Camps 'N Codes

Take a moment, close your eyes, and paint a picture in your mind of your childhood summer camp. Can you see it? Little rustic cabins, a fire ring in the forest, a wooden dock with canoes tethered to it, and an overall sense of magic adrift in the air. Now let me ask, did you remember to include the fire suppression systems, accessibility features, and the correct number of plumbing fixtures? I didn’t think so. While these elements don’t contribute to the overall allure of camp, they are all crucial to the construction of camp structures. This post kick starts our ‘Camps ‘N Codes’ series about Building Codes and Regulations and how they affect summer camps.  After the break is an introduction to the series. Be sure to check back over the next few months as we debut our ‘Case Study’ posts where we dive into our previous projects and discuss how we have handled camp specific code issues in the past.

 

Kids Making Things Happen

All photos courtesy of Beam Camp

Floating Creatura

The title of today’s post is taken from the tagline of Beam Camp. Located in New Hampshire, the camp focuses on developing “capacity for craft, collaboration and compassion through practice of fine and manual arts, innovative thinking, design, creative process, story-telling, building and engineering.” At Beam Camp, staff members include professional architects, videographers, builders, engineers, designers, and creators. Campers have a unique opportunity to work alongside these creative professionals and develop their own creative skills. I first learned about this camp after reading an article featuring them on designboom.com.

Of their various projects shown on their website, I was most intrigued by the latest project, titled “Floating Creatura.” This project is a 20’-long, human-powered floating vessel. The vessel is propelled by a human-sized hamster wheel, bike pedals, and large metal paddles, and is entirely constructed by kids. This brings a whole new meaning to the idea of what kids can create at camp. Read the full article here.

Beam Camper Cabin

The camp’s program focuses on a variety of skills and activities that develop each child’s creative side. Located in New Hampshire on 100 acres of wooded forest, the facilities are also quite noteworthy. The camper village is constructed of nine wood-frame cabins, each with unique floor-to-ceiling screens -- a welcome break from the traditional camper cabin. While their highly-creative, camper-made projects catch the eye of design blogs, the camp also offers some of the more-traditional camp activities, such as swimming and canoeing. As both a design professional and camp enthusiast, it is exciting to see a camp combining the two interests to create a unique experience, helping to develop the next generation of creative thinkers.

We Are Each Other's Greatest Teacher

It sounds cheesy, but sharing is an essential part of camp. Campers share cabins with other campers, counselors share their time to work with kids, everyone shares their elbow space in the dining hall… the list goes on. During the off-season, camp professionals talk, and attend conferences to share ideas and talk about what parts of camp matters to them. Camp is about the shared experiences that link you to a certain place, community, and ethos – often leaving a life-long impression on the camper. A post from the ACA blog illustrates this well:

"we use exchange, contribution, and meaning to honor individual need within the context of the larger community. We know how to share space. We know how to bring people together regardless of differences. We understand our sameness. At camp, we strike the balance of individualism within a shared community.”

There is a great camaraderie in the camping profession. “Camp people” understand “camp people,” and can talk about camp forever. However in this spirit of shared experiences, there seems to be a missing piece of the conversation. Camps are quick to share programming ideas, but camp design or facility management? Not so much.

This surprises me. A recent article in The New York Times explores how the concept of sharing ideas has taken on a new meaning. “Why More Start-Ups Are Sharing Ideas Without Legal Protection” points to the cultural shift in the way ideas are exchanged. Sharing has been a buzz word across all industries for some time now. Take, for example, the ever popular TED Talks series, whose tagline is "Ideas worth spreading”, or even ride-sharing companies, like Uber. With this in mind, you would think that camps would regularly and openly share ideas related to camp design tips and improving the ways facilities are managed.

Fifty years ago, camps were having this discussion. Books such as Salomon’s Campsite Development, (which I often reference on this blog) or the Park Practice Series are examples of camp design being shared within the camping community. Specifically, the 1970 Park Practice Series allowed any member of the National Park Service to submit a design or a design detail for a variety of projects built for parks. However, in today’s camping industry, this exchange of design solutions – though more feasible than ever due to improvements in technology - is not a reality. The recent “Camp Moves Me” fundraising campaign by the ACA, their first fundraising effort on a nationwide front, is certainly a start to creating a more open system of idea-sharing on a national level, but we have a long way to go. This effort is focused on supporting camp scholarships through ACA’s Send a Child to Camp Fund.

The mission of camps is to show campers the magic of outdoors, or to infuse them with the values put forth by the camp’s specific programs. The impact of facility and expansion issues must be minimized to ensure that camps’ missions are met -- and so many camps have come up with great, innovative solutions to these issues. How can camps successfully share these ideas with other camps? A few suggestions we offer are to find camps who share a similar ethos, program or are in a similar climate/region (and thus potentially facing similar issues) and establish a relationship to explore ideas and explain solutions. Use resources available online, such as the American Camp Associations’ website and networking opportunities such as ACA conferences. The important thing is that the camping community – with the end goal of furthering every camp’s missions and goals - work towards creating the atmosphere of being an open system of collaboration and discourse about all aspects of camp, including camp design and facility management. We are each other's greatest teacher. Looks like we have some sharing to do. 

More Trees Please

Outdoor professionals have known for a long time, that spending time outside is beneficial to kids in many ways. For years, research has provided compelling evidence of the need for today’s kids to spend more time outdoors.

Outdoor professionals, as well as past campers, past staff members, or anyone who has been involved in the camping industry can attest to the value of the outdoors. A recent study helped to show this long-known fact to the rest of society. The study looked at the NDVI, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, or, in layman's terms, a measurement of vegetation density. The study measured NDVI around 905 elementary schools in Massachusetts. The results showed significantly higher test scores in both math and English in areas with higher density of trees.

"It shouldn’t be surprising anymore that green spaces make us happier, healthier, and just generally better, but every time a hard finding on the topic pops up it seems incredible once again. Just being near nature is enough to bump up kids’ grades—though we’ll need more data to back this up, it probably can’t hurt to head out and look at some trees any chance you and your kids can get." - Levitan

As the next generation continues their education, one thing is clear: there is a growing need for outdoor education. Whether it is camping out under the stars, identifying trees, or learning about the water cycle, camps offer unique opportunity to teach kids about nature - in nature. As the research regarding the benefits of time spent outdoors becomes clearer (and that today’s kids are losing touch with nature), more and more schools are looking to camps for outdoor education opportunities.

Many camps and organizations are listening and responding to these schools' calls for programs. Take the current “Camp Moves Me” movement sponsored by the American Camp Association for example. It is, according to the ACA’s website, the “first ever, nationwide, fundraising effort aimed at celebrating the spirit of camp while raising dollars to send more children to ACA-accredited camps across the country.”

Does your camp have an outdoor education program? What could your camp offer to nearby schools or after school programs. Perhaps it is a simple as allowing schools to use camp property for an outdoor lab field trip, or perhaps as structured as a weeklong outdoor education experience. Whatever it is, camps are in a unique position to continue to serve youth beyond the summer months.

To learn more about starting your own Outdoor Education Program, check out this guide from The Oregon Community Foundation here.



Levitan, Dave. "Green Space Makes for Better Students." Conservation RSS. Conservation Magazine, 14 Oct. 2014. Web. 20 Oct. 2014.

Summer Camp in the Digital Age

“Unplugging” kids at camp is a hot topic in today’s summer camp conversation. The research is clear: The amount of time kids spend in front of computer and television screens is higher than ever, with few signs of decreasing. What does this mean for kids at camp?

There seems to be two schools of thought on how technology effects summer camp. One side makes the argument to completely “unplug” kids while at camp -- banning cell phones, digital cameras, tablets, and any other technological devices in order to create stronger communities. As technology is now a critical component of our daily routines, this has become a more daunting task than ever before. In a recent Apple promotional film, the Apple Watch is presented as an intimate extension of the wearer, and as seamlessly integrating technology into everyday life.

While many feel that technology at summer camp undermines the foundations, of camping traditions, other camps embrace technology as part of the camper’s world. Many camps allow some technology while banning others (such as not using wi-fi enabled devices) as a happy medium. Representing this school of thought on this matter, Jason Miller, in his article “Time to Rethink Technology at Summer Camp?” suggests:

"We would be fooling ourselves to believe that technology can be totally barred from camp. In the second decade of the 21st century, electronic gadgets are everywhere. As time goes on, however, a completely screen-free summer may be unavoidable. Striking a healthy balance will be a recipe for success.”

While technology use at camp has certainly increased, this is merely a portion of a long-standing discourse on the importance of "getting away" from society to gain some perspective on one's own life and the surrounding world. In the epilogue to her 2006 book, A Manufactured Wilderness, Van Slyck illustrates this interaction between the conceptual intentions of camp and modern life:

“Summer camps may have positioned themselves in opposition to the fast pace and artificiality of modern life, but the cultural landscape reveals that these manufactured versions of the wilderness implicitly worked to support and maintain modern culture.”

Perhaps the same can be said for the argument of assimilating technology at summer camp. As a built environment, the summer camp landscape will continue to grow and change in response to today’s world. What does this mean for the future designs of summer camps? It seems that they will continue to grow and change in order to adapt to campers' needs in the digital world. In order to be successful, summer camps must integrate the realities of today’s world into the camp landscape and experience.

Go Jump In The Lake

For many camps, the age-old question for water programming has always been a question between lakes and pools… In 1957, the answer seemed clear:

“A good natural waterfront area is superior to any man-made substitute, so that it is worthwhile to spend time searching for one in the areas where they exist.” - Julian Salomon, Camp Site Development, 1957

In the early years of camping, lakes were considered essential. With time, the unimproved waterfront area gave way to carefully designed waterfronts, with docks and designated swimming areas. Has this shift been beneficial? According to the American Red Cross, 54% of Americans can’t swim well enough to save their own lives. Paradoxically, having a lake at camp becomes a huge liability and safety concern. I say paradoxically, because what better place to be comfortable in water and to learn how to swim than surrounded by your summer camp pals?

Faced with the question of how to continue instilling a connection to nature in their campers, many camps are attempting to blend the natural environment with the built environment. Many camps across the country simply have both a pool and a lake that they use for different activities. However, Herzog & de Meuron’s Ecological Swimming Pool stands as an elegant and innovative solution. Designed for a small city in Switzerland, the new pool uses filtering plants to clean the water. In fact, the pool looks much more like a small pond. The Swiss firm writes:

“the changed perspectives brought by the intervening years prompted the idea of abandoning the conventional pool concept, with its mechanical and chemical water treatment systems, in favor of a pool closer to a natural condition with biological filtration.”

There are no chemicals needed for this pool. Gravel, sand, soil, and vegetation effectively model the natural terrestrial water purification process. The irregular edge creates a variety of swimming conditions including: a gradual entry beach, staircases, and dock for jumping. “naturbad riehen,” or “natural swimming pool,"was completed in June 2014.

photo by helen schneider, courtesy of naturbad riehen

Perhaps, this is the future of camp design… a beautiful marriage of the built and the natural environment; Which, is in fact, what great camp design strives to create.

Not Your Parents' Summer Camp

When I first went to summer camp as a kid, it was magical; filled with adventures like rock climbing, horseback riding, and playing in the lake. Now as an adult, working with camps across the country, I enjoy it anew in a new light. So much has changed from my childhood memories, but the emotional experience remains the same. When we work with a new client to identify the needs of their camp, the “magic” of camp is present, reminding us all of the power of camp.

Many parents today might have a similar reaction to new trends in camp programing. Take Pali Adventures for example… recently featured on NBC Nightly News, this is “not your parents' summer camp.” Activities include ATVs, Hollywood stunt training, trapeze skills, and paintball. NBC reports that Pali Adventures has doubled attendance since 2007. Pali Adventures contributes its success to “giving kids what they want.”

This poses an interesting design challenge that can be distilled down into a few simple questions: what do kids want, and how can we give them the tools to articulate and experience those wants? Pali Adventures is just one example of a camp that seems to have successfully combined both questions. Additionally, by giving kids what they want, they are also giving them what they need. Campers' personal growth, willingness to face challenges, and boost in confidence are evident results of the programmatic success of Pali Adventures.

The shift in focus to campers' wants was recently explored during a survey to address the state of camping among one of our current clients. Our survey results report that much of market growth is driven by camper desires. Today’s camper expects more than the average day at “your parents' summer camp.”

Trends in camping could also be compared to trends in technology. According to Victor Luckerson of Time Magazine, “research shows new tools can make kids more engaged and more creative.” In his article, "Disruptive Technology Is Changing How Kids Learn," he references a survey by PBS Learning Media that reports “nearly three-fourths of U.S. teachers use technology to motivate students to learn.” Despite many critics and roadblocks, Luckerson goes on to suggest that while technology can be viewed as a distraction, it can also serve as a tool to meet today’s kids at their level.

Perhaps the same can be said for “extreme activities” at summer camp. Some may view them as “distractions” while others view them as new tools to reach a new generation of campers. The challenge moving forward will be to design camps that will continue to engage kids for years to come.

Luckerson, Victor. "Disruptive Technology Is Changing How Kids Learn." Time.com. N.p., 11 Sept. 2014. Web. 14 Sept. 2014.

Loose Parts

For years, camp has offered campers a chance to reconnect with nature and enjoy activities, something often lost in the busy schedules of today’s kids. Take Family Camp on Lake Kanawaukee in Harriman State Park New York for example, where

"dozens of families spend the entire summer here — some for generations — renting rustic cabins and pursuing the same activities across the decades. Despite the social upheavals of the 1960s and the technology revolution of recent years, tradition holds fast… timelessness seems to be the point. Potato sack races on the Fourth of July give way to the canoe regatta in early August, then a square dance”
- Foderaro, "In a New York State Park, a Rustic Summer Camp for the Whole Family" Aug. 22, 2014 The New York Times.

However, according to the ACA, trends in camp programming are changing. The ACA 2013 Emerging Issues Survey reported that camps are adapting to the evolving interests of campers. The study shows that camps are adding programs in areas such as Adventure Programs, Family Camp Programs, Nature/ Environmental Education Programs, and Gardening Programs.

Today’s camp programming is certainly far from the “ad hoc affair” of early camping where campers were “absolutely free to do anything they want to do.” as described by Van Slyck, in A Manufactured Wilderness. According to Michael Thompson, a psychologist, author, and camp consultant, “The loss of time for free, undirected play in everyday life is one of the saddest facts of modern childhood.” Thompson goes on to suggest that perhaps camp is the place where free and undirected play can become a reality.

How can the camp landscape continue to meet the evolving interests of the camper while providing the child with the chance for the unstructured play they need? Camp Vanderkamp in Cleveland, New York seems to be onto something. They have created “an intentional space where imaginations could soar.” This space is filled with “loose parts” such as a boat, crates, logs, rope, and stones. The theory of “Loose Parts” originated in the 1970s from architect Simon Nicholson. The idea that the “loose parts” are the start of the creative process.

What can your campers create with your camp’s loose parts? Forts? Castles? Faraway lands? The possibilities are endless, perhaps all you need to do is give campers the “loose parts” and they will create the rest.



Thompson, Michael, Ph.D. "The Impact of the Loss of Free, Undirected Play in Childhood (And What Camps Can Do About It)." Parents & Families. American Camp Association, 19 Jan. 2010. Web. 10 Sept. 2014.

Van Slyck, Abigail. A Manufactured Wilderness: Summer Camps and the Shaping of American Youth, 1890-1960. Minneapolis: U of Minnesota, 2006. Print.

Back to Nature...

“Not that long ago, summer camp was a place where you camped, hiked in the woods, learned about plants and animals, or told firelight stories about ghosts or mountain lions. As likely as not today, "summer camp" is a weight-loss camp, or a computer camp. For a new generation, nature is more abstraction than reality. Increasingly, nature is something to watch, to consume, to wear—to ignore. A recent television ad depicts a four-wheel-drive SUV racing along a breathtakingly beautiful mountain stream—while in the backseat two children watch a movie on a flip-down video screen, oblivious to the landscape and water beyond the windows.
A century ago, the historian Frederick Jackson Turner announced that the American frontier had ended. His thesis has been discussed and debated ever since. Today, a similar and more important line is being crossed.”

- Excerpt from Richard Louv’s book, Last Child in the Woods.

Summer camps in America trace their origin to many different social forces interacting together. The end of the nineteenth century was dominated by a movement to preserve what wilderness was left, and to reacquaint one's self (and one's child) with nature. This was no doubt made to seem pertinent by the declaration, in 1893, that the American Frontier was closed. This marked the end of an era. In a few short centuries, we had explored the entirety of this expansive country -- a national journey that had been romanticized in countless dime novels and tall tales that drifted back across the trails to the folks back east. This romanticizing of wilderness and the West would grow like a wildfire following 1893, and this was perhaps most apparent in the number of summer camps that sprang up around the turn of the century.

Let's take a look at how some of these social forces created the landscapes of summer camps. At the turn of the nineteenth century, Sequoia National Park, Yosemite National Park, and the Grand Canyon National Monument were established. This same feeling sparked the influx of summer camps across the country, with the majority of camps in the East, (the most industrialized region), fewer in the Midwest, and very few in the West. Author Van Slyck reports in her book A Manufactured Wilderness, that many camps were built on “reclaimed” farm land “scrubbed clean” of its industrial use to return it to its original wilderness.

This “return to original wilderness” was concentrated in boys’ camps. Girls’ camps were not widely established until the 1900s, some 20 years after boys' camps started cropping up. With time these theories changed, and so did the camp landscape. Camp became less about turning boys into men, and catered more to the individual needs of campers through facility comforts (such as more permanent facilities), skill development, and attention to the overall well-being of the child. Summer camps began to develop a more complex landscape of the tools needed to create a successful summer camp. According to Van Slyck, before 1930, few camps - private or organization-based - were touched by professional design experience.

Now fast-forward 100 years to today. Once again, there is a push for the preservation of nature and a focus on its social benefits on our society, especially in our children. Richard Louv’s book warns of the negative effects of raising children without access to nature. Louv is pointing out many similarities between the closing of the frontier and, to use his words, the “last child in the woods.”

In today’s world, the camp design is critical to the functionality and success of the camp. While there are several newer specialty camps as Louv references, majority of traditional camps in existence today were built before 1960. Many of today’s camps are the very camps Van Slyck mentions as being built 100 years ago on reclaimed farmland.

Can a 100 year-old institution be the solution to today’s societal issues with our children? With the right tools, we think yes! A master plan is a logical roadmap for implementation of operational, program and physical development goals, and is a useful tool for ensuring that your camp creates an environment that helps your campers connect with the splendors of nature. Additionally, a Master Plan's planning documents are an ideal resource for generating funding and attracting publicity, as the process forces you to define exactly what your camp is all about in the present, and where you want your camp to grow in the future. And the community involvement that having a demonstrated plan for your camp generates encourages a strong sense of ownership. Overall, investment in a master plan highlights issues – both current and anticipated – and presents tangible, achievable solutions to make the most of your camp’s future.

In today’s world, master planning is common among camps. From one perspective, this might seem far from the original intent of the “wilderness of camp.” However, upon closer inspection, it does not seem that far from the original camps that “reclaimed” land to create a new “wilderness.” Van Slyck called it a “Manufactured Wilderness.” Manufactured, yes. Effective? Also yes. 100 years ago, camps provided a solution to the closing of the frontier. Today, it is once again camps that can provide the solution to the problem of the 'last child in the woods'.


Ayres, Van Slyck Abigail. A Manufactured Wilderness: Summer Camps and the Shaping of American Youth, 1890-1960. Minneapolis: U of Minnesota, 2006. Print.

Louv, Richard. Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-deficit Disorder. Chapel Hill, NC: Algonquin of Chapel Hill, 2005. Print.

Changing Perspective

Lake Noah at YMCA Camp Y-Noah

With the summer camp season coming to a close, I found myself visiting just two more camps, YMCA Y-Noah and Akron Rotary Camp, both part of Ohio's Akron Area YMCA. At YMCA Y-Noah, I was greeted by Mike Ohl, Camp Y-Noah’s Director who shared his passion for summer camp. The serenity of Lake Noah on the warm summer morning created a strong sense of place and provided me with a feel for the long tradition of camping at YMCA Resident Camps. Just down the road, the Akron Rotary Camp provides the camp experience for children and adults with special needs. Dan Reynolds, the camp's director of 14 years, shared his continued mission to meet each campers unique needs.

Once again each camp was a place where kids can have fun while developing lifelong skills.  So what do all of these camps have in common?... they are places where kids can be the best version of themselves. My summer camp adventures have changed my own views on summer camp for life. 

Just before I started touring camps, I was a bit of a skeptic. I remember reading an article by Pamela Paul in The New York Times, "Not a Happy Camper, Summer Camp Is Remembered, Sometimes Not So Fondly," and identifying with the "non-camp people" side of Paul's so bluntly-drawn line of division between people who love and those who despise it. 

"The world divides into those people who despised camp and those people who loved it. What about those who never even went? They would probably fall into either camp if they had."

It is now, however, the end of summer and I find myself wishing for that missed camp experience. At least, as Paul concludes, there is always Family Camp. 

When I first started this summer camp tour adventure, I had notions of stereotypical camp activities: bonfires, campfire songs, friendship bracelets, and the like. And, while I did see many of these things, I also found so much more. Camp is hard to explain, and I don't think I can adequately describe the essence of camp, but here are a few things that I learned: Camps- big and small- are making a positive impact on the lives of youths. The activities, the camaraderie, and the facilities are just the right tools to create a meaningful experience in a young person's life. Thank you to all of the camps who participated in tour; you have shown me many glimpses of the magic of camp.

-The Girl With The Red Umbrella 

Falcon Camp: Soaring for Greatness

Cabins built from the ground's trees.

Speechless. Just speechless. I know the redundancy of me telling you how wonderful all of these camps were, but Falcon Camp, in Carrollton Ohio, is one rare find. My journey began on what seemed like an endless dirt road which led to the grounds of the camp. I jumped out of my car and met Dave Devey -the camp director- who graciously shook my hand. I asked that he show me what specific things, places, or characteristics make Falcon Camp unique.My findings are as follows:

First, we explored the cabins. I know what you’re thinking… “Once you've seen one cabin,you've seen them all.” But these peaked my interest.That's because Dave cut down the trees growing on the grounds, made his own lumber, and built a cabin - equipped with handcrafted wooden bunk beds, on the same spot that he cut took the trees from.

Second, he led me to Leesville Lake- the camp's man-made lake that is shaped like a horseshoe. Other than being the best Muskie fishing lake in Ohio, this is where campers can paddle board, sail, swim, canoe, and even participate in log rolling; something I've always wanted to do!

Leesville Lake's log roll.

Next, Dave told me how the campers involved with theater and drama wanted to build a bridge for the upcoming production. At first, he was hesitant, wondering if the cost was worth it; however, he knew that it could double as an actual bridge for crossing the creek so he gave them the “go ahead.”

A handcrafted bridge.

Lastly, Dave shared with me Falcon Camp’s motto: “Fun for now, skills for life.” Dave was positively adamant about how much he values the growth of campers: something that he didn't have to tell me for me to figure out. By that, I mean that it was clear that he truly loves what he does and genuinely cares for each and every person at Falcon Camp. I can easily say that I felt more than welcomed at Falcon Camp. The hospitality and conversations I've had with not only the staff, but the campers were priceless. I don’t think that I've ever met more mature teenagers in my life. So, I want to sincerely thank Dave and Falcon Camp for allowing me to experience such a wonderful camp for a day!

Thank you!

-The Girl with the Red Umbrella

Conservation What?... Conservation Easements and Summer Camps.

According to the American Camp Association, 1 in 5 camps have conservation easements in place. What is a conservation easement, you ask? A conservation easement is a way for camps to protect their property from unwanted future development. For many camps, their property was purchased nearly 100 years ago for a fraction of the value of the land today. This can pose a big problem for camps, as current land values can mean large property and estate taxes. Consequently, camp owners face unique challenges arising from the ownership of significant parcels of land.

One solution to this dilemma is a conservation easement. With a conservation easement, the property owner sells the development rights to a land conservancy. Crafted to suit the particular camp’s situation, this creates opportunities for camp owners. Here are several benefits of selling development rights.

Income Tax Savings: A for-profit camp can enjoy significant federal and state income tax savings from donating a conservation easement on portions of the camp property.

Transition and Estate Planning: Camp owners planning for the transition of the camp to their family’s next generation or planning for their estates can reduce the taxes involved in such transitions by incorporating a conservation easement.

Acquisition: conservation easements can be creatively implemented to facilitate the purchase of a camp property.

Disposition: If the sale of a camp for another use is required, planning for a conservation easement, along with a creative development concept can be an effective marketing tool which can help cultivate alumnae as potential buyers for personal or collective use.

Raise Capital: In some instances, federal, state or local money may be available to purchase conservation easements from camp owners.

Camp Protection: A conservation easement will stand to protect the environment in case camp property is ever sold.

Green River Preserve, near our offices in Brevard, NC, has over 2,600 acres in conservation easement standing. For Green River Preserve, their conservation easement greatly reduced their property and estate taxes, and they received cash from the State of North Carolina through its Clean Water Management Trust Fund and other funding sources due of the camp’s ecological value. And, best of all -- campers can continue to be campers, as if nothing has changed, according to Sandy Schenck, the founder of Green River Preserve.

What can a Conservation Easement do for your camp? Learn more from? The Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy here! (there are also similar conservancy groups in each state). Camps should consult with their legal and accounting teams before pursuing any conservation easements.

The Camp Christopher Color Run!

An air-conditioned cabin.

Now that I am back in Ohio, I am set to explore camps in the area. I wanted to experience the shift in topography from the Carolinas' extremely mountainous terrain to a more suburban and rolling type of environment. Camp Christopher is my first stop!

Warmly greeted by Amanda, the camp director, our first stop was the day camp area. Equipped with typical playground equipment, some swings and a large open field area, younger campers enjoy not only this space, but several shared areas around the rest of Camp. Next, Amanda took me to one of the cabins near the entrance of the site. This particular cabin was air-conditioned to accommodate some of Camp Christopher's special needs campers. Having not yet visited a Camp on my tour that accommodated such, it was very remarkable to see a Camp that accommodates children with special needs who also makes them feel no different than other Campers and encourages them to participate in many of the same activities.  

A small creek along the trails.

We continued to the horse stables were I got to see the youngest group of campers saddle up and head for a short trail ride. Next, Amanda led me to a hiking trail that included a low ropes course and several great spots to pitch a tent. A small creek along the trail, trickled with water; how relaxing!

Another favorite part of my visit was stumbling upon a plethora of bamboo fishing poles at a lake on site. They weren't your average rod and reel, rather they had only two eyes for the fishing line and a small hook on the end.  Stale bread biscuits were being used as bait.  This allowed younger campers to learn how to fish, without trying to comprehend casting the line and reeling in the fish.  This is just one activity that, as Campers progress at Camp Christopher, they are taught new techniques, eventually working their way up to your typical rod and reel. 

Bamboo fishing poles for the younger campers.

Lastly, and undoubtedly the most exciting moment of my visit, was the color run. Camp Christopher holds their very own color run race every Friday at Camp. They even craft their own paint and powder, used to color the campers as they run! At the starting line, all of the Campers are wearing white t-shirts and as they race through the campsite they are sprayed with colored liquid and powder tie-dyeing their t-shirts with all different colors. When campers reach the edge of camp, they turn around and head towards the finish line. Don't worry moms: everything is machine-washable!! 

The color run!

This camp visit was more than just a walk in the woods… it was a lesson that everybody deserves to have fun and let loose. No boundaries or restrictions should prevent him or her from enjoying life to its fullest potential. Camp Christopher is a shining example of a successful program. Thank you, Camp Christopher!

-The Girl with the Red Umbrella

Welcome to Camp...(nice maintenance shed)

It’s opening day and the camp looks beautiful! Every detail, from the check-in table to the new canoes lined up in the lake, is perfect. Parents are driving into camp, awed by the serenity of this other world. But what about that building? Ugh! It’s the maintenance shed.

After visiting hundreds of camps, one thing that stands out to us is the placement of the maintenance shed, a common problem. Perhaps, as people who design camps, we are more sensitive to this, but we still can't help but wonder why would maintenance sheds have the privilege of being the first building visitors see. Programmatically, the maintenance shed is “back of the house,” but in more cases than not, it is near the entrance to camp. We think this is just a small part of a bigger issue centering around the design of the entrance to camp.

As a majority of camps across the country were established nearly 100 years ago, perhaps the entrance is just as it has always been: the dirt road off the main road that transports you into the camp world. Some entrances are long, others quite short. Let’s take a look at what creates a successful entrance.

1. The entrance must be defined. A large welcome sign or sign with the camp logo, and landscaping are all aspects of a well-defined entrance. 

The entrance to Grizzly Creek Ranch. 

2. The entrance must “set the mood” for camp. Find ways to incorporate the “camp feel” right off the bat. 

Camp Pinnacle counselors setting the mood for an amazing summer
on opening day. 

3. The entrance road is a chance to showcase what makes your camp unique. This is your first impression on parents and campers. Be sure it’s a great one! 

The entrance to Camp Sea Gull was strategically designed to wind through
the camp's Golf Course, showcasing a beautiful feature of camp. 

Camp Ridgecrest and The Little Chief Challenge

I will admit: venturing just a couple miles from Camp Crestridge and onto an all-boys camp was a little intimidating at first. But after pulling up to the office building and meeting Phil, Camp Ridgecrest’s full-time director, I realized how ridiculous that thought was.  I asked the same of Phil as I asked all of the other previous camp directors- if he would be kind enough to show me what makes Camp Ridgecrest unique.  I was interested to see the difference in dynamic, as I shifted from an all-girls to an all-boys camp.

Basketball Court

The first building I entered was the dining hall.  It is actually one, if not the largest vertically-standing log cabin-type buildings in this part of the country. You see, the majority of cabins have logs laid horizontally, while this building's logs stand on end. It is a really unique site to see.

Their lake had TWO blobs!

Another interesting feature was how impeccable their lake was - equipped with not one, but TWO “blobs”, and plentiful kayaks and canoes.  Sharon, back at Crestridge, had told me about this lake, but I didn't fully understand the excitement until actually seeing it.

One tucked-away area that we almost walked past was a small chapel. There were maybe ten benches for small groups to come after breakfast and have devotionals.

Outdoor Chapel

Lastly, Phil explained to me something called the “Little Chief Challenge".  "Little Chief" is the highest rank attainable by a camper. Though, attaining the title sure isn't easy. Eligible campers are woken up at midnight and have to perform a series of assignments.  They have 18 hours to complete numerous physical and mental tasks... without making a sound!  The challenge entails:

a.     Building, starting, and maintaining a fire for 6 hours

b.     Run up Mt. Kitazuma, always remaining in between two other runners (who are constantly being replaced)

c.      Reflect on the meaning of these previous tasks at a devotion center

d.     Write a 1500 word essay after breakfast with the topic, “What Camp Ridgecrest Means to Them” which is to be completed by lunch time

e.     Perform various grueling physical labor tasks

Whether your make it to the 6 PM cut-off or not, the underlying lesson of the "Little Chief Challenge" is that we must fail in order to grow.  Only 3-4% actually complete the challenge, but everyone is right there by your side if you fail.  They are surrounded by an incredible support system and THAT is the true lesson. Thank you, Camp Ridgecrest for an amazing adventure!

Thank you, Camp Ridgecrest!

-The Girl with the Red Umbrella

Amphitheaters- Hear All, See All

The Epidaurus Amphitheater in Greece still has near

 perfect acoustics because of the limestone seats which

filter low background noises and enhances higher-

frequency noises from the stage.

The beautiful design concept of amphitheaters has been around for centuries. Meant to be a gathering place of spectators for special events, these venues are an obvious necessity for campsites of all kinds. Large or small, intricately built or simply made- they help bring people together for entertainment, worship, reflection, music and more.

Historically, outdoor amphitheaters were (usually) circular or oval arena, such as Rome’s Colosseum. Outdoor theaters in antiquity tended to be more semi-round. Gladiator fights, chariot races, athletics, and live theatrics were among some of the events held at these arenas. Some able to accommodate over 50,000 spectators, ancient amphitheaters were elaborately adorned and often made of precious materials such as marble and limestone. Regardless of material, all of these freestanding structures contained a central showground with tiers of concentric seating and were built for optimal viewing and sound amplification. 

Today's amphitheaters still mimic the notable characteristics of their historic counterparts. And while some still appear in circular shapes, many contemporary amphitheaters often take on a more semi-circular form. A hilly campsite acts as a perfect, natural amphitheater as seating can be cut or built into steep valleys. Breathtaking views are the perfect backdrop to any presentation, so be aware of your surroundings and pick a picturesque background scene for your amphitheater's location. 

Asking basic questions about your amphitheater needs will help determine what will work best for your camp. What type of activities will be taking place in the arena? Will you need electrical outlets? What time of day will it mostly be utilized? Will you need to install lighting? Do you need a large stage or a small podium? How many people are you looking to seat? Do you need a covered stage? Is the area easily accessible? 

Below are several great examples of different types of modern-day amphitheaters- some of which may inspire your very own!

Camp Barney Medintz 

North Fork Ranch

Camp Okizu

Camp Ramah

B'Nai B'Rith Camp Retreat Center

Chapel Island at Camp Jewell YMCA

The Council Ring at Camp Jewell YMCA

Camp Lee

Forest Home Victory Circle Outdoor Amphitheater

Meadows Inspiration Point at Hoblitzelle Camp and Conference Center

Ray Camp; Joan Kroc Corps Community Center

"We Need To Talk"

The Start of a Great Relationship…

A Page from Greg's Sketchbook

Domokur Architects has over 40 years of camp experience, with creative lead Greg Copeland leading the charge.  With years of experience and great relationships with camps across the country, we could all learn a thing or two from Greg!  I had the privilege of hearing about one particular encounter between Greg and Len McCandliss, former CEO of Sierra Health Foundation, that happened in March of 1999. The story goes something like this...

They were both attending the ACA West Conference and Len actually approached Greg -- he said, “We need to talk.”  His plan was to create a special needs camp on the land he had purchased near Nevada City, California, and he requested Greg’s evaluation of the site.  After carefully examining the area, Greg was extremely concerned about Len wanting to building on a wetland, as well as the fact that there was limited development space.

In February of 2000, Len contacted Greg once more and told him about another piece of land that he had purchased near Portola, California.  Len wanted another evaluation.  Despite the unfortunate condition of the last site, Greg thought that this site was promising.  He felt the 466 acres of land was beautiful and perfectly suited for a camp.  Greg only had one wistful comment: “I wish you could buy the adjoining land next to the area that we had identified as the best location for the camp.”  When Len asked why, Greg suggested that he would mirror the plan so that the dining hall overlooked the meadow.  Len’s reply was, “Well, you better get started!”  That moment marked the beginning of a new friendship.  With the master plan complete in 2001, and design work complete in 2002 by a local architecture firm, Grizzly Creek Ranch was able to officially open in 2003.

Since opening, Grizzly Creek Ranch has had the privilege of working with nonprofit organizations serving diverse populations, such as students, teachers, people with special needs, and children considered at risk for a variety of social and economic reasons.  In 2010, the Sierra Health Foundation partnered with Sierra Nevada Journeys to create year round outdoor education opportunities. This camp focuses on providing a unique camp experience while encouragement, support, and growth are highlighted.  It is a place where kids with special needs can just be kids -- a place where they can create their own everlasting memories.

Grizzly Creek Ranch Master Plan

Tips From Greg's Sketchbook:

1. It's about building relationships.  Master planning takes time.

2. Have the courage to reevaluate.  In 1999 Len had already purchased the land in Nevada City. Little did he know the success he would experience in 2003, nearly two hours away in Portola.

3. Be flexible in design. The original plan did not consider the adjacent land. Once the additional property was acquired, the plan was mirrored, resulting in a beautifully situated dining hall overlooking the meadow.

Hello Muddah Hello Faddah

Original Post Office Boxes Salvaged From Lake Toxaway 

Post Office in North Carolina

Camp letters have a long history of being cherished. Whether they are simple sweet notes, telling of new accomplishments, or the attempted explanation of a crazy camp tradition, these letters are destined from the start to be stored in mothers' sock drawers for decades. 



Not sure what I mean? Click the link to view a particularly hilarious camp letter! This kid wrote the best letter from camp EVER!

The Mail Room at Windy
Gap Weaverville, NC

Often the camp mail room is off limits to campers, hidden in the back of the staff lounge or office. But why? Camp provides the opportunity for kids to practice the dying art of letter writing, so why not celebrate it! One camp does just this. Windy Gap in Weaverville, NC has designed their mail room to look like an old-time post office.

The Mailroom is a perfect opportunity for design creativity at camp. It also makes a great stop on a camp tour, creating a chance to explain to parents one more example of how attending camp can benefit their children. 

Gwynn Valley Camp: Sustainability at its Finest

Gwynn Valley Camp is located just south of Brevard, North Carolina in the Blue Ridge Mountains.  As the camp is renowned for its sustainability efforts, I was eager to see their green initiatives in action!  Anne and Grant Bullard, the two camp directors of Gwynn Valley, were kind enough to show me around the camp last week.  Anne and Grant have a strong passion for the outdoors, as well as for the intellectual growth of children, and these passions are evident throughout Gwynn Valley.  The rest of the staff comes from around the world – which makes for a diverse, inspiring atmosphere for the kids as they learn to develop appreciation for others as well as themselves.

Gwynn Valley's water mill supplies power all throughout camp.

The most visible sustainable initiative at Gwynn Valley is their historic water mill, which supplies energy to the camp.  Built in 1890, the mill is situated on the edge of a lake where a mountainside creek meets the lake.  The water running down from the mountains generates hydropower that is delivered to many of the camp buildings.

Four wood burners provide the camp with even more renewable energy.  The enticing scent of burning hickory and oak permeated the air throughout the camp – just an added bonus for being green!  Gwynn Valley uses these wood burners to heat up to 70% of their water.

Food production at Gwynn Valley Camp is also highly sustainable.  I was surprised to learn that Gwynn Valley grows up to 70% of their food on-site, including beef and eggs!  There is also a food mill that campers can use to grind corn into cornmeal – and better yet, to churn their own ice cream… YUM.  Currently Anne and Grant are searching for a solution for food waste disposal; they are exploring the option of using Black Soldier Fly Larvae to speed the food decomposition process – and afterwards, the nutrient-rich larvae can become a healthy meal for Gwynn Valley’s chickens.

Thoughtful design solutions, like the ones described above, were all throughout camp.  The walls of the horse barn were even designed to collapse to create winter storage areas for bikes and kayaks – simple, but clever.  And how could I forget the lightning detector?  Grant and Anne decided to invest in a lightning detector as a safety measure; this device can send a signal to the camp staff that alerts them when it is unsafe for outdoor activities.

The stable walls collapse,
enabling more storage.

My first visit was a success!
Thank you, Gwynn Valley!

Gwynn Valley Camp is clearly a place where the three pillars of sustainability (people, environment, and economy) come together. The camp offers a rewarding social experience for campers, earth-friendly initiatives that respect nature, and efficient practices that save time and money for the camp.  Learn more about Gwynn Valley Camp by visiting their website here!

- The Girl with the Red Umbrella