Resident camp FAQs
See below for answers to frequently asked questions.
Is there bus transportation?
Bus transportation is recommended for all campers. Girls start the camp experience on the bus with camp counselors as chaperones. Many girls make friends on the bus and look forward to it each year. Bus stops are located in Balboa Park and Kit Carson Park. Confirmation packet includes maps, directions and more information. Cost: $15.
If she goes to a horse-themed camp, how much time will my daughter spend with horses?
Horse campers at Camp Winacka spend half their day working with the horses and half participating in regular camp activities. Each girl can expect to ride for approximately one hour per day, and spend around two additional hours around the horses. We pride ourselves on giving girls a well-rounded idea of horsemanship. Girls are responsible for all areas of horse care including feeding, grooming and cleaning stalls, along with other barn chores. Look for the "Horse Camp" insert in addition to your confirmation packet for more information and a sample schedule.
What is the difference between day camp Counselor-in-Training (CIT) and resident camp Counselor-in-Training (CIT)?
The day camp and resident camp CIT programs are completely independent offerings, designed and implemented with the unique characteristics of each program in mind. Advance training is required for day camp CIT only. Resident camp CIT questions: Gabby Coburn, gcoburn@sdgirlscouts.org, (619) 610-0816. Day camp CIT questions: Sandy Sultz, ssultz@sdgirlscouts.org, (619) 610-0814.
Do counselors sleep in the cabins with the girls?
It depends on the cabins. Counselors sleep in cabins with girls for all Camp Whispering Oaks programs. At Camp Winacka, counselors do not sleep in cabins with campers, except for Jumpstart. Winacka counselor cabins are within feet of the camper cabins, and campers are instructed on where to find counselors if they need them. In "under-the-stars" accommodations at Camp Winacka, counselors sleep near the campers, but in their own area.
What is the difference between modern, rustic and under-the-stars accommodations?
All accommodations have access to flush toilets and hot showers.
- Modern cabins - Have heat and electricity, bunk beds and sleep up to 16 campers.
- Rustic cabins - Are screened in, open air cabins with no electricity, built in bunk beds and sleep up to eight campers.
- Under-the-stars - Campers sleep on cots on the deck of a central building that has restrooms and changing area.
How do I enroll my daughter with a friend?
If you register online, you will be prompted to supply a name of a "camp friend." If you register by mail, staple both campers' applications and payments together. Girls may only pick one "camp friend" and that buddy must also choose them. Most campers do not attend with a "camp friend," so don't worry if your camper doesn't have one.
Can my daughter's whole troop register together?
We do not recommend signing more than two campers up together. If a whole troop or portion of a troop is attending camp together, we encourage you to sign them up for different programs based on their own interests. They'll still see each other during meals, at campfires and out and about around camp. Signing up separately allows them to experience camp for themselves, while still sharing the adventure with their troop mates.
What kind of stuff will my daughter need? How will I know?
We will e-mail you a confirmation, an information guide and necessary paperwork when we receive your registration. The guide details what to expect at camp, including what your daughter might need. Certain specialty camps such as horses require additional or specialty clothing or gear.
Can you accommodate my campers' special needs (dietary, physical, medical and/or emotional)?
We can accommodate most campers with special needs with sufficient notice. Contact the camp directors in advance at campdirector@sdgirlscouts.org with specific considerations. A staff member trained in special needs may be available for additional support upon request. As always, fill out the health history fully and completely to help us best accommodate your camper.
