Parent Handbook
Policies, Procedures, and other Helpful Information
3586 Horizons Way • Harrisonburg, Virginia • 22802 • USA
Ph: 540.896.7600 • Fax: 540.896.5455 • Email: Camp@HorizonsVA.com •
www.CampHorizonsVA.com
Dear Parents,
Thank you so much for allowing us to serve your child this at Camp Horizons.
We are so excited about this summer, our 32nd, and we know it will be one of
our best summers yet! While we have many new activities going on this
summer, we are as committed as ever to ensuring a safe, memorable, and
fun camp session for all of our campers.
On the following pages you will find lots of very important information.
Whether this is your first summer with us, or your 6th summer with us, please
take the time to carefully review this information as it contains some new
information and we want you and your camper to be as informed as possible
before arriving at camp. This information includes:
1. Important reminders & expectations
2. Our policies & procedures
3. Other information to help prepare your camper (and you as the parent),
for a fantastic summer at Camp Horizons!
As you review this information, please contact our office if you have any
questions, concerns, or suggestions. We are so very thankful that you will be
entrusting us with your child this summer. We are looking forward to another
great summer and another year of adding more faces to our Horizons family!
Please know that I am available for any questions you may have, so please
don’t hesitate to give me a call or send an email! We are many, we are one…
See you soon!
Martin Brennan
OUR DIRECTORS
Devin C. Hall: Camp Life Director
Originally from Halifax (southern Virginia), Devin has been a part of the Horizons
Family for 7 years. This is his second summer as Camp Life Director. Devin recently
graduated with honors from Eastern Mennonite University with a degree in
Communications. Devin enjoys traveling to England, LEGO and his dog Lulu.
Jenny Walker: Village Director
Jenny is entering her 6th summer at Camp Horizons, first joining us in 2009. Originally
hailing from Northern Ireland, Jenny currently lives in Scotland where she works for
Wild Packs, a summer camp staff recruitment agency. Jenny lives for camp! When
not at camp she enjoys traveling, hanging out with friends, and dreaming about
camp!
Bridget Hutchens: Equestrian Director
As our year round Equestrian Director, Bridget has 20 years of experience with horses.
She graduated from St. Andrews University with a degree in Equine Business
Management and has impressive experience as a groomer and director of equine
programs along the east coast. She lives at camp with her horse Tennie and her dog
Layla.
Trey Smith: Adventure Director
With a strong background in leadership development, a passion for working with kids,
and a goofy sense of humor, Trey has been a great addition to the Horizons. He is a
graduate of James Madison University and is the driving force behind our new
Adventure Camps and the new Farm Program. Trey is originally from Virginia Beach.
He loves to surf and about anything else outdoors!
Mandi Smith: Director of Administration
Mandi has been in the camp/recreation field for 15 years working with people of all
ages, backgrounds, and abilities. In her second year at Horizons, Mandi oversees the
administrative side of camp including the registration process & transportation. She is
known as the “camp mom” because she gives out the best hugs in camp! A mom of
two, Mandi loves the environment that camp provides for her children.
Martin Brennan: Director
As a summer camp director, Martin brings a love of teaching, the performing arts, and
the outdoors. As a young man his participation in both Semester at Sea and the
international organization “Up with People” influenced him greatly and birthed a deep
curiosity about the world. Martin is an experienced trainer, cheerleader who served as
a Peace Corps Volunteer in Honduras, and has worked with numerous corporations
and organizations in the areas of diversity and leadership.
John Hall: Founder, Owner, & Head Dreamer
Prior to starting Camp Horizons in 1983, John was an Eagle Scout, held various
positions at several camps, and traveled with the organization Up With People. His
success with Camp Horizons provided the foundation for his career of being an
entrepreneur and philanthropist. John loves campfires, talent shows, and the
Mountaintop Hike! John has one son, Jake (15), and a beautiful wife Ingrid who is a
professor at James Madison University.
OUR STAFF
Our staff members come from across the nation and from around the world. They help us
to create a safe, caring environment for our campers. They must be at least 18 years of
age and have typically completed one year of college. All staff members undergo an
intensive screening, interview, and background check process before arriving at camp.
Staff must complete and extensive 7-day staff training program designed to prepare them
for their job at camp – to provide a safe, successful camp experience for our campers.
OUR PURPOSE
We are dedicated to providing children with a place they can call their own in our
constantly changing world; where they become a part of a supportive, encouraging
community; and where they understand not only their own rights and responsibilities but
also appreciate and respect the rights of others.
We are a diverse community of campers and staff members, from many different cultures
and backgrounds, working, playing and learning together. We encourage each other to try
new things, enjoy favorite activities, grow in confidence and a sense of accomplishment,
and build strong friendships that last a lifetime.
We take pride in our influence and ability to create lifelong memories. Our intent is to
spark an energy that is capable of impacting people around the world through fun,
friendship, and respect for others and themselves. We may or may not change the world,
but we will change our corner in it. We are many, we are one!
ACCREDITATION
We have been accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA) since our founding in
1983. ACA accredited camps must meet up to 300 standards for health, safety and
program quality and establish guidelines for needed policies, procedures and practices.
Only approximately 25% of camps across the country receive this accreditation.
SAFETY
Safety is our top-priority, as evidenced by our excellent safety record. Significant measures
of prevention and a well-trained staff are key to a safe summer. All program-related
activities contain an element of risk, including the unpredictable forces of nature; however,
we adhere to “best-practices” in the outdoor/camping industry to help minimize these risks
and ensure the safest programs possible.
A signed enrollment denotes that the parent/guardian and participant acknowledge this
inherent risk. Additional waivers are required for horseback riding, SCUBA, Via Ferrata and
Canopy Tour
FACILITIES
Camp Horizons is nestled on 300 acres along the base of Massanutten Mountain.
Camp is comprised of:
• Several cabin styles
• Activity buildings and campfire circles
• Three dining halls
• Camper Care Center (health center)
• Nature lodge
• 25-meter lap and dive pool
• Lake Philippa
• Soccer field
• Baseball diamond with batting cage
• Two tennis courts
• Basketball court
• Sand volleyball court
• Roller hockey rink
• Archery range
• Swap Shop (camp store), Dew Drop Inn and Lazy Daze Landing (camper hangouts)
• Outdoor theater
• Horizons Radio Station,
• Climbing wall, two high ropes courses, various low ropes course elements
• Three riding rings
• Wooded trails on the mountain overlooking camp
• Custom-designed Treehouse
• Pump Track
• GaGa Pit
• …and more!
S u mm er 20 14 – D at es an d Fe e s
Traditional Camp Sessions
(Avail. for Discover, Journey, & Explorer)
6/22-6/28
6/29-7/05
7/06-7/12
7/13-7/19
7/20-7/26
7/27-8/02
8/03-8/09
8/10-8/16
Bundle Pricing
(Your pick of traditional camp sessions)
1 Week: $1,150
2 Weeks: $1,950
3 Weeks: $2,875
4 Weeks: $3,800
5 Weeks: $4,725
6 Weeks: $5,650
7 Weeks: $6,575
8 Weeks: $7,500
Discover-Mini Sessions (NEW!): $575
(Half-week sessions available for Discover
Campers)
6/22-6/25
6/25-6/28
8/10-8/13
8/13-8/16
Leadership Camper Program: $2500
(3-week sessions available for rising High
School seniors, upon acceptance)
6/29-7/19
7/27-8/16
Adventure Camp 1-week: $1350
(Available for Explorer Campers)
6/29-7/05
Blue Ridge Voyager
7/06-7/12
Blue Ridge Voyager or Massanutten Mtn. Bike
7/27-8/02
Blue Ridge Voyager or Massanutten Mtn. Bike
8/03-8/09
Blue Ridge Voyager
8/10-8/16
Blue Ridge Voyager or Massanutten Mtn. Bike
Adventure Camp 2-weeks: $2150
(Available for Explorer Campers)
7/13-7/26
Appalachian Adventure Trek
Equestrian Camp Sessions: $1350
(Available for Journey and Explorer Female Campers)
6/15-6/21
6/22-6/28
8/10-8/16
8/17-8/23
S u mm er 20 14 – A dd it io na l F e es
Discounts
Sibling: $150 off total fee per sibling (does not include first child)
Pay In Full by October 8, receive $150 off one week/$250 off two week
Pay In Full by December 15 and receive $100/week
Pay In Full by March 1 and receive $50/week
Transportation
Round Trip (Dulles/Camp): $120 One Way (Dulles/Camp): $60
Round Trip (Reagan/Camp): $150 One Way (Reagan/Camp): $85
Round Trip (Fair Oaks Mall or Westfield Montgomery Mall/Camp): $45
One Way (Fair Oaks Mall or Westfield Montgomery Mall/Camp): $90
Add-On Programs
Horseback Lessons: (Discover, Journey and Explorer)
 $85 for 5 hours (per week)
 $150 for 10 hours (per week)
Horseback Trail Ride: $25 (once per week) (Explorer)
Golf Track: $125 (all morning/all week) (Journey, Explorer)
Tubing: $25 (Half day)Canoeing: $35 (Half day) (Explorer)
SCUBA: $135 (One full day) (Explorer)
Canopy Tour: $95 (One full day) (Explorer)
Via Ferrata: $95 (One full day) (Explorer – must be 13)
Rock Climbing: $35 (Half day) (Explorer)
Caving: $35 (Half day) (Explorer)
Other Important Due Dates
• May 1: all camp paperwork
• June 1: final payments
ACTIVITIES
We have more than 40 activities and programs for campers to choose from while at camp.
Major program areas include activities in aquatics, sports & fitness, outdoors & adventure,
creative arts, science & technology, and equestrian (horseback riding).
Campers get the opportunity to participate in many different activities, as outlined below
by program:
•
Discover: Campers ages 6-8 go to all activities as a group and try many of our camp
activities! Activities are structured to be considerate of the age, physical, and
mental abilities of our youngest group of campers.
•
Journey: Campers ages 9-11 choose morning activities and spend afternoons with
their cabin in a variety of activities.
•
Explorer: Campers ages 12-16 choose all activities. Some occur weekly, and some
daily.
•
Equestrian Camp: Girls ages 9-14 have a set schedule of equestrian activities each
day with their small group. Breaks are taken each day to allow participation in
other, non-horse related, camp activities.
•
Adventure Camp: Campers ages 12-16 spend part of their session at camp and the
remainder of their session off-site at various adventure locations in Virginia and
West Virginia. Campers will stay in cabins and/or tents throughout the camp week.
Please refer to your specific agenda for more information
Activities may include:
o Rock climbing
o Caving
o Mountain biking
o Via Ferrata and/or Canopy Tour
o White water rafting
o And other exciting adventures
EQUESTRIAN PROGRAM/HORSES
Camp Horizons is home to more than 20 horses and provides high quality English
horseback riding lessons for an added fee. Campers may enroll in one or two weeks of
lessons (one hour a day, four days a week) where they will learn basic horse care and riding
skills, including both ring and trail riding. Campers are screened for their ability level and
riding experience. Discover campers (ages 6-8) will have a ring ride included at no extra
cost and can add one week of lessons. Journey and Explorer campers may add one or two
weeks of lessons also. Explorer campers can also add a trail ride to their camp experience.
Equestrian Camp is for girls ages 9-14 who love horses! Learn all about horses and stable
management; participate in lots of riding and special activities, plus favorite camp
activities like arts & crafts, swimming, and s’mores! Equestrian Camp is offered the first
two and last two sessions of the summer (Sessions 1, 2, 9 and 10).
All equipment is provided, including helmets. Campers must wear long pants and closedtoe shoes with a heel. Tennis shoes are not appropriate. We have a selection of boots
available for campers to use if needed.
SCUBA DIVING
Explorer campers may add SCUBA for an added fee. SCUBA lessons are one-day and
contracted out to professional dive instructors. Campers spend the morning in our
swimming pool learning how to use the equipment and communicate underwater with
hand signals. In the afternoon, they head to a local quarry where they dive in pairs with the
instructor.
NELSON ROCKS OUTDOOR CENTER TOURS
The Canopy Tour and Via Ferrata are optional activities for Explorer campers, offered at our
sister company, the Nelson Rocks Outdoor Center (www.NelsonRocksOutdoorCenter.com)
in West Virginia. Nelson Rocks is about an hour and a half from camp. Trips are
professionally-guided and last 3-5 hours. Additional waivers are required and found on the
forms tab of the Parent Dashboard.
North Fork Valley Canopy Tour
The Canopy Tour is composed of 12 zip lines, 3 sky bridges and a 40 foot rappel at heights
up to 80 feet above the forest floor. You’ll fly through the air with the greatest of ease
using the supplied harness and safety equipment, gloves, and helmet. Weight requirement:
70-250 pounds.
Via Ferrata
The Via Ferrata is a non-technical rock climbing experience for campers of all abilities.
Utilizing a harness and safety system as well as steel rung “steps” affixed to the rocks,
campers traverse a section of rocks in the Allegheny Mountains with incredible views.
Campers must be 13 years old.
TUBING, CANOEING, ROCKCLIMBING AND CAVING
Tubing - An Explorer favorite! Travel by Camp Horizons’ bus to a local section of the
Shenandoah River for a relaxing trip down this beautiful stretch of river. Enjoy the
relaxation of the flat water and the exhilaration of the class 1 rapids!
Canoeing - A half-day trip down a class I-II section of the Shenandoah River. Learn basic
river reading, canoe strokes, and river safety skills while navigating the whitewater!
Caving - A half-day trip to a local wild cave. It’s dark and muddy, what else would you want?
Rock Climbing - Crimpers. Slab. Belay. Smear. Crank. Brake. These are all terms you might
hear on this off-site climbing trip to a local climbing area with amazing views. Rappel and
climb on the 80 foot rock faces, and be back before free-swim!
SWAP SHOP
The Swap Shop is our camp store, filled with healthy snacks (no candy or soda) and Camp
Horizons souvenirs along with other basic needs campers may have while at camp
(stamps, toiletries, batteries, etc.). Each camper has $40 in Swap Shop credit per week
included in their camp fee (non-refundable). The Swap Shop will be open on Opening and
Closing Days for any purchases that may exceed the $40 credit, especially for the mom or
dad that are dying to get that Camp Horizons sweatshirt or hat!
GRATUITIES
It is our goal that our counselors will exceed your expectations and will provide a fantastic
experience for your child. We ask that you do not offer gratuities/tips to any of our staff.
They may not accept any gratuities/tips. However, if you would like to recognize a
counselor, we would appreciate you sending us an email or letter about your child’s
experience at camp and how the staff member made a difference for your child. We will
share this with them and recognize them for the outstanding feedback.
CABIN LIFE
Cabins are grouped by gender, age and grade (if applicable). Cabins have eight to twelve
campers and two counselors. All cabins have electricity and most have ceiling fans/box
fans. Bathrooms and showers are in the cabin, attached to it, or a short distance away.
We do our best to honor up to two cabin-mate requests as long as campers are in the
same program (Discover, Journey, Explorer), are close in age and both request each other.
Cabin-mate requests cannot be guaranteed. These requests should be made on the
camper’s online Enrollment Form.
CAMPERS STAYING MULTIPLE SESSIONS
Campers staying multiple sessions will enjoy a relaxed weekend at camp. Campers swim,
watch movies, play games and hang out. There is no charge for staying between sessions.
Campers will have their clothing laundered between sessions.
MISSING HOME
It is important for parents and campers to understand ahead of time that missing home is
not unusual, especially if it is the camper’s first time away from home.
We don’t typically use the term “homesick” because it’s not an illness. We handle each
camper as a unique case and treat him/her accordingly. Studies show that camp is an
excellent opportunity for children to live independently among people of their own age, to
learn and grow as a result of being away from home.
That said there are a few things you should know related to missing home:
1. Our staff members are trained to identify and help those campers who are missing
home to cope with their feelings. If your camper is having difficulty adjusting to
camp, a Director will call you and discuss ways to support your camper.
2. If a camper expresses these feelings it usually occurs in the first 24 hours. Their first
letter or email home to you may seem sad; however, know that these feelings will
usually disappear within the first few days at camp. You should anticipate that your
child’s second letter home will be more cheerful.
3. Phone calls to a child who is missing home will usually exacerbate their feelings.
Letters and/or emails from parents should be mindful of the impact on a young camper
who is away from home. For instance, saying things such as “the cat and dog miss you and
we wish you were home with us right now” can cause and/or exacerbate these feelings.
The best advice we can give is to let your child know that your life is going on as usual, that
you hope he/she is having a great time, and that you will see him/her soon.
PAPERWORK & ACCOUNTS
All paperwork is due by May 1. It is available and can be submitted via your Parent
Dashboard login.
Final payments are due June 1. Accounts not paid in full by June 1 may result in the loss of
a camper’s spot at camp. Campers will not be admitted if the account is not paid in full. If
you have any questions or concerns about the paperwork or your camper account, please
let us know!
REFUND/CANCELLATION POLICY
In the case of serious accident, illness, or other extenuating circumstances, refunds will be
provided at the discretion of the Camp Director. No refunds or reductions are made for late
arrival or early departure from camp. Any camper whose behavior disrupts the camp
program or is harmful to him or herself will be dismissed with no refund. Campers found
possessing or using tobacco, alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs or weapons will be
dismissed from camp with no refund of fees.
•
•
•
For cancellations made before May 1, all fees may be refunded, less a $100
processing fee.
For cancellations made after May 1, the $250 registration deposit is forfeited.
For cancellations made after June 1, the total registration fee is forfeited.
HEALTH HISTORY & INSURANCE
Along with other paperwork, the camper Medial Forms, parts 1 – 4 need to be completed
online by May 1 through the Parent Dashboard Each camper must be covered by his/her
family health insurance policy. Parents are responsible for payment of all medical charges
of physicians, dentists, and hospitals. All campers must have a credit card on file with
camp to cover any medical expenses incurred by camp. Please upload a copy of the
insurance card (front & back) to your campers’ account
CAMPER CARE CENTER
The Camp Horizons health center, affectionately called Camper Care, is located in the
middle of camp for quick and easy access for any ill or injured camper or staff member.
Our medical staff reside in the Camper Care Center and are accessible 24 hours per day
while camp is in session.
Campers needing care beyond what we can provide are taken to the walk-in clinic at
Rockingham Memorial Hospital in Harrisonburg, located approximately 20 minutes from
camp. Emergency medical services (via 9-1-1) are available and ready to assist if needed.
When will we contact you about your child’s health care at camp?
• If your camper has an injury or illness that removes them from activities for a
prolonged period of time, we will notify you and keep you informed as appropriate
• If your camper has an injury or illness that requires them to stay in the Camper Care
Center overnight, we will notify you and keep you informed as appropriate.
• If it is determined that your camper needs additional medical care, away from
camp, we will notify you immediately and will update you as we are able to do so.
• If their illness, injury, or emotional health present concerns for their ability to have a
positive experience at camp we will contact you to discuss immediately.
MEDICATIONS
According to American Camp Association guidelines, all medication must be turned in
during check-in and kept in our Camper Care Center. The only exceptions to this are
physician-prescribed inhalers and Epi-Pens; however, they must be presented to the
medical staff during check-in along with the prescription for review and discussion about
use during camp. We stock many over-the-counter medications in pill form as well as
liquid/chewable form when available; therefore, it is not necessary for you to bring overthe-counter medications unless it is a specific or not widely-available medication.
Medical staff will dispense medications at breakfast, lunch, dinner, bedtime, as well as
other times as needed. Our staff will ensure that campers take all medications as
prescribed. All medications taken regularly by your camper should be entered into your
camper’s medical forms online.
Please note: if your child takes medication for the treatment of hyperactivity, impulsivity,
ADHD, etc. please do not take them off of their medication while at camp.
HEAD LICE
We understand the difficulties of head lice in a camp setting, are very cautious about
preventing and doing all we can to keep lice out of our community. It’s important to
remember that head lice do not carry or spread disease – they’re just a nuisance. If any
cases of lice are found on Opening Day, you will be responsible for treating your camper.
We will work with you to provide a location to do this in our Camper Care Center if possible,
or you can take your camper home for treatment. We will also put all clothing and bedding
in a hot dryer.
Please check your child for head lice two weeks prior to departure and again immediately
before camp begins. If any sign of head lice is found, please arrange for appropriate and
immediate treatment and let us know that such treatment has taken place. If your child
had head lice or was exposed to head lice within two weeks of their arrival to camp, please
notify us.
BED BUGS
Bed bugs have become more prevalent all across the U.S. in recent years and we have
been proactive in making sure that they do not reside at Camp Horizons. We eliminated all
of our wooden bunk beds and replaced them with metal frames, which give bedbugs no
place to hide. We utilize the services of industry-leader, Pure Environmental, to help us stay
ahead of any potential issues with bed bugs. Prior to camp, they inspect all cabins with
their highly-trained detection dogs. If bedbugs are found, immediate treatment is applied
in order to effectively kill any bed bugs.
MEALS
Our professional kitchen staff serves delicious, well-balanced meals that are kid-friendly
and healthy. For breakfast there is always a hot item option along with cereals, fruit, milk
and juice. For lunch and dinner a main entrée is served along with vegetables or fruit. The
salad bar and peanut butter & jelly table are available for lunch and dinner. Campers eat
with their cabin groups during meals, which are served family-style for Discover/Journey
and buffet-style for Explorer. Campers help clear the table at the end of the meal. A snack
is served as part of the evening program on most days and is usually something like
pretzels, popcorn or fruit.
We can accommodate vegetarian diets if noted on registration. We do not cook with
peanut oil or peanut products or sell items with peanuts in the Swap Shop. The only peanut
product at camp is peanut butter at our PB&J table. Campers wanting peanut butter & jelly
come to the table, separate from all other food, to make a sandwich. If your camper has a
specific food allergy or other special dietary need, please contact our office as soon as
possible and we will work with you to try to accommodate the needs.
LOST & FOUND
We check can quickly return items to their owners if they are labeled. We keep items for
two weeks and do our best to return them to their owners. After that time, we donate
remaining items to charity. If you are missing items when you get home, call or e-mail us.
Items will be returned at your expense. Remember to label everything!
CAPTAIN CAPER (Discover/Journey) or FRESHEST CRIB (Explorer)
A major benefit of the residential camp experience is that campers are given opportunities
to learn to be responsible for themselves and their belongings. We ask campers to keep
their cabins clean and tidy. Each day the mysterious “Captain Caper” checks each cabin
and names the cleanest boys’ and girls’ cabin in each program. Campers with the cleanest
cabins are served first at meals the next day
CLOTHING AND DRESS CODE
Camp is located in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of western Virginia, surrounded by
mountains. We find that our weather patterns include days in the 80-85 degree Fahrenheit
range and nights in the 65-70 degree range. Of course, there are days/nights that fall
outside of these averages, but this is a general rule of thumb.
We do not have a camp “uniform” and most campers wear t-shirts and shirts while at
camp. It is important for campers to bring clothes that are comfortable, can get dirty, and
have already been washed a few times.
Philosophically, we understand that clothes are an important statement for young people
about who they are and how they want to be seen. Our reality, though, is that we operate a
camp in the outdoors with children of many different ages, backgrounds and lifestyles.
Clothing can be lost, torn, stained, or undergo other mishaps.
Please make sure that whatever you send errs on the side of modesty, including swimsuits.
Clothes should be appropriate (styling, messages, etc.) for a co-ed camp with children from
6 to 17 years of age. We will ask campers to change clothes if we feel they are
inappropriate and we cannot be responsible for damaged or missing items.
LAUNDRY
Laundry is done weekly for children staying for multiple sessions at camp. Each camper
must bring a laundry bag for dirty clothes. Please send an actual laundry bag with a
drawstring closure. These can be purchased at most large “box” retail stores (Target,
Walmart, etc.) and in our Swap Shop as well. Lights and darks are not separated, so please
do not send new clothes that may run. Label all items, including the mesh laundry bag.
WHAT TO BRING
These items are recommended for a 2-week session. Please label everything with
camper’s first and last names. We suggest a suitcase, duffel bag, or plastic under-bed box
rather than a trunk. Luggage is stored under beds, which measure 24” high and 40” deep
for most cabins.
Bedding & Linens:
Clothing:
 Twin Sheets
 10 T-shirts
 Sleeping Bag
 7 Shorts
 Pillow, Extra pillowcase
 2 Bath Towels
 2 long pants/jeans
 10 pair of socks
 2 Beach Towels
 2 Hand towels
 10 pair undergarments
 2 swimsuits
(Cabins do not have paper towels)
 2 Washcloths
 2 sweatshirts/jackets
 Raincoat/poncho
Other Items:
 Pajamas
 Backpack/daypack
 Shower shoes/sandals
 Flashlight & batteries
 Water shoes for lake
 Water bottle (IMPORTANT)
 2 pair athletic shoes
 Sunglasses
 Hats/bandana
 Paper, pen, envelopes
 White T-Shirt for Tie Dye
 Stamps
 Mesh Laundry Bag
 Camera
Personal Care Items
 Books/Magazines, etc.
 Extra glasses or contact lenses
 Any talent show items
 Toiletries (brush, soap, toothbrush, etc.)
 Insect repellent & Sunscreen
 Other personal items
Additional Items for Specific Camp Programs
• Horseback Riding (lessons, trail ride, or Equestrian Camp)
 Long Pants/Jeans
 Hard-soled boots or shoes with a 1” heel (no tennis shoes)
• Golf – no special attire required, golf clubs are provided
• Explorer Campers adding off-site trips:
 For Caving: long-sleeved shirt, pants & shoes that will get very muddy or
permanently stained
 For River Canoeing: sandals (Tevas, Chacos, Crocs with strap, etc.) or tennis
shoes – no flip flops
 Tubing: sandals with heel strap (Tevas, Crocs with strap, etc.) or tennis
shoes– no flip flops
Adventure Campers – a complete packing list will be sent to you approximately 2 weeks
prior to your camp session beginning. If you have question in the meantime, please contact
us.
WHAT NOT TO BRING
Please help us ensure these things are not brought to camp by reviewing what your child
has packed before departing for camp. Please understand that if any of these items are
found at camp they will be confiscated immediately and returned during check-out.
• Any electronic devices
o Mobile phones/phone watches/Google Glass/etc.
o iPod, mp3 players, etc.
o iPad, tablet, kindle, or laptop computer
o Gaming devices
o Video/DVD players
• Any item that may be considered a weapon
o Knives, utility tools/multi-tools, swords, etc.
o Firearms
o Matches, lighters, fireworks
• Food (snacks, candy, gum, drinks)
• Tobacco, alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs
• Pets or other animals
CAMPER POSSESSIONS
In an effort to protect your child’s possessions we strongly encourage you to keep valuable
possessions, activity equipment, expensive clothing, electronics, and cash at home rather
than allowing your child to bring it with them to camp. We cannot be responsible for these
items, nor can our staff.
Small fans and hairdryers are acceptable and may be used in the cabins where electrical
outlets must be shared by cabin-mates.
At Camp Horizons we ask for your help in ensuring that personal electronics are left at
home (or kept in our office) as they create distractions, interfere with communication
skills, and can also create potentially unsafe situations.
Given our beautiful, yet wooded location, we cannot allow food in our cabins because it
attracts mice, bugs, and other critters. Snacks are available for purchase in the Swap Shop
and snacks are provided for campers each night. Any food brought or sent will be
confiscated and returned during check-out.
Camper belongings may be searched by camp administration if there is a reasonable basis
or probable cause that he/she is in possession of drugs, alcohol, stolen property, or any
possession feared to be harmful to campers or staff.
Campers found possessing or using tobacco, alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs will be
dismissed immediately with no refund. Furthermore, the proper authorities will be notified
as required by law.
COMMUNICATION WITH YOUR CAMPER
Telephone Calls
Campers may not make or receive phone calls, except in extenuating circumstances. If you
have any concerns, feel free to call us at 540.896.7600 and a Director will return your call
ASAP.
E-mails & Photos
You may send emails to your camper through your Parent Dashboard login. Campers can
reply by handwriting on our special e-mail forms which are scanned and emailed as
attachments. Photos will be uploaded daily and available through your Parent Dashboard
login. Only parents of Camp Horizons' campers will have access to these pictures.
Mail & Packages
Campers love to receive mail! Frequent, short letters and cards are better than long,
occasional letters. Make letters newsy and directed toward what your child is doing at
camp. Be positive and encouraging. Avoid writing about what the camper is missing at
home. Campers may receive unlimited letters. Mail received by 11:00 a.m. will be
delivered after lunch that day. Any mail arriving after 11:00 a.m. will be delivered the
following day. Mail is delivered after dinner on the weekends.
Campers may not receive packages. This is meant to take some pressure and expense off
parents, and also to help campers enjoy the camp experience with limited distractions
from the “outside world.”
Campers who have forgotten essential items may receive packages with prior approval
from our office. These boxes will be opened in the office and the items will be delivered to
your camper. Any other packages received will be kept in the office until the end of the
session. Campers may receive letters and flat magazine-sized envelopes, not larger than
11” x 14” (no boxes or bulky envelopes). Do not send food or gum. Please share this
information with others who may be writing to your camper, especially grandparents.
Birthdays
If your camper is celebrating a birthday at camp, we can arrange for you to talk to your
camper via telephone – please contact our office to set this up. Our Chef will provide a
birthday cake at dinner for campers with birthdays to share with their cabin mates.
Counselors make birthdays special and may decorate, allow a later bedtime, or plan other
special treats. Parents may leave birthday goodies in the Dining Hall on Opening Day
(labeled with camper’s name and birthday), and we will hold the items in the office until
his/her birthday.
Visitors
Unfortunately, visitors often times cause a disruption to the camp program and are not
allowed unless approved by a director ahead of time. While it may seem like a good idea,
visiting your child at camp often times can cause (or exacerbate) homesickness for your
child and/or other children around them. Exceptions may be made for extenuating
circumstances, please contact our office to discuss.
OPENING DAY
Sunday afternoons
Check In by car at Camp Horizons
3-4:30pm on Sundays
Flight Arrival Times at Washington Dulles Airport
10am – 2pm on Sundays
Mall Shuttle Pick Up:
Fair Oaks Mall –
1:45pm on Sundays
White Flint Mall
12:45pm on Sundays
CLOSING DAY
Saturday mornings
Check Out by car at Camp Horizons
9-10:30am on Saturdays
Flight Departure Times from
Washington Dulles Airport
12pm – 4pm on Saturdays
Mall Shuttle Drop Off:
Fair Oaks Mall –
11:00am on Saturdays
White Flint Mall –
12:15pm on Saturdays
OPENING DAY
Arriving by Car?
Our driveway is blocked until 3:00pm, but if you arrive early feel free to hang-out in/around
your car while we complete final preparations for your session!
Pets and smoking are not allowed.
Arriving by Airplane?
We pick campers up at Washington Dulles Airport (IAD) for an additional fee. Campers will
be met at the baggage claim by a staff member wearing a Camp Horizons shirt with a sign.
Campers flying as unaccompanied minors will be met at the gate.
From Washington Dulles airport, drive time to camp is 2 hours. Campers will be able to call
home upon arrival at camp. Campers may carry a cell phone for their travels, but we will
keep it in the office along with their passport, tickets, and other valuables until departure.
Flights should arrive between at Washington Dulles between 10:00 am and 2:00 p.m. on
Sunday. If you cannot schedule a flight during those times, please contact us to find a
suitable time, additional charges may apply. Please complete the Flight Details Form by
June 1.
Arriving on the Camp Horizons Bus?
Please arrive 30 minutes before departure to allow time to check in and load luggage.
Campers should eat lunch prior to departure. The bus will be marked with Camp Horizons
on the side. If you are running late or cannot find the meeting place, call our office at 540896-7600.
Bus pick up times are as follows:
•
Fair Oaks Mall - 1:45pm;
Overflow lot across from Cheesecake Factory (Blue 8/9)
•
White Flint Mall - 12:45 pm;
“Additional Restaurant Parking” near Bloomingdale’s
WHAT TO EXPECT ON OPENING DAY
Opening Day is more than just checking your child in at camp. It is also a time for parents
and campers to get comfortable with camp – get to know the staff, become familiar with
the facilities, and of course help get campers settled into their cabin.
Notes about Opening Day/Check-In:
• Upon arrival, a director will greet you and give you instructions about the check-in
process. We will do our best to get you through the process as quickly as possible.
•
Any missing paperwork, health information, and special activity confirmation is
taken care of at this time.
•
Medications are submitted to the medical staff at this time and camper health
check performed.
•
Parents are encouraged to stop by our letter writing station to write a letter (or two)
to your children that will be delivered during the camp week.
•
The Swap Shop will also be open for families to purchase camp merchandise,
snacks, and other items.
CLOSING DAY
Departing by Car?
We know you are anxious to see your camper, but do not arrive prior to 9:00am, as
campers will be finishing breakfast making final preparations for departure. Please arrive
by 10:00 am so that you can have the car packed and say goodbyes before our staff head
to a 10:30am meeting. Pets and smoking are not allowed.
Departing by Airplane?
We can take campers to Washington Dulles Airport (IAD) for an additional fee. Campers
will be taken to the security checkpoint at the airport. Those flying as Unaccompanied
Minors will be escorted to the gate. Flights departing Washington Dulles should leave
between 12:00 noon and 4:00pm on Saturday. Please do not schedule a flight before
12:00 noon.
Departing on the Camp Horizons Bus?
Please arrive on time, as the bus must stop at both malls at the appointed times. If you are
running late, please call our office ASAP. Campers will depart at 9:00am and should arrive
at the following times:
• Fair Oaks Mall – 11:00am;
Overflow lot across from Cheesecake Factory (Blue 8/9)
• White Flint Mall - 12:15 pm;
“Additional Restaurant Parking” near Bloomingdale’s
WHAT TO EXPECT ON CLOSING DAY
As mentioned above, when check-out begins, we will have just finished breakfast. Campers
begin saying their goodbyes and finish packing their belongings as they leave breakfast. As
you arrive, a staff member will direct you to parking and to your camper’s cabin to help
collect his/her belongings.
We encourage you to take a moment to speak with your child’s counselor about his/her
accomplishments. We must have a Special Check-out Form on file for any camper leaving
with someone other than his/her legal parent/guardian.
Your child’s luggage will already be placed at the basketball court ready for you to pick up
once you have gotten your child from their cabin. Please feel free to stop by the Swap Shop
to make any last minute purchases for your child (or yourself!). Medications will be
returned to you at the tent near the end of the driveway as you leave camp.
DRIVING DIRECTIONS TO CAMP HORIZONS
From the North
• Take I-81 South to exit #257 – Mauzy/Broadway.
• Take a left at the stop sign at the end of the exit ramp.
• Take a right at the stop light onto Route 11 South.
• Go 3 miles to the town of Lacey Spring. Just past Lacey Spring Elementary (on your
right), turn left on Route 806/Martz Road.
• Go 3 miles to the stop sign and turn right on Mountain Valley Road/Route 620.
• Camp is the 2nd driveway on the left, past the row of pine trees.
From the South
• Take I-81 North to exit #251 – Harrisonburg/Route 11.
• At the end of the exit ramp take a right onto Route 11 North.
• Go about 5 miles to the town of Lacey Spring. Just past Mt. Tabor Church (on the
left) turn right on Route 806/Martz Road.
• Go 3 miles to the stop sign and turn right on Mountain Valley Road/Route 620.
• Camp is the 2nd driveway on the left, past the row of pine trees.