echo lake family camp welcome packet...environmentalist, david brower, was introduced to the sierra...

Echo Lake Family Camp Welcome Packet 2020

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WELCOME TO ECHO LAKE CAMP

Summer 2020 Family Camp Welcome Packet

Since 1922, Berkeley Echo Lake Camp has been operated by the City of Berkeley under a Special Use Permit through the USDA Forest Service.


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Welcome from the Camp Manager!

Thank you for choosing the City of Berkeley Echo Lake Family Camp for your summer camp experience! You’ve given your family a wonderful gift- the opportunity to experience the natural world, make new meaningful friendships and rediscover themselves in a beautiful High Sierra environment. We are looking forward to a safe and fun summer that brings you and your family great experiences and wonderful memories. We are committed to creating a nurturing community that supports the values your family is learning at home. We carefully select our Staff from a rigorously screened group and provide extensive training. Our staff will provide camp experiences to thousands of participants this season, and we are excited to have the opportunity to share the Echo Lake Camp experience with your family. Whether you, your Youth Campers, or your Counselors-In-Training are seasoned veterans or looking forward to their first experience at Echo Lake Camp, we know that questions may arise as you prepare. I want you to know that I am available to answer your questions and listen to your needs. Before the camp season begins, please feel free to contact us via phone at (510) 981-5140, or by e-mail at [email protected]. During the Camp Season (June-September), you can contact our Camps Office at (530) 659-7539. We look forward to meeting your family this summer and hope this guide serves as a valuable tool in preparing your Family for what will undoubtedly be an inspiring, memorable, and fun week at Camp! Kind Regards, DC Pompey City of Berkeley Echo Lake Camp Manager Email: [email protected] Office #: 510-981-6642 Cell: 510-292-8123

mailto:[email protected]



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Who can attend Echo Lake Camp Programs?

Berkeley Echo Lake Camp is open to all interested campers. Family Camp is open to all ages, and is open to both Berkeley Residents and non-residents. Youth Camp is open to campers age 7-14, and our Counselor-In-Training Program is available for campers age 15-16. For more information about Echo Lake Family Camp registration, contact the City of Berkeley Recreation Office at:

City of Berkeley Recreation Division Willard Recreation Office

2701 Telegraph Ave. Berkeley, CA 94705

(510) 981-5140 [email protected]

Program Registration for Summer 2020

Family Camp Registration opens Monday, January 13, 2020 at 9:00AM

You can check our online Availability Calendar for up to date program availability.

Berkeley Resident registration begins Monday,

January 13, 2020 at 9:00 AM.

Non-resident registration begins Friday, January 17,

2020 at 9:00 AM.

City of Berkeley Recreation Administration Office 2701 Telegraph Ave Berkeley CA, 94705

For more information about other Echo Lake Camp Program Registration, visit the Echo Lake Camp Website. In addition to Family Camp programs, Echo Lake Camp will continue to offer exciting Youth Camp and Counselor-In-Training sessions, High Sierra Pre/Post Season Camp, Teen Weekend, our Pre-k Weekend, two sessions of 50 & Better Camp, Echo Adult Camp Program, and host several private group rentals such as FOBTC Labor Day Weekend and Blues Weekend.

50 & Better Camp & Club Echo NEW! Adult Camp registration opens Monday, February 10,

2020.


http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/uploadedFiles/Parks_Rec_Waterfront/Level_3_-_Recreation/BELC%202017%20WEBSITE%20CALENDAR.pdf

http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/EchoLakeCamp/

http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/EchoLakeCamp/


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Schedules, rates, and new program information are now available on the City of Berkeley Website. Call the Recreation Office at 981-5140 or visit www.cityofberkeley.info/recreation for more information.

About Echo Lake Camp

The City of Berkeley Echo Lake Camp has been operated under a Special Use Permit with the U.S. Forest Service since 1922. Echo Lake Camp is steeped in tradition and has a unique history. Legendary environmentalist, David Brower, was introduced to the Sierra Club at Echo Lake Camp as a young clerk, and Edmund Hillary dined at Echo Lake Camp the summer after the first ascent of Mt. Everest. Generations have marveled at the 40-mile vistas, the dark night sky dome and the sunrise above the mountains to the east.

Straddling the Pacific Crest Trail and just minutes from Echo Lake and Desolation Wilderness, campers will be treated to an amazing alpine camping experience. Echo Lake Camp boasts incredible views and excellent outdoor recreation opportunities. Echo Lake Family Camp offers a regular daily activity schedule, including basketball, volleyball, bocce ball, disc-golf, canoeing, archery, and swimming. Camp facilities include a nature center, recreation lodge, built in 1922, Kiddie Camp, a dining hall where campers can enjoy excellent company and delicious meals, and of course, a green chair circle with an incredible view of the Lake Tahoe Basin. Echo Lake Family Camp is a wonderful family camping experience for all ages. Whether exploring the beautiful environment at Echo Lake or taking part in traditional programs, songs, and activities, Berkeley Sierra Family Campers will be a part of keeping the Tuolumne Spirit alive.

Campers enter the Echo Lake Dining Hall in the 1940’s

http://www.cityofberkeley.info/recreation


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An experience at Echo Lake Camp includes tent-cabin lodging, dining hall service, and a wide variety of recreation activities including our heated swimming pool, adult and youth arts & crafts in our recreation lodge, canoeing, archery, disc-golf, sports courts, badminton, horseshoes, and more. Out of camp adventures abound. Campers will enjoy easy access to miles of hiking trails, water taxi rides at Echo Lake, several regional golf courses, access to climbing, cycling, and adventure sports, or one of the many Lake Tahoe attractions.

Echo Lake is only a fifteen minute walk from camp, offering a several mile expanse of cool mountain water, swimming, fishing, and canoeing, Echo Lake is a favorite destination for campers. It is also the gateway to the immense Desolation Wilderness Area offering miles of hiking among the numerous alpine lakes, streams, peaks and meadows. The famous Pacific Crest Trail runs through the camp on its 2700 mile route from Mexico to Canada. The site is actually located directly on the Pacific Crest of the High Sierra meaning that a cup of water spilled on the eastern side of Cabin 26 runs to the deserts of the Great Basin while a cup spilled on the west side runs past Berkeley to the Pacific! The camp itself offers a heated swimming pool, basketball, volleyball, bocce ball, disc-golf, archery, an observation deck, arts & crafts, campfires and music programs. At 7,400’ elevation, mild days and cool nights are punctuated by the occasional afternoon thundershower that clears in time to provide spectacular sunsets and alpenglow over the peaks to the west. Hot showers and bathrooms are located throughout the site as are picnic tables and seating. Although the camp is distinctly wilderness in nature and tradition, all modern conveniences are available just 15 minutes away in world-famous South Lake Tahoe.

The Recreation Lodge Deck overlooking the Tahoe Basin in the 1930’s


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Where is Echo Lake Camp located?

City of Berkeley Echo Lake Camp Lot #7 Echo Lakes Rd. Echo Lake, CA 95721

Camp Office Phone #: (530) 659-7539

Directions: Take Highway 80 to Sacramento. From Sacramento, take Highway 50 towards South Lake Tahoe. Continue up Highway 50 through the town of Strawberry. Once you pass Camp Sacramento, continue for about five (5) miles and look for the turn off to Echo Lake Camp on your left (Johnson Pass Rd.). Go about a quarter mile down Johnson Pass Rd., and take a left hand turn on to Echo Lakes Road. Three quarters of a mile down the road, Echo Lake Camp will be on your right.

Image: Google Maps

What are the accommodations like?

During your stay, you will be camping in traditional High Sierra tent-cabins outfitted with bunk beds or cots and mattresses. Campers must provide their own linens or sleeping bags. No food may be stored in the tents due to bear scavenging, but

bear-proof food storage is provided in several locations throughout camp.


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When you arrive at camp, you will have the opportunity to choose your own tent-cabin from the tents that are available. Each of our cabins is unique. Some have built-in bunks, while others have portable metal bed frames. Some cabins have private decks, while others are ‘double’ cabins, accommodating more than ten campers. Each tent-cabin has a wooden deck floor, half-walls, a canvas tent cover, and will have enough beds and mattresses for each camper. Upon arrival, you are welcome to arrange the cabin as you see fit so you and your family will be comfortable. Some campers may even wish to sleep under the stars!

Family Camp Check-In and Check-Out Procedures:

We want our campers to have a great stay at camp from the moment they arrive, and will do our best to make sure the check-in and check-out process is easy. When you arrive, find an available parking spot and walk to our main office to check in and choose your tent-cabin. Once you have checked in, staff will assist you and your family with unloading your car and transporting your luggage to your chosen tent-cabin. Check-in times vary depending on your desired arrival meal, and are listed below: Breakfast Arrival: If arriving before 8:30 AM, campers may head to the Dining Hall for breakfast. Earliest Check-In: 9:00 AM. Lunch Arrival: Earliest Check-In: 9:00 AM Dinner Arrival Earliest Check-In: 2:30 PM Night Arrival: If arriving after hours (Our Camp Office will be open from 9:00 AM-6:30 PM daily), please call the Echo Lake Camp office at (530) 659-7539 to confirm your anticipated arrival time. If possible, please call a few days before your arrival to ensure our staff are anticipating your late arrival. When you arrive, check the front office door to see which tent has been reserved for your group. If you wish, you and your group can choose a different available tent cabin once the office has opened the next morning. Check-Out Times: Sad but true, eventually our campers have to go home. Before your departure, come check out in the office and fill out a camper survey so we know what went well during your vacation and where we might be able to make improvements. Campers must be packed up and moved out of their cabins by the times listed below: Departure after Breakfast: 11:00 AM Departure After Lunch: 3:00 PM Departure After Dinner: 3:00 PM (although you must be moved out of your cabin by 2:30, you are welcome to stay on site until after dinner)

Communication

Visiting Echo Lake Camp Drop-In Registrations and Visitors are welcome depending on which program is in session and as space allows. New campers can register at the Camp Office. Please Note: Our Camp Office can accept exact change in the form of Cash or Check only. During Youth Camp sessions, Echo Lake Camp is very busy with campers and activities. If you need to visit camp during this time, please make arrangements in advance with the Camp Manager.


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Contacting Campers in an Emergency Should you need to contact your family at camp under emergency circumstances, please do so through the Echo Lake Camp office at (530) 659-7539, or through the City of Berkeley Recreation Office at (510) 981-5140.

PACKAGES & MAIL MAY BE SENT TO: For USPS: Camper’s Name Camp Session (if applicable) Echo Lake Camp 9100 Echo Lakes Rd. Echo Lake CA, 95721 For FedEx/UPS: Camper’s Name Camp Session (if applicable) Echo Lake Camp Lot #7 Echo Lakes Rd. Echo Lake, CA 95721

Echo Lake Chalet

The Echo Lake Chalet is a 15 minute walk from camp. Located on Echo Lake, the Chalet features an Ice Cream and Soda Fountain, Deli and general store with basic groceries, sporting goods, and camping supplies. The Chalet features a marina and boat launch offering Water Taxi service across Echo Lake, Lake Tours, and fishing equipment. The Echo Lake Chalet is not affiliated with Berkeley Echo Lake Camp, and fees may be associated with these services, which are not included in your Echo Lake Camp reservation. For more information about the Echo Lake Chalet, you can visit their website or call: 530-659-7207 (8 am to 6 pm PST summer only) Can I bring my RV or mobile camper? No, parking spaces are limited and these recreational vehicles just take up too much room.

The Ridge Cabins at Sunset

The Echo Lake Chalet, a short walk from camp

http://echochalet.com/


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How do the meals at Echo Lake Camp work?

We pride ourselves on offering delicious and nutritious meals for our campers! Before the meal, campers will hear a meal bell ring alerting campers of the approaching meal. We ring our meal bell 3 times for each meal. 1st bell is a 45-minute notice, 2nd bell is a 15-minute notice, and 3rd bell is TIME TO EAT. In the Dining Hall, each family will have reserved seats available for the meal. When the 3rd bell rings, check the seating chart located at the front of the Dining Hall and head to your assigned seats. If you have friends you would like to sit with just mention it to the Dining Hall Supervisor and we will do our best to accommodate you. The Echo Lake Camp food service staff offer buffet style meals, and campers may choose what they like from available options. Dining Hall attendants will be available to assist you and assure you have a comfortable dining experience. Campers planning out of camp trips may elect for our bag lunch option. Campers electing this option may sign-up in advance in the Dining Hall. Check with the Food Service staff in the Dining Hall for more information. Different dessert options are available at every dinner. Check the menu to see what treats will be served! Meals are not only a time for delicious food, but a time for shared community announcements,

acknowledgements, and awards! At each meal, keep your ears open for Bullseye awards, Echo Lake Pioneer announcements, and upcoming activities and events. When are Meal Times? Unless otherwise announced at camp, meal times are as follows: Breakfast: 8:30 AM Lunch: 12:30 Dinner: 6:30 PM

Some meal times may shift slightly to accommodate special camp programs or activities, so be sure to listen to meal-time announcements and the meal bells. What if I have special dietary needs? Echo Lake Camp Food Service Staff will do their best to accommodate special dietary needs. Vegetarian options are served with every meal, and campers can submit special dietary needs at check in by completing a form at the main office. Campers can check the posted menu to see allergen information, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free choices, and what is on the menu

The Dining Hall at Echo Lake Camp


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each day. Some special dietary needs may be more challenging for our kitchen to accommodate. If you have questions or concerns about your special dietary requirements, please contact the Echo Lake Camp Office at (530) 659-7539.

What can’t I do at camp?

We ask that you follow all posted rules and camp guidelines while at camp. If you have questions about whether an activity is acceptable, please check with Echo Lake Camp Staff. To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all our campers, the following items are not allowed at camp:

Pets (for service animals, please contact the Recreation Office before your stay to assure we can provide adequate accommodations)

Firearms

Fireworks

Candles

Kerosene lanterns or white gas

Illegal substances

Bug-Zappers

Smoking

Smoking is not allowed anywhere in camp. If you must smoke, you may leave camp property to do so. Dry conditions atop Echo Summit create high fire danger in and around camp. Please use caution, and extinguish cigarette butts fully.

Quiet Hour

Our camp-wide quiet hour starts every day at 1:15 PM and ends at 2:30 PM. Please be “In your Tent or Out of Camp” at this time. Check-In time for campers arriving after lunch is 2:30 PM. Echo Lake Staff use Quiet Hour to clean up camp, and prepare for afternoon activities. Quiet Hour is a great chance for you and your family to re-connect and share stories about your morning, and recharge for the afternoon. If our staff notices campers out of their tents during quiet hour, we will politely remind you of Quiet Hour rules. In the evening and early morning, we ask that you and your party are respectful of other campers. Our evening Quiet Hours begin at 10:15 PM, and lights will go out around camp at 11:00 PM. In the morning, please be respectful of quiet hour until 7:45 AM- this includes use of Sports Courts and Common Areas. Please remember the majority of our campers have young children who are sleeping at this time.

Recreation Activities

What recreation activities are offered at camp?


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Echo Lake Camp offers a wide variety of options for all ages including arts & crafts, hiking, swimming, volleyball, basketball, archery, bocce ball, ping pong, canoeing, theme days, special events, dances, disc golf, evening activities, and more. Echo Lake Camp Staff will offer special programs for children of all ages, and Kiddie Kamp will be available for our youngest campers. Detailed activity schedules will be posted on the camp activity board by the Recreation Lodge. Swimming Pool The Echo Lake Camp swimming pool features a 25’ x 50’ swim area, and will be available for morning and afternoon swim times with lifeguards on duty. Please follow all posted pool rules while utilizing the swimming pool. We ask that you do not enter the pool area when lifeguards are not present.

In addition to the swimming pool, many of our campers enjoy swimming in Echo Lake, which offers a variety of options for swimmers of all levels.

Hiking Echo Lake Camp is an excellent place to venture out and take a hike. Ideally situated along the Pacific Crest Trail, there are miles of trails to be enjoyed around camp. Check at the Camps Office and Recreation Lodge library for additional resources and hiking guides.

While we encourage campers to take advantage of camp’s natural environment and want you to enjoy the hiking trails, we also want to remind you that hiking can be dangerous and hiking trails can have uneven terrain. Please never hike alone, always have someone with you. If for some reason this is not possible, make sure to tell someone exactly where you are going and how long you think you’ll be gone. Always wear appropriate footwear for hiking (i.e. no flip-flops or sandals), and take the appropriate safety measures whenever possible. Special Family Camp Evening Activities: Mondays: Camper Vs. Staff Volleyball - Think you have what it takes to take on our staff in a head to head volleyball

match? Come prepared to ‘dig’ and bring your knee pads! We will have a women’s match, and a men’s match each Monday night.

Tuesdays: Table Night – A chance for you and your family to perform your special talents in front of the whole camp! Campers can get up on stage and sing, act, or dance.

Wednesdays: Bingo Night – A classic game of bingo, appropriate for all ages! B – I – N – G – O! Thursdays: Theme Day! – A full day of fun! Weekly Themes are listed on the Echo Lake Camp Website. Check the

activity calendar to see which theme will dominate the day. And prepare to dance the night away in the Dining Hall!

Fridays: Campfire Night! – A night of favorite skits, songs, and s’mores :) Saturdays: Staff Show: Last summer’s staff show was a big hit! Stay tuned for the spring-time announcement of

the summer staff show, and prepare to laugh, smile, and sing-along as our staff perform for your enjoyment. Sundays: Night Hikes and Tuck-In – Sundays offer a variety of activities for the whole family. Join our nature center

staff for guided night hikes, enjoy special guest lectures and speakers in our Recreation Lodge, or sit back


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and enjoy the beautiful night sky with special Astronomy sessions. Younger children may enjoy ‘Tuck-In’, where staff members will visit cabins to tuck children in to bed and read bed-time stories.

Do I need a license to go fishing at Echo Lake? In the State of California, anyone over the age of 16 is required to have a valid fishing license. All California fishing regulations must be followed. Licenses can be attained locally, or at many sporting goods stores on the drive up. Bicycles You can bring your bicycles to camp, however, for the safety of all our campers and to preserve our trails, we ask that you do not ride your bicycles on camp property.

Sports Echo Lake Camp has a regulation sized basketball court, ping pong tables, bocce ball equipment, volleyball nets, Frisbee golf course, and an archery field.

Canoeing Echo Lake Camp has several canoes available for use during designated time periods.

Kiddie Kamp Children, 2-5 years old, can participate in our “Kiddie Kamp”. Programs are available from 10:00 AM to 12:15 PM, 1:15 to 2:45 PM, and 4:45 to 6:00 PM.

Experienced adult staff provide supervision that ensures a safe and memorable experience for our little campers. Parents can take a break and kids can have fun playing with other kids their own age. Sign-ups will be posted each evening at 6:30 PM on the Activity Board for the following day. Generally, as our staffing resources allow, we are able to accept all little campers on most days. There is a ratio of one staff to six preschoolers per session.

Please note: If your preschooler is not “potty-trained,” a parent must be available if needed within the camp to change diapers. Kiddie Kamp Staff will establish a method of communication with you when you drop off your child at the beginning of each session.

6-12 Year Olds For our most active campers, we provide a daily schedule of activities that helps ensure safety, fun, and excitement. Check the activity board for activity options and details, as they change regularly. On several weekdays, we offer "Children's Hour" an adventurous one or two-hour activity period, featuring hikes, games, or nature lore. “Children’s Hour” schedules will be posted on the Activity Board, located near the Recreation Lodge. All participants meet at the basketball court and listen for the activity bell.

Preteen/Teen Activities may include hikes, arts and craft projects, pool parties, and more! Check the activity board for all of the details.


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Echo Pioneers Campers have the opportunity to become an “Echo Pioneer”, earning a special certificate by completing a cleanup, nature lore, and a camp improvement project. Campers can find a list of requirements at the Nature Center. The Echo Detectives Program is for our youngest campers who will complete similar requirements to earn a certificate and magnifying glass. Sorry adults, this program is just for kids!

Nature Hut The Nature Hut is located in the heart of camp. Look at the activity board in front of the Recreation Lodge to see the weekly activities the nature staff has planned for you. There will be a variety of arts and craft projects, nature hikes, and more.

The Nature Hut has maps and guidebooks on hiking trails and sightseeing. Hike from camp through a beautiful Lodge Pole Pine Forest or along the historic Pacific Crest Trail.

Out of Camp Adventures Although there will be plenty to do and see at camp, some campers may choose to explore the surrounding area. There are many beautiful natural areas nearby, including Upper and Lower Echo Lake, Lake Tahoe, Desolation Wilderness, Tahoe Rim Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, El Dorado National Forest, and more. It is hard to go wrong, because you can go exploring in any direction! Out of camp adventures are a great choice for those who don’t want to participate in Quiet Hour. Also, be sure to check the Activity Board daily and listen to the “announcements” at mealtime for an update on special activities.


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Other Frequently Asked Questions:

Are there bears at Echo Lake Camp? Yes, occasionally a Black Bear might wander through camp. Please remember that the forest is its home, and it doesn’t realize it needs to share with us. If you see a bear please report it to the Camp Manager so we can take proper precautions. If a bear comes close to you, do not run. Stand still, make yourself appear as large as possible (hold up your arms) and make loud noises. These bears are not aggressive and are not known to attack humans unless aggressively provoked (and documented cases of this are incredibly rare). Typically, bears are looking for a good meal. Bear Boxes are located throughout camp and are available for camper food storage.

DO NOT KEEP FOOD IN YOUR TENT! Locking Food Storage lockers are available throughout camp. Bears have broken into tents and cars in previous years!

How can I prepare for camping at High Altitude? Echo Lake Camp rests at an altitude of 7,359 feet. This is more than a vertical mile higher in elevation than the City of Berkeley! Please make sure to plan all hikes and physical exercise accordingly and drink lots of water to stay hydrated. As you gain elevation, the sun’s rays become more powerful, so make sure to bring and apply sunscreen regularly to avoid burns. Weather and Temperature: Echo Lake Camp can experience extreme weather and temperature fluctuations. Weather patterns shift rapidly in the high sierras, and may include warm, sunny days, afternoon thunderstorms, and chilly evenings. Be sure to check the weather before your arrival, and to pack clothes that are appropriate for hot days in the high 80s and colder nights in the 40s.

Are health care professionals on-site? Echo Lake Camp employs Camp Medical Staff to assist with general first aid, and most of our staff are CPR/First Aid certified. Although families are expected to handle their own general medical needs, our camp medical staff are available 24/7 if you need to speak with a medical professional. The Nurse’s Station is conveniently located in the center of camp. In the unfortunate event that an emergency occurs, please know that the nearest medical facility, Barton Memorial Hospital, is a fifteen minute drive from camp.

Barton Memorial Hospital 2170 South Ave South Lake Tahoe CA, 96150 (530) 543-3420

Do you have a lost and found? Lost and Found items can be dropped off or claimed at the Main Camp Office. Although we do our best to return lost & found items that are recovered, we do not have the storage capabilities to keep these items indefinitely. We generally keep lost & found items until the end of the family camp season, and will donate unclaimed items to charity.


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Although we promote a trusting and safe environment at camp, please be careful leaving valuables in your tent, as you cannot lock your tent-cabins. Also, we do not recommend charging cell phones, cameras and the like in public bathroom and laundry facilities.

Transportation

Transportation to and from camp is not provided during Family Camp Sessions or for Family Camp Counselors-In-Training. The City of Berkeley does provide supervised transportation to and from camp for youth campers, and CIT’s during Youth Camp Sessions aboard charter busses. Youth Camp and CIT Session Transportation New to Echo this 2020 Camp season, Echo Lake Camp will have a (5) day (Monday – Friday) and (7) day (Monday – Sunday) Youth Camp Session. Drop off for Youth Camp (7) Day Session is 2pm Monday afternoon & Pick-up is at 5:00pm on Sunday at the designated bus location. Drop of for Youth Camp (5) day session is 7:30am Monday Morning & Pick-up is at 5pm Friday afternoon at the designated bus location. City of Berkeley staff will greet you at the busses and help your campers load gear onto the bus. The bus ride lasts about three and a half hours.

Echo Lake Camp Staff

Echo Lake’s Camp Staff are the heart of our program. Staff members are selected for their judgment, maturity, and their fun and caring attitude. Echo Lake Camp Staff are energetic and personable, and are wholly dedicated to making you and your families time spent at camp memorable, meaningful, and fun. We recruit staff that are excellent role models and represent the City of Berkeley Camps programs as such. Our Recreation and Counseling staff members receive training in working with youth and are knowledgeable about what is developmentally appropriate for children of each age range.

We maintain staff to camper ratios of at least one (1) staff member for every five (5) campers.

Staff Credentials All staff must complete the application and interview process as outlined by the City of Berkeley Recreation Department. Counselor Staff must have current CPR/First Aid certifications from a nationally accredited training institution and must pass a criminal background check.


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Staff Training All staff complete a week of training pertinent to their area of work at camp. For Cabin Counselors and Recreation Program Staff, training topics include: child behavior management, positive discipline techniques, games, age appropriate programming, emergency procedures, and health and safety management. Counselors-In-Training (CIT) Our Counselor-In-Training (CIT) program provides leadership opportunities for campers age 15-16. This year, Echo Lake Camp is offering CIT programs during our Family Camp and Youth Camp Programs. CIT’s are campers taking part in a leadership program, and are supervised and guided during their stay by our CIT Program Coordinator. Following an orientation to camp, CIT’s are assigned to program areas or cabin groups to assist recreation staff and counselors with day to day activities and daily cabin tasks. CIT’s will have the opportunity to learn more about each department area at camp, and get a feel for what it might be like to be on staff.

Health and Safety

The health and safety of your family is our primary concern. Please inform us of any food, drug, or environmental allergies before arriving at camp. It is the parent or guardian’s responsibility to provide accident and health insurance. The City of Berkeley does not provide coverage for camp participants.

Communicable Diseases, Fractures, Breaks, and Stitches Campers with communicable diseases will not be allowed to attend camp until they are free of the disease, or until he/she is no longer contagious, as determined by a doctor. Campers with fractures, breaks, or stitches must have permission from their physicians to attend camp. Doctor’s Notes must accompany campers or be submitted to the Camp office before arrival.

Camp Hygiene Standards We encourage our campers to be clean! Before every meal, campers must wash their hands, and hygiene is reinforced throughout the camp experience. Your pre-camp support of this concept is appreciated. Bathrooms are inspected and sanitized each day by a member of our maintenance staff.

Head Lice Head lice can become an issue anytime large groups of campers gather. It is not indicative of poor hygiene and anyone can get them. Because lice are easily transmitted and require several steps to eliminate, we cannot allow campers to remain at camp who are found to have nits or head lice. To help ensure campers will have a positive experience at camp, it is your responsibility to check and, if necessary, treat for nits or head lice the week before camp begins.


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Illness and Accidents Echo Lake Camp employs Camp Medical Staff who will be on-site during your family’s stay at camp. They will always be available via phone or radio. Our Medical Staff are available 24 hours a day in case of emergency. In addition to our on-site medical staff, all of our staff hold CPR and First Aid certifications.

Our camp’s health hut has limited capacity to keep campers in extended isolation. In our experience, campers with medical conditions feel more comfortable recuperating at home. Camp fees will be refunded on a pro-rated basis when campers must return home early for medical care.

General Camp Information

Environment and Weather Echo Lake Camp is located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains at about 7,500 feet; such elevation can have an effect on the body. High altitude means thinner air, which could lead to shortness of breath and dehydration. As camp is located in the High Sierras, weather changes occur quickly. During the day, temperatures range from 70 to 80 degrees, dropping to the low 50s at night. The sun is stronger at higher altitude and the wind picks up quick. Rain and thunderstorms can occur at camp, and mosquitoes are present during dawn and dusk. Make sure to pack sunscreen, bug repellent, and rainwear. You can find a more in depth packing list at the end of this packet. Recreation and Activities There are a variety of fun and exciting activities that Campers will take part in at Echo Lake Youth Camp. Echo Lake Camp utilizes a structured activity schedule. In addition to daily activity times, meal times, all camp events, evening activities, and all camp games provide opportunities for campers to enjoy shared experiences.


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Some examples of recreation activities offered at Echo Lake Camp include: Heated Swimming Pool

Hiking

Canoeing

Arts & Crafts

Team Sports

Group Initiatives

Team Challenges

Archery

Outdoor Living Skills

Nature Center

Group Games

Table Tennis

Horseshoes

Badminton

Music / Singing / Songs

Campfires

Dances

Talent Shows

Polar Bear Swims

Night Hikes

Astronomy / Star Gazing

Counselor Led Activities

And More!

Each week of camp has its own unique theme and storyline! Please note the theme of your week and pack your costumes accordingly! More information about camp themes and special events will be released as camp approaches.


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Packing List

Here is a list of items you may want to bring to help make your stay more comfortable.

For Adults

For Kids & Babies

For Tent

Other Helpful Items CLOTHES

Bathing suits Echo/Tuolumne T-

Shirts

Long nightshirt

Sundress

Leggings

Tank tops

Sweatshirts

Sweater

Vest (Polar Fleece)

Shorts

Long pants

Underwear

Belt

Jeans

Hats

Warm jacket

Lots of socks

SHOES

Sneakers

Hiking shoes

Flip flops (slip on’s

for tent & shower)

Sandals

Water shoes

TOILETERIES

Feminine Supplies

Towels

Toiletry case

Shampoo &

conditioner

Face cleanser/wash

Liquid soap shower

Comb

Toothpaste/brush

Moisturizer

Lotion

Lip balm

Razor

Sun block

Medicines

Band-Aids

Wash cloth

Mosquito Repellent

KIDS

Bathing suit

Life Jacket

Long pants

Shorts

T-shirts

Underwear

Socks

Warm Jacket

Sweatshirt

Jeans

Socks

Beach towel

Towel

Books

Games

Sneaker

Flip-Flops

Sandals

BABIES

Portable crib

Sheets & blanket

Books

Mosquito net for

crib

Bottles

Sippy cup

Bib

Spoon/ fork

Pacifiers

Baby backpack

Warm p.j.s

3 changes of

clothes per day

6 diapers a day

Box of wipes

Plastic bag

1 swim diaper a

day

Laundry bag

Lantern (battery)

Flashlights

Sunscreen

Mosquito spray

Extra sheets/for

privacy

Roll/paper towels

Garbage bags

Clock w/batteries

Beach towels

Sun Hats

Playing cards

Games

Magazines

Backpacks

Headlight/ Reading

light

Reading glasses

Sunglasses

Small Table

Tablecloth

Rugs

Raincoats

Umbrella

Mesh/Beach Bag

Blankets for All

Sleeping Bags**

Pillows

Snack Container

Sheets

**It can get quite cold at

night, so bring warm

clothing and sleeping bags.

Check the weather for Echo

Lake before your arrival, and

dress accordingly. For

weather information, call the

Echo Lake Camp office:

(530) 659-7539

Beverages

Snacks*

2 hand towels

Bottle opener &

corkscrew

Small paring

knife/cutting board

Plastic cup per

person

Badminton racquets

Frisbee

Books!

Camera

Laundry Soap

Tarp or spread for

sun shade

Beach chairs

Floating Tube

Envelopes

Stamps

Pen

Date book

Address Book

Walking Sticks

Fanny packs w/water

bottles

Shirts for tie-dye

Scissors

Ping pong paddles &

Balls

Costumes for Theme

Day

Fishing poles and

supplies

Bikes/helmets

*Please contact the Camps

Office if you have special

dietary needs, or require

refrigeration of food items

for medical purposes. Do

not store food items in tents

due to bear scavenging.

Bear lockers are available

throughout camp.

*Please remember to label clothing and other items with first and last name of your child.*


20 1/7/2020

2020 Berkeley Echo Lake Family Camp Recreation and Activity Schedule Day of Week Date Evening Activities Daily Special Events Saturday June 20 Staff Show Staff Show! @8:00pm

Sunday June 21 Dusk Walk/Open Mic Night/Tuck-in Open Mic Night

Monday June 22 Tug-O-War/Volleyball Staff vs. Camper Volleyball

Tuesday June 23 Table Night Camp T-Shirt Day/Tie-Dye

Wednesday June 24 Bingo Night!

Thursday June 25 DANCE! In the Dining Hall THEME DAY- TBD

Friday June 26 Camp Fire! Songs and s’mores

Saturday June 27 Staff Show Staff Show! @8:00pm

Sunday June 28 Dusk Walk/Open Mic Night/Tuck-in

Monday June 29 Tug-O-War/Volleyball Staff vs. Camper Volleyball

Tuesday June 30 Table Night Camp T-Shirt Day/Tie-Dye

Wednesday July1 Bingo Night!

Thursday July 2 DANCE! In the Dining Hall THEME DAY- TBD

Friday July 3 Camp Fire! Songs and s’mores

Saturday July 4 Staff Show Staff Show! @8:00pm

Sunday July 5 Dusk Walk/Open Mic Night/Tuck-in 4th of July Celebration!

Monday July 6 Tug-O-War/Volleyball Staff vs. Camper Volleyball

Tuesday July 7 Table Night Camp T-Shirt Day/Tie-Dye

Wednesday July 8 Bingo Night!

Thursday July 9 DANCE! In the Dining Hall THEME DAY - TBD

Friday July 10 Camp Fire! Songs and s’mores

Saturday July 11 Staff Show Staff Show! @8:00pm

Sunday July 12 Dusk Walk/Open Mic Night/Tuck-in Open Mic Night

Monday July 13 Tug-O-War/Volleyball Staff vs. Camper Volleyball

Tuesday July 14 Table Night Camp T-Shirt Day/Tie-Dye

Wednesday July 15 Bingo Night!

Thursday July 16 Staff Show Staff Show! @8:00pm

Friday July 17 Last Meal Breakfast Last Morning of Family Camp


21 1/7/2020

Contact Information

If you have any further questions or concerns prior to the start of youth camp please feel free to call the camp office at (530) 659-7506. Our staff are more than excited for what will surely be a wonderful week at Camp! City of Berkeley Camps Office 2701 Telegraph Ave Berkeley, CA 94705 (510) 981-5140 [email protected] www.cityofberkeley.info/camps

Camps Manager DC Pompey Camp Office (June – September): (530) 659-7539 City Office (October – May): (510) 981-6642 [email protected] Recreation Program Supervisor Craig Veramay (510) 981-6717 [email protected]

Since 1922, Berkeley Echo Lake Camp has been operated by the City of Berkeley under a Special

Use Permit through the USDA Forest Service.


http://www.cityofberkeley.info/camps




22 1/7/2020

Echo Lake Camp Map

echo lake family camp welcome packet...environmentalist, david brower, was introduced to the sierra...

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