Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Cora, Wyoming, Camp New Fork offers a unique retreat into nature. Located in the rugged region of northwest Wyoming, this camp is surrounded by the majestic beauty of the nearby Wind River Range and the expansive Bridger-Teton National Forest, providing a picturesque backdrop for camp activities.

Camp New Fork has a rich history of fostering a strong sense of community and outdoor skills among its campers. Established with the goal of promoting personal growth and environmental stewardship, the camp has been a beloved summer destination for generations.

The mission of Camp New Fork is centered around enriching the lives of young people by providing exceptional outdoor experiences that instill a deep respect for nature and develop character. The camp’s philosophy emphasizes building self-reliance, teamwork, and leadership through engaging and challenging outdoor activities.

Designed as a traditional youth camp, Camp New Fork caters primarily to boys, offering a range of programs tailored to different age groups. Through these programs, campers are encouraged to explore their interests, develop new skills, and forge lasting friendships in a supportive and fun-filled environment.

Programs Offered by Camp New Fork

Camp New Fork offers a variety of programs designed to engage campers in a range of outdoor and educational activities. The sessions vary in length to accommodate different preferences, including one-week, two-week, and full-summer options, allowing campers to choose the duration that best fits their summer plans.

Description of Programs:

Outdoor Adventure: This program focuses on teaching survival skills, orienteering, and environmental conservation. It includes activities like hiking, canoeing, and wildlife observation.
Leadership Development: Aimed at older campers, this program focuses on developing leadership skills through team-based challenges and leadership roles within the camp community.
Arts and Crafts: Encourages creative expression through projects involving painting, woodworking, and pottery, tailored to various skill levels.
Sports and Recreation: Offers a variety of sports including archery, swimming, and team sports like soccer and basketball, promoting physical fitness and teamwork.

Specialty Programs:

Science Explorers: This specialty program dives into the basics of environmental science, biology, and astronomy with hands-on experiments and explorations.
Mountain Biking: Designed for thrill-seekers, this program covers different terrains around the camp, focusing on safety and advanced riding techniques.

Typical Daily Schedule:

Morning:
- 7:00 AM: Wake Up and Morning Exercise
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast
- 9:00 AM: First Activity Session (e.g., hiking or arts and crafts)
Afternoon:
- 12:00 PM: Lunch
- 1:00 PM: Rest Time/Free Time
- 2:00 PM: Second Activity Session (e.g., science explorers or sports)
- 4:00 PM: Free Play or Optional Activities
Evening:
- 6:00 PM: Dinner
- 7:00 PM: Evening Program (e.g., campfire, storytelling, or guest speakers)
- 9:00 PM: Cabin Time/Prep for Bed
- 10:00 PM: Lights Out

Each day at Camp New Fork is structured to balance active engagement with ample opportunities for relaxation and socialization, ensuring that campers have a memorable and enriching summer experience.

Accommodations in Camp New Fork

Camp New Fork is designed to provide a comfortable and safe outdoor living experience for all campers. Here’s an overview of the accommodations, including sleeping arrangements, dining options, and facilities:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers stay in well-maintained cabins that blend rustic charm with modern necessities. Each cabin houses 8-10 campers and 2 counselors, ensuring supervision and community building. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and central heating for cooler nights.
Tents: For older campers and specific programs like the wilderness adventure, there are opportunities to sleep in tents. This allows for a more immersive outdoor experience, teaching campers how to set up tents and live sustainably in the outdoors.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp New Fork offers a full meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, served in the communal dining hall. Meals are prepared by experienced kitchen staff with a focus on nutrition and energy for active campers.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to all dietary needs, the camp provides options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with dietary restrictions such as gluten-free or dairy-free requirements. Parents can specify dietary needs upon registration to ensure their children are well-catered to throughout their stay.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Separate bathroom and shower facilities for boys and girls are centrally located near the cabins and common areas. The facilities are equipped with flush toilets, sinks, and private shower stalls with hot water, ensuring hygiene and convenience.
Maintenance: The cleanliness and maintenance of these facilities are a top priority for the camp staff, with regular cleaning schedules and checks to ensure sanitary conditions are upheld.

Overall, Camp New Fork is dedicated to making the camping experience as comfortable as possible while maintaining the essence of a true outdoor adventure. These accommodations help ensure that all campers can enjoy their stay without compromising on basic comforts.

Activities in Camp New Fork

Camp New Fork offers a diverse array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels. These activities not only entertain but also encourage personal growth, skill development, and a deeper appreciation of the natural world.

List of Activities Offered:

Swimming and Water Sports: Summer camps can enjoy swimming in the natural lake, kayaking, and canoeing under the supervision of certified lifeguards.
Hiking: Guided hikes through the surrounding trails offer varying difficulty levels, from scenic walks to challenging treks.
Crafts: Activities include pottery, woodworking, and various arts and crafts projects that allow campers to express their creativity.
Archery and Target Sports: These activities teach focus, coordination, and safety in handling equipment.
Climbing: A climbing wall and roped tree climbing sessions provide a safe environment for campers to test their limits and learn climbing techniques.
Nature Exploration: Programs designed to explore local flora and fauna, including bird watching and educational nature walks.
Sports: A variety of sports like soccer, basketball, and volleyball are available, fostering teamwork and physical fitness.

Special Events or Traditions:

Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings include storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and tradition.
End-of-Summer Carnival: A camper favorite, this event features games, prizes, and a showcase of skills learned throughout the summer.
Color Wars: An annual tradition, campers are divided into teams to compete in various athletic and creative competitions, culminating in a camp-wide relay race.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Programs: Older campers can participate in leadership training sessions, preparing them to take on roles such as camp counselors or activity leaders in the future.
Environmental Stewardship: Through hands-on activities, campers learn about conservation practices, sustainable living, and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
Survival Skills Workshops: These workshops cover essential skills such as fire-building, navigation, and shelter construction in the wilderness.

Camp New Fork is committed to providing a rich, engaging, and educational experience that promotes both personal growth and a love for the outdoors. Through a combination of fun activities, special events, and focused skill development, campers leave with lasting memories and new abilities.

The staff of Camp New Fork

Camp New Fork prides itself on a dedicated and highly qualified staff, ensuring a safe, enriching, and supportive environment for all campers. Here are details on the staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, and staff training and certifications:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Staffing: Camp New Fork maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio, typically around 1:8, ensuring personalized attention and supervision. This ratio helps foster a close-knit atmosphere and allows staff to address the individual needs of each camper effectively.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: The camp recruits staff from a variety of sources including university job fairs, online platforms, and referrals from current and former staff members.
Qualifications: Candidates are generally required to have previous experience in childcare, education, or a related field. A passion for outdoor activities and working with children is a must.
Background Checks: All potential staff undergo thorough background checks, including criminal record checks and reference checks, to ensure the safety and security of the campers.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff participate in a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and activity leadership.
Certifications: Staff members involved in specific activities such as swimming, climbing, or first aid are required to hold current certifications. Common certifications among staff include:
- CPR and First Aid: All staff must be certified in CPR and First Aid to respond effectively to any medical situation.
- Lifeguard Certification: Staff supervising water activities are certified lifeguards, ensuring safety during swimming and boating.
- Wilderness First Responder (WFR): For staff leading hiking or remote outdoor activities, a WFR certification is often required or highly recommended.

Additional Training

Ongoing Education: Throughout the camp season, ongoing training sessions are held to refine skills, share feedback, and ensure all staff are up-to-date with the best practices in camper safety and engagement.

By prioritizing a highly qualified and well-trained staff, Camp New Fork ensures that campers not only have a memorable and fun summer experience but also a safe and nurturing environment where they can thrive.

Safety and Health in Camp New Fork

Camp New Fork is committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and health for all campers and staff. The camp has established comprehensive protocols and has equipped facilities to ensure a secure environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Safety Training: All camp staff undergo rigorous safety training, which includes emergency response drills, safety in outdoor activities, and child protection policies.
Activity Safety: Each activity is supervised by staff with specific training and certifications related to that activity, such as lifeguards for swimming or certified instructors for climbing.
Equipment Checks: Regular inspections and maintenance of all equipment used in camp activities are conducted to ensure they meet safety standards.
Weather Safety: Protocols are in place to monitor weather conditions, with procedures for sheltering and evacuation in case of severe weather.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp New Fork operates a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed medical professionals, including nurses and, during peak times, a visiting doctor.
Medical Preparedness: The health center is prepared to handle a range of medical issues from minor injuries to more serious health conditions. It is stocked with essential medications and first aid supplies.
Accessibility: The health center is centrally located within the campgrounds to ensure quick access from all areas of the camp.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan, which includes procedures for various potential scenarios such as injuries, lost campers, fire, or natural disasters.
Communication: In case of an emergency, there are clear lines of communication among camp staff and local emergency services. The camp also has protocols for informing parents and guardians as needed.
Training Drills: Emergency drills are conducted regularly with both campers and staff to ensure everyone knows how to act swiftly and efficiently in an emergency.

Health and Safety Education

Camper Education: Campers receive orientation on the first day covering all safety rules and procedures. Ongoing education about personal health and safety is provided throughout their stay.

Camp New Fork’s dedication to safety and health is foundational to its operation, ensuring that the camp environment supports fun and adventure while prioritizing the well-being of everyone involved.

Cost and Registration in Camp New Fork

Camp New Fork aims to provide a valuable and accessible summer experience for all campers. Here’s a detailed look at the costs, registration procedures, and financial support options available.

Cost of Attendance

Fees: The cost of attending Camp New Fork varies depending on the session length and program selected. Generally, fees range from $500 for one-week sessions to $1,500 for the full summer.
What’s Included: The fees cover all aspects of the camp experience, including accommodation, meals, program materials, and access to all camp facilities and activities. Additional costs may apply for special outings or optional activities.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children, where they can fill out forms, choose sessions, and submit necessary health and consent documentation.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January and runs until sessions are full. Early registration is encouraged as spots fill up quickly and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Camp New Fork offers flexible payment plans that allow families to spread the cost of camp over several months leading up to the summer.
Refunds: A full refund is available until a set date, usually about a month before the session begins. After this date, refunds may be partial or not available, depending on the timing of the cancellation.
Cancellation Policy: In the event of a cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances, such as severe weather or health emergencies, the camp provides options for rescheduling or refunds as appropriate.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp New Fork offers a number of scholarships each year to families in need of financial assistance. These scholarships can cover part or all of the cost of camp, based on the family’s financial situation.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, the camp may have other financial aid options available, including discounts for siblings, early registration, and returning campers.

Additional Information

Assistance: The camp administration encourages families to contact them directly with any questions about costs, financial aid, or registration details to ensure that all potential campers have the opportunity to participate.

Camp New Fork is dedicated to making its programs accessible to as many children as possible, providing various options to assist with the financial aspects of attending camp, and ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder a child’s ability to enjoy a summer filled with growth and adventure.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp New Fork

Preparing for camp can be an exciting time for both campers and their parents. Camp New Fork provides detailed guidance to ensure that all participants are well-prepared for the upcoming camp experience.

Packing List

To ensure that campers have everything they need for a comfortable and safe camp experience, Camp New Fork recommends including the following items:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing (including layers for cooler evenings), swimwear, closed-toe shoes, sandals, and a rain jacket.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Equipment: Flashlight, water bottle, and any specific gear related to their chosen activities (e.g., hiking boots, fishing gear).
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and disposable cameras (if campers wish to capture memories without electronics).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and immersion in the camp experience, personal electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops are generally discouraged or only allowed during specific times in designated areas.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to help campers adjust to and maintain independence during their time at camp.
Behavior: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules, respect fellow campers and staff, and participate actively in camp activities. Specific policies regarding behavior and disciplinary measures are provided to parents and campers before the camp session begins.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what the camp experience will involve, focusing on the exciting opportunities and new friends.
Communication: Explain how and when campers can communicate with parents during camp, and discuss any worries about homesickness or anxiety.
Independence: Encourage campers to take responsibility for packing their own bags and managing their daily hygiene and tidiness at camp.
Positive Reinforcement: Build positive anticipation about the camp by discussing the new skills and fun activities they will experience.

For Parents

Stay Informed: Make sure to read all materials sent by the camp and attend any pre-camp parent meetings.
Emergency Contact: Ensure that all contact information is up-to-date with the camp office and discuss any concerns about your child’s health or well-being with camp staff beforehand.
Trust the Process: Remember that camp staff are experienced in handling first-time campers and will be attentive to their adjustment and comfort.

By following these guidelines and preparing adequately, campers and parents can ensure a smooth transition to camp life, leading to a successful and enjoyable experience at Camp New Fork.

Camp New Fork stands out as a premier destination for youth looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Wyoming wilderness while gaining invaluable life skills. With its comprehensive range of programs, dedicated staff, and well-maintained facilities, the camp offers a safe and enriching environment for personal growth and adventure. The commitment to fostering a sense of community, respect for nature, and leadership skills among its campers underscores the camp’s mission and philosophy.

The thoughtful structuring of activities, special events, and traditions at Camp New Fork ensures that every camper leaves with cherished memories and friendships, alongside a deeper appreciation for the outdoors. Moreover, the camp’s robust safety protocols and health facilities guarantee peace of mind for parents, knowing that their children are in good hands.