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The American Camp Association (ACA) is the only national accrediting body for camps in the U.S. It’s different from licensing. 

• Licensing: provided through state & local governments, focuses on enforcing minimum regulations. In Maryland & Virginia, inspections are dialed into health standards related to sanitation and food service. 
• Accreditation: with scheduled visits, is centered on education and supporting best practices in all aspects of camp operations.

What is ACA Accreditation? 

ACA Accreditation is a rigorous process repeated every 2-3 years. Calleva is among the fraction (between 25-30%) of camps in the U.S. who have achieved it consistently over the last 20 years.

Camps who receive ACA accreditation voluntarily submit to peer evaluation based on the Association’s comprehensive evaluation system. This includes 300 standards that measure health, safety, and risk management. These standards were developed in collaboration with experts from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Red Cross, and other youth-serving agencies to ensure that camp practices reflect the most up-to-date, research-based standards in camp operation.

These are the standards of the camp community, giving them legal weight that extends beyond voluntary compliance. Many government entities (including courts of law) – including Maryland & Virginia – view ACA standards as the gold standard for ensuring camp excellence. ACA accreditation is the best evidence for parents that a camp is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for their children.

But some parents wonder: what does ACA accreditation actually verify?

ACA accreditation establishes systems to minimize risk and respond appropriately, but cannot eliminate all possibilities of incidents. It signals a camp’s dedication to professional standards, methodical safety protocols, and continuous improvement. It means:

• The camp has voluntarily submitted to an objective, third party evaluation by trained professionals.
• ACA’s mandatory safety standards have been met.
• Staff undergo criminal background checks and appropriate training.
• Emergency protocols are in place and have been reviewed.
• The camp is part of ACA’s professional community and is dedicated to industry leading practices.
• Regular re-evaluation ensures ongoing compliance.

Calleva’s last renewal inspection occurred in summer 2025.

8 Core Areas of Accreditation

ACA accreditation evaluates camps across eight critical operational areas:

1. Sites and Facilities: including food & fire safety protocols 
2. Transportation: including driver qualifications & vehicle safety
3. Health & Wellness, including staff qualifications, first aid capabilities, training & medical record keeping
4. Operational Management: safety regulations, child safety, emergency communication 
5. Human Resources: staff screening, criminal background checks, training & supervision ratios
6. Program Quality: activity design, developmental appropriateness, etc.
7. Specialized Activities: specific standards for waterfront, horseback riding, challenge courses & adventure travel
8. Emergency Preparedness: plans & response protocols, including crisis management and evacuation procedures

The Review Process

At least once every three years, ACA sends an outside team of trained camp professionals to observe Calleva camp in session to verify compliance with its standards and regulations in the 8 core categories. They spend a couple of days observing our camps in action, evaluating operations firsthand, interviewing staff, reviewing documentation, and assessing our compliance.

ACA accreditation definitely provides Calleva with a solid foundation of leading practices in the mandatory categories. In addition, we’re committed to standards that go beyond minimum requirements in the following areas:

• Incident reporting and analysis: Tracking patterns to prevent future occurrences
• Continuous staff training: Not just orientation, but ongoing professional development
• Parent communication protocols: Clear & routine systems for keeping families informed
• Child protection policies: Comprehensive approaches to preventing and responding to abuse
• Empathy, kindness, and inclusion: Ensuring all children feel safe and included
• Mental health support: Recognition that emotional safety matters as much as physical safety

Don’t take our word for it! 

You can verify Calleva’s accreditation status by visiting www.ACAcamps.org. A few minutes online will give you peace of mind! 

If you have additional questions, please reach out to registration@calleva.org. 

Finally, we hope you’ll attend one of our 2026 open houses – see the details on the Camp Page – where our staff will be present to answer your questions and show you around. You can chat with other parents and get a sense of Calleva’s culture & environment. We would love to see you!

Calleva’s Core Office Team is invested in your camper having a memorable experience at camp. We truly believe camp is an investment in their growth and development. Given the unique nature of our camps, there are a few things we’d love to help you understand as you’re picking your camper’s Calleva summer fun.

The Office is the group that will send you reminder emails. We also send those prodding emails for paperwork, transportation selection and Med Authorization forms. We created these as a direct result from previous challenges. We’ve encountered it all. So we are trying to prevent you from facing the same issues as parents in the past. I have compiled some advice from our office crew who have decades of camp experience for your benefit.

Understanding the Calleva Experience

We are a TRAVELING day camp! So, whether your camper is at Riley’s Lock, Calleva Farm or Calleva Virginia, they are only in an easy-to-access location for a short period of time each morning and afternoon. Most Calleva campers load their equipment and themselves onto a bus and travel in pursuit of adventure.

What that can look like is an Explorer arriving at the Calleva Farm, participating in a morning council, and then getting on a bus to head to Adventure Island. Adventure Island is located in the middle of the Potomac (23 miles away “as the crow flies” from the Calleva Farm). This makes it logistically impossible to pick up your camper early for a 1:30 pm Doctors appointment. Likewise, dropping your camper off after 9:30 am would also be logistically impossible.

• No Late Drop-Offs: Campers cannot join after 9:00 a.m. as their group may already be en route to their adventure spot for the day.
• No Early Pick-Ups: Retrieving campers before the day ends is challenging, especially if they’re on the water or off-site.

We want to ensure your child has a full day of adventure, so please plan appointments and other commitments outside of camp hours.

Preparing for All Weather Conditions

Campers are outside all day, rain or shine. On blazing hot days and chilly rainy days they are outside in the weather. We have been in the camp game for over 30 years, and have tried and true action plans in place for inclement weather at each location we visit. Safety is our first priority.

We know how to keep campers cool (AND having fun!) when the sun is out in full force. Hydration and sunscreen are our best friends.

• Hydration & Sun Safety: Counselors encourage campers to stay hydrated through games like the “waterfall” drinking game. (Ask your camper about this one!) Per State of Maryland Health Department rules, campers reapply their own sunscreen regularly.
• Weather Preparedness: With over 30 years of experience, we’ve developed action plans for all weather scenarios.

We recommend packing extra layers, a rain jacket, a sunhat, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle to keep your camper ready for any conditions.

Transportation Logistics

We prioritize getting the campers to camp on time, so they can have a full day of adventure. We post bus stop times on our website for general planning purposes, those are not the accurate bus times for your camper. One week before your camp week, you’ll receive an email that confirms your correct bus departure time. Even if your child has attended camp previously during the summer, always check that email for any updates or changes to bus times. Please help by getting your camper to their designated bus stop on time so they don’t miss out on the day’s activities.

• No Additional Stops: Once on the road, our drivers may NOT stop the bus to allow a late camper to board. Simply put: our drivers are not licensed to pick up at alternative locations.

• No Waiting for Late Comers: Your camper’s bus will leave the bus stop promptly at the time noted in that email, and this schedule is essential for keeping the entire camp day on time and running smoothly.

Why We Need Paperwork Early

When we are pestering you for your campers Health History well in advance of camp it’s because we review hundreds of health history forms every week of camp!

We take seriously our responsibility to understand your camper’s needs prior to their arrival at camp! This ensures we can head off any issues we see in advance. The Office team all have children and understand life is busy. At the same time, we must ensure that our staff are familiar with your camper’s specific needs for the weeks they will be with us.

If your camper is bringing ANY medication to camp with them, we also need Medical Authorization forms (with your doctor’s signature!) for EACH med on their list. This includes over the counter medications, like melatonin, Advil, Benadryl, hydrocortisone creams, etc. We know it isn’t always easy to get in touch with your medical provider. However, both the State of Maryland and the American Camp Association require a doctor’s signature for any medication that is being administered while your camper is in our care.

We would love to let it slide, except that would put our accreditation in jeopardy. This is why we try to get your Med Authorization forms weeks prior to your campers attendance.

• Health History Forms: With over 300 forms weekly, we need this information in advance so we can review camper needs and address potential concerns.
• Medication Authorization: Maryland law and the American Camp Association require doctor-signed forms for any medication (even over-the-counter items like melatonin or Benadryl).

Submitting these forms early ensures we’re fully prepared to care for your child.

The Office Team: Your Support System

The Calleva Office team is a small group. We know you and your family, if only on paper. We are happy to help parents understand what to expect as Calleva camp parents. It is a big deal sending your kid to camp. We want you to be comfortable sending your crew to learn new skills, create new memories, and have fun this summer.

The Fashion of Closed-Toe Shoes: Why They’re Essential for Summer Camp Adventures

At Calleva, we believe in embracing the great outdoors and all the adventures that come with it. But before the fun begins, there’s one piece of essential gear that every camper needs: closed-toe shoes! You might wonder, why are we so adamant about this footwear choice? Well, let’s break it down so both parents and campers understand why these shoes are a must for a safe and enjoyable camp experience.

Protecting Little Toes

Calleva campers are constantly on the move—hiking through wooded trails, climbing rocky terrain, and exploring creeks and rivers. Closed-toe shoes provide critical protection for toes. They prevent cuts, scrapes, and stubbed toes, especially when navigating uneven or unpredictable ground.

Open shoes like flip-flops or crocs at camp leave feet exposed to sharp rocks, sticks, and other debris commonly found on trails or in water. Not only can your feet get hurt, but you can miss out on all the fun while you get first aid.

Staying Secure in the Water

Campers often engage in water-based activities, whether it’s swimming, SUPing, kayaking or splashing around in rivers and lakes. While it might seem like a good idea to wear flip-flops for easy drying, these types of shoes can slip off in the water, leaving campers barefoot and vulnerable to injury.

Closed-toe water shoes (or even old sneakers) stay securely on their feet, allowing campers to move through water confidently without worrying about losing a shoe in the current.

Versatile and Durable

Quick-drying closed-toe water shoes are a fantastic option. Designed specifically for wet conditions, they drain water easily and offer good grip, so campers can seamlessly transition from the riverbank to the trail. Finding a solid pair of closed-toe water shoes will serve your camper all summer long.

Alternatively, old sneakers might not look glamorous, but they’re the workhorses of summer camp. Parents, don’t be afraid to send your campers with a pair you don’t mind getting soaked or muddied. These shoes may not dry quickly, but they provide durability for long hikes, rope swings, and all the dirt that comes with outdoor fun.

Safety First in High-Energy Activities

Calleva is known for its high-energy, adventure-packed activities. Whether your camper is rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, or hiking around, closed-toe shoes ensure they have the right support and protection.

Shoes that are loose-fitting or open-toed can cause trips, slips, and falls, especially during fast-paced games or activities on uneven ground. A foot injury can slow campers down and may prevent them from enjoying camp activities.

A Note on Crocs and Flip-Flops

While Crocs are popular for their comfort and ease, they don’t provide the secure fit or protection needed for many camp activities. Flip-flops are even less ideal—offering no toe protection and easily slipping off in water, during play or on hikes.

For campers who still want to bring these for casual wear around the campsite or on the bus, they should pack them for non-active times. However, campers should always have their trusty closed-toe shoes on for activities.

How to Pick the Best Camp Shoes

Parents, when choosing the right shoes for camp, look for:

• Good grip for wet or slippery surfaces
• Closed toes to protect from scrapes and cuts
• Quick-drying materials if your camper will be in and out of water
• Comfortable fit for all-day wear
• Secure fastenings (laces or straps) to ensure they stay on during activity

Get Styled For Camp Adventures

At Calleva, we want every camper to have the best experience possible, and closed-toe shoes are a key part of making that happen. From providing safety and support to withstanding the elements, they’re the unsung heroes of summer camp fashion.

So, whether you’re hitting the water or the trails, don’t forget to pack the right pair of shoes to keep your feet safe, secure, and ready for adventure!

If you have any questions about gear, please read our Parent Resources. Also feel free to reach out if you don’t find answers to your questions there. We’re always here to help you prepare for a summer of fun!

Summer is here, and that means it’s time for camp adventures at Calleva! Whether your child is a first-time camper or a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, we know that preparing for camp can be both exciting and a little daunting.

Many of our campers will be spending their first extended period outside all day, experiencing the joys of nature, physical activity, and new friendships. Here’s a guide to help you and your child get ready for this amazing adventure, and to ensure you both know what to expect.

Preparing Your Child for Camp

They say a failure to plan is a plan to fail. This is true in life, and true for camp. Ensuring your child is prepared for their time at Calleva can make all the difference in their experience.

By helping them know what to expect and ensuring they are ready for the adventures ahead, you set them up for a successful and enjoyable camp experience. Let’s dive into some key steps to get your child ready for camp!

1. Embrace the Outdoors

One of the biggest adjustments for many campers is spending all day outside. Here’s how to help them get ready:

• Talk About It: Discuss with your child what it will be like to be outside all day. Reminisce about adventures outdoors your child has enjoyed previously. Or, share your own positive outdoor experiences.
• Practice: Spend time outside together before camp starts. Go for hikes, have picnics, or simply play in the backyard to get them accustomed to being outdoors.

2. Stay Cool and Hydrated

The summer heat can be intense, so it’s crucial for campers to stay cool and hydrated. We make staying cool fun with water games, sprinklers, streams, rivers and ponds. However, there are also things you can do to ensure your camper stays cool:

• Water Bottles: Make sure your child has a durable water bottle and encourage them to drink water regularly.
• Light Clothing: Dress them in lightweight, breathable clothing. Light colors can help reflect the sun’s rays.
• Hats and Sunscreen: Pack a hat to protect their face from the sun and apply sunscreen every morning before camp.

3. Embrace the Dirt

Camp is a time for getting dirty and having fun! Most of the fun we have at Calleva is wild, messy fun.

• Expect Mess: Let your child know it’s okay to get dirty. Mud, grass stains, and sand are all part of the camp experience.
• Old Clothes: Send them in clothes that can get dirty. Avoid anything too precious or new.

4. Prepare for Physical Activity

Calleva camps are full of physical activities, from hiking to swimming to climbing. While these activities vary based on the specific camp, all of our campers are on the move all day. Make sure your camper is ready!

• Fitness Level: Make sure your child is ready for the physical demands of camp. Engage in physical activities together before camp starts. Go for walks outside, play outside, go for a swim, or whatever activity your family enjoys.
• Comfortable Shoes: Invest in a good pair of outdoor shoes. Although new shoes are great, they should be broken in before camp. It’s critical campers have shoes that are comfortable for long periods of walking and running.

Empowering Your Child

Empowering Your Child for camp is essential to their growth and enjoyment during their time at Calleva. Camp offers a unique opportunity for children to develop independence, confidence, and problem-solving skills. By encouraging your child to take on new challenges and supporting them through their journey, you help them build resilience and self-assurance.

Let’s explore some effective ways to empower your child and ensure they make the most of their camp experience.

1. Encourage Independence

Camp is a great opportunity for your child to develop independence. Not only will campers have opportunities to gain independence at camp, it can begin at home as well.

• Packing: Let them help pack their own camp bag. It gives them a sense of responsibility and helps them be familiar with where things are in their bag.
• Problem-Solving: Encourage them to try solving small problems on their own, like filling their own water bottle or applying sunscreen. The more they do this at home, the easier it will be for them at camp.

2. Positive Reinforcement

Boost your child’s confidence and enthusiasm. By celebrating their successes and providing encouragement during challenging moments, you can help them develop a positive mindset and a love for adventure.

• Talk It Up: Speak positively about camp and the fun they’ll have. Share stories about your own camp experiences if you have them.
• Celebrate: After each camp day, ask them about their adventures and celebrate their achievements, no matter how small.

Managing Expectations for Parents

Sending your child to camp can be a big step, especially if it’s their first time. It’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. Managing your expectations and understanding what to anticipate can make this transition smoother for both you and your child.

Trusting the process, offering support and encouragement, and staying informed about camp activities are key strategies. Here’s how you can approach each of these areas to ensure a positive and rewarding camp experience for your child.

1. Trust the Process

It’s natural to feel anxious about sending your child to camp, especially if it’s their first time. If you’re feeling worried, just know that we are not. We know just how to help first time campers. Calleva hires outdoor professionals dedicated to providing campers with the most enjoyable camp experiences.

• Trust the Staff: Calleva’s staff are experienced and trained to handle all kinds of situations. They are there to ensure your child has a safe and enjoyable time.
• Expect Some Adjustments: It might take a day or two for your child to settle into the camp routine. This is normal. Stick with it for the week before rushing to judgement.

2. Support and Encouragement

Your support can make a huge difference. As your child navigates the new experiences and challenges of camp, your encouragement and positivity will be crucial. By staying positive, listening to their concerns, and validating their feelings, you help build their confidence and resilience.

• Stay Positive: Even if your child has a tough day, stay positive. Encourage them to keep trying and remind them of the fun parts. Remind them that you believe they will have fun at camp. Also keep in mind that small things seem like bigger issues to kids at the end of a very long, very hot, very exciting day.
• Listen and Validate: Listen to their concerns and validate their feelings. Reassure them that it’s okay to feel a little homesick or tired.

3. Stay Informed

Keep yourself informed about camp activities and schedules. Staying updated on what’s happening at Calleva not only helps you feel more connected, but also enables you to better support your child. By reading emails, texts, and knowing how to communicate with camp staff, you can stay in the loop and address any concerns promptly.

• Read Updates: Check for any updates or emails from Calleva to stay in the loop. Your confirmation emails have important information about each week of camp. This is your first stop for info. After reading your emails, check out the Parent Resources area on our website. Also, don’t forget to follow Calleva on social media (instagram or facebook).
• Communication: Know how and when to contact camp if you have any concerns. Our office staff is here to help, ready to answer questions that are not already answered online. Contact us so we can help!

Evening Routines

After a full day of camp, your child will need time to unwind and recharge for another exciting day at Calleva. Establishing calming evening routines can help them transition smoothly from their outdoor adventures to restful evenings.

1. Decompress and Relax

After a full day of camp, your child will need time to unwind. This looks different for everybody, but calm evenings and early bedtimes will set you up for success.

• Calm Evenings: Keep evening activities low-key. Read a book together, play a quiet game, or simply relax. On the really hot days, campers may need some time to cool off indoors after camp.
• Early Bedtime: Ensure they get plenty of rest. Physical activity and fresh air can be tiring. A specific camp bedtime and routine takes the battle out of bedtime during camp weeks.

2. Healthy Meals

Nutrition is important for replenishing energy. Providing your child with balanced and nutritious meals ensures they have the fuel needed for a day packed with outdoor activities and adventure.

• Balanced Diet: Provide balanced meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and proteins. These foods help support their physical stamina and overall well-being.
• Hydration: Continue to encourage water intake even after camp. Make it fun with flavored ice, fresh fruit or even a fancy cup.

3. Share Stories

Talking about their day helps them process their experiences. Sharing stories with your child about their adventures can deepen their understanding of new activities, friendships, and challenges. By asking open-ended questions and showing genuine interest in their camp experiences, you not only strengthen your bond but also support their emotional growth.

• Ask Open-Ended Questions: Ask about the best part of their day, any new friends they made, or something new they learned. You may be surprised by the answers!
• Be Enthusiastic: Show genuine interest and excitement in their stories. Ask questions about details and follow up from earlier in the week.

Happy Campers Plan Ahead!

Calleva Summer Camp is an incredible opportunity for your child to grow, learn, and have fun. With a little preparation and a lot of encouragement, both you and your camper will be ready for an unforgettable summer adventure. Here’s to a fantastic camp season!

In the iconic words of Tarō Gomi – EVERYBODY POOPS! Camp is no different a place for kiddos to go number 2 (or number 1). Although pooping at camp may feel like a terrifying next step to kids of all ages. From the new environments to porta johns, pit toilets to cat holes, our campers certainly experience some new places to call a bathroom while at Calleva.

Part of learning to be in the outdoors and moving around all day is learning how to meet your basic human needs. This includes nutrition and fuel, “hydration hydration hydration,” and of course – using the bathroom!

Because we work with campers of all ages, we see ALL SORTS of bathroom anxiety. From the youngest kiddos who have barely used the bathroom in the comfort of their own home independently, to the oldest campers who have specific rituals for their poo habits. Being away from home can upset it all. We are very aware of that.

Our staff are trained to help kids get comfortable and understand the WHY about their bathroom needs. Using the bathroom can indicate that they are properly hydrated, fueled, and healthy as they move about their daily adventures! Going to the bathroom becomes a badge of honor instead of a secret.

On High Adventure overnights that take place in more remote locales digging cat holes is the most LNT thing to do. LNT, or Leave No Trace, is an ethic that we at Calleva, and most outdoor professionals, follow.

To prepare, we have the famous talk about the 5 D’s of dropping a dookie in the woods, and the qualities of a “5 star poo”. These chats take the embarrassment out of the situation. When counselors talk about poop in such a direct and playful way, it makes it easier for campers to ask questions.

As always, camper safety is of the utmost concern. Being playful about the potty does not impact the boundaries we set that give campers space, time and above all privacy to do their business.

All of this “potty talk” may seem foreign to campers (and families!) who avoid such conversation in polite company. However, for us, the education is in communication! Talking about healthy bowel movements and making it fun ensures that campers stay comfortable and healthy while out on adventures with us. 

We spend a lot of time on “potty talk” at Calleva. We want to make sure your campers are comfortable going in the outdoors. Even more, that they are excited for the new experience!