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Camp Sweyolakan Schedule and Fees » Camp Sweyolakan » Sweyolakan Overview

Quick Links to Camp Sweyolakan:    Schedule & Fees   Resident Program   
Theater Camp     Outbackers Day Camp    Counselors in Training   
You & Me, Kid!     Women's Retreat

Philosophy
We believe an outdoor experience has a profound impact on a young persons healthy development. The camp community helps build caring, confident youth and future leaders while they:

  • overcome personal limitations
  • explore their boundaries
  • nurture relationships
  • appreciate nature

Location
Camp Sweyolakan is situated on the shores of Mica Bay on Lake Couer d'Alene in North Idaho. Camp maps are available here.The camp is completely secluded and accessible only by boat.

Most campers get to camp by way of a cruise of the bay that departs from Independence Point (directions to Independence Point).

Special events may require transportation from the Sweyolakan Landing (directions to the Sweyolakan Landing). Transportation information is included with confirmation email and is available in camp confirmation link above.

History
Established in July of 1922, Sweyolakan is a Native American word which means "sigh of the pines." Camp Sweyolakan is owned and operated by Camp Fire USA Inland Northwest Council. Originally just for girls, the camp began welcoming boys in 1983 after the Council became co-ed. You don't have to be a member of Camp Fire USA to attend ANY of the programs or events offered at camp.

Camp Staff
Counselors, lifeguards, activity specialists and support staff come from diverse backgrounds, much like the campers they serve. National background checks are just the beginning. Staff are carefully screened and selected for their desire to work with campers in the outdoors, ability to teach and lead, as well as be positive role models. Laughing and having fun with campers is also an important quality of staff. All staff receive intense training before the camp season begins, as well as ongoing support throughout the season. Click HERE to Meet Sweyolakan Staff. 

Food
Sweyolakan's food service strives to be nutritious and kid-friendly. Meals are served family style in McCornack Dining Hall and campers may sit wherever they choose. We feature a salad bar selection in addition to the entrees and vegetarian alternatives offered at every meal. Snacks are provided mid-afternoon and in the evening.

Please note campers severe food allergies during the registration process, in Health History Information and email the camp directly at sweyolakan@campfireinc.org.

Civil Rights Statement: In accordance with Federal and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.
To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 or (202) 720-6382 (TTY).
USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Health & Safety
Our mission is to work WITH parents to provide the best experience for your child. For campers safety they must be able to navigate rugged, uneven terrain. A Health History is required yearly and ensures we have the most accurate health information on your child. We recommend a physical examination within 24 months prior to arrival at camp; however, it is not required. 

The camp Health Cottage is located in Main Camp. The healthcare staff hold and dispense all medications while campers are in our care. Counselors are also certified with First Aid/CPR.

Sweyolakan has a Coeur d'Alene physician on call. Urgent care/minor emergency centers and a fully equipped hospital/medical center are located in Coeur dAlene, just minutes from camp. In an emergency situation, Northwest MedStar (a critical care transport service) can fly to camp within 24 minutes of a phone call.

Campers with Special Needs
Camp Fire USA Inland Northwest Council had held camp sessions for children with special needs called "You, Bet I CAN!" sessions for years.

Our partnership with the Let's ALL Play - Recreational Program will still focus on building skills and gaining self-esteem as part of the outdoor experience, but allows the camps to expand the program through the entire summer with additional staff. Click here for more information on this partnership. Parents of campers with special needs or concerns (dietary, medical, social, etc.) are encouraged to contact the Camp Director.

Camp Store
The Camp Store offers a variety of items which may include: water bottles, t-shirts, throws, stuffed animals and more. Items range in price from $0.75 to $50.00. Adding funds to a store account can be done while registering online! If you do send cash or checks with a camper, money is collected and safely kept in their store account for them to use when they visit the store.   

Accreditation & Standards
Camp Sweyolakan is in compliance with hundreds of standards and regulations as required for accreditation by the American Camp Association and various government agencies. Camp Sweyolakan meets or exceeds these standards in all areas (health and safety, program, transportation, qualifications of staff, food service, sanitation and site/facility.)

 

Things to do



Programs are camper-driven and are designed with age-appropriate progression of skills. (Translation: We know campers of different ages have different interests! Our camp programs grow with our campers.) Campers have the opportunity to earn ranks (awards) as they increase their skills.

Activities

Swimming (American Red Cross instruction), Aqua Jump, Canoeing, Kayaking, Sailing, Funyaks , Rowboating, Aqua Glides

Adventure
Bouldering Wall, Giant Swing, Rock Climbing, Low Ropes Course, High Ropes Course (must be at least 12 years old and 4'10" to go up into course)

Camp Craft
Outdoor Skills Instruction and Ranks, Outdoor Cooking, Overnights

Creative Arts
Arts and Crafts, Wood Crafts, Nature Crafts, Dramatic Play

Outdoors
Archery (instruction and ranks sanctioned by the Junior Olympic Archery Development (USA Archery) Hiking, Nature Lore, Singing in the Dining Hall, around the campfire, in the canoes, in the shower and much, more!

Camp keeps kids extremely busy. For those campers who may have attended before or are interested in a certain activity, consider adding a Spicy Option - click underlined link for more information! 

Bunk1's secure, easy to use, summer website services let you stay in touch with your camper. Click button to sign up or pg. 7 of your parent guide for more information.

 

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