Summer Camp FAQs

Registration

How do I register for camp? toggle arrow

Visit our Register for Camp page for simple, step-by-step instructions on how to sign up for camp.

How much is the camp deposit, and how does payment work? toggle arrow

Day camp requires a $100 deposit and overnight camp requires a $200 deposit. Programs that do not require a deposit (Program Aide, CIT/LIT, troop camp, and family camp) require full payment at registration. After registering, your myGS account will show your remaining balance, which may be paid in installments or in full, as long as it is paid no later than 2 weeks before the camp session begins.

Is financial aid available? toggle arrow

Yes, financial aid “Camperships” are available. Interested applicants must submit a Campership application (available online on our Financial Aid Camperships page) before registering. See our Financial Aid FAQs to learn more.

My desired camp session is full. How can I get on a waiting list? toggle arrow

Email registration@girlscoutsla.org with camper(s) name, desired camp, and desired sessions.

What is the cancellation/refund policy? toggle arrow

Deposits paid are non-refundable and non-transferable. Camps that do not require a deposit (Program Aide, CIT, LIT, Troop Camp, Weekend Camps) are subject to a 20% cancellation/change fee.
Please check school calendars prior to registering your camper to avoid loss of deposit.
Cancellations two weeks prior to the start of the session: full refund minus deposit.
Cancellations less than two weeks prior to the start of the session: no refund.
No refunds and no prorated refunds will be made for campers who arrive late, leave early, attend only part of the camp, or choose not to attend the camp.
If a camper can no longer attend due to illness or injury, a physician's letter must accompany the refund request prior to start of camp. If a camper is required to attend school, please contact registration@girlscoutsla.org.
The council will provide a refund if it cancels an activity due to insufficient registrations, acts of nature, or other reasons beyond its control. Refund may be pro-rated if applicable.
To initiate the process, please email to registration@girlscoutsla.org

General Questions

Where can I find summer camp session information? toggle arrow

All GSGLA summer camp sessions are listed in our 2026 Summer Camp Guide (also available in Spanish).

Can girls who are not Girl Scouts attend summer camp? toggle arrow

Yes! A $45 annual membership registration fee will be added to the total cost of the summer camp session registration if you are not a currently registered Girl Scout. If you register for more than one camp session, you only pay the membership registration fee one time for the summer. As members, Girl Scouts can join a Girl Scouts troop and/or participate in an array of council-sponsored programs located across Greater Los Angeles during the year.

How old do you have to be to attend camp? toggle arrow

Day camp is for campers entering kindergarten in the fall, while most overnight sessions require campers to be entering 2nd grade. Check the camp guide for specific age or grade requirements.

Is there a lost and found at camp? toggle arrow

Camp staff will be gathered daily and staff will attempt to reunite lost items with their owners. To help with this process, please make sure to write your camper’s name clearly on all belongings.

Any unclaimed lost and found will be available for you to peruse at the end of the week. Unclaimed lost and found will be kept until the end of the summer, at which point it will be donated or thrown away.

Please contact your camp if you discover your camper is missing something when your camper returns home.

Are phones or electronic devices allowed at camp? toggle arrow

No. Phones and personal electronic devices are not allowed at either overnight camp or day camp. Camp is a time to disconnect from the online world and fully engage in friendships, activities, and the outdoor camp experience.

If a camper arrives with a phone or electronic device, a member of the camp leadership team will collect it and securely store it in the camp office for the duration of the camp day or overnight session. Devices will be returned at the end of camp.

How will caregivers stay informed or reach their camper in an emergency? toggle arrow

In the event of an emergency or if communication is needed, the camp leadership team will contact caregivers directly. Campers do not need personal devices to stay connected.

How can caregivers see what their camper is doing at camp? toggle arrow

Photos of campers’ experiences will be shared regularly on the our Band pages, allowing caregivers to see highlights of daily activities while respecting camper privacy.

What are campers NOT allowed to bring to camp? toggle arrow

Strapless tops; sandals; Crocs or open-toed shoes; hair dryers; curling irons; cell phones; tablets or similar electronic devices; headphones; radios; CD players; MP3 players; gaming systems; DVD players; iPods; expensive jewelry; weapons or weapon look-a-likes; alcohol; illegal substances; tobacco products; marijuana products; vaping or similar devices; pets/animals; or personal sports equipment are NOT permitted at camp. Campers may be checked for these items. If found, items will be held by the camp director for safe keeping until the end of the camp session.

What paperwork is required for camp? toggle arrow

Within one week of registering, caregivers will receive a welcome email from CampDoc.com, a secure, encrypted, password-protected system. Please fill out your camper’s health history. Health history forms are completed through CampDoc.com.

Please note: Overnight camper must have a physician-signed physical within 12 months of their scheduled session. Health forms must be submitted via CampDoc.com at least one week before your camper’s session begins. For log in questions, contact camphealthforms@girlscoutsla.org.

Can campers be put in the same group as their friends?  toggle arrow

Girl Scout camp is a wonderful way to meet new people. A camper may request one buddy after registering for camp through CampDoc. Both campers must register for the same program and week at camp. Make sure you and your child’s buddy and their caregivers are planning this together. Please note that buddy requests are not guaranteed.  

Who are the camp staff?  toggle arrow

Camp staff are enthusiastic, fun, caring, energetic, well-trained, and experienced individuals who are hired based on their ability to work with children in a learning and nurturing environment. All staff are required to complete a background check, health screening, and 40 hours of training on topics including youth supervision, child development, program planning, conflict resolution, first aid, CPR, and additional certification for specialized program delivery.

What camp health and safety standards are maintained?   toggle arrow

All GSGLA camps meet the health and safety standards and guidelines established by Girl Scouts of the USA and the State of California.  

How does check-out work? toggle arrow

Check-out occurs at the same place as check-in. Your photo identification will be checked every day to ensure that campers are leaving with an authorized person. Campers will not be permitted to leave with anyone who is not on the camper pickup form. Pickup is from 4:00 p.m.- 5:30 p.m. for those registered for before/after care. Those not registered for before/after care must pick up between 4:00 p.m.-4:15 p.m.

Health Care

How do I submit my camper’s health information? toggle arrow

All health and medical information must be completed and submitted through CampDoc prior to camp. This ensures our health team has accurate, up-to-date information. You will receive an email to CampDocs after registering your camper.

What information is required in CampDoc? toggle arrow

When is the CampDoc health form due? toggle arrow

What if my camper takes medication? toggle arrow

What happens if my camper gets sick or injured at camp? toggle arrow

Day Camp

What day camps does GSGLA offer and where are they located? toggle arrow

GSGLA offers the following day camps:

El Ranchito (Long Beach)
La Casita (Claremont)
Marine Landing (Long Beach)
Mariposa (Altadena)
Inglewood Innovation Center (Inglewood)

What should my camper expect at day camp?   toggle arrow

Overnight Camp

Is transportation provided to Lakota overnight camp? toggle arrow

Do campers receive meals, and can their special dietary needs be accommodated? toggle arrow

How is the weather handled at Lakota overnight camp? toggle arrow

What is the packing list for Lakota overnight camp? toggle arrow

What if my camper gets homesick? toggle arrow

What if my camper has behavioral, physical, or emotional needs? toggle arrow

What are the sleeping accommodations at Lakota overnight camp? toggle arrow

What specialized activities can my camper expect to do while at Lakota overnight camp? toggle arrow

Do campers need prior horseback riding experience? toggle arrow

Is horseback riding safe? What safety equipment is provided? toggle arrow

Are there age or weight requirements for horseback riding? toggle arrow

What if my camper feels nervous about horseback riding? toggle arrow

What should campers wear for horseback riding? toggle arrow

How are photos of campers handled? toggle arrow

Where are the photos shared? toggle arrow

Financial Aid

Is Campership different than financial aid?  toggle arrow

Can I apply for a Campership through my GSGLA account?  toggle arrow

Can I hold a camp spot for my Girl Scout while I apply for Campership?  toggle arrow

When will my application be reviewed and processed?  toggle arrow

When will I be notified of my campership application status and placement of my Girl Scout in camp?   toggle arrow

How do I receive status on my application?  toggle arrow

How many camps can my Girl Scout attend with a Campership?  toggle arrow

Once my Girl Scout is registered for camp, can she be transferred to another camp, if needed?  toggle arrow

How do I pay my camper’s remaining balance if their registration fee is not 100% covered with a campership?  toggle arrow

Overnight Camp

What overnight camp does GSGLA offer and where is it located? toggle arrow

GSGLA offers overnight summer camp at Lakota in the Los Padres National Forest in Frazier Park.

Please note that Lakota is our one and only council-organized overnight summer camp program. Our other mountain camp property, Osito Rancho in Big Bear, is available for for rent with self-guided experiences only.

Is transportation provided to Lakota overnight camp? toggle arrow

Yes. Bus transportation is included in most overnight camp session fees, with convenient round-trip pickup and drop-off locations in Long Beach, Arcadia, Canoga Park, and Inglewood. Families may also choose to self drop off and pick up campers directly at camp.

All camp buses are round-trip, chaperoned by trained camp staff, and offer a fun opportunity for campers to meet fellow campers before arriving at camp.

Once a transportation option is selected in CampDoc, it cannot be changed. For safety and consistency, campers must use the same transportation method both to and from camp—either bus transportation or direct drop-off/pick-up. Any exceptions must be approved through direct communication with the Camp Director.

Please note that transportation is not provided for Family Camp, Troop Camp, or Slice of Adventure sessions. These programs are self drop-off and pick-up only.

Do campers receive meals, and can their special dietary needs be accommodated? toggle arrow

Campers receive three healthy meals and snacks each day. Vegetarian, gluten-free, nut-free, kosher, and dairy-free diets can be accommodated if noted in the CampDoc Form. Campers with food allergies should understand what foods to avoid. We may not be able to accommodate severe allergies. If you would like to discuss your camper’s accommodations, please contact lakotacamp@girlscoutsla.org to discuss specific needs.

How is the weather handled at Lakota overnight camp? toggle arrow

Camp activities may be modified or canceled due to inclement weather, including rain, storms, or extreme heat. Certain conditions can impact activities such as horseback riding, swimming, zip lining, and archery.

Our leadership team continuously monitors weather conditions and works closely with staff to make informed decisions. Camper safety is always our top priority, and we will make every effort to reschedule affected activities when conditions allow.

What is the packing list for Lakota overnight camp? toggle arrow

Please see the Lakota Camper Information Packet (coming soon).

What if my camper gets homesick? toggle arrow

At camp, we use the term “missing home” instead of “homesickness.” Missing home is a natural part of the camp experience and something many campers feel at some point.

Learning to cope with missing home is an important life skill, and our staff are well trained to support campers through it. Caregivers will be contacted if additional support is needed. Our staff come from around the world and many are also away from home during camp, helping them relate to campers and guide supportive conversations.

Caregivers can help campers prepare by:

Talking about camp ahead of time, including both excitement and worries
Helping campers understand what camp life is like, from cabins and nature sounds to weather and bugs
Sending a comfort item from home, such as a stuffed animal, book, or photo

Caregivers may also drop off letters at check-in. Mail is delivered daily at lunchtime by the leadership team, giving campers a special moment to read messages from home.

Please avoid telling campers they can call home or be picked up if they miss home. Instead, reassure campers that they are capable, supported, and that staff are there to help.

What if my camper has specific behavioral, physical, or emotional needs? toggle arrow

Our goal is to provide a positive experience for all girls—help us ensure your girl’s success at camp. If your Girl Scout has medical or other special need/s and can function well with a 1:6 adult –to-camper ration, we encourage you to work with us to identify our most appropriate camp program, you can discuss with the camp director the nature of your camper’s needs to determine if our camp can provide the proper support and supervision. Parents/guardians of girls with special needs, disabilities, or mobility issues should contact lakotacamp@girlscoutsla.org.

What are the sleeping accommodations at Lakota overnight camp? toggle arrow

Sleeping accommodations range from cabins (both with and without electricity) and tents, all with bathroom amenities in each village, just a short walk away. View photos of Lakota housing.

What specialized activities can my camper expect to do at Lakota overnight camp? toggle arrow

Campers in 2nd grade (minimum age of 7) and older may participate in a variety of specialized activities, including archery, high ropes, and horseback riding (weight limit: 200 lbs). Campers will also enjoy access to our swimming pool, creative art activities, outdoor cooking, stargazing, and so much more!

What are the child-to staff ratios while at Lakota overnight camp? toggle arrow

The overnight camp ratio of staff to campers is:

Fourth grade and above: 1:8
Second and third grade: 1:6
High-adventure programs for all grade levels: 1:6

Do campers need prior horseback riding experience? toggle arrow

No prior experience is required. All horseback riding activities are designed for beginners and are led by trained instructors.

Is horseback riding safe? What safety equipment is provided? toggle arrow

Yes. Camper safety is our top priority. All riding sessions are supervised by trained staff, follow GSUSA Safety Checkpoints, and use age-appropriate instruction. Camp provides approved riding helmets for all campers.

Are there age or weight requirements for horseback riding? toggle arrow

Please note the height and weight requirements:

5'10" (1.78 m) must be less than 230 lb (104.32 kg)
5'9" (1.75 m) must be less than 220 lb (99.79 kg)
5'8" (1.73 m) must be less than 210 lb (95.25 kg)
5'7" (1.70 m) must be less than 200 lb (90.72 kg)
5'6" (1.67 m) must be less than 190 lb (86.18 kg)
5'5" (1.65 m) must be less than 180 lb (81.65 kg)
5'4" (1.62 m) must be less than 170 lb (77.11 kg)
5'3" (1.60 m) must be less than 160 lb (72.57 kg)
5'2" (1.57 m) must be less than 150 lb (68.04 kg)
5'1" (1.55 m) must be less than 140 lb (63.50 kg)

What if my camper feels nervous about horseback riding? toggle arrow

It’s completely okay to feel unsure. Camp staff are experienced in helping campers feel comfortable and confident. Campers are never forced to ride and are encouraged to participate at their own pace.

What should campers wear for horseback riding? toggle arrow

Campers should wear long pants and sturdy, closed-toe shoes with a flat sole. Campers are welcome to bring horse riding shoes, but it is not required. Helmets are provided by camp.

How are photos of campers handled? toggle arrow

We have a photographer on camp at all times to capture magical moments of our campers. Consent for photos is given through CampDoc during registration.

Where are the photos shared? toggle arrow

Photos are uploaded daily to our Camp Lakota Band page, allowing families to see their camper enjoying activities in real time. This is an invitation-only page to ensure the safety of campers.

Financial Aid

Is a Campership different than financial aid?  toggle arrow

No. Camperships and financial aid are used interchangeably. Both terms are acceptable. 

Can I apply for a Campership through my GSGLA account?  toggle arrow

No. Campership applications are only processed manually through our eForm on our Financial Aid Camperships page.

If you need assistance completing the Eform application, please contact customer care by phone at 213-213-0123 or via email at customercare@girlscoutsla.org. 

Can I hold a camp spot for my Girl Scout while I apply for Campership?  toggle arrow

No, we are unable to hold camp spots. Each year we hold spots at each camp to account for Camperships. While it may seem tempting, please do not place a deposit for your camper. Deposits are non-transferable and non-refundable. Your application must be approved before your camper will be given a camp spot. Once your application is approved, our registration team will process the camper’s registration on the back end. Camp spots designated for Camperships are processed manually and deposits are non-refundable. 

When will my Campership application be reviewed and processed?  toggle arrow

Processing begins the same day the application is received. A confirmation email will be sent to the email address listed on the application notifying you that the application has been received. Please indicate your second choice of camp in your Campership application as we cannot guarantee you will receive your first choice depending on camp capacity. As a reminder, if you apply for 2-day camp sessions, you will need to submit two applications. 

When will I be notified of my Campership application status and placement of my Girl Scout in camp?   toggle arrow

Please allow up to three weeks upon receipt of the completed forms. If the forms are incomplete, the application cannot be processed and will be returned. Once your forms are completed and received, we will begin processing. 

How do I receive status on my Campership application?  toggle arrow

All information regarding your application will be sent to the email listed on the application. All communication from Girl Scouts regarding your application and status will be sent from campership@girlscoutsla.org. 

How many camps can my Girl Scout attend with a Campership?  toggle arrow

Each individual Girl Scout may apply for one of the following options: one overnight camp, one specialty camp, or two day camp sessions. Please note that if applying for two day camp sessions, you will need to submit two applications. 

Once my Girl Scout is registered for camp, can she be transferred to another camp, if needed?  toggle arrow

Unfortunately, while we do our best to accommodate changes in schedules, we are unable to transfer across camps once your Girl Scout is registered. Please make sure you finalize your summer plans before registering for camp, paying extra attention to when school lets out for summer break.  

How do I pay my camper’s remaining balance if their registration fee is not 100% covered with a Campership?  toggle arrow

A link to pay will be sent via email and all camp registration fees must be paid two weeks prior to the start of the camp session. If payment is not received, your camper will be dropped from the session.   