Outdoor Ed FAQs

Outdoor Ed FAQs

Do you have questions about registration, schedules… or just about camp in general? Well, here are the answers to some of the questions most-often asked.

If you are unable to find answers to your questions here, please email office@walcamp.org or call 815.784.5141


Parent Questions

  • Can our students bring electronics?

    Outdoor Ed schools have the freedom to permit or restrict use of iPods, cell phones, CD players, portable games and cameras during their visit. We do ask that boomboxes and portable DVD players be left at home as a courtesy to our other guests (though teachers can bring one for educational uses).

    Some teachers permit use of a smart phone on the bus ride, and occasionally for nightly "check-ins" with parents, and then collect the devices in a secure location to keep them safe from the elements and to limit their distracting nature. Camp, after all, is a great place to get in some real "face time" with the other participants.

    During units led by Walcamp staff we strongly discourage electronics use as it can be detrimental to the experience.

    Walcamp is not responsible for lost or damaged electronics brought along on field trips.

  • What should students bring for a water unit?

    Walcamp’s Pond and River units are designed with the intent –weather permitting– for students to be in the water while they explore. They will need to bring old clothes, (perhaps a swimsuit for underneath), and extra shoes that they can get wet.

    The best "water shoes" are water moccasins, old sneakers, or "keens" style sandals that protect the toes and stay fastened to your feet. Rain boots or galoshes may be preferred in some types of weather, but can get uncomfortable in knee-deep water. Crocs or sandals with a heel strap are acceptable, with a risk that they might still get lost in the mud.

    Do not bring flip-flops or shoes that do not securely fasten for aquatic activities. They slide off or get lost in the mud too easily, risking your child walking barefoot over rocks, grass, twigs and other hazards until they can return to their cabin for a spare set of shoes.

    You may also want to send extra plastic bags to keep wet clothes items separate from other laundry and luggage items.

Teacher-Educator Questions

  • Can our students bring electronics?

    Outdoor Ed schools have the freedom to permit or restrict use of iPods, cell phones, CD players, portable games and cameras during their visit. We do ask that boomboxes and portable DVD players be left at home as a courtesy to our other guests (though teachers can bring one for educational uses).

    Some teachers permit use of a smart phone on the bus ride, and occasionally for nightly "check-ins" with parents, and then collect the devices in a secure location to keep them safe from the elements and to limit their distracting nature. Camp, after all, is a great place to get in some real "face time" with the other participants.

    During units led by Walcamp staff we strongly discourage electronics use as it can be detrimental to the experience.

    Walcamp is not responsible for lost or damaged electronics brought along on field trips.

  • Can we bring our own Lifeguard?

    According to ACA, any lifeguard at Walcamp must conduct site-specific training in addition to providing proof of Lifeguard Certification. There are also questions about liability and insurance should there be an accident or injury during waterfront activities.

    Our staff members know our facilities, are familiar with local weather patterns, and are trained to implement additional safeguards as they become necessary. For that reason, we require that a Walcamp lifeguard be on duty during waterfront activities like canoeing or swimming.

  • Can we use our own Canoeing units?

    Yes! Many schools bring their own unit worksheets, and having your own canoeing instructor is fine. According to ACA, a Walcamp lifeguard will be on duty during actual canoeing time and may implement additional safeguards if they become necessary.

  • Why are Walcamp instructors required for archery?

    Walcamp requires that all “potential risk” equipment and activities be facilitated by Walcamp staff according to strict ACA standards. Groups may choose to bring their own equipment for the range rather than having a Walcamp instructor. Walcamp equipment may only be used under the supervision of our staff to ensure a high level of safety for your students during the activity.