Day Twilight Camp feature

Day and Twilight Camps are “home away from home” for campers and volunteers alike

Day and Twilight Camps are the perfect way for girls to get a camp experience without packing up and leaving home. They offer all the same Girl Scout songs, games, and outdoor adventures as sleepaway camps. And with over a dozen of these volunteer-led camps spread throughout our 32 counties served, they’re easily accessible and budget-friendly.

For April Stephens and her daughters Hannah and Sydnee, day camp has been more than just a fun way to spend the summer – it’s a family tradition. April has been a dedicated Girl Scout mom and unit leader at Rainbow Ridge Day Camp for over fifteen years, and she always wanted her girls by her side. “I have been going to Rainbow Ridge since I was a Brownie,” Hannah recalled. “And once I graduated high school, I returned as a unit leader.”

When you’ve been in Girl Scouts for as long as the Stephens family, you’re bound to have some pretty amazing stories. So, when we asked, they were more than happy to share their experience with us! April even arrived at headquarters with a shoebox overflowing with photos of their summer camp memories from over the years.

What makes Rainbow Ridge unique that keeps you coming back?

Hannah: The friends I met at camp have been a constant in my life for over a decade. We all care about each other, the campers, and the campsite, and it shows every year. April: Seeing the campers grow up and being a part of their journey has been a real joy. It means so much to me when I hear that girls want to be in “April’s cabin!” Sydnee: It’s just the best camp ever and feels like our home away from home during the day. We’re like one big family, and camp feels like a family reunion.

What would you tell other mothers considering volunteering with the Girl Scouts?

April: As my girls got older, keeping them engaged in Girl Scouts became more challenging. As a volunteer, I was able to shape some of their programming to meet their interests and career pursuits.

Why is a Day or Twilight Camp a great step towards sleepaway camp?

Hannah: They ease the transition to camping with tents and sleeping bags. Many girls also find it hard to say goodbye after a long day at camp, so parents can remind them that they’ll get to spend even more time with friends and unit leaders at sleepaway camp.

What are your favorite camp activities?

Hannah: Singing camp songs! There are so many Girl Scout songs to learn and I loved learning new ones while at camp. When I was a Brownie and Junior, I also really enjoyed swimming, archery, and crafts.

What are the biggest challenges you faced at camp?

Sydnee: Dealing with Daisy campers as a unit leader was a uniquely challenging experience that gave me a new sense of patience and perseverance.

Stephens Family, Rainbow Ridge Day Camp 2022

What are some of the greatest lessons you learned at camp over the years?

Hannah: I learned to look out for others and proactively find ways to help instead of waiting to be asked to do something, whether volunteering to take pictures or set up activities.

What are your fondest memories from Rainbow Ridge?

Sydnee: My fondest memories of my aunt, who recently passed away, are the ones I have of our visits to Rainbow Ridge.

What would you tell parents who are hesitant to sign their girls up for camp?

Sydnee: Parents should know there is nothing to worry about. These girls are in the safest hands! I’ve been a Girl Scout forever and have been going to camp my entire life. All I want, and all everyone who works at the camp wants, is the best for all the campers.