2 counselors, promoting a close-knit environment. Cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings, and they are grouped by age and gender to foster camaraderie and safety.
Tents: For older campers or specialty outdoor adventure sessions, there are options to sleep in tents. This provides a more immersive nature experience and teaches campers the basics of camping and living outdoors.
Dorms: There are also dormitory-style accommodations available for larger groups or special events, featuring communal living with all the necessary amenities.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Walla Walla Valley Camps offers a full dining service with three well-balanced meals provided daily. The camp’s dining hall is a communal space where campers gather to eat and share their day’s experiences. Menus are varied to cater to a range of tastes and to ensure nutritional balance.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to all dietary needs, the camp kitchen is equipped to handle special dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Parents can discuss their child’s dietary needs in advance to ensure that appropriate accommodations are made.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Bathrooms and showers are conveniently located near all sleeping quarters. The camp ensures that all facilities are gender-separated and regularly cleaned and maintained. Modern plumbing and privacy are priorities, providing a comfortable and dignified environment for personal care.
Hygiene Standards: High standards of cleanliness are maintained in all facilities, with daily cleanings and checks to ensure hygiene and functionality. Additionally, campers are educated on maintaining personal and communal hygiene to promote a healthy camp environment.

These accommodations at Walla Walla Valley Camps are thoughtfully designed to ensure that every camper’s needs are met, allowing them to focus fully on their camp experience and the growth opportunities it presents.

Activities in Walla Walla Valley Camps

Walla Walla Valley Camps provides a rich tapestry of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and abilities, fostering both fun and developmental growth. The camp’s picturesque setting in College Place, Washington, is ideal for a wide range of outdoor and indoor activities.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: The camp has its own pool where campers can take swimming lessons, participate in water games, or simply enjoy free swim under the supervision of certified lifeguards.
Hiking: With trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, campers can explore the natural beauty of the Blue Mountains and learn about local flora and fauna.
Crafts: A dedicated arts and crafts center allows campers to engage in creative pursuits such as pottery, drawing, painting, and various crafting projects.
Sports: Facilities include fields and courts for soccer, basketball, volleyball, and baseball, encouraging teamwork and physical fitness.
Archery and Riflery: Under strict supervision and safety protocols, campers can learn the basics of archery and riflery, focusing on skill, precision, and discipline.
Canoeing and Kayaking: On the nearby lake, campers can learn paddling techniques and water safety in canoes and kayaks.
Drama and Music: The camp offers drama and music programs where campers can act in plays, learn instruments, and perform in camp-wide shows.
Nature Studies: Educational programs about the environment and wildlife are part of the curriculum, aiming to instill a sense of responsibility and wonder for the natural world.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings include storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, which are central to the camp’s community-building ethos.
End-of-Session Carnival: Each session concludes with a carnival where campers can enjoy games, face painting, and a festive atmosphere as a celebratory end to their camp experience.
Color Wars: This camp-wide competition splits campers into teams to compete in various sports and activities, fostering spirit and camaraderie.
Talent Shows: Campers have the opportunity to showcase their talents in front of their peers, whether it’s through music, dance, magic, or other performance arts.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Summer camps can participate in leadership training programs, where they learn about responsibility, decision-making, and mentorship.
Environmental Conservation Workshops: Special workshops teach campers about sustainability practices, conservation efforts, and how they can contribute to environmental protection.
First Aid and Survival Skills: Practical courses in first aid and survival skills prepare campers for emergency situations, emphasizing safety and preparedness.

These activities and special events at Walla Walla Valley Camps are carefully curated to ensure that every camper not only has fun but also takes away valuable skills and memories that last a lifetime.

The staff of Walla Walla Valley Camps

Walla Walla Valley Camps takes great care in assembling a team of dedicated, skilled, and compassionate staff members who are committed to creating a safe, enjoyable, and enriching camp experience for every camper. Here is a detailed overview of the staff structure, their qualifications, and the training they undergo:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

To ensure personalized attention and a high level of supervision, Walla Walla Valley Camps maintains an optimal staff-to-camper ratio of 1:8. This ratio allows each staff member to closely monitor and interact with the campers, ensuring their safety and enhancing their camp experience. For younger age groups or specialized activities, the ratio is often even lower to provide additional support.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: The camp recruits staff from a variety of sources, including universities, teacher recommendations, and through networks of former campers who aspire to give back to the camp community.
Qualifications: All potential staff members must have a strong background in child development, education, or a related field. Experience in camp settings or with youth groups is highly preferred.
Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks, including criminal records and reference checks, are mandatory for all staff to ensure the safety and security of the camp environment.
Interview Process: Candidates undergo a rigorous interview process that assesses their experience, skills in handling children, problem-solving abilities, and their capacity to inspire and lead young people.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Certifications: All staff members are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid before the camp season begins. Additional certifications, such as lifeguarding or wilderness first aid, are required for staff involved in specific activities such as swimming or hiking.
Pre-Camp Training: Prior to the arrival of campers, all staff attend an intensive pre-camp training session that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, activity planning, and child psychology. This training ensures that staff are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of campers and handle any situations that may arise.
Ongoing Education: Throughout the camp season, staff members participate in ongoing professional development workshops and regular review sessions to refine their skills and adapt to any new challenges.

Specialty Skills

Staff members leading specific activities such as archery, canoeing, or arts and crafts are often professionals or have significant experience in those fields. This expertise ensures that activities are not only fun but also conducted safely and educationally.

The comprehensive approach to staff recruitment, training, and development at Walla Walla Valley Camps underscores the camp’s commitment to quality and safety, fostering an environment where campers can thrive and explore their potential under the guidance of capable and caring professionals.

Safety and Health in Walla Walla Valley Camps

Walla Walla Valley Camps prioritize the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing robust protocols and maintaining excellent on-site health facilities. This commitment ensures a secure and nurturing environment, allowing parents to have peace of mind while their children enjoy their camp experience.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Routine Safety Drills: Regularly scheduled drills for fire, weather emergencies, and other potential threats are conducted to ensure that both campers and staff know how to act swiftly and efficiently in case of an emergency.
Activity Safety: Each activity is supervised by staff members trained specifically for that activity, with detailed safety protocols in place, including the use of appropriate safety gear and adherence to strict operational guidelines.
Security Measures: The camp is equipped with controlled access points, and all visitors must check in at the administration office. The camp maintains a secure perimeter to ensure that only authorized personnel and campers are on the premises.
Nighttime Security: In addition to regular staff, there are nighttime security patrols and a staff member always on call to handle any issues that might arise after hours.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: The camp boasts a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor. The health center is prepared to handle minor injuries, and illnesses, and manage any ongoing medical needs of campers.
Medications: Trained health staff to manage and administer all camper medications according to physician instructions, maintaining detailed logs and ensuring compliance with health standards.
Accessibility: Facilities are designed to be accessible, ensuring that campers with physical disabilities can navigate the camp safely and comfortably.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Action Plans: Walla Walla Valley Camps has detailed action plans for a variety of emergency scenarios. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to new safety standards and environmental conditions.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, the camp has protocols for rapid communication with local emergency services and for informing parents. The camp maintains up-to-date contact information for all campers’ families and emergency services to ensure swift action can be taken when necessary.
Training in Emergency Response: All staff receive training in emergency response, including how to use the camp’s communication systems, first aid, CPR, and the specific steps of the camp’s emergency action plans.
Post-Incident Review: Following any incident or emergency, a thorough review is conducted to evaluate the response and to identify any improvements or changes needed in the safety protocols.

Through these comprehensive safety and health measures, Walla Walla Valley Camps creates a secure environment where fun and learning go hand-in-hand, and where campers’ wellbeing is always the top priority.

Cost and Registration in Walla Walla Valley Camps

Walla Walla Valley Camps ensure that its enriching camp experience is accessible and straightforward in terms of cost, registration, and financial assistance. Here are the key details regarding cost, registration, and financial policies.

Cost of Attendance

Inclusive Pricing: The cost of attending Walla Walla Valley Camps ranges from $600 to $1,200 per session, depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. This fee includes all lodging, meals, activities, and use of camp facilities. Additional costs may be applicable for specialty programs or excursions.
What’s Included: The fee covers all basic camp activities, 24-hour supervision, three daily meals, snacks, accommodation, and any equipment needed for regular camp activities. There are no hidden fees, and transportation to and from the camp is also included if within a specified radius.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Families can register their campers through the camp’s secure online portal, where they can select sessions, fill out necessary medical forms, and choose activities.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January and remains open until sessions are full. Early registration is encouraged as spaces in popular sessions fill up quickly.
Confirmation: Upon completing registration and payment, families receive a confirmation email with a packet of information, including a packing list, camp rules, schedule, and information on how to stay in touch with their camper.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Walla Walla Valley Camps offers flexible payment plans allowing families to spread the cost of camp over several months leading up to the summer season.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp requires a deposit at the time of registration which is non-refundable. Cancellations made up to a month before the start of the session receive a 50% refund (excluding the deposit). No refunds are provided for cancellations within a month of the session start date, except in cases of medical emergencies, for which documentation is required.
Insurance: Optional camp insurance is available to cover cancellation fees in case of unexpected events or illnesses that prevent attendance.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Walla Walla Valley Camps offers a limited number of scholarships each year to families in need. These scholarships can cover up to 75% of the camp fee and are awarded based on financial need, the camper’s interest in the camp programs, and availability.
Financial Aid: Applications for financial aid are available as part of the registration process and need to be completed and submitted by a specified deadline. Families are encouraged to apply early as funds are limited.

By providing comprehensive details on costs and financial policies, Walla Walla Valley Camps strives to maintain transparency and accessibility, ensuring that all families have the opportunity to enjoy the unique and transformative experience it offers.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Walla Walla Valley Camps

Walla Walla Valley Camps provides a detailed guide to help parents and campers prepare for their upcoming camp experience. This includes a packing list, a clear outline of camp rules and policies, and helpful tips for those new to the camp environment.

Packing List

Essentials:

Sleeping bag or bedding for a twin bed
Pillow and pillowcase
Towels (bath and beach)
Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, etc.)
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Hat and sunglasses
Water bottle

Clothing:

T-shirts and shorts
Long pants and long-sleeve shirts
Undergarments and socks
Swimsuits
Rain jacket or poncho
Sturdy shoes for hiking
Sandals or flip-flops (for shower use)
One or two warmer outfits for cooler evenings

Optional Items:

Camera (non-smartphone)
Books and magazines
Flashlight or headlamp
Notebook and pens

Prohibited Items:

Electronics such as smartphones, tablets, or laptops
Knives or weapons
Excessive cash or valuable jewelry

Rules and Policies

Technology Use:

To ensure campers fully engage with their surroundings and each other, the use of personal electronic devices is restricted. Campers are encouraged to disconnect from digital screens and reconnect with nature.

Visitation:

Parents are welcome to visit during designated visiting days which are typically scheduled mid-session. These days allow parents to experience the camp environment and engage in activities with their children.

Behavior:

Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is paramount. Bullying, derogatory language, and inappropriate behavior are strictly prohibited and may result in dismissal from camp.

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 and grow beyond your comfort zone.
Keep personal items organized and labeled with your name to avoid losses.
Participate actively and respect the schedule and rules; they are designed to ensure everyone has a great time.

For Parents:

Prepare your child for the camp experience by discussing what camp will be like focusing on the fun and learning opportunities.
Encourage your child’s independence by practicing routines they’ll use at camp, like setting up their bedding or managing their hygiene.
Set up a communication plan; discuss how often and through what means you’ll communicate if direct contact is limited.

By following these guidelines and preparing effectively, both parents and campers can ensure a smooth transition to camp life, making the most of the enriching experiences that Walla Walla Valley Camps has to offer.

Walla Walla Valley Camps provides an exceptional backdrop for personal growth, adventure, and lifelong memories. With its comprehensive array of activities, experienced and caring staff, and a commitment to safety and community, the camp offers a unique environment where children can thrive. Campers leave Walla Walla Valley not only with new skills and increased confidence but also with friendships and experiences that enrich their lives.

The camp’s dedication to nurturing young minds and spirits in the stunning natural beauty of College Place, Washington, ensures that each summer is transformative. Whether you’re a first-time camper or a returning enthusiast, Walla Walla Valley Camps promises an unforgettable summer of learning, laughter, and adventure.