< Summer camps

Vanapalooza

Ages 11 - 14

Ready for adventure?

Each week Samena vans take a daily trip headed for excitement. Teens and tweens will flex their independence, give input on activities & schedules, and have a bit of a say in where we steer these vans. With trips exploring the area, pit stops, and a special treat each week, let’s hit the road… Destination: Fun!

Contact
Rebecca Luke, Children’s Program Director – childrens@samena.com

Weekly Themes & Pricing

We will see you back for summer 2025! Look for more information in January

Weekly, Monday – Friday: 9:00am–4:00pm

Extended care available in the morning starting at 7:00am or after camp until 6:15pm on a weekly basis

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this camp different?

This camp caters specifically to teens & tweens! At this stage in life, older campers are looking for a little bit of autonomy and independence, and most of all a good time. Our goal is to offer this while providing a safe environment and a little bit of structure. Each week, campers have opportunities to vote on activities, treats and pit stops.  

What does my child need to bring to camp?

  • Tennis shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
  • Lunch, snack (No nuts/nut butters/nut products), and a refillable water bottle. 
  • Swim suit and towel.
  • Sunscreen.
    • Hats, sunglasses, and UV rash guard/swim shirts are great options for campers who are sensitive to sun.
  • Campers may enjoy snacks, souvenirs, or treats at our daily pit-stops, so packing spending money is optional, but encouraged.
  • A backpack large enough to carry all of their items.

What do campers do if/when there is downtime?

Our Camp Counselors do their best to engage Campers during downtime. They bring active game gear, card decks, board games, and plan group games to get campers involved. However,  if your child is not interested and does not want to participate, we will not make them. Not all Campers participate in every activity, and that is ok. We offer a little bit of something for everyone.

What if my child needs to take medicine during camp?

No problem! Once we send out invites to our forms & attendance platform in early June, just fill out the Child Care Medication Authorization Form and upload it to your child’s ProCare profile or email directly to childrens@samena.com. Please bring medication in a zip-loc bag and make sure the medication is clearly labeled with the child’s name, medication name and administration instructions (dosage and time).

What are your registration, cancellation, and transfer policies?

Summary

  • Parents can put down a non-refundable $50 deposit to reserve each camp week for each camper, or payment in full can be made at the time of enrollment.
  • Deposits and registration fees are non-refundable/non-creditable. A credit card saved on file to your Samena account is required in order to put down deposits to hold your camper’s spot.
  • Balances are due 2 weeks before the camp week’s start date & will be paid automatically with your card on file.
  • Cancellations must be requested at least 2 weeks before the camp week’s start date, via our cancel request form. If the cancellation request is submitted in time and you have paid for that week in full already, you will receive a credit/refund for the amount less the $50 deposit.
  • Prior to Sunday, May 26, 2024, deposits may be transferred to a new camp week (for the same camper, within the same camp) based on availability.  As of Monday, May 27, and any day forward, deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. Any transfer requests must be made in writing by email to frontd@samena.com.

Click here for full details – Policies must be accepted/signed during the registration process.

How will I sign my camper in and out each day?

All campers under 13 years old must be signed in and out each day by their parent or an authorized adult.  Campers 13 & above may be given prior parent permission to sign themselves out if desired. We do offer extended care to Vanapalooza, they will join the before and/or after care with the Day Campers.

You will receive an invitation to our attendance and communication platform (Procare) in early June, prior to the start of summer. The platform will provide the parent with a secure PIN to be used on our parent kiosk in order to sign your camper in and out each day. 

Please pick-up your child promptly. Regular camp day ends at 4:00pm and extended care ends at 6:15pm. A $25.00 fee is charged for each 10-minute increment that you are late. 

Can my child just hang out at the Club after camp?

If your child is 13 or older, you may give permission for your child to sign themselves out of camp and use the Samena facility if they are Samena Club Members.

What if we have to be late – Can my child still come to camp that day?

Vanapalooza will usually be on their way to their off-site adventures by 9:30am, so coming late can be difficult. Please let the counselors know ahead of time if possible, and most often, this will mean driving your camper to meet the rest of the group at their destination (schedule will be sent on the first day).

Is my camper allowed to bring cell phones or electronics?

While campers are allowed to bring their cell phones in case of emergency, we ask that you speak with them about limiting usage or keeping in their bag while they’re at camp.

How do I turn in the emergency medical information and waiver packet for my camper?

This year, Samena Camps are using a new forms & attendance platform called Procare. In early June, all campers will be emailed an invitation to create a profile linked to our camps. This will include all the forms and documents needed before you child may attend camp.

What is your policy if my child hits, kicks, or inappropriately touches another child or staff member?

We understand that children are still learning, however we do have a no-tolerance policy when it comes to violence, inappropriate touch and/or language. We make it a point to explain rules on the first day of camp so everyone can know what to expect and be set up for success. Additionally, our counselors are trained to use de-escalation strategies and communication to help children work through issues or frustrations appropriately. When that doesn’t work, our Lead Counselors, Camp Coordinator, and/or Camp Director are always accessible to step in and assist. If the above steps are not successful, you may be asked to pick up your child early. Please see our Code of Conduct for more specifics.