Camp Guidelines

Where and When

Upcoming Dates and Times

Explorer Camp: Thursday, February 22, 2024 - Friday, February 23, 2024
Junior Ranger Camp: Wednesday, March 20, 2024 - Friday, March 22, 2024
Art in the Park Camp: June, dates TBD

Camp Location

Explorer Camp: Tucson Mountain District (West)
Junior Ranger Camp: Rincon Mountain District (East) and Tucson Mountain District (West)
Art in the Park Camp: Rincon Mountain District (East)

Pick Up and Drop Off

Campers can be dropped off and picked up at the camp location, or ride a park-provided shuttle from Reid Park. Meeting times vary depending on the time of year and location of the camp.

For your child’s safety, please make sure that your pick-up and drop-off plans are confirmed with park staff.

What to Bring

Water

Make sure your child can carry at least 32 ounces of water. This may mean more than one refillable water bottle.

Camp leaders will carry extra water. Electrolyte drinks, in addition to water, are encouraged. We recommend having your child drink plenty of water the night before to be hydrated for camp activities.

Snacks

We will be providing a simple lunch and snacks each day. If your camper has dietary restrictions, an extra-large appetite, or tends to be a picky eater, please pack at least two snacks each day. A well-fed camper is a happy camper! There is no food is available for purchase in the park.

Clothing

Campers should wear sturdy shoes. Sandals, flip-flops, or open-toed shoes are not permitted.

Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are strongly recommended.

Please send your child with appropriate layers such as long-sleeved shirts for sun protection. In colder months, sweatshirts, hoodies, and rain gear are good choices.

Backpacks

Campers must bring a well-fitting backpack to allow them to carry their snacks, water, and any extra clothing layers.

Personal Devices and Items

If your camper chooses to bring a personal device such as cell phone, camera, or other personal items (electronic or otherwise), they are responsible for any damage to or loss of that item. They are also responsible for following group expectations and staying engaged with camp activities. Large devices such as iPads, tablets and laptops should remain at home.

What to Expect

Activities

We will be exploring designated Wilderness areas and public trails while learning about many of the Park’s plants and animals, Leave No Trace ethics of recreation, safe outdoor recreation practices, art activities, etc.

Hiking

We will spend much of the day hiking and exploring. All hikes are age-appropriate, conducted in a safe manner, and with accomodations for each child’s ability. An appropriate level of challenge is part of the camp experience!

Restroom Needs

We may be away from restrooms for part of the day. We will teach campers how to properly use the desert “facilities”. Group leaders carry a toilet kit with all the necessary items for the most comfortable experience as possible. Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.

Leave No Trace

All resources in Saguaro National Park – plants, animals, landscape – are federally protected. We ask that all visitors of the park follow the Leave No Trace Ethic. Take only pictures and leave only footprints.

Safety

No participant will be asked, or expected to do anything that they are not comfortable with doing. It is part of enjoying nature and exploring the outdoors to be aware of potential dangers and one’s own limitations. We expect safety to be the number one priority in all that we do for all who are participating.

• Drink water frequently during the camp.
• Always wear sunscreen.
• Always stay with the group. Never go off alone.
• When hiking, walk, don’t run.
• Venomous animals live in the desert. Always keep your hands and feet where you can see them. Never put them into cracks, under rocks, or into bushes. If we meet a rattlesnake, shout it out. Keep your eyes and ears open.
• Africanized bees are residents of the park and can be dangerous. Our staff is trained and prepared to handle this situation. Please let us know if your child is allergic to bee stings and if they have any reaction to being stung.
• Be aware of your fellow camper and their actions.

Our camp staff are experienced outdoor leaders and have Wilderness First Aid training. They will inform campers on how to stay safe in the desert where there are potential dangers, e.g., sharp cacti, rocky terrain, bees and other venomous species.

Behavior

This camp provides children the opportunity to enjoy and explore nature and wilderness in a safe and respectful manner. A participant whose actions are unsafe to themselves or others, or who is disrespectful to staff, other campers, or the desert will be advised about their behavior. If the participant continues unsafe or disruptive behavior, parents will be notified. Participants unable to adjust their behavior after parental notification may be dismissed from camp. Safety is always first.