Location: Nestled in the serene landscapes of Story, Wyoming, Camp Story offers a picturesque setting for youthful adventures. Situated in a region known for its rugged natural beauty, the camp is easily accessible yet provides a feeling of seclusion and tranquility, surrounded by the vibrant greenery and the gentle flows of nearby creeks.

History and Background: Camp Story was established with a vision to create a nurturing environment that fosters growth and adventure among young people. Over the years, it has grown in both size and reputation, maintaining a tradition of building lasting memories and skills in its campers.

Mission Statement: Camp Story is dedicated to enriching the lives of young individuals through outdoor experiences that promote personal growth, environmental awareness, and community spirit. The camp emphasizes values such as teamwork, integrity, and respect for nature, aiming to inspire campers to become thoughtful and proactive members of society.

Type of Camp: Camp Story welcomes boys and girls across various age groups, typically ranging from 6 to 16 years old. The programs are designed to cater to different age groups, ensuring that each camper receives an age-appropriate and enriching experience that promotes personal development and a deep connection with nature.

Programs Offered by Camp Story

Description of Programs: Camp Story offers a diverse range of programs designed to engage campers in various activities that promote creativity, physical fitness, and intellectual curiosity. From classic camp activities like hiking and canoeing to specialized workshops in arts and sciences, Camp Story provides a comprehensive camping experience that caters to a wide range of interests and skills.

Length of Sessions:

Short Sessions: These one-week programs are perfect for younger campers or first-timers who are getting their first taste of summer camp life.
Standard Sessions: These two-week sessions offer a deeper dive into the camp’s offerings, allowing more time for learning and personal growth.
Full Summer: For the ultimate camp experience, campers can enroll in full summer programs, spanning several weeks and providing an immersive experience into all aspects of camp life and community.

Specialty Programs:

Arts: Camp Story’s arts program includes workshops in painting, drawing, sculpture, and performance arts, encouraging campers to explore their creativity and express themselves.
Sports: The sports program focuses on building physical skills and teamwork through activities like soccer, basketball, swimming, and archery.
Science: The science program offers hands-on learning experiences in fields such as biology, astronomy, and environmental science, fostering a love for learning and exploration.

Typical Daily Schedule:

7:00 AM: Wake-up call
7:30 AM: Breakfast
8:30 AM: Morning Assembly
9:00 AM: Activity Session 1 (e.g., Arts and Crafts)
10:30 AM: Activity Session 2 (e.g., Swimming)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet Time/Rest
2:00 PM: Activity Session 3 (e.g., Nature Hikes)
3:30 PM: Free Time
4:30 PM: Activity Session 4 (e.g., Sports)
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening Activities (e.g., Campfire, Storytelling)
9:00 PM: Lights Out

This structured schedule ensures that each day at Camp Story is full of activities and opportunities for growth, friendship, and fun.

Accommodations in Camp Story

Sleeping Arrangements: Camp Story offers a variety of rustic yet comfortable accommodations designed to enhance the camping experience:

Cabins: The primary sleeping arrangement at Camp Story is in cozy, well-maintained cabins that house 8-10 campers along with 2 counselors. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings, providing a communal living experience that fosters camaraderie and friendship.
Tents: For older campers seeking a more adventurous experience, there are tented accommodations available. These are typically used during special wilderness programs and are equipped with all necessary camping gear.
Dorms: There are also dorm-style accommodations available for larger groups or specific events that require such facilities.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: Camp Story offers nutritious and hearty meals three times a day, served in a communal dining hall that fosters a family-like atmosphere. The meal plans are carefully crafted to provide energy for active campers, incorporating a variety of foods to cater to all tastes.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining options, Camp Story is committed to accommodating dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Campers or their parents are encouraged to communicate any specific dietary requirements in advance to ensure these needs are met seamlessly.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Bathrooms: Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathroom facility equipped with flush toilets and sinks. These facilities are divided by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Showers: Separate shower facilities are also available, providing hot and cold water. These facilities are designed to accommodate multiple users at once, ensuring that all campers have ample opportunity and time for personal care.

The accommodations at Camp Story are thoughtfully designed to ensure safety, comfort, and a genuine camp experience, allowing campers to focus on enjoyment and personal growth.

Activities in Camp Story

List of Activities Offered: Camp Story provides a wide array of activities designed to engage campers in both fun and educational experiences:

Swimming: Regular sessions in the camp’s pool or lake, including swim instruction and water games.
Hiking: Guided treks through the surrounding woodlands, offering different trails for various skill levels.
Crafts: A creative arts and crafts program where campers can work on projects like pottery, beadwork, and woodworking.
Sports: A variety of sports activities including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery to promote physical fitness and teamwork.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water-based adventures that teach paddling skills and water safety.
Nature Studies: Educational sessions that explore local flora and fauna, promoting environmental awareness.
Climbing: Both rock climbing and rope courses challenge campers physically and mentally, fostering confidence.
Performing Arts: Opportunities for campers to participate in drama, dance, and music, culminating in performances for fellow campers.

Special Events or Traditions:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These are traditional events that mark the beginning and end of each camp session, fostering a sense of community and celebration.
Campfires: Regular campfire gatherings that include singing, storytelling, and marshmallow roasting, providing a quintessential camp experience.
Color Wars: An annual multi-day event that involves all campers in various competitive activities, promoting spirit and teamwork.
Overnight Campouts: Special overnight events where campers hike to a remote site and set up camp, enhancing their outdoor skills and independence.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Training: Summer camps have the opportunity to participate in leadership programs, preparing them to be counselors or to take on leadership roles outside of camp.
Environmental Education: Programs that teach campers about conservation, wildlife biology, and sustainable practices to develop a deeper respect and understanding of nature.
Safety Skills: Instruction in first aid, swimming safety, and wilderness survival skills, equipping campers with knowledge that extends beyond the campgrounds.
Personal Growth Workshops: Sessions that focus on self-esteem, communication skills, and conflict resolution to support the personal development of each camper.

Through its diverse activities and special events, Camp Story ensures that every camper has the opportunity to explore new interests, develop essential skills, and make lifelong memories.

The staff of Camp Story

Staff-to-Camper Ratio: Camp Story is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all campers. To ensure personalized attention and supervision, the camp maintains an optimal staff-to-camper ratio of 1:5. This ratio allows staff members to effectively monitor and engage with each camper, ensuring a high-quality experience and addressing individual needs promptly.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Hiring Process: Camp Story’s hiring process is thorough, starting with a detailed application form, followed by multiple interviews and reference checks. This process ensures that all staff members are not only qualified but also share the camp’s mission and values.
Staff Qualifications: All potential staff members must have previous experience in childcare, education, or a related field. Specialized roles, such as lifeguards or climbing instructors, require specific skills and experience relevant to their duties. Staff members are typically college students or graduates with backgrounds in education, environmental science, recreation, or the arts.

Training and Certifications:

Mandatory Training: Before the beginning of each camp season, all staff undergo a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and conflict resolution. This training ensures that staff are well-prepared to handle a variety of situations that may arise at camp.
Certifications: All staff members are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additionally, staff responsible for activities such as swimming, climbing, or boating hold appropriate certifications like lifeguarding or specific safety training relevant to their roles.
Ongoing Education: Camp Story encourages and sometimes facilitates ongoing education and professional development for its staff, ensuring that their skills and knowledge are up-to-date. This may include workshops on new teaching methods, outdoor education, or special needs training.

Through a rigorous hiring process, comprehensive training, and a commitment to professional development, Camp Story ensures that its staff are not only capable and well-qualified but also passionate about providing a transformative camp experience for every camper.

Safety and Health in Camp Story

Safety Protocols and Procedures: Camp Story prioritizes the safety of all campers and staff by implementing rigorous safety protocols and procedures:

Activity Safety: Each activity at Camp Story is governed by specific safety rules, which are strictly enforced. Equipment is regularly inspected, and safety gear must be used where applicable, such as helmets for biking and climbing, and life jackets for water activities.
Emergency Drills: Regularly scheduled emergency drills ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures for fires, severe weather, and other potential emergencies.
Security Measures: The camp is equipped with security measures such as controlled access points and staff who are trained to ensure the safety of all campers and staff members 24/7.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Camp Story features an on-site health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses and, during peak sessions, a visiting doctor. This center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is prepared to stabilize more serious conditions until emergency services arrive.
Medication Management: The health center also manages medication distribution, ensuring that campers with prescriptions receive their medications at the correct times and in the proper dosages.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Story has a comprehensive emergency response plan that outlines specific steps to take in the event of various types of emergencies, from health crises to natural disasters.
Training: All staff members receive training in emergency response, including how to effectively use communication tools and coordinate with local emergency services.
Parental Communication: In the event of an emergency, Camp Story has a protocol for promptly informing parents and guardians, providing them with updates as the situation evolves and instructions if necessary.

These meticulous safety and health measures ensure that Camp Story can provide a secure and caring environment, allowing campers to focus on enjoying their experience while minimizing risks and effectively managing any potential emergencies.

Cost and Registration in Camp Story

Cost of Attendance: The cost of attending Camp Story varies depending on the length of the session and the type of program chosen. Generally, costs cover:

Accommodation: All lodging in cabins, tents, or dorms as applicable.
Meals: Three well-balanced meals per day, along with snacks.
Activities: Access to all activities, including specialized equipment and materials.
Supervision and Care: Continuous supervision by trained staff members.
Health Services: On-site medical care and medication management. Prices typically range from $450 for one-week sessions to $1,200 for two-week sessions, with full summer options costing more.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Online Registration: Parents can register their children online. This system allows for the submission of all necessary forms and health information.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot, as sessions tend to fill up quickly. Specific deadlines are posted online, usually several months before the start of the summer season.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: Camp Story offers flexible payment plans that allow families to pay in installments leading up to the start of the camp session. Details and schedules for these plans can be arranged with the camp’s administration office.
Refunds and Cancellations: A full refund is available up to a certain date, typically one month before the session starts. After this point, refunds may be partial or not available, depending on the timing and reason for cancellation.
COVID-19 Considerations: In response to potential health concerns, the camp has flexible policies to accommodate last-minute cancellations or changes due to public health guidance.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Camp Story offers a number of scholarships each year to families who demonstrate financial need. These scholarships can cover a significant portion of the camp fees.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available through various programs intended to ensure that all children have the opportunity to experience summer camp, regardless of economic background. Parents are encouraged to apply early, as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Camp Story’s inclusive approach to cost and registration ensures that as many children as possible can enjoy a summer filled with fun, learning, and adventure, regardless of their family’s financial situation.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Story

Packing List: To ensure campers are fully prepared for their time at Camp Story, the following items are recommended:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, sweaters, and rain gear. Include swimwear and a sturdy pair of hiking boots or shoes.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets depending on the camper’s preference, and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, water bottle, hat, sunglasses, and any necessary personal items.
Optional Items: Books, stationery, and a disposable camera (if parents wish for their child to have a device to capture memories without a smartphone).

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: Camp Story encourages a tech-free environment to help campers engage more fully with their surroundings and each other. Therefore, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is restricted during camp sessions.
Visitation: Parents are welcome to visit on designated visiting days, which are scheduled midway through longer sessions to allow campers to settle in and gain some independence.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow camp rules, show respect to peers and staff, and participate actively in scheduled activities. Failure to adhere to these guidelines may result in disciplinary actions, up to and including dismissal from camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

For Campers: Engage in all activities with an open mind. Camp is a great place to try new things and make new friends. Remember, everyone is a bit nervous at first, so you’re not alone!
For Parents: Prepare your child by discussing what camp will be like focusing on the fun and exciting activities planned. Establish communication expectations, such as letters or emails, depending on the camp’s policies. It’s also beneficial for parents to engage with camp staff beforehand to express any concerns or ask questions.

By adequately preparing for camp, both parents and campers can ensure a smooth transition and a memorable and enjoyable camp experience at Camp Story.

Camp Story stands out as a premier destination for youth looking to explore the outdoors, develop new skills, and make lasting friendships. With its beautiful location in Story, Wyoming, the camp offers a perfect backdrop for adventure and learning. The wide range of activities, from arts and crafts to science explorations and sports, ensures that every camper finds something to ignite their passion and curiosity.

The dedicated staff, comprehensive safety protocols, and well-maintained facilities provide parents with peace of mind, knowing their children are in a safe and nurturing environment. The flexible registration options, including scholarships and financial aid, demonstrate Camp Story’s commitment to making their programs accessible to all children, regardless of economic background.