WELCOME PARENTS

Dear Parents,

With over 35 years under our belt, High Cascade Snowboard Camp has been on the forefront of innovation having coached snowboarding longer than any organization in the world and having developed the modern terrain park concept. Our mission is “Life improvement through people, place and passion” and we promise our campers, “The best 7 days of your life.”

Many parents ask, “What makes your camp different?” I know your time as a parent is precious and even though this list is long, I wanted to share a few of my favorite things about High Cascade.

1. 100% Real Snow, All-Summer Long – Since our founding in 1989, we have never, EVER had to cancel a session thanks to Mt. Hood’s unmatched snowfalls.

2. All Abilities Welcome – Whether you are an adult or a grom, spinning fives or perfecting toeside turns, we have the perfect coaching group for each camper’s needs.

3. All-Inclusive – Arrive at PDX airport and we take care of the rest.

4. Professional & Friendly Camp Staff – All staff are CPR and first aid certified and must pass stringent pre-employment background and drug screening.

5. Full-Time Medical Staff - Experienced nurses and medics who understand action sport & camp injuries & illnesses.

Choosing a summer camp is a big decision, so I encourage you to call or e-mail me, personally. I’m sure you have lots of questions, and I would love the opportunity to speak with you. I would also encourage you to explore our website, especially the Parent Guide, below.

If you would like to contact a parent who has sent their child to High Cascade, we have a list of parents from all over the country on our website; just click the “Parent References” tab, below.

The more information you gather about High Cascade, the more likely you’ll become enthused about sending your child to our camp this summer. I hope to get the opportunity to tell you why I love this place.

Yours Truly,

Jimmy Rehman
High Cascade Camp Director

P: 503.206.8520
E: office@wearecamp.com

Parent Guide Index

The Big 6™

In order to be the amazing place that HCSC is, we rely on a set of very basic, yet very important rules. We lovingly refer to these six rules as The Big 6™. These rules are imperative to the safety and well being of your child, as well as other campers at High Cascade.

1. No Drugs, Alcohol, or Nicotine

2. No Theft or Vandalism

3. No Weapons or Violence

4. No Abusive Behavior

5. No Breaking Curfew or Leaving Camp Boundaries

6. No Explicit, Abusive or Illegal Images, Video, or Other Content

HCSC Fast Facts

Staff Return Rate:

80%! Consistency = a knowledgeable, professional staff ready to show campers the time of their lives!

HCSC’s Mission:

Life Improvement through people, place and passion.

Operational Objectives:

Fun, Safe, Professional & Educational

Founded:

1989.

Authorized Awesome?

Most definitely!

What makes HCSC Camp so Awesome?

We know that you have many choices when it comes to summer camps so we want you to know what sets High Cascade Snowboard Camp apart from the rest . . .

Our People

When you are in the human experience business, your people are what make the difference and that could not be more true than at High Cascade Snowboard Camp.  We have hundreds of applicants each year, selecting only small percentage to work for us.  Then we train them better than any of our competitors.  People are a point of pride for High Cascade.

Real snow in June and July!

We have never cancelled a session due to lack of snow. EVER.

The Biggest Snowboard Parks

It’s not so much that we have the most jumps, rails, freeride terrain and North America’s only 22′ Superpipe for snowboarders, it’s that they’re purpose-built for snowboarding and snowboard coaching (which means your rapid, safe progression).

All Mountain Summertime Riding

Mt. Hood is the only mountain in North America where you can freeride on over two miles of groomed trails in the summertime.  And Timberline’s two high-speed express quads making getting back to the top quick and easy.

All Inclusive

We don’t tack on extra fees for airport transportation, food, or activities.  Simple and straight forward.

11 REASONS TO SEND YOUR CHILD TO CAMP

…that have nothing to do with snowboarding, and parents should be psyched about! We even included a must-read parent-written article below!

1. It’s Real Life

Not texting, Facebooking, Instagramming, Instafacing, TikChatting or Wonky Wonking. High Cascade Snowboard Camp provides an opportunity to interact in non-internet, supportive, safe, face-to-face social environments among one’s peers, which is practically invaluable in today’s world.

2. Friends that Last a Lifetime

Whether your child comes to camp by themselves or with a pal, we guarantee they’ll connect with amazing campers and staff from around the country who they’ll consider some of their best friends. (Did you know? Most campers come to camp by themselves . . .but go home with many new friends.)

3. A Chance to Try Something New

High Cascade allows campers to explore many opportunities and experiences that they may have missed during the pursuit of snowboarding and other traditional activities. We provide our campers with the necessary tools, guidance, and environment to develop life-long interests and passions.

4. It’s Summer Camp!

Across America there are 10 million campers a year! Going to summer camp is a long-standing American tradition. We specialize in snowboarding, but we also squeeze in as many traditional camp themes as possible: things like camp fires, s’mores, swimming, arts and crafts, and so many other little things you just can’t capture in words. Allow your child access to healthy developmental risks in a safe and nurturing environment.

5. Increased Self-Confidence

Experiencing a new environment, interacting with new people, and putting oneself out there makes one more dynamic and ready for what life has in store. Your camper(s) will succeed in our environment, thus making them proud of themselves.

6. Setting and Accomplishing Goals

The beauty of snowboarding is that improving one’s skills is a series of setting and obtaining small goals to get to where one want to be. Goal-setting translates to all aspects of life.

7. Gain Independence

From the airplane journey to Oregon to the 7-days spent out of the nest, your child’s time at HCSC is a great opportunity to foster a sense of independence in a safe, supportive environment.

8. It’s a Great Reward

Not that they need to be bribed, but countless campers have earned their session at camp by meeting a set of criteria set up by their parents. From chores to report cards, a trip to HCSC is the ultimate motivation.

9. Your Kids are Being Active

Being outdoors in the Mt. Hood National Forest snowboarding, mountain biking, breathing fresh air, playing, living, and loving life feels good from the soles of their feet to the feet of their soul. Physical and mental well-being!

10. It’s Their Passion

People need passions. They frame our lives and get us excited. To many campers, snowboarding is more than just a recreation. At HCSC we excel in helping this passion seed, grow, and abound.

11. 130+ Role Models!

From the staff we employ to our Signature Session™ Pro line up, campers get to spend seven days with some of the smartest, friendliest, most-driven, diverse and genuine people on Earth.

This list could have easily been 1,000 reasons

As the number one snowboard camp in the world, we have a reputation for exceeding people’s expectations. Our world class terrain parks, rope tows, bag jumps, and legendary coaching program may be second to none, but fantastic snowboarding is just the tip of the camp experience iceberg!

Need a Little More Encouragement?

We found this article, “Why I Send My Kids to Camp” and we think you should read it. A mom was featured on Psychology Today about her own sending-your-children-to-camp experience and we think it is worth the read! In another great Psychology Today article, Dr. Michael Ungar discusses how camp helps make your child more resilient.

Packing List:

Summer in Oregon is usually very sunny, dry, and warm. There can, however, be unexpected weather conditions at times. To make the most of your camp experience, we encourage you to be prepared, and to bring a variety of clothing for warm and cold weather. Packing lists are the same for both Day and Overnight campers (except for toiletries and bedding).

Youth Campers:

- Snowboard (mandatory, though Demo equipment will be available at no extra charge)

- Snowboard boots (mandatory, though Demo equipment will be available at no extra charge)

- Snow jacket/pants (mandatory, we do not Demo outerwear or apparel)

- Gloves (mandatory, we do not Demo gloves)

- Goggles

- Sunglasses 

- Helmet for snow/skate (Mandatory)

- Lightweight jacket

- Sunscreen and lip balm (SPF 30+) Face mask (neck tube, bandana, ect.)

- Several pairs of socks

- Sweatshirts, long and short sleeve shirts

- Sweats, long pants

- Bathing suit

- Skateboard

- Day pack to carry lunch, water, and extra clothing

- Water bottle

- Sleeping bag and pillow

- Toiletries and towel

- Go pro, Cell phone camera, Disposable camera, or other way to capture all the good times at camp to share with your friends and family!

- Credit/ Debit card, or Camp Store Gift Card (we also take Apple Pay or Google Pay at the Camp Store)

Adult Campers:

Same as youth campers, but also make sure to bring your ID and some extra spending cash for nights on the town!

PARENT REFERENCES

Questions, concerns, or just want to talk to another parent?

These are experienced HCSC parents who know the drill so if you have more detailed questions, feel free to email them (just send us a note so we can put you in touch: office@wearecamp.com).

Nobody understands your concerns more than these parents . . . and we hope that by this time next year, YOU will be a parent reference too!

“My son came back absolutely raving over HCSC. He said he has never had more fun in his life and seemed to really bond with his counselors and coaches. The staff, along with the quality of the snow and the park, was his topic of conversation first and foremost. I believe he learned a lot about the sport from these guys along with many of the kids in his chalet. He had an exceptionally wonderful experience.”

Julianne Dawkins, Yucaipa, CA

”Sending my son to HCSC has been a wonderful experience. He has grown in his snowboarding and in his independence. The friendships, the mentors—all of it, priceless!”

Amy Navin, North Grafton, MA

“We were totally blown away by your camp, from the facilities to the organization of daily events and activities, to the staff. All aspects of your camp and organization as a whole were second to none, and run very well. We are very grateful for the way our daughter was treated, and the valuable life lessons she learned, and we will DEFINITELY be back in the future. Thank you for giving our daughter the experience of a lifetime!”

Jeremy Taylor, Grand Rapids, MI

SUPERVISION™

SuperVision™

• Our SuperVision™ ratio for campers under 15 years-old is one experienced adult STAFF MEMBER for every eight campers.

• For campers over 15, there is one experienced STAFF MEMBER for every 10 campers.

• Campers are supervised on-hill by their coach, in their coaching group of 8 or less. Campers are not permitted to leave on-hill facilities without being accompanied by a staff member.

• All camp lodging, facilities, and activities are supervised. Adult counselors live-in and provide around-the-clock supervision in cabins. When a cabin is unlocked and campers are permitted inside, a counselor is supervising the area.

Grom™ Campers (ages 9-12)

Our youngest group at camp needs a little more SuperVision™, structure and TLC than our campers ages 13 and up. For these up and comers, we have at least one designated Grom cabin each session. Groms are free to roam our private campus within a more intensely supervised structure than older campers.

How is camp different for Groms?

Groms need a little more help with structure, since it might be their first time away from home. Their counselors give them extra help and guidance throughout the day. At optional activity times groms work with their counselor to pick an activity, and have a designate time to meet up for dinner.

Although we prefer our Groms not bringing personal cell phones to camp, if they do, phones are kept with the counselors at bedtime. We’ve found that ‘lights out’ works best when Groms do not have their cell phones in bed with them. Texting and talking to parents during evening ‘down time’ when campers are tired can feed feelings of homesickness. In addition, cell phone usage can be very disruptive to other campers camp experience, especially when trying to catch some Z’s!

SAFETY

YOUR CHILD’S SAFETY IS OUR #1 PRIORITY.

If you’re injured, you can’t snowboard.  With that in mind, safety in all aspects of our camp is fundamental to HCSC’s over 30 years of operating snowboard camps.

Staff

Each year the managers at High Cascade have hundreds of applicants to choose from when building their “perfect team”. All staff must pass stringent pre-employment background and drug screenings. When we say “all staff”, we mean everyone; from the cook preparing your child’s food, to the Executive Director. Once hired, all staff members must become CPR and First Aid, and USOC Safe Sport certified, as well as go through extensive staff training prior to the start of Camp. All staff are drug tested prior to camp starting with random drug testing throughout the summer. High Cascade is proud to boast over an 80% return rate for staff members.

Injuries

While injuries are inevitable in action sports and camp activites, our camp rules, protocols, and staff exist to enforce safety and mitigate injuries.  The percent of injuries which occur at camp is less than that the national average at ski areas in North America.  This is largely due to our coaching group structure. Campers spend their time in small coaching groups which are matched with their respective ability level.  All campers fill out a snowboard ability form before arriving to camp.  The information provided in the ability form is used to place campers into small coaching groups based on ability.  High Cascade coaches are prepared to coach their respective coaching groups’ ability level, as well as ensure campers are not attempting tricks and features beyone their ability.  As a parent, it is important that you do your best to help your child honestly fill out their abiltiy form to the best of your ability. In addition, campers are not let loose on Mt. Hood without supervision.

Since kids often tune out lectures on safety, we like to tell them that if they get hurt they can’t snowboard anymore.  This line, repeated daily by our coaches, usually gets the young campers’ attention!

Medical

High Cascade employs a full-time MEDICAL STAFF on-call 24 hours a day. In the event of an injury, High Cascade’s CERTIFIED ATHLETIC TRAINERS will assess the situation and determine if outside care may be needed. In addition, we staff several full-time EMTs (emergency medical technicians) and utilize Timberline Ski Area’s Ski Patrol for on-snow injuries.  In the event a camper must be transported to a medical facility, you will be notified as soon as practicable.

Helmets

All campers and staff are encouraged to wear helmets.  Campers under the age of 18 are required to wear helmets when snowboarding. All campers are required to wear helmets when skateboarding.

WANT TO STAY FOR MULTIPLE SESSIONS?

WHAT IF MY CAMPER WANTS TO STAY FOR MORE THAN ONE SUMMER SESSION?

No problem! A lot of HCSC campers choose to stay for multiple Summer Sessions. Rest assured, we’ve got your camper covered! There is a short break between each summer session, but we don’t take a break from having FUN!

The Weekends are a chance to rest and have some fun before the next session. On Saturday, campers get off campus to go adventuring around Oregon, which can include: skate tours at all the North West skate parks, hiking through gorgeous Oregon trails, exploring, a trip to the coast, all the while still having time to do laundry (our counselors can help) and get any personal items they may need from the store.

Multi Session campers are supervised on campus, off campus, and overnight with a medic on call at all times.

SUMMER CAMP TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS

Flights Must Arrive and Depart PDX Between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Please book a flight into the Portland International Airport (PDX) on Sunday your session starts between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.  Please book your departure flight out of PDX between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturday your session ends. There is no snowboarding on the first or last days; they are designated travel days. Any flights on arrival day or departure day that are not between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. will be charged $100-$175 per camper, per trip, depending on the time of the flight. There is a 30 minute grace period for this window, i.e; if your flight is scheduled to depart at 7:30 a.m. we will not charge a fee. Please contact us directly if you are unable to book a flight in our requested window and we will discuss your flight options and pick-up/drop-off fees.

Campers Flying as Unaccompanied Minors (UM)

Each airline has different age requirements and additional fees for flying unaccompanied minors. Campers flying under the status of an UM will be met at their gate by a High Cascade staff member upon their arrival at PDX.

Name of the Person Picking up UMs at PDX: If at all possible, when the airline asks for the name of the person picking up your UM, please give the airline ‘A HCSC Representative’ and our phone number 503.206.8520. If they will not accept this, please give them the following names, airline dependent:

• Bryce Suman

One week before the start of your campers session we will be emailing you with the exact name of who will be meeting your child at the gate. After providing you with this information, it’s crucial that you update the information for the airline. If they need an address, it is 59550 US-26, Sandy, OR 97055.

Youth and Adult Campers NOT Flying as Unaccompanied Minors (UM)

All campers not flying as UMs will be met outside the security gate by a High Cascade staff member and will be assisted with their baggage and checked in for their High Cascade shuttle near baggage claim #2. If a camper cannot locate a HCSC representative they should go to an airport paging telephone and page “A HIGH CASCADE CAMP REPRESENTATIVE” to wherever the camper is standing. They can also call the High Cascade office at 503.206.8520. 

Purchasing Tickets

Please look further into the airline of your choice as you get ready to purchase your ticket. Before purchasing your ticket, please be sure to visit the airline’s respective website for up-to-date unaccompanied minor information.  You may find that if your child requires an UM ticket, you may not be able to purchase your ticket via the internet.  Because each airline has different policies on booking UMs flights with layovers, last legs of the day, etc, booking on the internet may not be the best route.

For more airline specific in-depth unaccompanied minor information, please click on the airline.

Airline     UM Age Requirement

Air Canada - 11 and under

Alaska/Horizon Airlines - 12 and under

American Airlines - 14 and under

Delta Airlines - 14 and under

Frontier Airlines - Does not allow UMs (Under 15)

Hawaiian - 11 and under

JetBlue Airways - 14 and under

Southwest Airlines - 11 and under

Sun Country - Does not allow UMs (Under 14)

United - 14 and under

* Visit airline website for most up-to-date & accurate information

Departures

Please be sure to pay for your unaccompanied minor fees for both legs of your child’s trip.  In a lot of cases, airlines do not make this easy for you; making it easy to overlook paying for your returning UM Fee.  Please send your child with receipt of payment if at all possible to avoid double charges. If you are unable to pay the fee prior to your child’s camp, please arrange for your child to pay cash for his or her UM fee when they check-in at the airline counter on their departure day.  If this has not been arranged, we will cover any applicable fees the airline requires in order to obtain a boarding pass for your child.  Your credit card on file will be used to reimburse any fees covered by High Cascade.

HCSC staff members are at the Portland International Airport (PDX) from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on departure days.  Campers will be shuttled to the airport by our trained High Cascade staff approximately three hours prior to their departure time. It takes about an hour to get to the airport and we schedule in some extra time for any unexpected delays. Upon arrival at PDX, campers will be met by High Cascade staff to assist with luggage and airline check-in procedures. Unaccompanied minors will be escorted to their gate by a High Cascade staff member.

Please note: Once checked in at the desk, campers NOT flying as unaccompanied minors will not be accompanied to their gate or supervised while waiting to board.

Baggage Fees

All airlines have different baggage policies. When bringing your snowboard to camp, you may find that certain airlines will charge extra due to the size and or weight of a board bag. For those bringing their own gear, generally speaking, the best way to fit everything you need would be to put your snowboard, boots, helmet, outerwear, skateboard and sleeping bag or blanket in a board bag, and then pack your remaining items in your suitcase and carry-on bag.  You may find that you can carry on your skateboard.  Be sure to shift things around so that neither your board bag or suitcase will exceed the weight capacity (if you would like to avoid extra fees). If you are in need of a good snowboard bag, check out Dakine.

We also have a very limited amount of next year’s demo snowboards, boots and bindings for campers at no additional cost. If you would like to use our demo shop, please confirm with the office (503.206.8520) that we will have something for your camper.

Van / Bus Travel at Camp

All campers being transported inside of Camp vehicles are expected to follow general safety rules along with any additional vehicle specific rules.  These include but are not limited to the proper usage of all safety equipment (ie. seat belts), keeping all limbs inside the vehicle at all times, keeping all pathways clear and unobstructed by bags or equipment, no distracting the driver from focusing on the road, and no noisy or disorderly behavior.

In the Event of Last Minute Changes or Emergencies

If for some reason a flight is delayed, cancelled, or if you miss your scheduled departure flight to Camp please contact the HCSC office (503.206.8520) as soon as possible with the updated arrival information including the new time of landing and flight number, if applicable.  If there are any changes to your child’s return flight information prior to take-off we will be contacting you directly with any updated information.

Arriving and / or Departing by Car

Please arrive on campus between 12:00 PM and 4:00 pm on the first day of your camp session.  Campers departing by car must be picked up between 8:00 am and 12:00 pm (between 9:00 am-11:00 am is ideal). There is no snowboarding on the arrival or departure days. On the arrival day there is check-in, camp tours, welcoming barbecue and camper orientation.

Driving Directions

High Cascade Snowboard Camp / Windells Camp ( All youth Campers)

Please use Google Maps or any other form of space-age navigation to get specific instructions from where you’ll be driving from.  The drop off/pick up address is :

High Cascade Snowboard Camp(shows up as Windells Camp on apple maps)

59550 E HWY 26

Sandy, OR 97055

Adult Camp Drop Off:

Please use Google Maps or any other form of space-age navigation to get specific instructions from where you’ll be driving from.  The drop off/pick up address is :

High Cascade Adult Snowboard Camp

30544 E Olive St.

Government Camp, OR 97028

SPENDING MONEY AT CAMP

Camp Outpost Gift Cards

A gift card for Camp Outpost™ may be bought online in your Active account prior to your arrival. This cuts down on the need to carry large amounts of cash at camp.

The Camp Outpost™ carries custom High Cascade t-shirts, sweatshirts, backpacks, spring gloves, hats, beanies, stickers, snacks and more.

The Staff Sale™

Each session High Cascade’s staff and visiting pros sell their new and used gear at the legendary Staff Sale™. The Staff Sale is like a snowboard flea market deals on new and used boards, boots bindings, goggles, clothes and accessories can all be found at this once-a-session event. Since this is a flea market setting with individuals selling their personal items, payment is via Venmo, PayPal, CashApp, etc., and all sales are final. In addition, the gear does not come with any warranties.

Personal Debit/Credit Cards

If campers have their own card they will be able to use it at The Camp Outpost. If you trust your child’s spending this is the best method for being equipped for any and all potential purchases at camp.

Registration FORMS

Your Registration Forms are located in your Active account!

Please Print off, Fill out, & UPLOAD back into your online account by May 15 (for any of our Summer Camps) and Dec 1 for our Winter Camps.

All of these forms are MANDATORY in order for you to come to camp! We need this information for your safety, so we can make sure you get in a great coaching group, cabin with your friends and to make sure you have THE MOST FUN while you are here!

Questions? Contact the HCSC Office at 503.206.8520 or email us at office@wearecamp.com

Sign into your Account here!

*Don’t have access to a scanner? You can take a clear picture of each form and upload that instead! Super easy!

MY HCSC ACCOUNT

Already registered?

Log into your online account

Here is where you can upload your Travel Itinerary, Pay off your balance, purchase Gift Cards, and fill out your Snowboard Ability!

Log in and start packing your bags for the Best Snowboard Camp in the world!

OUR CAMPUS

Wy’east Mountain Academy Campus – Welches, OR

Located a short ride from the mountain, Wy’ East Academy Campus in Welches, Oregon is tucked away snugly  at the base of Mount Hood. Cabins on campus are furnished and renovated, each sleeping 8-20 campers, and feature hardwood floors throughout. Each cabin on campus overlooks the courtyard, with tons of skate-able features, slack lines, tether ball, fire pits, and so much more.

Live-in Counselors

Responsible adult counselors live/stay in our Wy’ East Academy Campus Cabins. Can’t remember when dinner is? Don’t know what time dodgeball starts? Who are the Signature Session™ pros? They know the answer to everything (yes, everything). Your counselor is like your Mom/Dad/big brother/big sister/friend/mentor during your time at camp. Hand picked, and screened from hundreds of applicants, our counseling staff is the best in the business. Certified in First Aid and CPR, USOC Safe Sport, criminal background checked and drug tested. The chosen few who become High Cascade Snowboard Camp Counselors are an impressive bunch and we choose them because we know you’ll find them to be pretty darn like-able and helpful as well.

For the full, 28-acre campus overview, click HERE.

ADDITIONAL LODGING OPTIONS IN GOVERNMENT CAMP

The High Cascade Chalets are located in the quaint little village of Government Camp. Below is a list of lodging options for those interested in the ‘Everything But Accommodations’ or ‘Coaching Only’ packages.  The following lodging options are in the village of Government Camp, and are Authorized Awesome™ by High Cascade for Adult Camp.   Any of these options will put you within walking distance of the rest of camp (listed in order of proximity to camp facilities). If you are would like to stay in an accommodation not listed below, please email or call us to discuss logistics before making reservations.

The Lodge at Government Camp

If you’re looking to stay right smack in the middle of Government Camp, the newly constructed luxury condos at The Lodge at Government Camp is your best option. Staying at The Lodge puts you in the heart of Government Camp, right on the main loop drive.  Guests can enjoy swimming pool and hot tub privileges at the Timberline Lodge, 10 miles away, slopeside the ski area.  The Lodge is approximately $199-$325/night. (Fees vary during seasons, days of the week and number of guests.)

The Huckleberry Inn

The Huckleberry Inn is also right smack in the middle of the Village of Government Camp. The Huckleberry Inn is a great hotel style option for families and groups (many rooms are bunk-style hotel rooms). Enjoy The Huckleberry’s 24-hour diner and a basic place to put your body to rest. Approximately $85-$155/night. (Fees may vary during seasons, days of the week and number of guests.)

Collins Lake Resort

Collins Lake Resort is another great spot to be and is less than a 5 minute walk to meet up with the rest of adult campers.  It has an outdoor heated pool and hot tub and would be great for small groups.  These deluxe multi-level condos have full kitchens, garages, laundry facilities and much more.  Condos ranges from approximately $199-$389/night and during your time at HCSC they generously offer a 10% discount (Fees vary during seasons, days of the week and number of guests.)

Thunderhead Lodge

Staying at the Thunderhead Lodge puts you just outside of the village of Government Camp. Thunderhead is across the street from the Grand Lodges.  These older, more affordable condos are approximately a 6-8 minute walk from the main loop in Government Camp.  Pool on site (heated with geothermal energy) Approximately $85-$155/night. (Fees vary during seasons, days of the week and number of guests.)

Best Western Mt. Hood Inn

The Mt. Hood Inn is about a 8-10 minute walk from the main Government Camp loop. Approximately $159-$179/night. (Fees may vary during seasons, days of the week and number of guests.)

best summer camp for teens:

If you are searching for the best summer camps for teens, you have probably already figured out one thing: there are a lot of options, and they are not all built the same.

• Some camps are local.

• Some are highly specialized.

• Some are heavy on structure.

• Some are more free-flowing.

• Some look great in photos, but the real question is whether they are actually a good fit for your child.

At High Cascade, we have spent decades watching teenagers show up excited, nervous, confident, uncertain, and everything in between. The best camps are not just the ones with the flashiest brochure or the longest list of activities. They are the ones that create the right mix of challenge, belonging, independence, and support.

Here is what we think parents should really look for.

A camp that gives teens some ownership

Teenagers do not want the same camp experience a younger child does. They want room to grow, make decisions, meet new people, and come home feeling a little more capable than when they arrived. The best camps for teens create real opportunities for independence while still providing strong structure and supervision. That balance matters. Teens want freedom. Parents want confidence. Great camps build both.

A camp with a strong culture, not just a schedule

You can put a long activity list on any website. What matters more is the feel of the place.

• Does the camp have a welcoming culture?

• Do kids show up knowing no one and leave with real friendships?

• Do staff members know how to connect with teenagers, not just manage them?

• Does the place feel positive, organized, and genuinely fun?

The best teen camps create the kind of environment where campers can try hard, laugh hard, and feel like they belong.

A camp with staff your teen will actually respect

This one gets overlooked. Teenagers know immediately whether the adults around them are authentic. The best camps hire staff who are good with kids, good at their jobs, and capable of being role models without trying too hard. Teens respond well to adults who are confident, encouraging, and real. A strong camp staff can change the whole experience.

A camp that feels bigger than a screen

Teens today spend a lot of life online. One of the best things camp can offer is real life. Real conversations. Real confidence. Real friendships. Real memories. There is something powerful about a week where your teen is focused on doing, learning, laughing, and being present instead of staring at a phone.

A camp your teen is actually excited about

This is where fit matters. The best camp for one teen may not be the best camp for another.

• Some teens want arts.

• Some want academics.

• Some want wilderness.

• Some want sports.

• Some want something that feels like an adventure.

What matters is choosing a camp that matches your teen’s personality and energy. A teen who is fired up before arrival is much more likely to have a great week.

What makes High Cascade different

We are obviously biased, but we know what kind of environment helps teenagers thrive. High Cascade is a place where campers come from all over the country, often without knowing anyone, and quickly become part of something bigger than themselves. It is a place with real energy, strong role models, clear structure, and a full camp experience that extends well beyond time on snow. For many campers, it is not just a fun week. It is a confidence-building week. A friendship-building week. A growing-up-a-little week.

That is what the best summer camps for teens should do.

If you are trying to find the right fit for your child, we would love to help. Explore our Parents Guide, reach out to our team, or connect with one of our parent references. We are happy to talk it through.

Want to see if High Cascade is the right fit for your teen?

Reach out to us to talk honestly about fit, age, experience, and what first-time families can expect.

Call: (503) 206-8520 or text

Email: office@wearecamp.com

How to Choose a Sleepaway Camp: A Parent’s Guide

Choosing a sleepaway camp is a big decision. You are not just picking a program. You are choosing the people, environment, structure, and experience your child will step into while away from home.

It is normal to have questions. In fact, we think it is smart.

At High Cascade, we talk with first-time camp parents every year, and many of the best questions are the same:

• Will my child be safe?

• Will they know anyone?

• Will they be supported if they get homesick?

• Will this be fun, or overwhelming?

• How do I know this camp is well run?

Here are the things we think matter most when choosing a sleepaway camp.

Start with fit, not hype

Every camp says it is great. The better question is whether it is great for your child.

Think about your child honestly.

• Are they independent or do they need a little extra support?

• Do they thrive with structure or prefer more freedom?

• Would they rather be in a small, quiet setting or a high-energy one?

• Are they excited by challenge?

The best sleepaway camp is the one that matches who your child is right now, while also helping them grow.

Look closely at supervision and staff quality

A camp experience rises or falls with its people.

Ask:

1. What is the camper-to-staff ratio?

2. Who supervises campers during the day and at night?

3. What training do staff receive?

4. Are background checks required?

5. Is medical support available?

A well-run camp should make these answers easy to find and easy to understand.

Pay attention to how the camp communicates with parents

You can learn a lot from the way a camp answers questions.

1. Are they responsive?

2. Are they transparent?

3. Do they sound experienced and calm?

4. Do they make you feel rushed, or informed?

A strong camp team understands that parents are making a meaningful decision. They are not annoyed by good questions. They welcome them.

Read real parent feedback

One of the best shortcuts is hearing from families who have already done it. Look for real testimonials, parent references, and specific stories. Not vague praise. Actual details. What was the camper like before camp? What changed afterward? What surprised the family? That kind of feedback is often more useful than any marketing language on a website.

Think about the whole experience

Parents sometimes focus only on the main activity. That matters, but the full camp experience matters too.

Ask yourself:

• What are mornings like?

• What are evenings like?

• What happens off the main activity?

• How are cabin groups formed?

• What is the social environment like?

• What happens if my child is nervous or homesick?

A great sleepaway camp is not just good at the headline activity. It is good at taking care of kids for the whole week.

Choose a camp your child is excited to attend

This sounds obvious, but it matters. Sleepaway camp usually goes better when the camper feels some ownership in the decision. Talk through the options together. Let them ask questions. Let them imagine the experience. Excitement does not remove first-day nerves, but it helps them move through them. Snowboarding may exciting for you, but is it for them?

What we believe at High Cascade

We believe sleepaway camp should be fun, safe, positive, and memorable. It should challenge kids in the right ways and support them in the moments they need it.

We also believe parents should not have to guess. You should be able to learn how a camp works, who is running it, what the supervision looks like, and what kind of experience your child can expect.

If you are considering High Cascade, we encourage you to dig around. Read the Parents Guide. Explore our safety and supervision information. Reach out to us. Talk to other parents who have sent their kids here.

The right camp should feel exciting for your child and reassuring for you.

Wondering if High Cascade is the right fit for your child?

Reach out to us to talk honestly about fit, age, experience, and what first-time families can expect.

Call: (503) 206-8520 or text

Email: office@wearecamp.com

First Time Sleepaway Camp Tips for Parents and Campers

The first time your child goes to sleepaway camp is a big moment.

For kids, it is exciting. For parents, it is exciting and a little emotional. For most families, it is both. The good news is that first-time campers do really well when they arrive with the right expectations, the right preparation, and the right mindset. Here are a few tips we give families all the time.

Build confidence before camp

In the weeks before camp, talk about the experience in a confident, positive way.

Focus on:

• the fun they are going to have

• the friends they are going to make

• the new things they are going to try

• the independence they are going to build

Kids often take emotional cues from parents. If you sound calm and excited, that helps.

Practice a little independence at home

A few small things before camp can make a big difference.

Have your child:

• pack with you

• keep track of their own gear

• manage a morning routine

• sleep away from home if possible

• practice speaking up when they need something

Sleepaway camp does not require total independence on day one, but a little preparation helps campers feel more capable when they arrive.

Pack thoughtfully, not wildly

Do not send everything your child owns. Send what they need, and make sure they know what is in their bag.

It helps to:

• label gear

• use simple organization

• review the packing list together

• make sure your camper knows where essentials are

Confidence goes up when a camper can find their socks, their hoodie, and their toothbrush without turning their bag upside down.

Talk about nerves like they are normal

Because they are.

A lot of first-time campers are nervous before camp. A lot of returning campers are too. Nerves do not mean your child is not ready. They usually mean the experience matters.

You can say something simple:

• “It is normal to feel nervous before doing something new.”

• “That feeling usually passes quickly once camp gets going.”

That message helps a lot.

Avoid creating an escape hatch

Parents sometimes say things like: “If you do not like it, we will come get you.”

It is well intentioned, but usually not helpful. It gives a nervous camper a quick way out before they have had time to settle in.

A stronger message is:

“The first day might feel new and a little uncomfortable, and that is okay. Give yourself some time. We believe you can do this.”

That encourages resilience instead of doubt.

Help your child understand what camp life feels like

For first-time campers, the unknown is often the biggest stressor.

Walk through the basics:

• You will meet your cabin group.

• You will have counselors there to help.

• You will be busy.

• You will make friends faster than you think.

• You can always ask a staff member if you need something.

When the experience feels more familiar in advance, it feels less intimidating on arrival day.

A note for parents

This part is important too: first-time camp can be harder on parents than on kids.

Many campers adjust quickly. Meanwhile, parents are back home wondering how it is going. That is normal. Trust the process. Camp is designed to help kids grow, and growth usually includes a little discomfort at the beginning.

What we see at High Cascade

Every summer, we watch first-time campers arrive a little unsure and leave looking more confident, more connected, and more independent. Some come with a friend. Many come alone. Most are in the same boat more than they realize.

By the end of the week, they have stories, inside jokes, new friendships, and a stronger sense that they can handle more than they thought. That is one of the best parts of camp.

Want to see if your child is ready for sleepaway camp at High Cascade this summer?

Reach out to us to talk honestly about fit, age, experience, and what first-time families can expect.

Call: (503) 206-8520 or text

Email: office@wearecamp.com

Should My Child Go to Overnight Camp?

A lot of parents ask the same question: Is my child ready for overnight camp?

The honest answer is that there is no perfect formula. But there are a few useful things to think about, and in many cases, kids are more ready than parents expect. Overnight camp is not just about being away from home. It is about growth. It is about trying something new, building confidence, making friends, and realizing, I can do this.

Here are a few ways to think it through.

Your child does not have to be fearless

Some parents think their child needs to be completely confident before going away to camp. That is not really how it works. A child can feel excited and nervous at the same time and still be ready. In fact, learning to move through those feelings is part of what makes overnight camp valuable. The goal is not zero nerves. The goal is enough readiness, curiosity, and support to make the experience worthwhile.

A little independence goes a long way

If your child can manage some everyday responsibilities, that is a great sign.

Can they:

• follow a routine

• take care of basic hygiene

• ask an adult for help

• handle being away from home for shorter stretches

• show interest in trying something new

They do not need to do everything perfectly. They just need enough foundation to step into camp life and learn.

Desire matters

If your child is genuinely interested in camp, that is a strong signal.

• Maybe they love the activity.

• Maybe they want adventure.

• Maybe they like the idea of meeting new friends.

• Maybe they are excited to go somewhere different.

That motivation helps them push through the initial adjustment and settle in more quickly.

Overnight camp can build the exact things parents hope for

Families often wonder whether camp is worth it. We have seen the answer play out again and again.

• Kids come home more confident.

• More independent.

• More willing to try things.

• More connected to peers.

• More aware that they can function well away from home.

That kind of growth is hard to create in everyday routine life.

It is okay if your child needs support

Being ready for overnight camp does not mean your child will never miss home, never feel awkward, or never need reassurance. The question is not whether they will have a moment. Most kids do. The question is whether the camp is prepared to support them through it.

That is why supervision, staff quality, and culture matter so much.

What to ask yourself as a parent

Try these questions:

• Does my child seem interested in the experience?

• Would a week away help them grow?

• Does this camp feel well run and supportive?

• Can I picture my child succeeding here, even if the first day feels new?

If the answer is mostly yes, that is often enough.

What we believe at High Cascade

We believe overnight camp can be one of the most positive and memorable experiences in a young person’s life. We also know that sending your child away is a big step. That is why we care so much about safety, supervision, staff quality, and parent communication. We want campers to have a blast and parents to feel informed and confident.

A lot of our campers show up not knowing anyone. A lot of them are doing this for the first time. A lot of them leave already talking about coming back.

That tells you something.

Wondering if High Cascade is the right overnight camp for your child?

Reach out to us to talk honestly about fit, age, experience, and what first-time families can expect.

Call: (503) 206-8520 or text

Email: office@wearecamp.com