Sapling Camps - Birch Sapling

by Riverside Camps and Climbing, LLC · 6836 Old Westham Rd, Richmond, VA 23225, USA

Offered by Riverside Camps and Climbing, LLC

Ages 6–9

For ages 6–9
Where
6836 Old Westham Rd, Richmond, VA 23225, USA
Registration open
You register directly with Riverside Camps and Climbing, LLC.

Birch Sapling is designed for participants 6-9 years old and features arborist-style tree climbing and high ropes activities. Kids are harnessed in and belayed by certified instructors while climbing, with all elements following a 'challenge-by-choice' philosophy. Activities include vertical climbs into the tree canopy, limbwalks (walking out on branches balance-beam style), giant swings, swimming in calmer areas of the James River (always with life jackets), and a scenic flat water rafting trip. The program also incorporates creative outdoor games, knot tying, tree identification, and friendship building. This camp runs Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM with flexible pickup between 3:30-4:00 PM. Camp is held in Forest Hill Park and the James River Park System. Birch Sapling is one of two Sapling groups (the other being Maple Sapling) and operates as a separate group with its own counselors throughout the camp day.

What kids do here

tree climbingoutdoor adventurenature explorationswimmingraftingteam buildingsummer campoutdoor

What to bring

backpack
towel
lunch and snacks
water bottle
sunscreen
rain gear if forecast calls for it
medications if necessary
swimsuit
water shoes, secure sandals (Chacos, Tevas, Keens), or old tennis shoes

Packing list

Required

backpack
towel
lunch and snacks
water bottle
swimsuit
water shoes or secure sandals or old tennis shoes

Optional

rain gear

Provided by the camp

harnesses
helmets
climbing equipment
life jackets
water refills

Please leave at home

phones and electronics
crocs
flip flops

Reminders

Wear comfortable, weather appropriate clothes for land activities
Wear sneakers or shoes comfortable for running and climbing
Hairstyles must be able to fit under a helmet
Encourage campers to wear swim trunks or swimsuit under clothes since changing areas are limited

Getting there

Parent drop-off and pick-up at Forest Hill Park

Drop off between 9:00 AMPick up between 3:30 PM and 4:00 PM (flexible pickup window)

Fees:

Questions parents ask

My child is on the waitlist. How likely are they to get into that camp session?: I would not count on it. While it does happen from time to time, it is generally unlikely. Please refer to our cancellation and waitlist policy.; Source: FAQ page
Will my child be in the same group as his or her friends?: If they are signed up for the same camp (Old Growth, Birch Sapling, Red Oak, etc) and the same week they will be in the same group.; Source: FAQ page
What is the difference between Maple Sapling and Birch Sapling?: Maple Sapling and Birch Sapling are separate groups of kids with a different set of counselors, but will have the same programming in regards to adventure activities. They are equally awesome!; Source: FAQ page
Do you perform background checks on your staff?: Yes. We perform annual checks on all of our camp staff through a third party which covers local, state, federal and sex offender registries.; Source: FAQ page
My child is turning ___ years old on ___. Can you make an age exception?: We almost never make exceptions in regards to our age groups. We have built into our camp structure a one year overlap in camps (i.e. a 9 year old could attend Sapling or Oak, and a 12 year old could attend Oak, River Shredders, or Old Growth).; Source: FAQ page
Do you offer extended day programming?: We have built into our schedule a flexible pick-up time between 3:30PM and 4:00PM.; Source: FAQ page
Do you have a Counselor-In-Training (CIT) program?: Yes! 16-17 year olds are welcome to apply as CITs. Our CITs volunteer at our Sapling, Oak, and Earth Heroes camps for 2 weeks during the summer (preferably consecutive, Mon-Fri). They function as counselors and role models for the kids, are directly mentored by our experienced staff, and learn both technical and transferable skills in the education and outdoor recreation fields.; Source: FAQ page
Do you have a scholarship program?: We do! If none of the sliding scale choices are affordable to you, please email us at info@riversidecamps.com to ask about our scholarship program. In order to offer assistance without increasing barriers, we do not require proof of income, but ask that you only request scholarship funds if you're not able to attend otherwise. There is an option to donate to the scholarship fund during the registration process.; Source: FAQ page

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