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Camp Guide
NEW THI
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Table of Contents A Word from Our CEO • Welcome Campers! • Campership (financial assistance)
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A Letter from Your Camp Directors • Friendships Forged at Camp
Girl Scout Camp helps develop important life skills and positive characteristics.
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All About Camp 4–5 • Get to Know Camp & Staff • Help Us Help Your Camper • Registration Notes • Online Registration • Ultra Camp (replacing Camp Docs) • Care Kits and Trading Posts • Cell Phone Policy Camp Schedule
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The Life of a Girl Scout Camper • General Camp Overview • Preparing for Independence • Tried and True Camp Traditions • Girl Scout Leadership Experience
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Camp Themes • Camp Age Levels and Cost • NEW—Offsite Overnight
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Friends and Family Camp + Troop Camp
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Leadership Programs • Day Camp Leadership Program • CIT, CIT II • Intern
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Speciality Camps and Camp Employment 15 • Camp Fury • Quantum Quest • Work at Camp! Camp Readiness Quiz Properties, Contact Information
16 Back Cover *Source: Girl Scout Research Institute, "From Girl Scout Camp to Real-World Champ" (2019)
A Word from Our CEO Greetings Campers and Families, Who is ready to camp together and grow forever this summer? I know I sure am, and I am filled with great delight and anticipation as I know there is so much joy to be had and memories to be made. Camp is a fun, magical, and adventure-filled time. Both our camp offerings—Hacienda Day Camp and Camp Whispering Pines—encourage excitement, sisterhood, and exploration for all. Each year, our team thoughtfully curates new experiences to ensure you have the summer of your dreams—one where you try new things, make friends, swim, hike, canoe, try your hand at archery, and take on high-adventure challenges such as rock and tree climbing. I hope that you, too, look forward to dirty faces, messy hair, and of course, the best sleep ever—all signs of a day well spent. And it goes deeper than that! At camp, you can discover a close-knit community built upon strong relationships and confidence-building activities, which allows you to discover who you are and who you can become. A lifetime of memories and friendships await you. Disconnect from tech and connect with your camp besties, as you camp together and grow forever! Cheers,
Kristen García-Hernandez "Heels"
Camp is for EVERY Girl Scout! As part of our dedication to investing in Girl Scouts' leadership, our council makes campership funds available to support all members who need financial assistance. Camperships may be granted for half-cost of one in-person camp session, and will not cover late registration fees or add-ons, if applicable. All information provided is confidential. Your Girl Scout must be (or become) a registered Girl Scout to apply for financial assistance and to attend camp. Campership requests will be processed as quickly as possible, and your nonrefundable deposit will hold your Girl Scout's spot. Please make sure that you register at least two weeks prior to the camp to guarantee on-time delivery and understand that processing time will vary based on number of applicants. This form must be completed by a caregiver (troop leaders are not permitted to submit this form for their troop members).
Scan the QR code to apply for a campership today.
A Letter from Your Camp Directors This year, we uplift the theme that has been a camp constant—“Camp Together, Grow Forever” We are beyond excited to welcome you and your friends to Camp this summer, and for our returning campers, we can’t wait to welcome you home! Here, friendships are nurtured, memories are created, and bonds are forged that will last a lifetime. As you’re exploring and seeking adventure together, you’ll find that growth and self-discovery are at the heart of the experience. Every sunrise brings a fresh opportunity to learn, to adapt, and to become a better version of yourself in our supportive camp community. Camp is not just about making friends and having fun; it's a journey of self-improvement, where you'll leave with newfound confidence, skills, and a sense of achievement. Here, friendships are not just made; they're woven into the very fabric of your being, leaving you with lifelong ‘besties’ for wherever you may roam.
Meet Your Camp Directors
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"Pixie"
"Cupcake"
Sequoia Smith she/her Day Camp Director ssmith@girlscoutssoaz.org
Caity Martin she/her CWP Camp Director cmartin@girlscoutssoaz.org
kaylie
allie
best f forevriends er
Friendships Forged at Camp On the first day of camp in 2007, during CIT check in, 15-year-old Kaylie and 15-year-old Allie somehow knew they were about to begin a lifelong friendship. They had met the year before, during Program Aide (PA) camp in 2006, but were bonded forever as Counselors in Training (CIT’s) being the only two CIT’s to stay for the entire summer. Here's what they had to say about their experience: “Despite growing up in Girl Scouting, neither of us had ever met a peer who was as passionate about camp as we were. The comradery made us fast friends, but the night we ‘snuck out*’ to push each other around camp in the giant luggage wheelbarrows sealed the friendship in stone. We made so many memories that summer. We hiked the old trails during our breaks to learn about each other’s lives, and we scream-sang rock songs down the mountain at the end of each week.” – Kaylie “That summer we were just on the cusp of adulthood. In the years to come, we had the friendship foundation to support each other through new, grown-up challenges. We’ve seen each other’s first loves and first heartbreaks. We’ve been friends through every graduation, every new apartment, and every single job the other has had. We stood beside each other on our wedding days, and now we’re in the trenches of raising our own daughters together. There’s a lot of unknowns at camp. You may not know which unit you’ll sleep in or what you’re having for dinner tomorrow, but we know for a fact that the magic of sisterhood is alive and well at Camp.” – Allie *Sneak-Outs are a treasured CIT tradition planned in tandem with counselors for a night CIT’s will never forget!
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All About Camp We have two incredible camp properties that offer so much more than just songs, games, crafts, camp activities, and spending time in nature. It’s all that PLUS the confidence that comes from trying new things, helping others, and building lifelong friendships. Camp helps our Girl Scouts build resilience, and confidence, and learn how to build healthy communities. Our trained and caring staff members support Girl Scouts ages 5-17 in discovering who they are and what they can become. Our engaging and experiential programs are designed with age in mind, and we empower campers to choose what activities they are interested in! Our programs support campers to grow their passions and take healthy and ageappropriate risks in a supportive environment. If you’re not a Girl Scout yet, you can always join during registration for Camp.
Registration Notes •
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See you this sum
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Get to Know Camp & Staff We can’t wait to meet you! In the week before camp starts, make sure to follow along on our social media to learn more about the Camp Staff, and check out our camp properties via online tours on our website!
Help Us Help Your Camper On the Health History form you will be provided, please include dietary needs, health care and emotional needs, physical or developmental needs, or behavioral needs. Together we can discuss the nature of your camper’s needs to determine the best way to support your Girl Scout and ensure a safe and successful camp experience.
For help or questions about camp registration, reach out to us at customercare@girlscoutssoaz.org 4
March 1—Registration for 2024 Camp opens. Register before March 15 for the $20 early bird discount Girl Scouts who sell 900+ boxes of Girl Scout Cookies can select to receive a FREE session of Day Camp! Girl Scouts who sell 2024+ boxes can select to receive a FREE session of Overnight Camp Registration stays open until a session is full, at which point a waitlist is offered A $50 non-refundable deposit is due for all camps, at the time of registration We believe that every Girl Scout should have a chance to camp! Visit our Financial Assistance form (mentioned on pg. 1) to apply for camp scholarships
Online Registration Visit www.girlscoutssoaz.org and go to the camp page to begin the registration process. After completing your registration, and paying the $50 deposit, you will receive a confirmation email. For camper health, we utilize another software system. You will receive an automated email to submit your camper's health history information prior to camp. After registration, and prior to camp, we will email you a packing list, information about checking in and out, and all the information you will need to prepare for camp. Requests for a refund must be received, via email, 14 days before the first day of camp. $50 deposits are non-refundable.
NEW THIS SUMMER—Ultra Camp We’ve made a switch this camp season! In effort to ensure campers’ information is as secure as possible, and to streamline our registration process, we have partnered with Ultra Camp. Because of this, you may notice that some of the forms and authorizations we ask you to fill out prior to camp will look a little different. In Ultra Camp, you will be providing essential information including your camper’s health history, emergency contacts, and any necessary accommodations. We use this information to provide the best camp experience possible for our campers, while keeping them safe and cared for. You will still be registering and paying for your child’s spot at camp on our normal site, just make sure to keep an eye on your email inbox for additional instructions after registering. We thank you for your patience and understanding as we make this exciting change!
Care Kits and Trading Post Camper Care Kits are specially packed bags to use at camp and take home after as a memento. They are available at time of registration for $35 and are distributed to campers shortly after arrival. Other fun items are available at the camp Trading Post. Cash, Credit Card, and Girl Scout Cookie Dough are all acceptable forms of payment at Trading Post. Water bottle, plush toy, journal with pen— all inside a cute drawstring backpack! Items pictured are subject to change depending on availability.
Cell Phone Policy All of our camps follow a no cell phone policy to ensure Girl Scout safety and inclusion in our camp spaces. This means that visible cell phones will be collected by camp staff, powered down, and held until checkout for safekeeping. This policy may apply to other technology or devices if it is deemed a safety issue or a distraction to group activities. If your Girl Scout uses technology as an assistive device, please make a note of this in your camper's health history to ensure we have the best support in place. We welcome adult campers’ use of cell phones for photos, but reliable cellular service is rare at camp. 5
Angel's Charity for Girls
NEW THIS YEAR
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Hacienda Day Camp
The Life of a Girl Scout Camper
Experience the Southern Arizona desertscape like never before at our Hacienda Day Camp! Nestled near Sabino Canyon, Day Campers can soak up the sun while taking a dip in our junior Olympicsized swimming pool or visit the pond for an up-close look at aquatic wildlife and lush native vegetation. Our surrounding air-conditioned buildings provide even more space for friendship and fun where Girl Scouts can learn new skills and express their creativity in a safe and comfortable environment. This camp is perfect for first-time campers looking to try their hand at slingshots, become stronger swimmers, and grow their confidence in a fast-paced fun-filled day. Seasoned campers can further hone these skills with additional advanced activities like archery and perfecting their leadership skills as Program Aides. Campers are grouped by age but will all participate in camp-wide activities like themed scavenger hunts, GaGa ball tournaments, and Girl Scout-led festivities.
Camp Whispering Pines (CWP)
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Escape the heat and head up Mount Lemmon to our Camp Whispering Pines property! We love to welcome Girl Scouts ages 9 to 17 to our sixteenacre site and hope they leave with a deepened sense of independence, problem-solving, and selfconfidence. Campers are sure to enjoy our archery range, low ropes course, art shack, and more! Our oldest Girl Scouts can be ready to canoe, climb trees on our high ropes element, and participate in our Counselor-in-Training programs. Campers are grouped by age, but will all participate in camp-wide activities like campfires, theme-night parties, and delicious meals. Camp Whispering Pines also hosts troop camping and family camping weekends throughout the Summer, so you can bring the crew and let us take care of activities and meals, and all of the camp fun!
Girl Scout Leadership Experience through Camp
Preparing for Independence Caregivers, as you assist your campers in preparing for summer camp, please involve them in the process. •
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Work with them to pick their camp session, to create plans, and to pack. These opportunities allow Girl Scouts to cultivate independence and selfsufficiency. Camp is a unique space for Girl Scouts to learn valuable life skills. Help your camper prepare for their time at camp by creating a plan if they are missing home. We find that things like talking with a counselor, writing and receiving a letter, and looking forward to the new adventures at camp work well! Girl Scouts at Camp Whispering Pines are encouraged to write letters home and can receive letters from caregivers that are given to staff at check-in, or sent at least 2 weeks ahead of the camp session. Send your camper with addressed, stamped envelopes, stationery and a pen so that everything is ready for them to write home. Encourage your campers to self-advocate. Teach them the importance of sharing their needs. Our staff want your campers to have the best experience possible, and we ask them to tell us when or where they need more support.
Thank you for your engagement and support in ensuring your Girl Scout is camp-ready. Take the Camp Readiness Quiz at the end of this guide if you're unsure!
Here are just a few ways the camp benefits Girl Scouts through the Leadership Experience: •
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Helping campers build important socioemotional and leadership skills they need to become successful adults—the majority of Girl Scout Camp alums say their experience was central to the development of their sense of self, positive values, healthy relationships, and challenge seeking and leadership skills Cultivating responsibility, an appreciation for diversity, an ability to persevere, and a willingness to try new things. Camp alums report these skills, learned primarily during their Camp experience, as important to their lives today Opportunities such as counselor-in-training programs help individuals learn leadership, teamwork, confidence, and perseverance through cooperative learning in a Girl Scout-led fashion Providing valuable life skills in supportive relationships with leaders and peers, vital for security and encouragement; learning by doing through hands-on experiences that allow the practice of skill improvement; unique camp experiences that allow individuals to move out of their comfort zone to try new things.
Camp is just one way our Girl Scouts grow! Read more about camp and progression by scanning the QR code. *Source: Girl Scout Research Institute, "From Girl Scout Camp to Real-World Champ" (2019)
Tried and True Camp Traditions Campers can choose from a wide variety of activities during camp—this includes a mix of traditional camp fun like archery or slingshots, tie-dye, hiking, songs, and oh so many games.
Hacienda Day Camp Favorites—GaGa Ball, singing songs, archery, scavenger hunts, daily pool time, crafts, slingshots, tie-dye, pond exploration, and more! Camp Whispering Pines Favorites—low ropes, campfire skits and s'mores, hiking, Art Shack time, lanyards, tree climbing and canoeing for our older campers!
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Camp Themes Hacienda Day Camp—Girl Scouts Ages 6-17, $400 Camp Whispering Pines Overnight Camp—Girl Scouts Ages 9-17, $550 A non-refundable deposit (NRD) of $50 is required for all camps
Camp Rock Rock and roll into the world of music, where the rhythm of life is set to the beat of creativity and fun! This week of camp will have musical magic infused into traditional camp activities like archery, hiking, and art! Whether you're a budding musician or simply enjoy the magic of music, this camp promises an unforgettable experience.
Welcome to Wonderland Step into a world of enchantment and wonder as you take off on a magical journey! You’ll find yourself in a whimsical paradise of spells, storybook characters, and special quests. Get ready for a week of fantastical camp activities where the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary. We can’t wait to welcome you to our wonderland!
Hollywood Heroes Get ready for your close-up and step onto the red carpet! This dazzling adventure is designed to make campers feel like the stars they've always admired. From your favorite onscreen heroes to upcoming stars, we’ll be inspired by all! This week guarantees star-studded takes on camp classics like teambuilding and crafts! Ignite your creativity and let your inner STAR shine.
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Great Games Get ready to unleash your inner champion and join us for a week of friendly competition and Olympic-sized fun. This action-packed week is designed for campers of all skill levels to come together to learn, play, and develop their skills in a variety of sports and Olympicinspired activities. Campers will experience the thrill of victory, the camaraderie of teamwork, and the joy of sportsmanship in an exciting and supportive environment.
Nature Quest Embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of our unique desert and mountain environments! During this week, Girl Scouts will enjoy the beauty of nature while participating in our camp traditions like singing, crafting, and outdoor fun. This camp is for those who love nature and those who want to learn more about Arizona’s beautiful ecosystems. Campers will create lasting memories in a serene, rustic environment.
Day Camp Overnight: Holidazzle July 1-3, Ages 7-17 $325 The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. Join us for three days and two nights of excitement at the Hacienda! This camp is designed for those who’d like an overnight experience closer to home. Get ready to experience the joy, traditions, and festive spirit of your favorite holidays—all rolled into one!
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Quick Camps Themes for both camps: Hollywood Heroes—Get inspired by your favorite on-screen superheroes, upcoming glamorous starlets, or celebrity role models!
Operation Purple Shirt (formerly Operation Red Shirt) | $50 NRD, remaining cost is grant-funded June 16-18, Girl Scouts Ages 7-17 All Girl Scouts with an adult serving or who have served in the military are invited to come to Operation Purple Shirt! Spend three days building lasting friendships with Girl Scouts who are just like you and take pride in being a member of a military family. Create unforgettable memories on the trails, on the archery range, and under the stars.
Camp Whispering Pines Sampler | $325 June 16-18, Girl Scouts Ages 7-14 Sampler camp is the perfect introduction to the world of summer camp for all. Held in a safe and nurturing environment, campers will enjoy three days of fun, friendships, and exploration. From outdoor games and arts and crafts to campfire sing-alongs, this introductory camp experience will create lasting memories and set the stage for a lifetime of summer camp adventures.
NEW THIS YEAR
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Offsite Overnight | $325 June 30 - July 3, Girl Scout Cadettes and up Those who are ready to take their camping to the next level are ready for Offsite Overnight! Campers will spend their time at CWP getting ready for a 1-night, offsite camp experience on Mt. Lemmon. They will hike with a daypack, lunch and water offsite to a tenting campsite, and set up camp. Here, they will learn more about outdoor cooking, hiking and gear up for more adventures! All personal and group gear will be shuttled by van, and CWP will still be the 'base camp' for this experience.
Friends and Family Camp Camp is fun for the entire family! Join us for a weekend adventure at Camp Whispering Pines. Enjoy provided meals and choose from activities like hiking, archery, art, and so much more. See what your Girl Scouts do at camp and spend some quality time in the pines. • Adults participate in activities and supervise their youth • All meals and activities are included
Friends and Family Camp Holidazzle | $200 per person, participants under five years old are free July 5-7, All Ages Hey friends and families, get ready to experience the joy, traditions, and festive spirit of your favorite holidays—all rolled into one!
Troop Camp Strengthen your troop's bonds, as you enjoy nature during this weekend of fun! Troops can enjoy classic camp activities like songs and skits, archery, and hiking. Food and activities are all included in the cost, and adults participate in activities and supervise Girl Scouts. Volunteers required per safety ratios are free. Additional registered adults are full price, all participants must be registered members. • Troops must include two or more registered adults and meet GSUSA’s required adult-togirl ratio • Troop Leaders can register their entire troop at once • Adults participate in activities and supervise Girl Scouts • All meals and activities are included
Troop Camp Themes Troop Camp 1: Year 3000 | $200 per person June 21-23 Glimpse into the world of tomorrow as we explore the limitless possibilities of the future. Dress up like you think we will in the year 3000! Troop Camp 2: Dream Team | $200 per person July 12-14 Grab your whole troop and get ready for the dreamiest weekend ever at camp. Embrace teamwork, collaboration, and friendship. Dress up as your favorite dynamic pop group or in a sleepover-inspired ensemble.
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Leadership Programs Our leadership program is a transformative experience designed for Girl Scouts entering grades 6 and up. We’re seeking those eager to explore leadership, personal growth, and fun at both Hacienda Day Camp and Camp Whispering Pines. Campers will develop professional skills, gain hands-on experience, and make lasting connections with fellow campers and mentors.
Hacienda Day Camp Program Aide (PA) | $400 Each full week of Day Camp For Girl Scouts entering grades 6 and up Hacienda Program Aides develop leadership skills while assisting younger Girl Scouts explore, learn, and grow. Girl Scouts who participate in at least one week as a Program Aide will earn the Program Aide pin.
Camp Whispering Pines Counselor-in-Training (CIT) | $500 June 9-14 For Girl Scouts entering grades 10, 11, and 12 CITs spend a week focusing on growth by practicing their own skills in a variety of camp activities. They’ll also spend time observing and assisting Camp Counselors. Girl Scouts will earn their CIT pin. Counselor-in-Training II (CIT IIs) | $600 June 23-28, June 30-July 3, July 7-12 For Girl Scouts entering grades 11 and 12, having completed CIT I prior CIT IIs can enjoy time spent building leadership skills, giving and receiving feedback, and co-facilitating camp programs. They’ll get a chance to bond and practice their camping skills on a special overnight tenting excursion. Girl Scouts will earn their CIT II pin. Transporation to and from camp will be provided for this program. Intern | Stipend of $100 a week Dates provided after program acceptance For Girl Scouts entering grade 12 and by application only, CIT I and II completion strongly encouraged Interns help facilitate our entire camp season, experience check in/check out procedures, and help counselors plan amazing weeks of activities for campers! This internship is designed to prepare Girl Scouts for becoming camp counselors or similar roles. This program offers a weekly stipend of $100 and lasts the duration of the camp season. 14
Speciality Camps Camp Fury $550 May 28-June 1 For Girl Scouts ages 14-17 Shatter glass ceilings! At Camp Fury you will join the ranks of firefighters and law enforcement personnel to learn how they ensure public safety for our communities. In this five-day, fournight experience, you will practice search and rescue skills, crime scene investigation techniques and perform physical fitness drills. Meet the women who are breaking down barriers and stereotypes in these male-dominated career fields. At the end of camp, we will celebrate your accomplishments at a graduation ceremony with family and friends.
Quantum Quest Free, no NRD required June 10-14 For Girl Scouts ages 14-17 Explore the fascinating world of quantum computing with unplugged, hands-on activities at Angel's Charity Place for Girls. Discover the foundational concepts that make-up the quantum world–entanglement and qubits–to teaching how to code on real quantum computers. Girl Scouts will learn from outstanding researchers from the University of Arizona and hear from STEM role models across the Tucson area. Quantum computing is a rapidly developing field, with potential impacts in nearly every industry: from finance to medical research to chemistry. Quantum Quest provides a fun and inviting entrance to one the most revolutionary fields of today.
Staff We are always ready to welcome stellar staff to our Camp team! If you know someone incredible who is 18 or older and would love to work with Girl Scouts for the camp season, please send them our way! Camp is a spectacular place for staff to develop interpersonal skills, gain valuable work experience, and help campers create lifelong memories. Apply on our website today. 15
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NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
4300 E Broadway Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85711
TUCSON, AZ PERMIT NO. 663
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