FAQs
Before Camp
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Students will turn in their phones at the beginning of the week, and phones will be securely stored throughout camp so students can fully engage in the experience without distractions. If you need to reach your student during the week, you can contact either the Young Life leader traveling with your student or the camp directly. All emergency and contact phone numbers will be provided before departure.
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Students must complete all required Young Life registration and health forms before departure. Additional forms or information may be needed for medications, allergies, or specific medical concerns.
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The packing list and final trip details will be sent out at least two weeks before departure.
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Students should not bring drugs, alcohol, nicotine products, weapons, expensive valuables, or anything that could distract from the safety and experience of the week.
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Students may bring small personal snacks if desired, though camp provides meals and snack options throughout the week.
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Camp is largely all-inclusive once students arrive. Most students bring somewhere between $50–$150 for snacks, merchandise, or optional treats, though some bring less and are completely fine.
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Yes. We never want finances to be the reason a student misses camp. Scholarships (often called camperships) are available for families who need financial assistance.
Transportation & Travel
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Departure location is still TBD, but it will be somewhere in the South Bay. Final details will be sent before camp.
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We will primarily travel by coach bus, with additional screened adult drivers and vehicles if needed. Safety is a major priority from departure to return home.
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Return times vary depending on travel conditions and camp location. Families will receive updates and estimated arrival times as we travel home.
Safety & Supervision
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Boys and girls stay in separate sleeping areas, and Young Life leaders stay in cabins/rooms with students throughout the week.
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All Young Life volunteer leaders and staff complete background checks and go through Young Life’s screening and training process before serving with students.
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Young Life leaders remain actively present with students throughout the week, including meals, activities, Club, cabin time, and free time.
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Students are encouraged to speak with their Young Life leader or camp staff if they feel uncomfortable, unsafe, overwhelmed, or need support in any way.
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Students are expected to follow camp rules, respect leaders and other campers, and participate appropriately throughout the week.
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If a student significantly violates camp rules or creates an unsafe environment for themselves or others, parents/guardians may be contacted and arrangements may need to be made for the student to return home early.
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No. Students are expected to remain on camp property for the duration of the trip unless there is an emergency or special circumstance coordinated through Young Life staff and parents.
Health & Medical Care
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Each Young Life camp has trained medical staff on site and established emergency procedures. Important contact information will be provided before departure.
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Every Young Life camp has trained medical staff on site. Parents/guardians will be contacted if needed.
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Prescription medications are collected at check-in and managed by trained medical professionals throughout the week. Students may keep emergency medications like inhalers or EpiPens on their person when necessary.
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Young Life camps work hard to accommodate common dietary needs and food allergies. Please include all dietary and medical information on camp health forms.
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Yes. Please communicate any medical, emotional, behavioral, or learning needs ahead of time so we can partner with families and camp staff to support your student well.
Cabin Life & Daily Experience
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Most days include meals together, group games and activities, free time, Club sessions, cabin time, and optional recreation.
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Activities vary by camp, but may include swimming, sports, ropes courses, zip lines, waterfront activities, climbing walls, and camp-wide games.
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Yes. While camp schedules are full and active, students also have scheduled free time each day to relax, hang out, or rest.
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Yes. Students will have access to private restroom and shower facilities throughout the week.
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Cabin groups are typically organized by gender, grade, school/community connections, and overall group dynamics.
We do our best to place students with friends and peers from their school or community whenever possible
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It’s very normal for students to feel homesick at some point during the week. Leaders intentionally check in on how kids are doing and help students feel supported and connected.
Faith & Young Life Culture
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Young Life camp is designed to give students a chance to step away from everyday pressure, have ridiculous amounts of fun, build real friendships, and explore faith in an environment where they are deeply known and cared for.
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Absolutely. Young Life camp is designed for every student, including those who are curious, skeptical, unsure what they believe, or simply attending with friends.
Yes. Students are never forced to participate in spiritual conversations, and we strive to create space where students can ask honest questions and explore at their own pace
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Many students come to camp for the first time not knowing many people. Leaders work hard to create an environment where students feel welcomed and connected quickly.
We are genuinely honored that you are trusting us with your student for the week. Young Life camp has been a meaningful and life-shaping experience for many students over the years, and we’re excited for what’s ahead. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any additional questions.