Planning and Program Structure
El Camino Pines Outdoor School exists as a resource to private and public schools in Southern California. El Camino Pines offers community building and environmental education experiences primarily to elementary and middle school age students. Three, four, and five-day programs are available in the fall, winter, and spring. We can accommodate up to 120 participants at our facility.
Trip Planning:
We work in cooperation with the school to design a program that is best suited to the needs of the students. The school chooses what classes they would like to take from our diverse curriculum of over 25 classes. Our staff will aid you in planning your experience. If desired, the Camp Director will arrange for a personal meeting, or we can plan your week over the phone. The schedule will be planned cooperatively when more than one school shares the same week.
Core, Elective, and Evening Classes:
Our curriculum covers several disciplines in the areas of community building and natural, physical, and social sciences. These courses are taught by qualified, caring staff in a safe, supervised environment. Students enjoy learning in a beautiful outdoor setting while growing together in community. Our staff engages students with hands-on experiments, fascinating images, and even characters from another time in California’s history. Students are divided into core groups of 10-20 in number, depending on the size of the school. Class sessions run approximately 2 hours. For religious schools, Christian beliefs and principles are incorporated into each class.
Arrival Time:
We ask that you arrive at El Camino Pines no earlier than 11:30 AM with a sack lunch. Please do not arrive early unless you have made special arrangements with the Director.
Camp Orientation:
After lunch and cabin move in, students and staff meet for an emergency drill, camp orientation, health screening, and an all-camp game.
Meal Times:
Breakfast is at 8:00 AM, lunch is at 12:00 PM, snack is at 3:00 PM, and dinner is at 5:30 PM. The assigned OTRS group (see description below) meets 15 minutes before each meal. For religious schools, prayers are included before every meal.
OTRS:
“Opportunity To Really Serve” – Cabin groups take turns before each meal to help set up tables and stay after the meal to help clean up.
SWAS:
“Service With A Smile” – Every morning cabin groups will have the opportunity to help the staff with camp service projects and daily camp responsibilities.
School/Journal Time:
School/Journal time is from 6:30 to 7:30 PM. Journals are provided by El Camino Pines. Journal time is an opportunity for students to write about their experiences at Outdoor School and to reinforce the concepts learned in classes. It is the responsibility of the school to supervise during this time. For religious schools, this is an opportune time for additional religious instruction or Bible study.
Core Groups:
In their core groups, students learn to work together and improve communication, concentration, and cooperation in our community dynamics course. Students attend all core classes together and emphasis is placed on developing a sense of teamwork and mutual respect. Evening activities are either arranged by core groups or include everyone together, depending on the activity. (Elective classes are chosen by the students and teacher and are not restricted to core groups).
First and Last Word:
First Word is from 9:15 to 9:45 AM. This is a time to wake-up with some active singing and set the tone for the day. Last Word is from 9:00 to 9:30 PM. This is an opportunity to relax with singing and a message to wrap up our day. For religious schools, Christian songs and stories are included. Afterwards, students return to their cabins. Quiet hours are from 10:30 PM to 7:00 AM.
Last Day:
We suggest that all gear is packed up and brought up to the parking lot, or into the chapel, before breakfast. Students are responsible for cleaning their cabins before departure and making one last check for lost and found items. Groups depart between 12:00 and 12:30 PM.
Background Checks:
It is required that all adult chaperones who attend our program complete a Voluntary Disclosure Form and scan and email to outdoorschool@LRCChome.com or fax it to the El Camino Pines Office prior to their arrival at camp. The form can be downloaded on our website in the Teacher’s Corner section. It is the policy of El Camino Pines to never meet alone with a child in an isolated area, a closed space, or anywhere out of sight of other adults or children. We encourage all school staff, chaperones and adults to follow this guideline set forth by the American Camp Association. If it is not possible to have another adult present, contact the Program Director or another El Camino Pines staff person.
Guide to Outdoor School Curriculum
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS:
Community Dynamics – Offered on the first day, this course sets the tone for the week as it involves a set of problem solving situations which stimulate core groups to cooperatively decide on a solution and then carry out their plan of action as effectively as possible. Processing is an important part of each element.
California Trail (Living History) – The 19
th century comes alive with costumed staff members role-playing pioneers of the local area. Students are divided into families and are invited to select supplies from a list to help them make it safely from the eastern United States to California. Along their path through the California Trail, they will be given real scenarios from trail life where their supplies become important. Students share in the dialogue with the characters and then have an opportunity to participate in activities authentic to the time period.
Predator & Prey – Offered on the last morning, this game wraps up the week by giving students the opportunity to experience firsthand the wilderness food pyramid they learned about in the classroom earlier in the week. The game requires groups to avoid predators and tag prey while trying to fulfill their basic needs of food, water and shelter.
CORE CLASSES:
Chumash Study – The Native Americans who once made El Camino Pines home were known as the Chumash. Students will explore authentic bedrock mortars, participate in Chumash games, and learn about native foods and hunting skills.
Earthquake Walk – Through participating in a short hike to the nearby San Andreas Fault, this class provides an examination of fault systems and how plate movements cause earthquakes, as well an exploration of the differences and similarities between the North American and Pacific plates. The fault line leads to a beautiful view of Cuddy Valley highlighting several fault zone features.
Energy Lab – Students explore different types of energy, from the simplest of circuits to new alternative energies. Students will have the opportunity to try their hand at creating their own inventions in hydro and wind experiments.
Fire Ecology – Students will learn about the physical science of combustion, fire as an important natural process in many forests and ways that native plants and animals survive and/or reproduce after fire. Many issues are covered, including the role of fire in ecosystems, prescribed burns, relationships between fire and invasive weeds, wildlife considerations, and wildland fire management. Students learn that there is no one right answer to these issues but that background knowledge, critical thinking, and problem solving are required in all situations.
Forest & Wildlife Ecology – Students experience the richness of plant and animal life in the forest while learning the different types of trees, structures of the food chain and the relationships that exist in the forest. This class includes a visit to our nature center to examine the biodiversity of the Los Padres National Forest.
Geology – This class covers geological concepts and how they affect our ecosystem. Students will learn various geological classifications, practice classifying rocks and minerals and learn how rocks around camp were formed.
Half-Day Hike – Enjoy
two core classes and lunch on the trail. Leave after First Word and return to camp for a snack and Camp Store. Choose from our different hikes with a choice of two classes: Forest and Wildlife Ecology, Geology, Low Ropes and Ornithology.
Low Ropes Course – Individual challenge, self concept, success/failure, and self confidence are important issues introduced and reinforced in this class. Students will have the opportunity to participate in elements such as the “X-Factor,” “Flying V,” “Spider Web” and “The Porthole.”
Ornithology – Students will learn all about what makes a bird a bird. They will get to dissect owl pellets and learn about the biodiversity of the Los Padres National Forest. With binoculars in hand, students will go birding and try their hand at identifying the many birds that live at camp.
Pollution Studies – This class raises awareness of the impact that human activity has upon the environment and offers possible solutions to help minimize it. Students engage in a variety of activities, discussions and experiments that teach about respecting nature and taking a stand in our community.
Water Ecology – Students are introduced to the most abundant compound on earth: water. Students learn about the importance of conservation, water transportation, ocean ecology, and why this resource is so important in our daily life.
Weather Lab – Students learn about the wonder of weather! Concepts covered include: the layers of the atmosphere,
air pressure systems, types of precipitation and the water cycle. Students will get to participate in experiments that help us to see more clearly the water cycle, air pressure systems, types of precipitation and cloud formation.
ELECTIVE CLASSES:
Archery – Students learn about the physics of archery, including basic terminology, techniques and safety regulations. Class size is limited to 15 students.
Campfire Cooking – Students learn how to build a fire and prepare campfire delicacies and backpacking favorites. Class size is limited to 20 students.
Available for schools not doing California Trail.
Frisbee Golf – Students will learn different techniques, along with basic golf terminology, then head out to play our 9-hole Frisbee Golf Course.
Lacrosse – Students will learn the history of the game as played by Native Americans in the 1400’s and get a chance to play. Apart from its recreational function, lacrosse traditionally played a more serious role in Indian culture as an alternative to war. Its origins are rooted in legend, and surrounded in ceremony, and the game continues to be used for curative purposes. Class size is limited to 16 students.
Orienteering – Students will learn the basic concept of navigation and how to use a compass. They will be given a written set of instructions and must read bearings and determine directions to follow a basic orienteering course.
Ravine Expedition – Take a hike! Students embark on a fun and adventurous exploration of the ecosystem of the ravine while taking in the unique flora, fauna, animal life and rock formations.
Rock Wall Climb – With explicit training and orientation, students learn basic rock climbing techniques. Climbers are put on belay using certified rope and safety equipment. No previous experience is necessary. Class size is limited to 12 students.
Survival – This class teaches students basic human survival needs including: how to keep from getting lost, survival kit preparation, what to do in the event of an emergency, water procurement using a solar still, fire building, identification of edible plants, signaling for help and primitive shelter building.
EVENING ACTIVITIES:
Astronomy – Students will learn interesting facts about the universe and solar system from their classmates. This class focuses on teaching all about the night sky, through peer teaching. Students will be split up into expert groups where they will present, with the assistance of our staff, to their classmates. A beautiful night sky also gives the opportunity for prime stargazing during this class.
Camp Games – A variety of fun and interactive games led by our staff make for an exciting, energy-releasing evening.
Environmental Debate – Students take pro and con positions in a simulated town meeting dealing with a current environmental topic. The students will be split up into groups and given time to craft a speech that they will deliver to their classmates and teachers. This class allows students to take a stand and voice their opinions in a safe and controlled environment.
Folk Dance – Students are taught simple, fun dances, including line and circle dances like the Cool Cat, Hand Jive and John Travolta.
Night Walk – Students learn about nocturnal animals and their adaptations and take a short walk in the dark complete with games and demonstrations.
Variety Show – Students and staff share their talents with each other in the form of a talent show.
Five-Day Sample Schedule
MONDAY
|
TUESDAY
|
WEDNESDAY
|
THURSDAY
|
FRIDAY
|
SCHOOL:
MEETING ROOM:
CABINS:
GIRLS:
BOYS:
|
7:45 OTRS
8:00 BREAKFAST
8:45 SWAS
9:15 First Word
9:45 Core Class
11:45 OTRS
|
7:45 OTRS
8:00 BREAKFAST
8:45 SWAS
9:15 First Word
9:45 California
TRAIl!
|
7:45 OTRS
8:00 BREAKFAST
8:45 SWAS
9:15 First Word
9:45 Core Class
11:45 OTRS
|
7:45 OTRS
8:00 BREAKFAST
8:45 Cabin Clean-up
9:15 First Word
9:45 PREDATOR & PREY!
11:30 OTRS
11:45 LUNCH
|
12:00 Arrive/Move
Into Cabins
1:00 Orientation
Health Screening
1:30 All Camp Game
2:00 Community Dynamics
3:15 Core Class
5:15 OTRS
5:30 DINNER
|
12:00 LUNCH
1:00 Core Class
3: 00 Snack, Adult Meeting & Camp Store
3:30 Elective Class
5:15 OTRS
5:30 DINNER
|
12:00 LUNCH
12:30 California
TRAIl!
3: 00 Snack, Adult Meeting & Camp Store
3:30 Elective Class
5:15 OTRS
5:30 DINNER
|
12:00 LUNCH
1:00 Core Class
3:00 Snack, Adult Meeting & Camp Store
3:30 Elective Class
5:15 OTRS
5:30 DINNER
|
LEADERS:
ADULTS:
STUDENTS:
Girls:
Boys:
|
6:30 Journal Time
7:30 Evening Activity
9:00 Last Word
|
6:30 Journal Time
7:30 Evening Activity
9:00 Last Word
|
6:30 Journal Time
7:30 Evening Activity
9:00 Last Word
|
6:30 Journal Time
7:30 Evening Activity
9:00 Campfire!
|
|
Four-Day Sample Schedule
Day 1
|
Day 2
|
Day 3
|
FRIDAY
|
SCHOOL:
MEETING ROOM:
CABINS:
GIRLS:
BOYS:
|
7:45 OTRS
8:00 BREAKFAST
8:45 SWAS
9:15 First Word
9:45 Core Class
11:45 OTRS
|
7:45 OTRS
8:00 BREAKFAST
8:45 SWAS
9:15 First Word
9:45 California
TRAIl!
|
7:45 OTRS
8:00 BREAKFAST
8:45 Cabin Clean-up
9:15 First Word
9:45 PREDATOR & PREY!
11:45 LUNCH
|
12:00 Arrive/Move
Into Cabins
1:00 Orientation
Health Screening
1:30 All Camp Game
2:00 Community Dynamics
3:15 Core Class
5:15 OTRS
5:30 DINNER
|
12:00 LUNCH
1:00 Core Class
3:00 Snack, Adult Meeting & Camp Store
3:30 Elective Class
5:15 OTRS
5:30 DINNER
|
12:00 LUNCH
12:30 California
TRAIl!
3: 00 Snack, Adult Meeting & Camp Store
3:30 Elective Class
5:15 OTRS
5:30 DINNER
|
LEADERS:
ADULTS:
STUDENTS:
Girls:
Boys:
|
6:30 Journal Time
7:30 Evening Activity
9:00 Last Word
|
6:30 Journal Time
7:30 Evening Activity
9:00 Last Word
|
6:30 Journal Time
7:30 Evening Activity
9:00 Campfire!
|
|
Three-Day Sample Schedule
Day 1
|
Day 2
|
FRIDAY
|
SCHOOL:
MEETING ROOM:
CABINS:
GIRLS:
BOYS:
|
7:45 OTRS
8:00 BREAKFAST
8:45 SWAS
9:15 First Word
9:45 Core Class
11:45 OTRS
|
7:45 OTRS
8:00 BREAKFAST
8:45 Cabin Clean-up
9:15 First Word
9:45 PREDATOR & PREY!
11:45 LUNCH
|
12:00 Arrive/Move
Into Cabins
1:00 Orientation
Health Screening
1:30 All Camp Game
2:00 Community Dynamics
3:15 Core Class
5:15 OTRS
5:30 DINNER
|
12:00 LUNCH
1:00 Core Class
3:00Snack, Adult Meeting & Camp Store
3:30 Elective Class
5:15 OTRS
5:30 DINNER
|
LEADERS:
ADULTS:
STUDENTS:
Girls:
Boys:
|
6:30 Journal Time
7:30 Evening Activity
9:00 Last Word
|
6:30 Journal Time
7:30 Evening Activity
9:00 Campfire!
|
|
Responsibilities of School and Camp Staff
Responsibilities of School Staff (Teachers and Chaperones):
1. Due to the nature of the camp experience, students should not be left unsupervised at any time. School staff will have complete supervisory responsibility of the students during the following times:
-
Cabin supervision from 9:30 PM to 8:00 AM
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After breakfast until First Word (30 minutes)
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After the morning class until lunch (11:30 AM to NOON)
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After lunch until the afternoon class (15 minutes)
-
After Elective classes until dinner (5:00 to 5:30 PM)
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After dinner and through School/Journal time (6:30 to 7:30 PM)
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Shower time supervision (7:00-8:00 AM & 9:30-10:30 PM)
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Any other time when an activity or class is not in session
2. School staff is responsible for leading the students in daily cabin clean-up and last day clean-up.
3. We ask that the school staff assist the camp staff in supervising the following activities:
Meal time supervision: Adults are to be seated at the tables with the students and ensure that dining hall procedures are followed at their table.
-
Opportunity To Really Serve (OTRS): School staff will help supervise this activity which involves table setting and after meal clean-up.
Evening Activities: Additional supervision is needed for night activities. All school staff are expected to assist.
4. The afternoon staff meeting is for all adults. This is an important time for evaluation and planning.
5. We encourage school staff to attend most of the scheduled classes and activities during the day. School staff can take off one of the class periods each day for a break.
6. School staff is responsible for handling all health and first aid concerns. This includes taking care of students who are sick and dispensing medications. The camp staff is responsible for emergencies.
7. We ask that all school staff assist the instructors in discipline. This will help the instructors to teach with little interruptions, and will also give the students sufficient time for activities and classes.
Responsibilities of the El Camino Pines Staff:
1. Lead the Core and Elective Classes, Evening Activities, Hikes, California Trail, Community Dynamics, First and Last Word, OTRS and Predator and Prey.
2. Supervisory responsibilities of students during the scheduled activities listed above.
3. If needed, share table supervision with school staff during meal times.
4. Lead afternoon meetings with school staff.
5. Be available to schools as needed.
6. Develop programs and curriculum and evaluate these components.
7 Handle emergency situations.
The Camp Director is onsite daily for any problems that may arise.
Emergency and Health Procedures
Medical Emergency:
1. Apply necessary first aid and/or CPR. An AED is located in the Dining Hall.
2. Send somebody to call 911 for an ambulance. Phones are located in the dining hall and the office.
3. Contact a staff person as soon as possible.
4. Do not leave students or injured person alone.
Non-life threatening Medical Emergency:
1. Apply necessary first aid.
2. Send somebody to contact a staff person.
3. Do not move the person if you are unsure of their injury.
4. Do not leave students or injured person alone.
Minor injury needing First Aid:
-
Contact a staff person with first aid training for assistance, or personally administer first aid.
-
Notify a staff person as soon as possible after administering first aid.
Illness:
1. If students become ill, the person in charge from the school, in consultation with the Camp Director, will determine whether or not the child needs to return home. Students who are ill must remain under the care of an adult from the school.
-
Notify the Program Director.
-
The camp does not provide health care other than first aid and emergency response.
Fire:
1. Upon hearing the fire alarm and/or air horn, gather students and proceed directly to the parking lot for further instruction.
2. Upon discovering a fire in a building, evacuate the building and proceed to the parking lot, notify a staff person or personally activate the fire alarm located on the north side of the chapel. The alarm is to be sounded three times in succession and repeated until everyone has responded.
3. Upon discovering a fire in the forest, evacuate the building and proceed to the parking lot, notify a staff person or personally activate the fire alarm located on the north side of the chapel. The alarm is to be sounded three times in succession and repeated until everyone has responded.
Missing Person:
1. Contact a staff person so that an organized search procedure can be initiated. Follow Search and Rescue procedures.
2. Do not alarm the students. All activities should continue as normal.
Earthquake:
1. Get under beds and other sturdy structures. Move away from structures such as fireplaces, windows, poles, etc., that might collapse. Do not go outside until the trembling stops.
2. The alarm will be the signal that the earthquake has ended and it is safe to proceed quickly and cautiously to the parking lot.
Checklist of Responsibilities for the Teacher
o Contract received and dates confirmed with the El Camino Pines office.
o Contract signed by principal and teacher in charge, then mailed to El Camino Pines with deposit.
o Transportation arrangements made.
o Adult supervision arranged for each cabin.
o Scan and send Voluntary Disclosure Forms for all adults attending camp.
o Read all Outdoor School Teacher Planner materials.
o Parent Letter, Packing List, Medical Release, and Participation Agreement given to parents.
o General Policies (from the Teacher Planner) read to students.
o Have all attending adults read the following materials found in the Teacher Planner:
1. Responsibilities of School and Camp Staff
2. General Policies
3. Emergency and Health Procedures
o Schedule classes by filling out, scanning and email the Planning Questionnaire to outdoorschool@LRCChome.com.
o Scan and send Cabin Assignments, Core Class Roster, and Elective Class Roster to the El Camino Pines office.
o Collect store money from students and fill out camp store account sheet.
o Collect signed health forms and participation agreements from the students.
o Collect remaining fees from the students. Make arrangements for a check to be made out to LRCC for the balance due (payable upon arrival).
o Bring health forms, participation agreements, camp store money/account sheet, and a check for the balance due to El Camino Pines.
ECP General Policies
The following policies must be read to the students before arrival and given to all adult participants. Thank you.
Grounds:
1. Stay on the trails at all times.
2. Absolutely no going close to, or into, the ravine.
3. There will be no throwing of rocks, sticks, etc. on the premises.
4. Always put trash in the garbage cans.
5. Aluminum cans and plastic bottles are to be put in the designated recycling containers.
6. Leave wildlife alone; watch the animals, but do not try to touch or catch them. If you find animals that appear to be ill or injured, report it to a staff person immediately.
7. Students are not allowed to carry or use matches.
8. No climbing on roofs of buildings.
9. Alcoholic beverages and drugs (with the exception of medication) are prohibited.
10. Knives and weapons are prohibited.
11. Stay within camp boundaries unless accompanied by a staff person.
12. Shoes and socks (no sandals) must be worn while at camp.
13. No gum chewing.
14. Quiet hours are from 10:30 PM to 7:00 AM.
15. Never walk anywhere by yourself. Stay with a group of three.
16. Persons responsible for deliberate damage to the camp are subject to immediate dismissal from the program, and may be required to pay for damage.
Cabins:
1. Turn the lights off and shut the door when you leave the cabin.
2. Our septic system is sensitive; no paper towels, trash, or feminine products in toilets.
3. Fire extinguishers are to be used only in the case of fire. Anyone that discharges one, except in the case of fire, will be charged a re-filling and cleaning fee of up to $200.
4. No horseplay on bunks. No standing on top bunks or jumping from one bunk to another.
5. No one is allowed in or close to any cabin except their own. No raiding or pranks of other cabins.
6. No food or drinks in cabins.
7. Cabins are to be cleaned every morning and will be inspected each day as part of our Clean Cabin Award.
8. Curfew time must be followed.
9. Absolutely no pranks or ghost stories!
Dining Hall – Opportunity to Really Serve (OTRS):
1. Each cabin will be assigned OTRS for a few meals during the week.
2. Be in the dining hall 15 minutes prior to the meal.
3. Follow the instructions of a staff person for setting tables and cleaning up.
Dining Hall – Meal Time:
1. Please walk while in the dining hall.
2. Speak in a normal indoor voice. No yelling or pounding on tables.
3. Remember to use your best table manners.
4. Only one person is allowed to be up from the table at a time.
5. Please drink at least two glasses of water at each meal.
6. Remain in your seats until you have been dismissed.
7. Take only the amount of food that you think you will eat. No food or drinking contests.
8. Coffee and tea are for adults only.
Shower House:
1. The shower house is open from 7:00 AM until 10:30 PM.
2. No running or pushing.
3. Always turn the water off when finished showering.
4. Take short showers to conserve water (90 seconds is preferable).
5. Do not leave any items such as towels or clothing in the shower house.
6. Turn out the lights if you are the last one in the shower house.
7. Respect others and their privacy.
Fire and Earthquake Procedure:
1. When you hear the fire alarm and/or air horn, walk quickly to the parking lot and find your cabin leader. Whatever you are doing should be stopped at once – NO EXCEPTIONS.
2. When you find your cabin leader, stand quietly and wait for further instructions from the Director. Cabin leaders should take a count of their students and report any absences to the Director.
3. In case of earthquake, get under beds and other sturdy structures. Move away from structures such as fireplaces, windows, poles, etc., that might collapse. Do not go outside until the trembling stops. The alarm will be the signal that the earthquake has ended and it is safe to proceed quickly and cautiously to the parking lot.
ECP Camp Services
Camp Facilities:
The El Camino Pines site includes over twenty buildings and 35 acres of forestland. Ten A-frame cabins sleep between12-14 people. Each cabin has a private bathroom, heater, and bunk beds. The carpeted chapel has rest rooms and a fireplace, and serves as the large group meeting area. Our dining hall accommodates 120 guests at round tables. Other facilities include a central shower house, maintenance shop, office, speaker cabins, camp store, nature center, campfire areas, blacksmith shop, three camp residences, and several recreational areas.
Camp Staff:
Camp Directors: Responsible for entire camp operation and all staff and school recruitment.
Program Director: Oversees curriculum development and implementation of the daily program.
Outdoor School Instructors: Responsible for teaching daily classes and leading program events.
Phone:
A phone is available for use by adults with a calling card. The telephone is not available to the students. Please instruct parents not to call the camp to talk to their child. In the event of an emergency, the phone number for the camp office is (661) 245-3519. The office is staffed Monday through Friday from approximately 9 AM to 5 PM. This number also has an answering machine for when the office is not staffed. Messages will be retrieved regularly and given to the appropriate people. All messages for students will be given to the teacher in charge.
Mail and Camp Address:
Parents may send mail to their child at camp if they choose or send it with the teacher in charge. Mail will be collected daily. If you plan to mail letters please send it the week before your child arrives so there is ample time for delivery. We ask that you don’t send anything that requires a signature. Mail should be addressed as follows:
El Camino Pines
Name of Student / Name of School
11900 Frontier Road
Frazier Park, CA 93225
Food Service:
Menu: Included during your stay at El Camino Pines is a complete food service program. Our cooks provide nutritional, well-balanced, home-cooked meals. Breakfast includes a hot entree and a choice of cold cereals. Lunch and dinner include a main dish, salad or salad bar, plus fruit and vegetables. A dessert is served at dinner.
Mealtime: Meals are served “family style.” A server will bring food to each table. Mealtime is an important time of the day for building relationships and practicing social skills. Good table manners are expected and conversation at the tables is encouraged. We require the school adults to sit with the students in order to direct the conversation and to ensure an orderly mealtime experience. After the meal, the students work together to clean their tables. Announcements will be made at the end of the meal before students are dismissed.
Special Diets: Special diets can be accommodated with a two-week advanced notice to the camp. If a special diet requires more attentive care, parents may send food with the student. These arrangements must be discussed with the Camp Director two-weeks prior to arrival.
Snacks: Snacks are served in the afternoon. We suggest not bringing additional snack foods. Coffee and hot water for tea and hot chocolate are available for adults during the day. Fruit is available for students.
Standards: The kitchen operations are monitored by the Kern County Health Department and the American Camp Association. Standards are adhered to in order to provide high quality, healthy meals.
Lost and Found:
Students should label their clothing and other belongings. The lost and found is located in the chapel. It is important that the cabins and meeting areas be checked before departure so that nothing is left behind. Lost and found articles are kept for two weeks at the camp. Items left at camp can be mailed upon request at the owner’s expense.
Letter to Parents
Dear Parent,
The El Camino Pines camp staff is looking forward to hosting your child for a session of Outdoor School. We work in cooperation with your child’s school to design an experience that compliments their curriculum. We are proud of our program and strive to create a quality learning environment. The educational experience at Outdoor School is supervised by our Camp Directors and our Program Director, as well as our teaching staff. Your child’s school will be providing adult chaperones in the cabins. The ratio of chaperones to students will be one to ten.
El Camino Pines is accredited by the American Camp Association and adheres to the health and safety regulations of the Kern County Heath Department. Our staff is trained in first aid and CPR, and we take every precaution to ensure the safety of your child’s experience. El Camino Pines is situated 6,200 feet above sea level on 35 mountain acres in the Los Padres National Forest. The camp is easy to get to and located approximately one and a half hours north of Los Angeles.
It is essential that you complete the Medical Release and Health Form and Participation Agreement, and return it to your child’s teacher before the school leaves for camp. Your school is responsible for health care while at El Camino Pines. Please talk with them about any concerns. If a special diet is required, it must be arranged two-weeks prior to arrival with our Camp Directors. In the event of an emergency, you can contact the camp at (661) 245-3519. This number rings in our camp office and has an answering machine that is checked regularly throughout the day and evening. Non-emergency phone calls to your child are not permitted. The following is the camp address. It can take up to five days for mail to reach our rural post office. Please do not send anything that requires a signature.
El Camino Pines
Name of Student / Name of School
11900 Frontier Road
Frazier Park, CA 93225
A packing list and Camp Store list is included. Be sure to pack warm clothing. Lost and found is kept at the camp for two weeks. Items will be sent upon request at the owner’s expense. If you have any questions, please contact your child’s teacher or call us at (661) 245-3519. We look forward to being with your child for a time of learning and exploration.
Sincerely,
The El Camino Pines Staff
Packing List
Clothing:
Bring comfortable and WARM clothing. Evenings will be COLD! You will be outdoors most of the time.
The teacher is asked to collect camp store money ahead of time so that purchases are made by credit only. The cash is submitted to the camp office upon arrival and stored in the office safe. The balance due will be returned before departure.
Medical Release and Health Form
Name _________________________________________________________________________________________
Address_______________________________________________________________________________________
Birth Date Age Height Weight
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Name of Parent/Guardian
Address
City State Zip
Home Phone Work Phone
Cell Phone _____________________________________
Employer City
Emergency Contact:
Relationship Home Phone
Work Phone Cell Phone _____________________________________
PHYSICIAN AND INSURANCE INFORMATION:
Physician Phone
Address
City State Zip
Insurance Co. Phone
Address
City State Zip
GENERAL HEALTH HISTORY – (give approximate dates/explanation)
fainting bed wetting
sleep walking ear infections
heart trouble chicken pox
rheumatic fever ADHD
measles vomiting
headaches mumps
epilepsy* stomachaches
asthma* bleeding/clotting
allergies* diabetes
convulsions* other
(*see below)
Any operation or serious injury within the last two years?
Any chronic or recurring illness or ailment within the last two years?
Any exposure to communicable disease within the last month? If so, which one
Any activity restrictions? Explain
IMMUNIZATION RECORD: (If Immunized, Give Date)
Tetanus Diphtheria Polio MMR
IF STUDENT IS ASTHMATIC, please answer the following:
Frequency of attacks Length of attack
Response to attack (list medications below)
IF STUDENT HAS CONVULSIONS, SEIZURES, OR EPILEPSY, please answer the following:
Circle type(s) of seizures (list medications below): Focal Petit Mal Grand Mal
Frequency of seizures Length of seizures
What does student do after seizure? (e.g. sleep, rest, return to activity)
IF STUDENT HAS ALLERGIES, please answer the following:
Allergen(s)
Response to allergen(s) - specific reaction
IF STUDENT HAS ANY DIETARY CONCERNS, please answer the following:
List food allergies and explain
List any additional dietary restrictions or special diet concerns
Any special diet must be arranged with the Camp Director two weeks prior to arrival.
HOMESICKNESS:
Has student been away from home before? If yes, when and for how long?
If student becomes homesick, circle symptoms: stomachache headache nausea vomiting other
PERMISSION TO ADMINISTER MEDICATIONS
Your child’s school is responsible for all health related incidents while at camp. We suggest that the school does not administer any type of medications, including non-prescription medications, without written or verbal consent of the parent or guardian. If you would like the school to be able to administer Tylenol or other non-prescription medications, please include those in the authorization. All medications that you send, with the exception of some inhalers, will be locked in our first aid station and administered by an adult from your child's school.
I give my permission for the school teacher in charge to keep and administer the following medications:
Medication Dosage/Frequency
Reason Special Instructions
Medication Dosage/Frequency
Reason Special Instructions
Medication Dosage/ Frequency
Reason Special Instructions
RELEASE OF INFORMATION:
The undersigned, as parent/legal guardian of the child registered, authorizes El Camino Pines and its designated leaders to consent to any medical or hospital care to be rendered to said minor upon advice of a licensed physician. This authorization is given pursuant to the provisions of Section 25.8 of the Civil Code of California. It is understood that if time and circumstances reasonably permit, El Camino Pines will endeavor, but is not required, to communicate with the undersigned prior to such treatment.
The undersigned further agrees that El Camino Pines and its designated leaders are not legally or financially liable for any claim arising from any consent given in good faith in connection with such diagnosis or advised treatment. I hereby consent to the release of any and all records of medical treatment or care given to my child from an emergency room or doctor's office to El Camino Pines, and I request that a camp Accident Report be filled out.
I give my permission for my child to participate in all activities, including Community Dynamics, the Low Ropes Challenge Course, Swimming, and the Rock Wall Climb, except where noted above.
I give my permission for the school teacher in charge to keep and administer the above medications.
SIGNATURE: DATE:
Participation Agreement
In consideration of permission granted to me to
participate in all Outdoor School activities at
El Camino Pines, I hereby, for myself, my heirs, administrators, and assignees, release, remise,
and discharge Lutheran Retreats, Camps and Conferences and its agents and employees, of and from all claims, demands, actions and injuries, sustained to my person or property as a result of any act, omission, or negligence while participating in
Outdoor School activities.
I am aware of the risks and dangers involved in
Outdoor School activities and that unanticipated and unexpected dangers may arise, and I assume all risks of injury to my person and property that may be sustained as a result and hold
Lutheran Retreats, Camps and Conferences completely and fully harmless from all liability.
Outdoor School activities include, but are not limited to, hiking, rock climbing, snow play, and outdoor cooking.
Your photo or your child’s photo may be taken for use in camp promotional literature. Your child would only be identified as a camper, not by name. You can either allow us to use photos of your child, but waive the right to inspect or approve the photo if used for such purposes, or prohibit the camp from using your child's photo.
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*Photo Use Authorization
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Yes, you may use photos of my child.
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No, you may not use photos of my child.
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I represent and certify that I am at least 18 years of age, or if I am under the age of 18 years old, I represent and certify that I have the permission of my parents or guardian to participate in Outdoor School activities and that they have full knowledge thereof.
Name of Participant (Printed): _________________________________________
Signature of Participant: _____________________________________________
Name of Parent/Guardian (if participant is under 18): ________________________________________
Signature of Parent/Guardian: __________________________________________________
Date: _________________________________________________________
Map/Directions To El Camino Pines
Directions to Camp:
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Take Interstate 5 North from L.A. or South from Bakersfield to the Frazier Park exit.
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Exit, go West, and travel 12 miles. You will be on Frazier Mountain Park Road,
which turns into Cuddy Valley Road.
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Turn right onto Mil Potrero Road. Go only 200 feet down this road.
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Turn left at the brown sign listing several camps including El Camino Pines.
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Go 1/2 mile on the dirt road (Frontier Road) to the camp parking lot.
EL CAMINO PINES
11900 Frontier Road
Frazier Park, CA 93225
Phone: (661) 245-3519 / FAX: (661) 245-2047
Website: www.LRCChome.com