Important Info
What Should You Bring to Camp?
Each season, Geneva Glen Camp provides an updated packing list that includes required items, optional items, and helpful guidance for families. Please refer to the packing lists available on our website: www.genevaglen.org/packing
We recommend that campers pack their belongings in trunks or a duffel bag, which will be used to store personal items in cabins or dorms. Campers are responsible for keeping track of their belongings and maintaining an organized living space.
To support a positive camp experience focused on relationships, growth, and outdoor adventure, we ask families to send only necessary items and avoid bringing valuables or irreplaceable belongings.
Storage of Personal Belongings
Campers will store their personal belongings in their assigned cabins or dorms. While staff supervise living areas, Geneva Glen Camp cannot guarantee the security of personal items. We strongly recommend that families not send expensive or sentimental items to camp.
Helpful reminders:
- Clearly label all clothing and personal items with the camper’s name
- Pack clothing appropriate for changing mountain weather conditions
- Bring sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for uneven and rocky terrain
- Dress warmly, as campers participate in at least one overnight experience and Colorado evenings can be cool
Money & Valuables
Campers should not bring money to camp, as it is not needed for the camp program.
The exception is for campers traveling from out of state or by air. In those cases:
- Any money brought to camp must be turned in at Check-In
- The camp will store the money securely in the camp safe
- Money will be returned to the camper at the end of the session or prior to departure
Cell phones brought by campers traveling from out of state will also be stored securely in the camp safe and returned at departure.
Medications & Restricted Items
All prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and vitamin supplements must be checked in with camp medical staff at arrival and may not be kept in cabins or dorms unless specifically authorized by camp health staff.
The following items are not allowed at camp:
- Drugs or illegal substances
- Alcohol, marijuana, or tobacco products (including vaping and nicotine products)
- Fireworks, matches, or lighters
- Weapons of any kind
- Personal vehicles (including skateboards, bikes, or scooters)
- Personal safety or activity equipment (such as helmets or climbing gear) unless approved in advance
- Gum
Families should contact camp in advance if a camper wishes to bring personal sports equipment (for example, archery bows, bats, baseball gloves, or lacrosse sticks).
View or download our packing listCheck-In
Arriving at Geneva Glen Camp on Check-In day is an exhilarating experience for campers. Newcomers might arrive restless from a sleepless night, filled with nervous excitement and brimming with questions. Meanwhile, seasoned campers buzz with anticipation, eager to dash off to their dorms or cabins, reconnect with friends, and greet their counselors.
A few weeks before camp, we’ll send detailed instructions tailored to your child’s specific session.
Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our experienced and friendly Staff. They are well-versed in guiding families through the bustling check-in process, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience.
Arrival & Parking
When you arrive, head through the main gates and up the road toward our main lodge. Staff in purple shirts will be positioned to guide you to the Meadow for parking. Be aware that due to limited space in the Meadow, we may direct you to park in a lower lot. With hundreds of cars coming and going, the parking process can get a little hectic! We thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate this busy time together!
Once you’ve parked, make your way up towards the building at the top of the Meadow. Bring any camper medication with you as you proceed to Step 1. At this point you do not need to unload trunks or large items. Our staff will return with you to your car and help transport camper belongings once you are fully checked in.
Step One
To streamline the Check-In process, there are three tents located just in front of the Lodge. Those with last names starting with A-F can head to the tent on the left, G-O can proceed to the middle tent, and P-Z can check in at the tent on the right.
At this step you will be greated by a staff member or alumni volunteer who will ask you to:
- Complete a mandatory Release Form (Childcare Licensing Requirement).
- Verify and collect any missing CampInTouch Paperwork.
If your camper has medication or if you need to speak to our healthcare team, you will be directed up the stairs to Step 2, if not you may proceed directly to Step 3.
Step Two
Our Geneva Glen Health Services team will review your camper’s Health Form, address any medical questions or concerns, and document all medications. All medications will be securely stored at the Health Center.
At this station, you’ll meet either our Health and Wellness Coordinator or a camp physician, who will conduct a health screening and note any special care instructions for your camper.
Step Three
The most fun and anticipated step! Campers will meet their counselors and learn what group they will be with. We strive to honor requests for buddies to be housed together, although we limit this to no more than two friends in the same group.
At this point you and your child’s counselor will return to your vehicle, grab belongings and head up to the cabin or dorm. Some of our more distant cabins have designated luggage drop off locations. Should you prefer to have your campers heavier items delivered later in the day, our staff can help guide you to these areas.
Merch & More
The Geneva Glen Sportswear station is located under the deck of the Lodge. Check out our array of t-shirts, hoodies, water bottles, and other great gear. Purchases are optional as we do not require uniforms. Proceeds help support our Campership Fund.
The Lodge is also where you will find Restrooms and alumni volunteers who are ready to help answer any questions you may have.
Housing
North Hill (male+ centered) dorms house 16 campers and counselors, and South Hill (female+ centered) cabins house 9-12 campers and counselors. Campers are housed according to how they identify and would be most comfortable. Our counselors are experts at welcoming and embracing campers into the group, and feelings of belonging quickly replace nervousness.
Beds are assigned using a lottery system. Please contact Geneva Glen if your camper has any special circumstances requiring specific placement.
Pets at Check-In & Check-Out
We love dogs and understand that camp is fun for our furry friends; however, we do not allow pets at Check-In and Check-Out (no, not even if they are on a leash). You may leave your dog in the car, but please know that it does get hot inside vehicles even though we are in the mountains. Please abide by this policy and leave Fido at home.
What Happens after your Camper is Checked-In?
Parents/guardians are encouraged to meet the counselors, check out the accommodations, reassure their camper ... and leave! Parents/guardians who hang around too long can embarrass their camper and inhibit the normal interaction of kids getting to know one another in a group. Furthermore, if another camper in the cabin is feeling a little anxiety, the presence of a parent/guardians can intensify the onset of missing home.
After Check-In, once all campers have arrived, we gather as a camp for a warm welcome, introductions, and mini-orientation, including a presentation of activity areas and glimpses of coming events. You can feel the electricity as the campers catch the “Magic of the Glen!”
Late Arrivals, Early Departures, and Leaving Camp
At Geneva Glen, we strive to create a cohesive and enriching experience filled with challenges, camaraderie, ceremonies, and fun. Our activities are designed to foster strong bonds from day one, making it important for campers to arrive on time and stay for the full session whenever possible. Late arrivals may feel alienated, affecting not only their experience but also the spirit and cohesion of their cabin group.
Our camp schedule is thoughtfully designed to build toward meaningful group activities and ceremonies throughout the session, especially on the final day. These moments hold special significance in your child’s camp experience. For that reason, we strongly encourage campers to attend the entire session. If conflicts such as sports schedules, performances, or family travel might cause your child to miss part of the session, please contact the camp office in advance so we can explore options.
Temporary departures during a session are strongly discouraged. Frequent arrivals and departures create safety concerns and can disrupt the rhythm of the camp community. If a camper must leave or return during a session, parents or guardians must coordinate directly with Camp Administration and follow established arrival and departure procedures.
Authorized Release of Campers
For the safety of all campers, Geneva Glen will release a camper only to a parent, guardian, or other individual listed in writing as an authorized pick-up person on the camper’s Release Form.
Identification may be required at the time of pick-up. Camp staff will verify authorization before releasing any camper. Campers will remain under staff supervision until an authorized individual signs them out.
If changes to authorized pick-up arrangements are needed, parents or guardians must notify the camp office in advance.
Emergency Transportation and Reunification
If your family experiences an emergency and you need to pick up your child outside of the normal schedule, please call the camp office at 303-697-4621. You may speak with the Concierge Desk or press 1 to reach the Emergency Line.
In the event of an emergency at Geneva Glen that requires evacuation, relocation, or early dismissal of campers, parents or guardians will be notified by phone, email, or other available communication methods. The notification will include clear instructions on where and when to pick up your child, as well as the procedures for reunification.
Campers will be released only to authorized individuals listed on the camper’s Release Form. Identification may be required, and staff will maintain supervision of campers until they are safely reunited with their families.
We understand that unexpected situations can occur, and our goal is to respond quickly, communicate clearly, and ensure the safety and well-being of every camper.
Check-Out
Please allow extra time for Check-Out, as there will be many heartfelt goodbyes, award presentations, and songs. We kindly ask that families not arrive earlier than the scheduled Check-Out time. This helps us maintain our schedule and ensures a smooth and safe transition for all campers.
Upon arrival, please proceed to your camper’s cabin or dorm, where a counselor will assist you. During Check-Out, the designated responsible person must sign the Release Form before the camper is dismissed from supervision.
Before leaving, please remember to:
- Pick up any medication sent with your camper
- Check for lost & found and camper mail
As with Check-In, camp will provide specific instructions tailored to your camper’s session to help ensure an efficient and enjoyable process.
Parking & Pick Up
Parking at Check-Out works the same as during Check-In. Staff in purple shirts will guide you to parking in the Meadow or nearby area. Once you have parked, head directly to your camper’s cabin or dorm. Counselors and staff are ready to assist you in bringing belongings back to your vechicle for loading.
Mail & Medications
To pick up medications and mail that may not have been distibruted during the session, be sure to stop by the two tables located at the top of the Meadow. The nurses will be here to help you and answer questions.
Lost & Found
At Check-Out, all unclaimed items from the session will be layed out on “Bear’s Corner.” It is exceptionally helpful to us if you go through these items and look for anything familiar. We will keep remaining unclaimed items through the end of the summer; however, with over 1,000 campers attending each season, the amount of forgotten belongings quickly adds up!
Ensuring that your camper returns home with all their belongings is crucial. We strongly urge you to take an active role in this by labeling all clothing and personal items clearly with the camper’s name. This simple step can significantly minimize the chances of items getting lost.
- During the Session: Lost and found items are collected in a designated area in the Lodge. Campers and counselors are encouraged to check this box daily for missing items.
- At Check-Out: We will guide parents/guardians and campers to the lost and found area to retrieve any items they may have misplaced during their stay.
- Post-Camp Retrieval: We accept phone or email requests to match and retrieve items if items are still unclaimed after campers leave. Local families are encouraged to arrange pick-up for their items. All unclaimed items are donated to local shelters, missions, or charities in September.
- Valuables: The camp office secures valuable items such as jewelry, cameras, keys, and prescription glasses. We retain these items for one year before disposing of them, giving owners ample time to reclaim them.
We understand that managing lost and found is challenging, and it’s often the last task we address after a busy summer. We deeply appreciate your understanding and efforts to prevent loss. While we strive to ensure all belongings return to their rightful owners, please understand that it may not always be possible in every case.
The Long Drive Home
We commonly hear that campers seemed exhausted or less talkative on the drive home after camp. This is often because campers may have stayed up later than usual on their last night. There is always an adjustment period when transitioning from camp life to daily routines, and your child might need time to process their experiences. While they may appear merely dirty and tired, what’s important is what’s happening on the inside.
Processing the camp experience can take time, so being patient and listening is essential when they are ready to share. If they are reticent, remember that every child is different; some may need to reflect quietly, while others might talk non-stop. Please encourage them to keep in touch with their counselors and cabinmates to continue sharing their experiences.
Camper Communication
Mailed letters are a great way to stay in contact with your camper! Outgoing mail is delivered to the post office daily and incoming letters are dispursed each day at lunch. Mail from Indian Hills to greater Denver usually takes one or two days.
Please address all mail to campers using this format:
Camper First & Last Name
Camper Housing Assignment
Geneva Glen Camp
PO Box 248
Indian Hills, CO 80454
Care Packages
Geneva Glen does not have a way to accommodate the storage of care packages safely. For the safety of our campers, staff, and local wildlife, care packages are not allowed. Any box or package that exceeds the limit of a large, flat mailing envelope will likely not be dispuresed to your camper and will be kept in the office for the duration of the session. These packages can be collected during Check-Out.
There are several alternative ways to remind your child that you are thinking of them. Here are a few suggestions:
- Pre-write letters, label them for the day to be opened, and place them in your child’s trunk. These are a welcomed surprise for your child!
- Send comic books, magazines, puzzle books, journals and/or drawing supplies.
- Send self-addressed stamped envelopes and cards for your child to write letters to family and friends.
- Place 2-3 goodie bags in your child’s trunk. Have them open the goodie bag on a selected day. This can also be a fun way to provide games or activities for the entire cabin/dorm.
Help keep Camp safe & clean - No Food Please
We kindly ask you not to include any food, candy, or otherwise edible items in your camper’s packed belongings or sent mail. These items cannot be stored safely and will have to be kept in the office until Check-Out.
Part of your camper’s tuition includes two snack items when scheduled for the store (aproximately 3 times a week). We also offer additional single-serve snacks daily, free of charge throughout your camper’s stay, so rest assured we have yummy treats covered!
Share this Info
To avoid any confusion or disapointment regarding mail, we recommend sharing mailing and care package information with anyone who might send mail to your camper during their stay. (Grandparents, friends, etc.)
Please reach out to Geneva Glen with any questions.
Menus & Nutrition
Geneva Glen serves full meals to more than 325 campers and staff three times each day, along with scheduled snacks. Our goal is to provide nutritious, well-balanced meals that meet the energy needs of active campers in a safe, positive dining environment. Meals are served at designated times and may be provided family-style or via a supervised buffet.
Our meals are designed to resemble those served in schools and youth programs, with attention to variety, nutrition, and appropriate caloric intake for growing children and teens. Fresh water is always available, and staff encourage campers to stay well hydrated.
Parents and guardians may access current camp menus by contacting the camp office. Menus are subject to change based on availability, weather, or program needs.
Food Allergies & Special Needs
Geneva Glen works to support campers with food allergies or special dietary needs. Families must report all allergies, medical dietary restrictions, or special dietary needs on the camper’s Health History form in CampInTouch before arrival.
Our kitchen and health services teams review health information carefully and will make reasonable accommodations for many food allergies and dietary needs. These accommodations may include providing alternative food options or helping campers identify safe food choices during meals. Geneva Glen cannot guarantee the complete absence of peanuts or other allergens in our food service areas. Campers with dietary restrictions are expected to actively choose foods they can safely eat, as in school or restaurant settings.
If a camper has a significant food allergy or complex dietary need, families are encouraged to contact the Camp Health and Wellness Coordinator before the session to discuss the camper’s needs and develop an appropriate plan for safe participation.
Food Brought from Home
In accordance with state health regulations and food safety standards:
- Parents/guardians may not send food that requires refrigeration, freezing, or specialized preparation (such as boiling or microwaving).
- All food brought to camp must be shelf-stable and approved by camp staff in advance.
- Any medically necessary food accommodations will be coordinated with the camp’s health and food service teams.
Health Services
Geneva Glen’s philosophy toward health care is derived from the first four letters of the word: HEAL. Our camp environment adds health to the individual rather than subtracting illness from an individual. Our mission addresses the protection and development of the whole child, and health and wellness is a component that helps sustain and promote our campers’ wholeness.
To learn more about our health services program see the Health Services Page.
Travel Information
Geneva Glen is happy to provide transportation for our out-of-state campers! Please make reservations for Denver International Airport (DIA) within these time frames (for two-week sessions):
- Arriving on SUNDAY between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm (For flights outside of that window, later is better)
- Departing on SATURDAY between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm
- For campers attending Seedlings & Stardust or Myths & Magic that need airport transportation, contact us (see below).
If you have to make arrangements outside of that time frame, please contact camp to discuss the best options. We will do our best to accommodate all flights, but we cannot guarantee staff availability for flights outside of the 11 am to 2 pm window.
Contact grace@genevaglen.org with your flight reservations, and we’ll provide more detailed information regarding our airport run procedures. Visit our Camper Travel Information & Forms page for more information. Please don’t hesitate to call if you have any questions!
Missing Home
Missing home is natural at any age and can usually be overcome. Our approach is to keep our campers engaged in fun, meaningful activities that keep campers present in the moment. We take every camper’s well-being seriously and and counselors are trained on a variety of methods that help campers navigate and overcome homesick feelings. Rest assured, if your camper’s homesickness significantly affects their camp experience, we will contact you.
Almost all campers report missing home on at least one day of their camp stay. It is normal! Read our Missing Home page for a more in-depth discussion on this subject and helpful tips to prepare your child for camp.
Visits to Camp and Visiting Day
Because Geneva Glen’s regular sessions are only two weeks, a visiting day is not scheduled and visits to camp are not allowed. If your camper forgets something and you live a short drive away, please mail the forgotten item or contact camp. We don’t wish to make you feel unwelcome, but please understand that when a camper sees a parent/guardian, it can be a serious disruption to the camper’s experience and adversely affect others in the group. Feel free to call and let us help you make appropriate arrangements ahead of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if there is an emergency and I need to contact my child?
The camp conceirge desk answers the phone throughout the day and evening and will provide assistance. After hours, the automated camp telephone system routes calls to different persons and locations, and indicates phone numbers and emergency numbers. In the highly unlikely event that cell phone service in addition to the phone service to Indian Hills is down, the most direct means of communicating an emergency is through the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department. The number is 303-277-0211. Your local 911 also can notify the Jefferson County Sheriff Department.
Can I request that my child be housed with a friend?
Camp is a perfect time for forging new friendships. We try to not bunk more than one pal with another. If three are together in such a small cabin group, it can be hard on the other kids in the cabin. We’ll try to accommodate your requests, but we will keep our limitation policy in mind when assigning housing.
What if my child is a picky eater?
The meals at camp are balanced and nutritious and are made with a child in mind. Our counselors are trained to be supportive of good eating habits and good table manners. Each camper eats at least ONE of every item from the plate, and our counselors model this behavior. No camper starves at Geneva Glen and options are always available (but not used as a substitute for food the camper simply doesn’t like).
Typical GG Menu:
- Breakfast – Scrambled eggs, cereal, sausage, bananas, and orange juice
- Lunch – Grilled cheese sandwich, tomato soup, carrot and celery sticks, chocolate chip cookie
- Dinner – Grilled chicken, rice, steamed vegetables
How do you handle bed-wetting? What if my child wears pull-ups?
Campers sleep in their own sleeping bags. If a camper wets the bed, the counselor is trained to be discreet and quiet about the incident and stifle any teasing from others in the group. Other kids are removed from the area while the camper and the counselor together take the bag to be dropped off for laundering. The camper will be provided another sleeping bag until it is returned. A child using pull-ups at camp is not uncommon. Campers using pull-ups are responsibile for disposing the pull-up in a plastic bag. Most will discretly change in their sleeping bag or in the bathroom.
Which session best suits my child?
Each of our theme programs are unique and distinctive. They date back to the early years of camp and serve a very individual purpose. Each theme offers a completely different expression and you may find one particular session best suits your camper.
Geneva Glen offers five themes through six sessions. Each session is cherished for its position in camp’s heritage. Each theme focuses on a particular value that is unique and unequaled in residential summer camps. Contact camp for more information.
Is Knighthood I a "prerequisite" for Knighthood II?
No – Knighthood always is a month and it is divided into a pair of two-week sessions. The names are for chronological reasons only. One is not a prerequisite of the other.
What's the difference between Knighthood I and Knighthood II?
Knighthood I unfolds the history of the Arthurian legends and the Round Table stories, by learning of Merlin. The culminating event of Knighthood I is "Merlin’s Masque," an all-day play that takes place in the Council Ring in three acts and dramatizes the book entitled The Crystal Cave by Mary Stewart.
Knighthood II picks up where Knighthood I ends in the story line as Merlin ushers in the rise of King Arthur and the coming of Camelot. During Knighthood II, campers vote for a King, Queen, and Court of Camelot. The culminating event of Knighthood II is a day-long Pageant in six acts, performed by members of the Court. All cabin and dorm groups present a gift to the Court during the Pageant, in the form of music, drama, dance, or a tangible gift. Knighthood I and Knighthood II end with Court and Induction, the ceremony with the most meaning during these two sessions.
May I call or email my camper?
Geneva Glen does not allow campers to talk to parents/guardians in the normal course of events. If there’s a clear need or if there’s an emergency of any nature, the camper is accompanied by a counselor or a camp administrator to an office or place where a private conversation is possible. The best mail for campers is good old-fashioned mail from home in the form of a postcard or letter! Geneva Glen does not facilitate emailed messages.
Do you offer tours of camp?
We often receive inquiries about visiting Geneva Glen Camp during the off-season. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer camp tours at this time. However, we invite families to join us at our annual Strawberry Pancake Breakfast in late May. This event is a wonderful opportunity for first-year camper families to tour the camp and meet members of our Board of Directors, some of the GG staff, and our year-round team. It’s also a perfect time to learn about Geneva Glen’s rich history and connect with other camp families, cabinmates, and staff in a relaxed, festive setting.
Will I receive photos or updates throughout the session? Geneva Glen does not provide daily updates or photos during your camper’s stay. We believe this is a healthy practice which helps to strengthen autonomy and indepence in our campers and can reduce potential anxiety that can sometimes arise when children feel they are constantly being watched.
Our in-house photographer documents each session and compiles a password-protected gallery for campers and their families. This gallery is typically available three to four days following the end of each session. In addition to the digital gallery, each camper also receives a printed group photo of their cabin or dorm.
Can I sign up for next year?
Our application process opens each year in the Fall, usually during October.
When can parents come?
We receive many requests for “adult camp!” From time to time, we offer some family-oriented programming in the fall. Keep watching our emails for announcements about these programs. We do schedule a Family Camp every five years!
Does Geneva Glen offer scholarships?
Yes! The goal of providing tuition assistance to attend Geneva Glen Camp is to ensure that camp is financially accessible to all children (both new and current campers) through support generously donated by our Camp Family each year. Tuition assistance (full or partial tuition) is awarded to campers who might not otherwise be able to attend Geneva Glen. The purpose of the program is to eliminate financial barriers and expand access to the full Geneva Glen experience.
Go to www.genevaglen.org/camperships for more information or to apply.
