GSHG Summer Camp Guide 2026

Camper Communication Mail is a big part of the camp experience, so keep letters light and cheerful. Avoid sharing anything that might make your camper feel homesick. Because mail takes 2–3 days to arrive, consider sending a letter before camp starts so it’s waiting on day one. You can also bring pre labeled letters or small packages (games, books, cards) to check-in to be handed out during the week. Mail is delivered daily during Turtle Time. Any mail that arrives after a camper leaves will be returned to sender. Tips for mail: • Keep mail positive. Encourage them to try new things and make new friends. • Ask about what they are doing at camp. • Let them know how much fun you want them to have at camp. • Include pre-addressed, stamped envelopes or postcards to remind them to send YOU mail. Stamps will also be available for purchase at the trading post. Telephone Use by Resident Campers Parents are welcome to contact the camp office anytime with questions or concerns. To support camper independence and group bonding, we generally discourage phone calls during the session, though exceptions are made. Staff will reach out if a camper struggles to adjust after 24 hours or if health concerns arise, and we’ll work with you on the best solution—including a phone call if needed. Cell phones are not allowed at camp. Please do not send a cell phone to camp with your camper. Phones create distractions, increase homesickness, and lead to secret-keeping—but they also create fairness issues when some campers have them and others don’t. All of this takes away from the shared camp experience. If a phone is found, it will be confiscated and held in the camp office until pickup on Friday. GSHG Summer Camp Team Our camp team is made up of youth-minded adults who are passionate about nature, outdoor living, and helping campers learn new skills and discover their strengths. Each group has at least two trained team members serving as role models and guides throughout the week. All camp staff complete drug screenings, criminal background checks, and extensive pre-camp training, including first aid, CPR, outdoor skills, programming, team-building, and supporting campers through homesickness. Because staff spend most of the day out in camp, the camp office is not staffed 24 hours a day. The camp director will make every effort to return calls or emails within three hours.

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