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Camp Programs

Dear Girl Scout Family,

Whether you and your Girl Scout are just beginning to explore Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska camps or you’re an expert on all things outdoors, know that there are life-changing opportunities at camp for all girls to unplug, learn new skills, and exercise new-found independence in a safe, girl-led environment.

Camp is for everyone, and the possibilities are endless. Girls can attend as an individual, grab a buddy, or come with their troop.

Day camps, resident camps, family camps, and weekend camps await you!

Give your girl the gift of camp! You’ll be amazed at what outdoors experiences do to develop her sense of self and confidence to take on new challenges.

We hope to see you at camp!

Happy adventuring!

Bea Webster
Camp Program Manager

 

Explore Your Camp Online Scavenger Hunt Patch Program

During this unprecedented time, we want to ensure EVERY girl has an opportunity to earn the new Explore Your Camp patch collage. Spirit of Nebraska has developed a patch program with a fun and challenging online scavenger hunt. Visit our Girl Scouts at Home page for more information.

 

Get Ready for Camporee 2021 

We've reschedued the camporee for next year! Hundreds of Girl Scouts and volunteers will gather at Camp Arrowhead in Lexington, Nebraska, June 4-6, 2021, for a regional camporee. The camporee will provide girls with fun outdoor experiences such as archery, horseback riding, swimming, canoeing, and more! Registration will be available at a later date.

FAQs

1.  What is a camporee?

A camporee is a local or regional camping event for Girl Scouts. The camporee brings together Girl Scouts from across Nebraska, and the region, to have fun in the outdoors. It’s a great way to meet sister Girl Scouts in a lively camp setting while learning and putting outdoor skills to use.

2. Who can come to the camporee?

Any Girl Scout, grades K-12, may register for and attend the camporee but supervision is required, meaning adults must register and attend with girls, using the recommended volunteer-to-girl ratio. ALL attendees must be current Girl Scout members and ALL adults must have a successful background screen completed before attending. Tag-a-long siblings, including infants, are NOT allowed.

3. What are the sleeping arrangements?

Everyone will tent camp except for Daisy and Brownie Girl Scout groups who have the option to cabin camp. Attendees must bring their own tent equipment. A separate tent area will be provided for adult male volunteers. Girl Scout policy requires that ALL male volunteers sleep separately from girls.

4. What is the tent area like?

Tent camping will be in designated areas on a large, open grassy field. Upon arrival, troops will be assisted in choosing a tent site so that marked pathways and other common areas are maintained. Portable toilets will be provided for tent campers.

5. Who can reserve the cabins?

Cabin camping is reserved for Daisy and Brownie troops who do not feel ready for tent camping (they can choose to tent camp however, if they prefer) or attendees with special needs for whom tent camping is not an option.  Only Daisy and Brownie Girl Scout groups who do not wish to tent camp may reserve cabins. If you have special needs requiring accommodation, please contact Member Support in advance.

6. Can we bring an RV?

RVs are not allowed at the camporee.

7.  Is there electricity in the cabins?

Yes, there is electricity available in all the cabins. The tent camping area, however, does not have access to electricity. You will have access to electricity in the main lodge and bathrooms only. Portable battery chargers, or solar powered chargers are encouraged.

8. Do we have to complete Camp Out Basic training to attend?

A camp-trained volunteer is highly suggested, but not required, as this is a council-sponsored event and there will be camp-knowledgeable staff available. We recommend reviewing the excellent, short outdoor training videos located on our website.

9. Are there showers at the facility?

There are two bath houses on the property featuring showers, sinks, and flushing toilets. Each bath house has one side for females and one side for males, with three shower stalls on each side. There will also be porta potties located in the tent area. With the large number of camporee participants, showers may not be available without long waits. Please prepare your participants for this in advance.

10. Will we have access to water?

Access to drinkable water is available through two faucets on the property. Be sure to bring something with which to carry and store water.

11.  How should we prepare our food?

Cooking on a gas, charcoal, or propane stove is recommended for tent campers. Campers must provide their own stoves. Cooking over a wood fire is not allowed due to regulations set by the facility. You may not bring your own wood. If you are tent camping, keep food stored in sealable containers and keep the containers in your tent or in your vehicle.

Since food is prohibited in the cabins, all cabin camper meals are included in their registration fee.

12. Can we bring our own fire wood?

No, you cannot bring in your own firewood. This is a camp property policy.

13. Are food and beverages allowed in the cabins?

Food and beverages are not allowed in the cabins. This is a camp property policy.

14.  What food will be served with the meal plan?

Please visit the “Meal Planning” section below. We will do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions and food allergies. Please let us know if you need special meal accommodations by May 17, 2020.

15. Should we bring SWAPS?

Yes, there will be girls from all over Nebraska and the region coming to this event so definitely bring some! We are expecting close to 500 participants, but you may bring as many SWAPS as you wish.

16. What are SWAPS?

SWAPS stands for “Special Whatchamacallits Affectionately Pinned Somewhere.” SWAPS were incorporated into Girl Scouting/Guiding to introduce one Girl Scout to another. Ideas and more information on SWAPS can be found in the "SWAPS" section below.

17. Will there be campfires each night?

Yes, we will have campfires each evening with s’mores and singing. We will provide s’mores to all participants. Campfires will begin at 8:30 each night.

18. What activities are available?

There will be a variety of activities available including horseback riding, archery, crafts, hiking, swimming, fishing, badge work, canoeing, and more. Horseback riding and archery have additional fees and must be registered for prior to the camporee. A detailed activity agenda will be included in the information packet you receive upon arrival. There will also be free time during which camporee attendees provide their own activities.

19. Will there be free time?

Yes! Bring activities for free time such as badge requirements to work on, a Journey to complete, cards or balls to play games with, and anything else you want to do during free time at the camporee. Many troops like to bring Program on Demand kits as an activity to do while at the camporee. See all the Program on Demand kits and order them here. Remember to order early and allow up to one month for your kit to arrive.

20. Where is the closest store?

There is a Wal-Mart approximately three miles from the camp.

21. Will Juliette’s Boutique be on site?

Yes! Juliette’s Boutique will have a pop-up shop at the camporee where you can purchase all kinds of fun items. They will accept cash, credit, check, Cookie Dough, and Nut Bucks.

22. Will girls earn badges at the Camporee?

Yes! All girls will earn the Eco Badges for their grade levels at the Camporee. We also encourage you to check out all the outdoor badges. Plan ahead and work on those outdoor badges while at the Camporee!

23. Are males allowed to attend the Camporee?

Yes! Men may participate only if separate sleeping quarters are provided by the participant if coming with a troop. One family unit may sleep in the same quarters in program areas except for in the cabins due to limited space.

Schedule
Friday, June 4, 2021

3:00 p.m.
Check in will begin for only those that are horseback riding on Friday evening. All other attendees will not be checked into camp until 6:45 p.m.

6:45 p.m.
Check-in begins. After setting up your tent, or getting settled into your cabin, you may explore the campgrounds. Please have one adult check everyone in and collect T-shirts at the main lodge.

8:30 p.m.
Meet at the south fire ring for the campfire. Bring lawn chairs or a blanket to sit on. S’mores will be provided, as well as favorite campfire songs.

11:00 p.m.
"Quiet Time" begins.

Saturday, June 5, 2021

7:45 a.m.
Flag ceremony and announcements.

8:00 a.m.
Cabin Campers report to the lodge for breakfast.

9:00 a.m.
Follow your individualized schedule of activities, provided at check-in.

12:00 p.m.
Cabin Campers report to the lodge for lunch.

1:00 p.m.
Follow your individualized schedule of activities, provided at check-in.

3:00 p.m.
Cabin Campers report to the lodge for a snack.

6:00 p.m.
Cabin Campers report to the lodge for dinner.

8:30 p.m.
Meet at the south fire ring for the campfire. Bring lawn chairs or a blanket to sit on. S’mores will be provided, and we’ll enjoy campfire songs.

11:00 p.m.
"Quiet Time" begins.

Sunday, June 6, 2021

7:45 a.m.
Scouts Own Ceremony (girl-planned)

8:00 a.m.
Cabin Campers report to the lodge for breakfast.

10:00 a.m.
Check-out

Meal Planning
Tent Campers

To help you and your girls plan for your camporee outdoor cooking experience, please review our Outdoor Training page for suggestions on planning, packing, and organizing for outdoor cooking.

Cabin Campers

If your girls are Daisy or Brownie Girl Scouts and will be staying in the cabins, your meals will be provided for you. The Camp Arrowhead policy does not permit food in the sleeping cabins. Below are the menus for the camporee. Be sure to eat before you arrive on Friday, as the evening meal will not be provided the first night.

Friday

  • Campfire – S'mores

Saturday

  • Breakfast – French Toast, Scrambled Eggs, Sausage, Fruit, Honey Nut Cheerios, Milk
  • Lunch – Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches, Lunch Meats, Cheeses, Chips, Bread Choices, Salad Choices, Fruit, Veggie Sticks, Cookies
  • Snack – Apples, Cheese Sticks, Granola Bars
  • Dinner – Spaghetti, Meatballs, Salad, Garlic Bread
  • Campfire – S'mores

Sunday

  • Breakfast – Yogurt, Blueberries, Strawberries, Bananas, Granola, Nutri Grain Bars, Honey Nut Cheerios, Milk
Dietary Concerns

Please contact Alisha Epp via email or call 308.850.1711 if you have any dietary concerns. We will do our best to accommodate your needs.

Guidelines and Policies
Arrival and Departure

Please plan to arrive no earlier than 6:45 pm on Friday unless you are riding horse on Friday evening. Check-in will be anytime between 6:45–8 p.m. If you will be arriving past 8 p.m., please be sure to let us know. We will call any participants who have not arrived by 8 p.m.

All participants must leave the campground by 10 a.m. on Sunday. If you have parents picking girls up from the camporee, please be sure they are aware of this.

Emergencies While Traveling

If you have an emergency while traveling, or if you will be delayed getting to the event, please call Alisha Epp at 308.850.1711.

Weather

Please plan for unpredictable Nebraska weather. Evenings may get cool, so bring warm clothing, including a jacket and rainwear. Please see your packet of information upon arrival for storm shelter procedures and evacuation procedures.

Drugs/Alcohol

The use of illegal drugs or alcohol is strictly forbidden and will result in immediate removal from the event.

Smoking

Smoking and/or vaping is prohibited on the property. If you must smoke/vape, you will need to leave the property. Please make sure your troop is properly supervised if you leave.

Pets

No pets are allowed.

Valuables

Leave any irreplaceable jewelry and valuables at home. Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska is not responsible for any lost or stolen items.

Health Exam

Please ensure that all girls have a Health History/Activity Permission Form with them at the event. Health History/Activity Permission Forms are not required for adults, but are encouraged.

Accommodations
  • Tent Campers: We are setting up tents in a designated area on a large open field. You will be directed to where you can set up your tent upon arrival. Please be respectful of space and your surroundings when setting up.
  • Cabin Campers: Each cabin has beds with mattresses. You must bring your own bedding (pillows, blankets, etc.). You may be sharing a cabin with another troop or family. Please be courteous to others sharing your space.
  • Bathrooms: Some cabins have bathrooms, others do not. There is a bathhouse, with a small number of shower stalls for use by tent campers, and those in cabins without bathrooms. There will also be portable toilets near the tent camping area.
"Lights Out"

Please respect those around you at bedtime. If you are a "night owl," please remember that we will rise early each morning and some campers need extra rest. "Lights Out" begins at 11 p.m., when all campers must return to their sleeping areas. Troop Leaders are responsible to making sure girls are in their tents and quiet.

Rules for Cooking Your Own Food

Only charcoal and gas grills may be used. Wood fires for cooking are not allowed.

SWAPS

We invite you to participate in a fun Girl Scout tradition and bring “SWAPS” (Special Whatchamacallits Affectionately Pinned Somewhere).  SWAPS are small tokens of friendship exchanged with other Girl Scouts while traveling. There will be around 500 people at the event, so we encourage everyone to bring 10-20.  SWAPS ARE NOT MANDATORY. Please see the "SWAPS" section below for more information.

Waiver for Horseback Riding

If you have registered for horseback riding, each rider must complete a Horseback Riding Waiver of Liability Form. Please bring your completed waiver form with you to the camporee. Please DO NOT send your completed form to a Spirit of Nebraska service center.   

Suggested Packing List

A packing list for Camporee 2021 is available for download and to print.

SWAPS
SWAPS: Special Whatchamacallits Affectionately Pinned Somewhere

Girl Scouts often make small tokens of friendship to exchange with the Girl Scouts they meet while traveling. These little gifts are called “SWAPS.”

These little goodies don’t have to be complicated or expensive. Instead, they should be hand-made and have a connection to your girls and your troop. They don’t have to look perfect, but they should have personality. Most importantly, they should be fun to make, give, and receive. ​​

SWAPs are a great way to celebrate new and existing friendships. They are a memento of the friends your Girl Scouts make along the way. Encourage your girls to make and share them. They’ll be glad they did down the road when these little “Special Whatchamacallits” help them remember new friends and fun travel experiences.

SWAPS Tips
  1. Package the SWAPS to trade in one bag. Also bring a gallon-sized Ziplock bag labeled with your name and troop to store your new SWAPS. Some girls also pin their new SWAPS onto lanyards, hats, or banners. This will help you keep things organized as you trade.
  2. It’s okay for girls within the same troop to make the same SWAPS, however, having a few different designs within the same troop helps with trading. If 10 girls in your troop bring 20 each, there are 200 of the same SWAPS which may make trading hard.
  3. SWAPS trading isn’t just for the girls; many volunteers enjoy trading, too! Adults, feel free to participate as well.
  4. To find examples, ideas, and instructions for SWAPS, Google search “Girl Scout SWAPS” or browse Pinterest. Keep them simple as you will be making a lot!
  5. It’s a good idea to attach a little note with the Girl Scout’s name (first name only), the troop number, and possibly even the location and date of the event. This will make it easier for your girls to remember down the road what SWAPS they received where.
  6. No food in your SWAPS.
  7. Bring a few extra safety pins in case some fall off.
SWAPS Trading Etiquette
  1. Say a heartfelt “thank you” when you receive a SWAPS.
  2. Don’t refuse a SWAPS offer. It’s considered rude.
  3. Never say anything negative about the SWAPS you receive.
  4. If you see a girl with few pins or nothing to trade, offer to simply give her a SWAPS.
  5. When you are passing SWAPS, make sure the pin is closed so that no one gets accidently poked.

 

General Camp Information 

Who Can Participate?

Girl Scout camp programs are for all girls, grades K-12. Check the age requirements for each program. If you are not a current Girl Scout member, just pay the annual $25 membership fee and let the fun begin! Please allow 24 hours for your membership to process prior to registering for a camp program.

If you are a member of a different Girl Scout council, we welcome you! Please email us or call 800.695.6690 to register for any Spirit of Nebraska program.

  •  Is your girl ready for Girl Scout camp? Parents/guardians, when deciding which camp experience is right for your girl, please include her in the decision-making process. Have her try a backyard campout, a sleepover at a friend’s house, or a family camping experience. Expose her to experiences outdoors to build her confidence. And ask yourself are you ready to send your girl to camp? Take the Readiness Quiz to determine both your girl’s and your preparedness.
Registration

It couldn’t be easier! You can register for most programs 24/7, from the comfort of your own home, by registering online! Most camp programs must be paid in full before your registration is processed. Some programs do allow registration with a deposit, in which case the balance must be paid in full by the stated payment deadline. Cookie Dough, Nut Bucks, Travel Bucks, and Program Credits may not be used for program deposits. We do honor Cookie Dough from other Girl Scout councils. If you are a member of another council, you will need to contact Member Support to register for our programs.

  • Online - Secure your spot by registering for programs online. Online payment methods are bank debit cards or credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, or AMEX). Cookie Dough, Nut Bucks, Travel Bucks, and Program Credits cannot be used to register online.
  • Fax - You may fax your program registration to: 402.558.8060. Use this form to register by fax. Accepted fax payment options are debit cards, credit cards, Cookie Dough, Nut Bucks, and Travel Bucks.
  • Mail - You may also mail your program registration. Use this form to register by mail. Accepted mail payment options are checks, debit cards, credit cards, Cookie Dough, Nut Bucks, Travel Bucks, and Program Credits. Mail to: Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska, Attn: Registrations, 2121 S 44th St., Omaha, NE 68105

Confirmation of registration will be emailed to you when your payment is processed, if your current email address is on file. You will also receive an email reminder approximately one week prior to the program with additional information such as what to expect at camp, emergency contact numbers, etc.

Financial Aid

Financial aid may be available to those who qualify. The guidelines and applications are online.

Policies

Cell Phone/Electronic Devices

For council-sponsored camp programs, please leave all cell phones and other electronic devices at home (this includes smart watches). Their use at camp often causes increased homesickness and other issues. Camp is the perfect opportunity for your girl to practice responsibility for herself in a nurturing and safe environment. The adage “no news is good news” holds true at Girl Scout camp. If there is an emergency, program staff will immediately contact you. Please be aware, Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska is not responsible for any lost or stolen electronic device.

Smoking

Smoking materials (including electronic cigarettes) and tobacco products are prohibited on all Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska properties.

Pets

All pets are prohibited on all Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska properties.

Refunds and Cancellations

Refunds will be granted under the following circumstances:

  • The refund request is received before the program registration deadlines.
  • Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska cancels the program.
  • The girl or family moves away from the area.
  • A physician confirms that the registrant is physically unable to participate.

All requests for refunds/cancellations must be emailed to Member Support or mailed to Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska, Attn: Registrations, 2121 S. 44th St, Omaha, NE 68105.

Refund requests must include the participants name and address, the program name and date, and the reason for the refund/cancellation request. Allow up to six weeks for refunds.

Refunds of $10 or more will be sent to whomever made the payment. Refunds less than $10 will be held as credit. Credits will be held for 60 days. If credits are not redeemed within 60 days, they will be considered a donation to Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska.

Health and Safety

Paperwork

Online health and safety information including activity waivers, health forms, and camper release forms will be sent by Camp.doc to the email address we have on file for you. Please complete the requested information and return it in a timely manner. If your girl is a returning camper, you will only need to complete information that may have changed since her last summer camp experience. For girls attending overnight programs of three or more nights, a Physical Examination Form is required. This form must be completed by a physician and be current within 12 months of the program date. For questions or help completing the online forms, feel free to email Member Support or call 800.695.6690.

Medications

Both prescription and over-the-counter medications must be in a plastic bag labeled with the participants name. All medications must be in their original container. Give medications to the designated First Aider at check in.

Special Needs

For questions about specific needs or to request special accommodations, email Member Support or call 800.695.6690.

Menus

We cannot cook for all tastes, but we try to allow girls to pick some of the ingredients that they will be eating. A variety of options are available at meals so that no one goes hungry.  We do not allow girls to bring food to camp. (Unless it is a birthday and you bring enough cake for the whole camp!) Food is not allowed in the sleeping areas.

Allergies

You will provide allergy information through the Camp.doc health form you will receive via email. Camp First Aiders will keep track of individual needs, and we will make accommodations whenever possible for food or environmental allergies. Always feel free to discuss any concerns with the camp director.

Inclement Weather

We have storm shelters at each camp. Camp staff continually monitor the weather. If there is an emergency at camp, we follow a safety plan, and you will be notified.

FAQs

1. What if my child gets homesick?

Our staff is trained to recognize and deal with a camper who misses home. We find it best to keep the girls occupied and distracted if they become homesick. Pairing them with a buddy and keeping them involved in activities often does the trick. We do allow them to call home if necessary but have found that sometimes makes the situation worse. We take each incident on a case-by-case basis.

2.  What are the staffing arrangements at night?

What if my child has a nightmare? Two adults stay with the girls at night, either staff or adult volunteers. All adults are registered Girl Scouts with a current background check. We keep an “ear out” for any situations that may need extra care.

3.  What are the sleeping arrangements at camp?

Each Spirit of Nebraska camp has its own signature amenities, which means campers can curl up in anything from a rustic tent to a climate-controlled cabin, from a unique yurt to the stellar Sky Camp, and more. Learn about the overnight options at our camps by exploring the photo galleries below – and start dreaming of a night (or more) under the stars!

4. How can I contact the camp if I need to reach my girl?

The confirmation email that you will receive at least one week prior to camp will contain the camp director’s contact information and the Spirit of Nebraska camp program manager’s contact information. We will also provide you with the camp’s email address.

5. Will there be pictures posted of what girls are doing at camp?

Yes! For the summer of 2020 we will be using a platform called “Moment.” At camp check in, you will receive information on how to access “Moment.” You will be able to receive information, make comments, and view camp activities.

Jobs at Camp

Work With Us

Join us for the most MEMORABLE summer EVER! Girl Scouts is the premier leadership organization for girls. We strive daily to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place, and our girls need you to make it possible! Summer camp is a place for making new friends, discovering adventures, and having fun! Girl Scouts from all over the council gather at camp to experience the outdoors in a whole new way. Join us this summer and become the role model she’ll always remember.

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Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska Employment Application (PDF)

What’s Included?

  • Bi-weekly paychecks
  • Free room and board for resident camp staff
  • Daily meals and snacks – and the occasional Girl Scout Cookie, too!
  • Two hours off each day for resident camp staff and 30 minutes each day for day camp staff.
  • Training provided at no cost, including certification in CPR/First Aid, an overview of Girl Scout programming, and preparation to work with groups of girls.

Most importantly, working as a youth development specialist (camp counselor) provides you the arena to practice responsibility, thinking on your feet, communication, collaboration, creativity, problem solving, management skills, and so much more in a real-world context.

Behind all the fun, camp is serious business that builds a solid resume!

Seasonal Staff

Seasonal summer staff positions will be posted in early spring on CareerLink.

Questions?

Email Camp Program Manager Bea Webster or call 308.520.9886 with questions concerning camp staff positions.

Counselor in Training (CIT) Programs

  • CIT l – Begin your outdoor mentorship training with CIT I, which is for Girl Scout Seniors. Earn this designation by participating in a leadership course offered during the summer and working with younger girls during a camp session.
  • CIT ll – Girl Scout Ambassadors who have completed CIT l continue their training in this program. Participants mentor younger girls over the course of at least one camp session while honing their skills in a specific area.

 

Life-Changing Adventures Await! 

Here are more ways for Girl Scouts to get outdoors. Find your girl’s next big adventure below!

Troop Camping

We have seven properties and special pricing for Girl Scouts! Discover Nebraska like never before and add swimming and Challenge Courses to your activities for more adventure.

Not sure if you have the skills? Not a problem! We provide training that will give you the essentials necessary to take girls outdoors.

Outdoor Fun for Girls

We offer many outdoor opportunities for girls, troops and families! Visit our program calendar to find something your girls will love! Non-Girl Scouts are also welcome.

Trailblazers and Mariners

Are you an older Girl Scout looking to challenge yourself on land or water? Trailblazers and Mariners are calling you! See our T'weens & Teens page for more information.

Day Camp

Girls who want to have fun all day, but go home each night will enjoy our day camp programs. Available in all areas of the state, we designed these programs with the girl-on-the-go in mind.

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Camp Maha Day Camp Packing List (PDF)

Horse Camp

Girls love horses, and we have summer programs for those who want to ride high in the saddle. Riding opportunities are provided at both day and resident camp levels. Giddy up, Girl Scouts!

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Horse Day Camp Packing List (PDF)

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Horse Resident Camp Packing List (PDF)

Resident Camp

If girls are ready to go to camp and stay for a few days, it’s time for resident camp. These are council-sponsored, last two or more nights, and generally have a theme. Many of the council’s resident camps are held at Camp Catron, but there are also multi-night programs at other sites.

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Resident Camp Packing List (PDF)


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