Frequently Asked Questions
In the Registration Confirmation email you received, a fact-filled Letter to Parents and Suggested Equipment List of what to bring to camp is included.
Do cell phones work at camp? Camp is a time to UNPLUG and we STRONGLY suggest that phones, electronic games and music players (and all valuables) be left at home. El‑O‑Win’s fine silt-type dust does unmentionable things to electronics. Phones are used as cameras, but camp does not have the capability to charge everyone’s phone daily. Disposable cameras are a great alternative.
My daughter has restrictive dietary needs. What can she eat at camp? Campers with special dietary needs are accommodated to the best of our ability. Because parents submit Health Histories TWO WEEKS before camp begins, menu items can be adjusted or modified. For example, if one camper has a peanut allergy, peanut products are removed from the menu for the entire camp during that event. Parents are welcome to call for menu information prior to camp and supplement their daughter’s food as they wish. We are able to accomodate most campers who eat vegetarian, vegan, lactose intolerant or dairy free diets. And we are able to substitute a food item for girls with an allergy to a specific food. We try very hard to keep foods on-hand that meet the needs of campers who are vegetarian, vegan, lactose intolerant, dairy free or have an allergy to a specific food.
What if my daughter becomes ill during camp? If a camper becomes ill or injured (seriously enough to be taken to the doctor or spend more than 24 hours in the Infirmary) and a parent did not accompany her to camp, the parent will be notified. If we are unable to reach the parent, the emergency contact person will be notified. A local MD annually issues Standing Orders which we follow when administering first aid. If a camper’s injury requires medical attention, the parent is contacted and a staff member drives the camper to one of three Fresno Hospitals. The Hospitals have been notified of our summer operation.
How do you handle homesickness? Homesickness happens for many reasons and no campers should be miserable, but we do want girls to give camp a chance. Sometimes homesickness is cover for a stomach ache or starting menstruation or not being in the tent with a friend. Campers are reassured and encouraged to participate in activities. Experience helps us deal with the situation. If it is serious, we will call you. Please DO NOT tell your camper, “If you are unhappy, just call me and I will come get you.”
How do you handle emergencies? At the beginning of each event, a fire drill is held so all campers know what to do in case of an emergency. Camp El‑O‑Win has prepared and filed EMERGENCY PLANS with the US Forest Service, Fresno County Health Dept., the Sherriff’s Office and Cal Fire. Parent notification is part of the plan. In addition to camp owned vehicles, parent, staff and volunteer cars provide enough seats with seatbelts to evacuate, if necessary. If we fall short, we rent vans before the session begins to ensure we have room for everyone.
Who is transporting my daughter to canoeing (Shaver Lake) and horseback riding (Dinkey Creek)? Individuals driving camp-owned vehicles must have passed a DMV check through our insurance company and provide proof of insurance. Individuals transporting campers in camp-owned vehicles are a minimum of 21 years old.
How much money should my camper bring for the Trading Post (Camp Store)? Campers have the opportunity to purchase items they need or want. A list of available items and prices is on the website at Ellie’s Trading Post. Food is not sold. The Trading Post accepts all major credit cards, checks and cash. Campers love to shop. This year, most Trading Post items will be available on the EOW Outlet (our online store). Visit the site (www.campelowin.org) under the S’more tab with your campers, order and pay. We will have her items ready for her at camp check-in!
How can I send my daughter a care package? Please do not bring or send care packages or snacks to camp! Campers receive well balanced meals, including desserts, afternoon and evening snacks. AND furry four-legged food-loving creatures love to search for snacks! If your camper is having a birthday at camp, let us know on the health form. Birthday celebrations at camp are real memory makers!