WELCOME TO SLEEP-AWAY CAMP 2021 - Parent Information Book Thank You for Registering Your Camper - Girl ...
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WELCOME TO
SLEEP-AWAY CAMP 2021
Parent Information Book
Thank You for Registering Your Camper
gscnc·org¡camp
Revised 6/10/21
Get Connected, Get Ready, Get Excited!
You’re heading to camp!
Save the Date!
Webinar: Sleep Away Camp Orientation– Part 1 (Parents)
March 29, 2021 7PM – 8PM
Register here: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Ag0-7zjUSguzGQqhW52smw
Get Connected!
Join our closed parent Facebook pages for updates and to view limited photos of camp
this summer. To join, click on the link below for the camp your camper is attending and
answer the security questions (learn more on page 11).
Camp May Flather: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mayflathergscnc/
Camp Potomac Woods: https://www.facebook.com/groups/potomacwoods/
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Welcome‹to‹Sleep-Away Camp 2021!
Dear Parents & Guardians,
Thank you for registering your girl for a great camp experience with Girl Scouts of Nation’s Capital. A
summer adventure like no other is just around the corner for your camper. Nowhere else can a girl
experience as much fun, challenge, and excitement as they can at Girl Scout Camp!
We are so happy your camper will be attending camp with us this summer! We know that sending a
camper to camp in normal times can be both an exciting and stressful experience for parents, filled with
forms, dates, and packing lists. During this time of COVID-19, we ask for your patience as we adapt our
camp traditions to make sure our camp community stays safe and healthy. We are staying on top of the
latest updates and will be posting updates regularly. We are committed to making the lead up to camp
easier for you and dedicated to making your camper’s experience a memorable one.
We have put together this booklet to help prepare your family for camp and make your camper’s
experience safe, fun, and fulfilling. We expect that you read and share the information in this booklet with
your camper before camp. Please read through it carefully, as it contains answers to many of your
questions, and maybe even some you didn’t think to ask! If you have any questions when you are
through, please do not hesitate to reach out to us using the contact information below.
See you at camp!
General Camp Questions Campers with Special Needs Potomac Woods, Camp
camp@gscnc.org Denise Viau Director
202.534.3793/800.523.7898 Camping Services Manager Kelsey “Katniss” Hancock
camp@gscnc.org camppotomacwoods@gscnc.org
For Questions regarding: 202.274.3308/ 800.523.7898 202.274.3329/ 800.523.7898
• Online Registration ext.208 ext.229
• Changing Program/Session Camp Office: 703.777.1354
• Adding or changing Bus/Car May Flather, Camp Director (after June 1)
Transportation Emily “Sparrow” Reece
• Camp Forms campmayflather@gscnc.org
202.274.3305/ 800.523.7898 ext.
• Buddy requests
205
• Camp Payment or Refunds
Camp Office: 540.350.2112
• Financial Assistance (after June 1)
Contact our Customer Care at
registration@gscnc.org or
800.523.7898
Si necesita ayuda en Español
Beatriz Portillo
bportillo@gscnc.org
202.274.3335/ 800.523.7898 ext.
235
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2020 Sleep-Away Camp Parent Information/Confirmation Book
You’ve Registered for camp…. Now what? ....... 5 Specialized Health Form ........................................19
* Step 1: View your Confirmation and Balance Bringing Medication to Camp Form ........................ 19
Due ................................................................................ 5 Other Camp Forms: ................................................19
* Step 2: Review this book (with your camper) . 5 Camper Pick-Up Authorization: ............................... 19
* Step 3: Camp Forms ............................................. 5 Meet My Camper Survey: .......................................... 19
Next Steps...................................................................... 6 Supplemental Girl Scout Insurance – F.Y.I........ 20
Camp Information Webinars & Open Houses .... 6 Packing Medications to send to camp:.............. 20
Payment Information and Financial Assistance 6 Medicine Provided at Camp .................................. 21
Final Payment ............................................................ 6 Health Care at Camp ............................................... 22
Financial Assistance ................................................ 6 Health Check-in ....................................................... 22
Refunds and Cancellations ..................................... 6 Health Screening..................................................... 22
Camp and COVID-19 ...................................................... 8 Swim Test ................................................................. 22
Camp Communications ............................................ 9 Head Lice .................................................................. 23
Camp Phone Calls ..................................................... 9 Mosquito, Insect and Tick Safety........................ 23
Parents/Guardians will be contacted if ................... 9 Car Information: Drop Off & Pick Up at Camp ... 24
Bunk Notes (One Way Emails to Campers)........10 Car Drop-off (Sunday) & Car Pick-up (Friday)...... 24
Sending Mail to Camp ............................................. 11 Half-Week Sessions .................................................... 24
Mail to campers should be addressed as Camp Addresses and Directions ........................ 25
follows:........................................................................ 11 Potomac Woods ..................................................... 25
Parent Closed Facebook Groups.......................... 12 May Flather ............................................................ 25
Birthdays at Camp ..................................................... 12 Bus Information: ...................................................... 26
Preparing for Camp................................................... 13 Drop-off on Sundays............................................. 26
Parent Prep Tips ....................................................... 13 VA and MD Stops (Sunday) ....................................... 26
Camper Prep Tips .................................................... 13 Pick-up on Fridays ................................................. 27
“Be‹Prepared” - Preventing Home-Missing .......14 VA & MD Stops (Friday).............................................. 27
Typical Day at Camp ................................................. 15 Late Arrivals and Early Departures: .................. 28
Emergency Procedures ........................................... 15 Packing for Camp: .................................................... 28
Severe Heat and Thunderstorms ........................ 15 What NOT to Pack: ................................................. 28
Camp Facilities............................................................16 General Packing Tips: ........................................... 29
Weekend Accommodations ..................................... 16 Lost and Found: ...................................................... 29
Who are the Camp Staff?........................................16 Packing List ..................................................................... 30
Food at camp – YUM!................................................ 17 Specialty Packing List ............................................. 31
Camper Behavior .......................................................18 Frequently Asked Questions ................................ 32
Health and Wellness .................................................18 Camper Code of Conduct ...................................... 36
Health Forms..............................................................18 Camp Care Kit from Shop...................................... 38
Health Form .................................................................. 18
gscnc·org¡camp 4
You’ve Registered for camp…. Now what?
Camp is designed to be a fun place for campers, but sometimes getting ready for camp can be
stressful- for parents and campers. Now that your camper is registered to attend an exciting program of
Sleep-Away Camp, you may be asking yourself…What’s next?
We’re here to help! We have created the checklist below to help you and your camper be successful
as you get ready for your summer adventure.
* Step 1: Check your Online
Confirmation and Balance Due * Step 2: Review this book (with your
Receipt of this packet confirms your camper)
camper’s processed registration at Girl Scout This booklet will help to answer lots of your
Nation’s Capital Sleep-Away Camp. It is still questions and prepare you and your camper
important to log into your online account and for a great experience. If you are new to
confirm your program specific registration(s) camp, review it with your camper and talk
and balance due information. about what camp will be like. Even if you
• Camper balances are due by April 12, have been to one of our camps before, please
2021 or (if after that date) at the time of read through this book thoroughly as some
registration. things at camp will be different this summer.
• Your camper’s registration will be If any of your questions are not answered
cancelled if final payment is not here, please do not hesitate to contact us at
completed by April 12, 2020 unless you camp@gscnc.org.
have reached out to us about a payment
plan. * Step 3: Camp Forms - We will collect
the majority of camper’s forms ONLINE
How to access your camper’s online
through Campdoc.com!
order(s)/receipt:
• Log in to your account on our Event
By the end of March, you will receive an
Registration Site: (eBiz)
email from Campdoc.com with directions on
https://gsusa.ebiz.uapps.net/vp/Home.a
how to complete your camper’s forms online.
spx?pid=25
If you register after February, you will receive
• Under My Family, click on Family Order the email the week following your camp
History OR your camper’s name in your registration.
family roster.
• Your camper’s order(s) will be listed
*Please add @Campdoc.com to your
under Family Events.
approved sender, contacts or address book
• When you are ready to pay your balance, to ensure you receive this important invite.
click the Pay Now link next to the
amount that is owed and select the
checkbox next to the balance. Then
follow the screen prompts.
Please Note: Final Payment will include the
bus fee if you selected to have your camper
travel by bus. Questions, please email
registration@gscnc.org
gscnc·org¡camp
Next Steps
Camp Information Webinars
Webinar: Sleep Away Camp Orientation– Part 1 (Parents)
March 29, 2021 7PM – 8PM
Register here: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Ag0-7zjUSguzGQqhW52smw
Open Houses
These will allow all family members to discover all the fun and exciting things we have in store for our
camps, as well as an opportunity to meet the camp staff. The virtual tours will give you a chance to
“check out” camp before your sleep-away adventure begins! Join us for a chance to see it all – the dining
hall, sleeping units, activity areas, and more as you virtually explore the camp and meet the staff.
• Virtual Open Houses have been posted to the affiliated camp FB groups for families.
Payment Information and Financial Assistance
Final Payment
The balance of the camp fee, less the deposit, must be paid online by credit card on or before April 12,
2021. If you selected to have your camper travel by bus during registration, your final payment will
include the bus fee.
To pay your final Payment:
• Log in to your account on our Event Registration Site:
https://gsusa.ebiz.uapps.net/vp/Home.aspx?pid=25
• Under My Family, click on Family Order History OR your camper’s name in your family roster.
• Your camper’s order(s) will be listed under Family Events.
• Click the Pay Now link next to the amount that is owed.
• Select the checkbox next to the line that has a balance.
• Enter Credit Card information and click Process Payment.
• Order Summary page will be displayed when payment is made.
Financial Assistance
Apply for Financial Assistance using the link below if you have not already done so. About two weeks
after you apply, you will receive notification via email of the amount granted. For questions regarding
Financial Assistance, please contact registration@gscnc.org
Financial Assistance Application
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2021SleepAwayFA.
Refunds and Cancellations
The $50 deposit is non-refundable. The remainder of the camp fee (less the deposit) will be refunded if:
gscnc·org¡camp
• The camper withdraws registration and GSCNC receives a written request at least five weeks prior to
the start of the session.
• The camper leaves camp due to illness or injury and registration@gscnc.org receives written request
within two weeks of her return home. Refund will be pro-rated.
• If a program is cancelled and no alternate program is offered you will receive a full refund.
No other refunds will be given. If a camper leaves camp early due to home missing, parent request,
or camper behavior, there will be no refund.
If Council cancels in-person programming for summer 2021 due to Covid-19, registrants will
receive a full refund. Registrants will also be offered the opportunity to enroll in virtual camp
programming with supplies.
2021
Click here to
Download the
2021 Care Bag
form
gscnc·org¡camp 7Camp and COVID-19
In order to keep our campers and staff safe, Girl Scouts Nation’s Capital camps are staying on top of the
latest information and introducing new procedures at our camps. Camp staff will be utilizing non
pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs), such as handwashing, health screening, masks, and social
distancing, to mitigate COVID-19 cases. Updates will be posted to www.gscnc.org/sleepawaycamp at the
bottom of the page under COVID-19.
Before Arriving at Camp
Parents will complete a health screening form for their camper prior to the start of their camper’s
session. Stay tuned for more information on how this form will be completed. All campers will need to
meet the following health requirements to come to camp:
1. Negative molecular PCR COVID test results within 7 days, or camper vaccination card,
may be uploaded to CampDoc five days prior to camper check-in.
2. Symptom free of fever, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chills, muscle pain,
headache, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting.
3. No fever over 100 degrees within the last 48 hours without the use of fever reducing
medications.
4. Decreased risk of exposure within last 14 days
a. Have no known exposure to COVID-19 or been in close contact with anyone that has tested
positive.
b. Have not travelled outside of the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, or West Virginia.
*This is an error, there are no longer travel restrictions.
Camp staff will also undergo regular health screenings.
During Camp
Upon arriving at camp or the bus stop, campers will have a health screening. They’ll do a shorter health
screening each day at camp with their counselors. Campers will wear masks, wash hands regularly, and
social distance. Large group activities such as opening campfire or camp-wide games will be modified to
allow groups to social distance. Campers and staff will practice social distancing during meals and
groups may eat outside as the weather allows. High touch areas will be frequently cleaned.
Any campers showing symptoms or who learn of COVID-19 exposure after their session starts will be
quarantined until they can be picked up from camp. Staff showing symptoms or who have been
exposed will also be quarantined.
gscnc·org¡camp 8Camp Communications
Camp Phone Calls
Camp phones are turned on from early June to mid-August. Camp Directors and Camp Administrative
Staff are happy to talk with parents. While we are at camp 24 hours a day during the camp session, we
are not always near the phone. If you try to ring us and get the answering machine, please speak slowly
and leave us your name, your camper’s name, your phone number, and the best time to reach you. We
make every effort to return phone calls as soon as we can; however, we are actively involved in daily
camp life and our time in the office is short.
If you need to contact camp for any reason, please do so using the information provided below.
Camp May Flather Camp Potomac Woods
(540) 350-2112 (703) 777-1354
campmayflather@gscnc.org camppotomacwoods@gscnc.org
Camp is a very busy place. There is one telephone line to serve the office and for emergencies;
therefore, campers are NOT allowed to make or receive calls from parents. Please be assured that camp
will contact you if there is ever any concern about your camper’s health or well-being.
Parents/Guardians will be contacted in the following situations:
• If your camper spends the night in the infirmary, is ill/running a fever for an extended period, or
needs to see a doctor/visit the Emergency Room.
• If your camper’s behavior is a threat to themselves or others in the camp community.
• If a camper or staff member tested positive for a communicable disease at camp such as COVID-19
or Measles.
Parents/Guardians may be contacted:
• If the Health Supervisor has a question in regards to information supplied on your camper’s Health
History form (medications, chronic health conditions, etc.)
• If a camp staff person needs your assistance/support in regards to your camper’s well-being.
DO NOT SEND CELL PHONES - there is a no cell phone policy at camp. Cell
phones deter from your camper’s connection with nature and the camp
experience and increase home missing. All cell phones brought to camp
will be collected and kept in the director’s office until the camper returns
home. Other devices that connect to the internet, such as smartwatches, are
also prohibited.
gscnc·org¡camp 9Bunk Notes (One Way Emails to Campers)
Our partnership with Bunk1.com allows parents to send one-way emails to their campers for a small
fee. Some parents choose to use this with traditional mail. We do not participate in the photo or return-
email services at this time due to limited internet connections at camps. When you submit a bunk
note, it is sent to camp within 24 hrs.
Please do not send Bunk Notes on Friday as they will not be received until after your camper
has left camp.
• Go to www.Bunk1.com
⇒ RETURNING PARENTS will login using their email address and password.
⇒ NEW PARENTS will click “New here? Get Started” button and complete the form.
The Invitation Code for each camp is:
Potomac Woods: POTW21B1 May Flather: CMF21B1
• You will be prompted to select a bundle for access to your Parent Portal. Bundles include credits for
you to send Bunk Notes and enhance your notes with borders, photos, sports scores, and puzzles.
Sending Bunk Notes:
To send an email, you will need to purchase (by credit card) Bunk Note credits, then follow the
instructions. If you have campers attending different camps, you must create an account and
purchase Bunk Note credits for each camp.
Send Bunk Notes day or night! Your camp receives a PDF at 10AM EST each day containing all of
the Bunk Notes received in the last 24 hours. The camp then prints each Bunk Note and delivers
them to your camper with the regular mail. You can purchase more credits anytime in the Bunk
Notes Menu.
Why do I have to pay to send Bunk Notes? Each morning, the system sorts the emails for us to print
out and distribute, allowing us to easily manage emails. Your payment helps cover the cost of the
system, paper, ink, and labor, and frees us to be with the campers!
Can other relatives use these services? Yes! In your Quick Links you’ll select Invite Family
Members, enter their details and they will be sent an email. PLEASE NOTE this will prompt them to set
up their own account. It does not provide them access to your account OR your Bunk Note Credits.
Once you set up your account, you can invite others to access these services.
Bunk Notes Express If you purchase Bunk Notes Express you will receive a unique email address to
send your Bunk Notes directly from an email account. All family members can send notes to the
address and have them delivered to your camper as Bunk Notes. A credit is deducted from
your account for each note and you must have credits on your account to use this
feature.
What if I have questions or problems? The Bunk1 team is available to support you
7 days a week during the camp season. They guarantee a response within 24 hours
and it’s usually much quicker than that. Please call Bunk1 at 212-974-9112 or email
support@bunk1.com
GSCNC does not issue refunds for any unused Bunk Note credits.
gscnc·org¡camp 10Sending Mail to Camp Campers love to receive mail at camp!
Receiving mail at camp is one of our campers’ favorite activities, and the girls look forward to it each
day! Just like at home, mail is delivered to campers once daily– usually after lunch. To ensure that mail
arrives while your camper is at camp, we recommend sending it prior to your camper’s session or
bringing it to check in. Each camp has a special drop off location where you will be able to leave mail.
Mark each piece of mail with the day you would like it delivered to your camper (Tuesday, Wednesday,
etc.).
Remember to keep letters to your camper positive and cheerful. Ask questions about what your
camper is doing at camp, new friends she has made, and her counselors. Positive letters will help
to reduce home missing.
Please DO NOT include bad news about loved ones or missed family fun and activities while the
camper is at camp.
Make it easier for your camper to send letters home to you by sending them with pre-addressed,
stamped envelopes (current postage is $0.55). This does not guarantee that your camper will
actually write, though, as they often get caught up in the fun of camp!
Mail to camp is slow... All mail to campers should be mailed prior to the first day of the camper’s
session. It is not unusual for mail to take 3 or more days to arrive to camp.
Do not send ANY food or candy. Due to concerns for wildlife and camper allergies, any
food sent to your camper will be collected by camp staff and returned to parents at
check-out.
Mail to campers should be addressed as follows:
Camp May Flather Camp Potomac Woods
Camper’s Name Camper’s Name
Program and Session# Program and Session#
23 Camp May Flather Lane 13932 Potomac Woods Lane
Mt. Solon, VA 22843 Leesburg, VA 20176
Example:
Camp Potomac Woods
The Princess Pat
Artistas Session #4
13932 Potomac Woods Lane
Leesburg, VA 20176
gscnc·org¡campParent Facebook Groups - Parent Pages/ Closed Facebook Groups
We know that you are eager to hear about your camper’s experience, and that is why we’ve created a
Closed Facebook Group for each of our sleep-away camps.
What should you expect to see? These groups are one of the ways we can share reminders and notes
about camp activities, or alert you to any changes in a camp’s typical daily schedule such as cases of
extreme weather, storms, or heat. (You will always be contacted in case of emergency, using your
emergency contact information.)
A few photos from each week at camp will be posted. If you would like to see more photos from your
camper’s stay, we encourage you to send an inexpensive/disposable camera with your camper.
How can you join?
Click on the link for the camp that your camper is attending and answer the security questions.
Camp May Flather: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mayflathergscnc/
Camp Potomac Woods: https://www.facebook.com/groups/potomacwoods/
What does it mean to be a “Closed Facebook Group”?
What can people see?
o Anyone on Facebook can “search” for the group and see its name. Only members can see
posts or photos.
Who can see what members (approved guardians of campers) post in the group?
o Only current members in the group can see posts made to the group page. The posts may
appear in a group member’s news feed but will not appear on a friend’s or a non-
member's news feed.
Who can see photos, and can they be shared?
o Only approved members in the group can see photos posted. Photos may appear on a
member’s news feed but will not appear on a friend’s or a non-member's news feed. You
cannot share photos outside of the group.
Only council staff may post photos in Closed Group. Photos posted by members will be
removed. Only campers with photo releases will be posted in our Closed Group. Photo releases
can be found in Campdoc.com.
We look forward to providing you with a glimpse of camp life and will welcome your feedback after your
camper’s stay.
Birthdays at Camp
Each camp has a special way they celebrate birthdays. If your camper will be celebrating a birthday
while at camp, please note this on the Meet My Camper Survey or send the camp director an email
(see page 3 for emails).
Please feel free to contact the camp to learn more about their birthday celebrations. Please do not
include cakes, cookies, candy, or any other food items in the birthday packages – we cannot
serve the items due to food allergies.
gscnc·org¡camp 12Preparing for Camp
Parent Prep Tips
Camp is always a fun place for campers! Use these tips to help make sure it is also a fun experience for
you too.
We strongly recommend that new parents/guardians attend Camp Information Webinars
(see page 6).
Talk about camp with your camper & use these pages to learn more about daily camp life. Tell
your camper how much fun she will have at camp. Encourage her to always go to her counselors
if she has a problem or concern (see next page for more tips).
If your camper has never spent the night away from you before, try it out before camp so that
you both know what to expect.
Have fun getting ready for camp and try getting ready for bed only using a flashlight!
Encourage your camper to wash, comb, and care for her own hair. Help her find a hairstyle that
requires minimal care and pack supplies for her to use. Check your camper for head lice and nits
(see page 23).
Label all of the things that your camper is bringing to camp with her first and last name.
Help your camper pack for camp (don’t do it for her!) Encourage her to pack her own bags and
help chose the right items. If she packs her own bags, it’s more likely she’ll know where
everything is and be able to describe it if it gets misplaced.
Write a few letters that you can drop in the camp mail bag and share the camp address with
friends and relatives so that they can write her letters too (see page 10).
Check the times for drop-off at the bus or at camp (see pages 24-26).
Bring any medication for your camper to camp or the bus stop in the original container and in a
Ziploc bag labeled with the camper’s name, program, and session. Please do not pack any
medications in your camper’s luggage.
Attend an Open House to see camp and meet the staff! (see page 6).
Camper Prep Tips
Going to camp for your first time is a very exciting experience. Sleep-Away Camp allows your camper to
gain independence while being away from her family. Camp will offer her opportunities to grow and
develop in a safe environment.
Here are some ideas for helping your camper to prepare for her first experience.
Go outside at night in a natural setting to identify common sounds such as owls, crickets, frogs,
twigs breaking, and leaves rustling.
Explain to her the importance of drinking water while at camp. We encourage campers to drink
water throughout the day and carry a water bottle with them at all times.
Show your camper how to properly apply sunscreen and bug repellent. At camp, staff will help
guide your camper in putting on sunscreen and bug repellent.
Talk to your camper about trying new foods. While our menu is kid-friendly, our meals may be
different than at home. We have plenty of options to try new things at the table.
If your camper has never taken a shower, have her practice at home alone. Go over the supplies
she will have with her, so she feels comfortable knowing exactly what is in her bag.
gscnc·org¡camp Help your camper learn about daddy longlegs spiders. They are quite common at camp and
completely harmless. If she can identify a daddy longlegs, she will be able to help move them
away calmly.
Help your camper learn to take care of herself and her belongings on her own so that she will be
more comfortable and less likely to misplace things. For instance, have your camper practice
making her bed, separate dirty and clean clothing, and keep track of socks and shoes.
Write her first and last name on her belongings so she can keep track of them.
Prep together and “Be Prepared” - Preventing Home-Missing
Camp staff will do everything possible to make your camper’s stay at camp enjoyable. If your camper
misses home, camp staff will comfort her and help her join in activities. If they are unable to do so, you
will be contacted. We do not allow campers to call their parents as it usually increases home missing
and results in the camper going home and missing camp. If you have any concerns, you may always
contact the Camp Director.
Here are some tips to help reduce home-missing!
Watch the Camp Information Webinars with your camper.
Participate in a Virtual Open House held in June (see page 6).
Be honest when you are completing the Meet My Camper survey to help the staff be better
prepared to care for your camper.
Go over the important information about camp with your camper—some suggestions are below.
o Counselors sleep in a separate shelter but are available any time they are needed.
o There is limited electricity at camp, and they will need to use their flashlight to get around
at night.
o Potomac Woods and May Flather have a different type of toilet that does not flush—
latrines, but at camp we call them biffies.
o Most meals are served family style and there is always an alternate choice; just ask the
counselor at the table.
Tell your camper how they will be getting home from camp—will you be picking them up or will
they ride the bus?
Let your camper know that if they need anything during their stay at camp that they just need to
let a counselor know.
Reassure your camper that they will have a good time at camp. Talk about the fun activities she’ll
be able to do like swimming, arts and crafts, hiking, and cooking over a campfire. For more
specific information, look at the program description of the program she is attending.
Let your camper know that missing home is normal! Make a plan for what she will do if she is
sad, such as write a letter, draw a picture, or jump into activities.
gscnc·org¡camp 14Typical Day at Camp
7:00 AM: Rise & Shine! 12:30 PM: Lunch 6:00 PM: Dinner
7:45 AM: This summer some meals may be Groups will have the opportunity
Flag Ceremony outside. Groups may also opt for a to have at least one dinner in their
Groups take turns pack out lunch. unit over the campfire. Girls work
conducting the flag ceremony. 1:30 PM: Rest Time together to choose the menu and
Campers have a chance to write cook the food.
8:00 AM: Breakfast
home or do a quiet activity. 7:15 PM: Activities!
9:30 AM: Kapers Twilight hikes, star
“Kapers” are chores at camp. Girls 2:30 PM: Activities!
Depending on the gazing, campfires,
help by cleaning the all-camp activities, and more!
latrines, sweeping the shelter, program, this
collecting firewood, etc. can include many different things. 8:00-9:00 PM: Bedtime
Campers also help Bedtimes differ
10:00 AM: Activities! decide what activities they want to depending on the age of the
You may go swimming, hiking, do do. campers.
arts & crafts, or play games.
5:45 PM: 10 PM: Lights Out!
Flag Ceremony
Emergency Procedures
Severe Heat
At times during the summer, the camps may be affected by extreme heat. During those times, the
schedule may be altered with other activities so that girls are not in the direct sunlight during the hottest
part of the day. The activities could include more pool time, water games, indoor programs, or shaded
games. Staff will also encourage more sunscreen and increase water breaks.
Thunderstorms
Occasional storms may roll through the area during the summer. Each camp has a designated area
where they gather for severe storms. If thunder or lightning is observed, certain program activities are
postponed until the threat has passed. These activities include swimming, canoeing, kayaking, target
sports, and climbing activities.
Each camp practices emergency drills with their campers each week so they know what to do in an
emergency.
In the event of a weather-related or national emergency, the most up to date information will be
conveyed through Facebook and the following website: www.gscnc.org/camp.
gscnc·org¡camp 15Camp Facilities
Living Units
Each unit includes a unit house or shelter, fire circle, washstand, and platform tents or
screened glen shelters. All shelters house 4 campers, contain cots with mattresses
and mosquito netting, and small nightstands.
Glen shelters are located at all four camps. A glen shelter is a wooden structure with
four screened sides, a wooden roof, and floor. In the event of inclement weather, heavy
canvas curtains cover the windows to shield the inside.
Platform tents are found at Camp May Flather. They have wooden floors with a large
canvas tent secured over a wooden frame. There is an extra tarp, which acts as a
rain fly, over the top of the tent.
Counselors stay in a SEPARATE shelter within the unit that is marked with a light at
night.
Electricity - Units DO NOT have electricity. Campers bring and use their personal flashlight or lantern. At
night, the latrine and staff shelter are marked by lanterns or spotlights.
Other Facilities - Each camp includes a dining hall and kitchen, camp office, health center, arts and
crafts building, pool, and central shower house. To see pictures of the camp properties, visit these links:
https://bit.ly/CPWPhotos, https://bit.ly/CMFPhotos.
Campers will need to pack enough Weekend Accommodations
clothes for their entire stay at
camp, as our laundry facilities are There are no weekend accommodations available for campers
not large enough to accommodate unless they are registered for a two-week program at May Flather.
campers’ laundry. (Wet bedding will There are no exceptions, as there is no adult supervision available.
be discreetly washed and returned All CIT program participants and Junior Counselors must leave
to the camper’s bed.) camp on their weekend breaks; bus transportation is available.
Who are the Camp Staff?
Camp staff are enthusiastic, talented, and caring individuals, 18 years of age or older. We recruit both
regionally and from around the world, and carefully select staff based on maturity, program skills,
experience, and their ability to serve as role models. We believe that a diverse staff offers girls of all
ages the opportunity to meet people from near and far to learn more about people who are different
from them. Camp staff are excited about having lots of fun at camp and enjoy helping girls gain a better
understanding of themselves and their leadership potential.
We expect our staff to maintain high moral standards and act reasonably in all areas of their lives during
their time of employment. All staff members go through an extensive screening, which includes an
interview, references, and background checks. Chosen for their maturity, program skills, and experience
with children, they are required to attend an intensive pre-camp training session including safety,
activity planning, camper care, teambuilding, and much more. Staff members who supervise high-
adventure activities such as the pool, water sports, challenge course, archery, caving, and other areas
receive additional training and certifications.
gscnc·org¡camp 16All staff live on-site during the summer season, including the Health Manager, who is in residence at the
health center. Any male staff members in camp are given separate sleeping quarters in a part of the
camp that is away from camper sleeping areas.
Camp staff enjoy hearing from parents and campers about how much they enjoyed their time at camp.
However, policy prohibits camp staff from receiving gratuities (gifts, money, etc.) Your camper having a
great time at camp is “thank you” enough! If your camper would like to thank them for their time at
camp, they can write them a thank you letter. Everyone LOVES letters at camp!
Staff Camp Names – “Nicknames”
Ever wonder why the counselors at camp have such fun names? You may have noticed on page 3 that
our Camp Directors all have funny names. It’s a Girl Scout camp tradition that staff choose a “camp
name” for the summer. Even the founder of Girl Scouts, Juliette Gordon Low, had a camp name: “Daisy.”
A camp name is a nickname used at Girl Scout camp for several reasons. The relationship between
counselors and campers is a special one. Calling the counselors ‘Mrs.’ is too formal for the camp setting,
and counselors are advisors/teachers/helpers/guardians, and so calling counselors by their first names
is too familiar. Camp Names has proven to be a great way to handle the ‘what to call them’ question and
has now become a time-honored tradition. It also helps when we have two “Karens” or five “Amandas”
on staff...
Counselors choose names that remind them of things they like or places they’re from, or sometimes
just use a nickname from their own childhood. At camp, you may meet a Snickers, a Sunshine, a Boston,
or a Pumpkin Pie. Campers do not get to use camp names until they have completed their first
leadership programs. Please don’t be surprised when camp staff introduce themselves as “Skittles” or
“River.” When you call the camp the office, staff will always answer with their real name. On the last day
of camp, camp staff may reveal their first names to their campers.
Food at camp – YUM!
Our menus are planned with hungry, growing girls in mind and provide kid-friendly food based on
federal “My Plate” guidelines. Meals include favorites like pancakes or French toast, hamburgers,
chicken nuggets, pasta or rice, and tacos, as well as vegetables and fruits, and dessert.
If your camper doesn’t like the main meal being offered, healthy alternatives are also available. At
breakfast, each camp offers cold prepackaged/individual options of cereal, yogurt, and fruit in addition
to the main meal provided. At lunch and dinner, prepackaged salads and prepackaged PBJ sandwiches
(using a nut free peanut butter alternative) will be available. A vegetarian option is available at all meals.
To give girls experience cooking over a campfire in the out-of-doors, each camp provides girls the
opportunity to cook out one or two times a week.
Girls with special dietary needs— for personal, religious, or medical reasons— must note this
information in Campdoc.com on their health form. We will make every effort to meet special dietary
needs.
We encourage you to contact camp at least two weeks ahead of your camper’s session to discuss your
camper’s dietary needs.
If you have any questions about menus or food allergies please contact camp@gscnc.org.
gscnc·org¡camp 17Camper Behavior
The camp staff will do everything possible to help girls adjust to camp life. However, Girl Scouts
Nation’s Capital reserves the right to send home from camp any girl who is disruptive, presents
a safety concern, medical risk, or engages in behavior that is detrimental to herself, others or
the camp program.
Bullying is one type of unsuitable behavior that is not tolerated at Girl Scout camp. Girl Scouting builds
girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. Bullying behaviors are
those that are meant to provide repeated direct harm either emotionally or physically to a single or
small group of campers. Camp staff are trained to recognize and halt bullying in its many forms,
including physical and emotional.
Unfortunately, bullying can be subtle, and often occurs when the counselors are looking in the other
direction or working with another camper. Talk with your camper before she comes to camp and tell her
that if she sees any of these behaviors going on either to her or another camper that she should tell her
counselor immediately. Counselors
are happy to help and are trained to
handle these situations with
Please remind your camper that her counselors are discretion.
there for her. Encourage her to ask her counselors if Any camper who engages in
she needs help and to talk with them if she is feeling bullying may be subject to
sad, sees anything that makes her uncomfortable or disciplinary action up to and
has any issues while at camp. We want to help your including early dismissal from
camper have a wonderful camp experience! camp. A parent/guardian is
responsible for picking her up.
Please review the Camper Code of Conduct with her on page In this situation, no refund will
32 in preparation of camp be given.
Health and Wellness
Health Forms
We use Campdoc.com to collect Camper Health Forms. By the end of March, you will receive an email
from Campdoc.com with a unique link to create an account for your camper and directions on how to
complete your camper’s forms online. If you register after March, you will receive the email the week
following your registration for camp.
*If your camper attended sleepaway camp in 2018 or 2019, you will be able to use your same account.
Please carefully review the information and make any required updates & changes.
*Please add @Campdoc.com to your approved sender, safe sender, contacts, or address book to ensure
you receive this important information.
Health Form
Every camper must have a Health Form completed online by a parent/guardian giving accurate and
timely information about your camper’s health. Your camper’s registration may be cancelled if her
health form is not completed online by June 1, 2021.
gscnc·org¡camp 18• Health Forms can be updated on Campdoc.com up to three weeks before your camper comes to
camp.
Specialized Health Form
If your camper has an EpiPen, inhaler or has diabetes, the appropriate Specialized Health Form must be
printed, signed by a physician and parent/guardian, and uploaded to Campdoc.com. This form must also
be completed by June 1, 2021.
Bringing Medication to Camp Form
If your camper will be bringing any medication to camp, an additional form is required & must be
brought to camp. This includes prescription medications as well as over-the-counter medications,
vitamins, and supplements.
Health Form Break Down
Due Form Who Completes
June 1 Health Form All campers
Specialized Health Form (Asthma, EpiPen, Campers with Epi-Pen, Inhaler, or
June 1
Diabetes) Diabetes
Negative PCR COVID Test results
Within 5 days
- Or - All campers – upload to CampDoc
of arrival
Camper COVID Vaccination Card
Campers bringing any medications to
At Camp Bringing Medication Form
camp
Other Camp Forms:
In addition to collecting health information online through Campdoc.com, we will also be collecting
other camper forms to help us ensure your camper has a wonderful and safe camp experience.
This year we will also be collecting for all campers:
• Pre-Camp Self Screening COVID-19 Form:
This form is to be completed prior to a camper’s arrival at camp. This form will allow campers
and parents to track any potential COVID-19 symptoms. Campers exhibiting any COVID-19
symptoms in the two weeks prior to their arrival at camp will not be allowed to come to camp
and a full refund will be granted. This form will be sent with instructions 2-3 weeks prior to
camp.
Camper Pick-Up Authorization:
In Campdoc.com, please provide the name of adults authorized to pick up your camper. We will
only release campers to those listed, so remember to list parents’ names as well. We will be
cross checking the name with Photo Identification, so please use their legal name, even for
Grandma and Grandpa. This form should be completed through Campdoc.com.
gscnc·org¡camp 19 Meet My Camper Survey:
This form has sections to be completed by both parent/guardian and the camper. Please take
some time to fill out the Meet My Camper Survey with as much detail as possible. This form
collects specific information that will help camp staff better understand your camper, and ensure
she has a great time at camp. Please complete this form fully to ensure your camper is cared for
in the best way possible and staff understand and anticipate her needs. This OPTIONAL form
can be completed via Survey Monkey at
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/meetmycamper21
Supplemental Girl Scout Insurance – F.Y.I.
GSCNC arranges for secondary accident and sickness coverage for girls while they are
attending camp.
When $130 in benefits has been paid for a covered medical or dental expense, any subsequent benefits
for the same accident or sickness will be payable only for: (a) expense incurred which is not
compensable under any other insurance policy or service contract; or (b) expense incurred for charges
not covered under a contract with a Health Maintenance Organization, Preferred Provider Organization
or prepaid health care program, for service or treatment performed or supplies furnished.
Any fees not covered by insurance will be the responsibility of the Parent/Guardian of the camper.
Sickness must be contracted, and treatment started during the camp program in order for subsequent
medical expenses to be honored.
Accident treatment must begin within 30 days after the date of the accident, which occurred during the
camp program.
Dental injuries are covered for up to $4,000 for treatment and/or replacement of sound, natural teeth.
Only the medical expenses incurred within one year from the date of the accident or sickness will be
reimbursed. The amount shall not exceed a total of $15,000 for any one accident, or $10,000 for any one
sickness.
For questions or more details, please contact: Angela Baker at abaker@gscnc.org.
Packing Medications to send to camp:
If your camper will be bringing medication to camp (including over the counter and prescription
medications), they must be turned in during the check-in process. All medications, except for
Emergency medications must be stored in the camp Health Center and administrated under medical
supervision. Emergency medications are kept with a counselor, in the unit first-aid kit, and with the
camper at all times.
**If your camper will be bringing medication to camp, an additional form must be
completed online, and a copy brought to camp.
Camp Potomac Woods and May Flather
The bringing medication to camp form must be completed online by a parent/guardian, printed,
and brought to camp with the camper medications.
What’s considered a medication? Medications include any substance a person takes to
maintain and/or improve their health including: all prescription medications, all over-the-counter
medications, vitamins, supplements, medicated creams, anti-itch cream, anti-bacterial cream
gscnc·org¡camp 20(Neosporin), anti-fungal creams, cough drops, throat lozenges, glucose tablets, oral contraceptives.
Sunscreen and bug spray may be packed in your camper’s luggage.
Prescription Medications
By law, all prescription medications must be brought to camp in their original containers, with a
pharmacy label that includes prescription number, date filled, prescribing physician’s name, name of
medication, directions for use, and the patient’s name. If your camper has a prescription for a new
medication, at least one dose must be given to the camper at home before bringing the new medication
to camp.
Over-the-counter Medications
All over-the-counter medications must be in the original container. Please write the camper’s name on
the box or bottle and indicate if the medicine is taken daily or as needed. For “as needed” medications,
be specific as to what symptoms warrant administration. Staff cannot dispense medication for reasons
or in doses other than indicated on the container, unless with a written physician’s order.
• Do not pre-dispense or use a daily pill holder, wrap in outer materials, or ask to dispense
medications in ways other than the doctor’s orders, or as indicated. Expired medications,
prescription medications not in their original container, or over-the counter medications in an
opened container will not be dispensed at camp.
• Medication times are directly after breakfast and lunch, before dinner, and at bedtime, unless
otherwise directed.
Medicine Provided at Camp
Each Health Center stocks the following over-the-counter medications which are used on an as needed
basis to manage unexpected minor illnesses and injuries that occur while at camp.
Acetaminophen (i.e. Tylenol) Tums/chewable child Pepto Bismol
Anti-inflammatory (i.e. ibuprofen) Antiseptic throat spray
Diphenhydramine antihistamine/allergy Antibiotic cream
medicine (i.e. Benadryl) Medicaine swabs
Guaifenesin cough syrup (decongestant and Orasol Gel (for gum, mouth, or cold sore pain)
suppresses cough combine to prevent pneumonia) Epsom salt
Throat/cough lozenges Saline nose drops
Anti-fungal cream Burn gel
Aspirin Free Analgesic Ointment Saline eye drops/wash
Calamine/Caladryl lotion Nasal Decongestant Spray
1% hydrocortisone cream
*If your camper takes any of these medications daily, please supply and follow the directions for over-
the-counter medications as described in the “bringing medications to camp” section. First aid kits
brought by campers will be collected and kept with counselors or at the health center
depending on contents.
Do not pack medications in your camper’s luggage!
How to pack medication(s) for camp:
1. Make sure all medications are in their original containers and that over-the-counter medications are in
unopened containers.
2. Complete and print the medications form from Campdoc.com.
3. Fold this form in half and place it in with all medications in a large clear
“Ziplock” bag labeled with your camper’s name and program information.
4. Bring this “Ziplock” bag to camp or the bus stop and give it directly
to camp staff collecting it at check-in. gscnc·org¡camp 21Health Care at Camp
Each camp has a Health Manager who is responsible for the health needs of campers and staff.
In the event that a Health Center staff member determines that health care outside of camp is
necessary, you will be contacted to pick up your camper. Campers may return to camp during their
session or for a session later in the summer, space permitting and with permission of the Health
Manager.
In the event of an emergency, emergency medical services will be called, and you will be contacted.
If your camper needs to visit the health center, you will receive written documentation of the cause and
treatment when you pick up your camper at the end of her stay
The health and safety of every camper is our �rst priority. We meet or exceed standards set by GSUSA
and the state in which the camp is located.
Hydrated Campers are
Health Check-in
Happy Campers
During check-in for camp, you will be asked to visit with the Many campers aren't used to being
health staff to turn in all medications (please see page 21-22 outdoors in the summer heat for long
for more information). If you camper has a food allergy, we periods. Our staff make sure
will also ask you to check in with the health staff. We campers are all taking frequent water
encourage you to speak with our health staff about any breaks and drinking water at every
concerns that you have about your camper’s health during meal. You can help by getting your
her stay at camp. camper in the habit of carrying a
water bottle throughout the day and
encourage her to take sips of water,
Health Screening always avoid chugging!).
Upon arrival at camp or the bus stop, all girls will receive a
health screening by trained staff to check for signs of COVID-19 or other communicable disease that
could prevent your camper from having a successful camp experience or spread to others. If it is
determined by health staff that she may not stay at camp, she may return to camp during her session
or for a session later in the summer, space permitting and with permission of the Health Manager.
Campers will also do a daily health screening to monitor for COVID-19 symptoms.
Swim Test
All campers have a short swim test before entering the pool’s middle and deep areas. Each camp has
different criteria that campers must meet based on activities, pool size & capacity – all with the intent to
keep your camper safe and having a great time. A color-coded system is utilized to provide lifeguards
with a quick visual reference of each girl’s swimming ability. There is no pass or fail for the swim “tests.”
This is just a chance for girls to show camp aquatic staff how comfortable they are in the water and how
well they swim. It doesn’t matter how old they are or how well they swim; we just want to keep our
campers safe and help them have a good time at the waterfront.
gscnc·org¡camp 22Head Lice
We strongly suggest you check your camper for head lice and nits (eggs) a few days prior to the start
of their camp session.
Head lice are more common in the warm summer months, are highly contagious, very hard to find, and
symptoms vary, so you or your camper may not even be aware that she has them.
You may treat your camper and all of her belongings, remove all nits, and return to camp the next day to
be re-checked. GSCNC camps have a ‘no nit’ policy, because head lice are highly contagious. All
nits must be removed before returning to camp. This is for the health and safety of all campers and
staff.
If you find head lice or nits, please treat your camper and her belongings, and remove all
nits before bringing her to camp. Upon arrival at camp, each camper will be checked for
head lice and nits.
If head lice or nits are found, your camper will not be allowed to stay at camp, and
you will be asked to take her home or pick up your camper if she arrived by bus.
Resources:
The website below contains information about how to check for lice, how to treat lice, how to remove
nits, what products to use, how to treat your home and more.
http://www.headlice.org/faq/questions.htm
http://headlicecenter.com/identifying-head-lice/
http://www.parents.com/kids/health/head-lice/what-nits-and-lice-look-like/
Ten tips for head lice and nit removal: http://www.headlice.org/downloads/tipsremoval.htm
Mosquito, Insect, and Tick Safety
We encourage the use of bug spray at our camps. When campers are changing, we ask them to do a
“tick check” to look for ticks in common areas. While our staff carefully observe campers for ticks,
please teach your camper the important places to check for ticks yourself too, and double check when
she returns home at the end of the week. If a tick is found on your camper, it will be noted on the health
notes sent home at the end of each week. To help reduce the likelihood of bites at night, all campers
sleep inside a mosquito/bug net when in their glens or platform tents.
To help protect your camper from ticks, consider pretreating her socks, shoes, and other
clothing items with permethrin. Pretreating clothing and shoes with permethrin spray (usually lasts
for up to 6 weeks) prevents mosquito bites and tick attachment.
https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2018/07/09/625459326/to-repel-ticks-try-spraying-your-
clothes-with-a-pesticide-derived-from-mums
https://tickencounter.org/prevention/permethrin
gscnc·org¡camp 23Car Information: Drop Off and Pick Up at Camp Potomac Woods
Full-Week Sessions (All Camps)
Times‹subject‹to‹change
Car Drop-off (Sunday) Car Pick-up (Friday)
2:00 - 5:00 PM 3:00 - 6:00 PM
You will check in, then you and your camper will go
The person picking up your camper must have a
to several stations including:
Photo ID and be listed on the Camper Authorized
• Check-in/ paperwork table
Pick-up Form (including parents/guardians). You will:
• Luggage drop-off
• Sign out your camper
• Medication drop-off
• Pick up all medications
• Health screening
• Pick up all luggage - Check that your camper
• Mail drop (usually check in table)
has all her bags – including the dirty clothes
bag, bedding, and camper care kit (if ordered).
Please be sure to list a current phone number and email on your camper’s health forms.
We use this number to contact you if you are running late to camp or to the bus stop. We will
make every attempt to contact you for one hour after pick-up time. If we have not heard from
you within one hour of pick up time, we will contact local authorities.
Half-Week Sessions:
Potomac Woods
Times‹subject‹to‹change
Half-Week Session (Sun-Tues) Half-Week Session (Wed-Fri)
Check-in: Sunday, 2:00– 5:00 PM Check-in: Wednesday, 1:00-2:00 PM
Pick-up: Tuesday, 1:00-2:00 PM Pick up: Friday, 3:00 - 6:00 PM
There is no opportunity for you to tour the camp during drop-off or pick-up.
Please plan to attend a Virtual Open House (page 6).
Campers of legal age are not permitted to leave their vehicles at camp.
gscnc·org¡camp 24You can also read
