Technical tree climbing is a program on the leading edge of innovation. It will inspire staff, generate revenue, and create a sense of accomplishment and wonder. Initiating a technical tree climbing program requires climbable trees, knowledgeable staff, and a reverence for trees. Describes how Mystic Lake Camp initiated a 4-week program involving…

Describes circumstances of a 1978 camp canoeing accident in which 13 persons drowned. Reports factors which led to the accident, based on details from the Coroner's Report. Poses questions which should be satisfactorily answered before a trip can be safely undertaken by campers and camp staff. (CS)

The City of Phoenix offers a five-day river-based camping experience to at-risk and disabled teens. Describes how professional river outfitters are contracted to run the trips, staffing considerations, liability and safety considerations, and camper orientation. Evaluation showed that participants received lasting measurable benefits, including…

Describes a resident camp program designed to teach girls ages 10-12 about photography. Goals of the one-week program included developing an eye for potential photographs; learning how to use cameras and equipment; and learning photography principles that produce quality pictures. Includes photography activities and projects. (LP)

A New York camp's character education program is described. Implementing the program involves choosing which values to teach, making staff and campers aware of the program's importance, deciding where to teach the values, choosing and coaching the attributes that reflect each value, debriefing after activities, and keeping campers and staff…

Summer camps can implement a biomonitoring program that determines water quality through study of aquatic insects. Such a program requires a minimum of equipment and allows campers to explore the natural world and absorb information that will affect their views of science and the environment. (LP)

Describes value and instruction of vaulting, gymnastics on horseback, in residential camp environment. Emphasizes safety practices concerning ring preparation, warming up, and horse selection and training. Describes vaulter equipment, learning process, programs, and games. Defines 13 vaulting terms. (TES)

Provides a philosophical and practical rationale for the development of a global perspective camp program citing increased enrollment, quality staff, public relations value, and creative programs as potential benefits. Discusses program development including involvement of camp governing board, global perspectives themes, curriculum resources, and…