Summer Sleep-Away Camp

If your camper is attending Sleep Away Camp this summer, click here http://bit.ly/3y24gWd for important information to help you prepare.

Discover How You Belong at Camp: Summer 2023!

WHEN A GIRL SCOUT LEAVES HOME AND EMBRACES THE CAMP LIFE, SHE MEETS NEW FRIENDS AND PEERS ON EVEN GROUND.

When campers sit around the campfire, paddle a canoe, shoot a bow and arrow, or climb a natural rock wall for the first time, something in them begins to change—they gain a sense of pride by facing their fears, they learn new skills and learn to make new friends. They come home with a spring in their step and a new light in their eyes.

Camp is transformative. At Girl Scout camp, campers ages 5–17 are encouraged to discover who they are and what they can become while gaining independence and self-confidence. Trained, caring staff respect and challenge campers, and campers gain a better understanding of themselves and their leadership potential. All Girl Scout camp programs are designed with campers’ interests in mind to grow their passions and take healthy risks in a safe, supportive environment.

Girl Scouts is proud to be the premier leadership organization for girls in our country. Once a Girl Scout, always a Girl Scout. All Girl Scouts are welcome to attend our summer camp programs, even if they begin identifying as a gender other than girl. Families will be able to make gender based housing requests on their 'Meet My Camper' form.

Should any camper requiring special accommodations wish to attend summer camp, we recommend that the parent/guardian reach out to Denise Viau, Camping Services Manager (camp@gscnc.org), so that accommodations similar to those employed at schools across the country regarding changing, sleeping arrangements, and other travel-related activities can be made. Thank you for helping us ensure that every camper has a fun and enjoyable camp experience.

Winona is back! After a challenging three years, we are thrilled to announce that Camp Winona will be returning this summer as a traditional Sleep Away Camp. We still anticipate staffing three camps will remain a challenge, however with the return of International Staff hires and other internal work we are dedicated to opening three camps this summer.

COVID-19 - The COVID-19 pandemic has created a lot of uncertainty in the world, but rest assured, we are staying on top of the latest updates and striving to make the best of this summer! We will post updates as needed to the COVID-19 section below, and if you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out to us at camp@gscnc.org

Camp Potomac Woods Leesburg, VA

About

Camp Potomac Woods provides the perfect getaway for Girl Scouts! Located in Leesburg, VA, Potomac Woods offers a variety of specialty theme programs that range from two-nights to one week in a fun, safe, and traditional camp setting. Full of creativity and imagination, all programs provide campers the opportunity to explore the outdoors while having the time of their lives!

While at camp, campers will enjoy meals provided by a professional food service, and full-week campers will cook at least one camper-led meal over the fire. Campers sleep on cots with mattresses, covered by a camp-provided bug net in screened glen shelters without electricity or air conditioning.

Campers will enjoy awesome activities such as swimming at the pool, arts & crafts, outdoor cooking, STEM, and target sports like archery, slingshots, tomahawks, or knife throwing! But that’s not all! Campers will also participate in many wonderful Camp Potomac Woods traditions, including campfires, singing, and maybe even a hike to explore the Pooh Tree or River Walk! For campers in grades K-11 for the 2022-2023 school year.

Camp activities (high adventure and general programming) are offered at the camp leadership team’s discretion. They may be modified or canceled to follow COVID-19 restrictions. Camp activities may not be available to all units and can be canceled due to weather or other extenuating circumstances.

History

Camp Potomac Woods is located on 101 acres of land in Leesburg, VA, right off the Potomac River. Potomac Woods has five lodges, eight glen shelter units, two combined lodge and glen shelter units, one primitive site, and one hammock primitive site. There are ranges for all three target sports, three trails, a knot-tying station, an amphitheater, singing benches, and fishing dock. During the summer, Potomac Woods becomes a sleepaway camp and hosts a day camp, Camp Tag-A-Long, in August.

The Manahoac Native Americans inhabited the area until the early 1700s, and archaeological clues such as a stone outcrop along Priscilla’s Trail where arrowheads were chipped and a fish weir (fish trap) across the Potomac River at the mouth of Peace Creek are still present today. In the 1700s, Europeans violently forced out the Native Americans, claimed the Native Americans’ land for their own, and established the colony of Virginia. In 1739, portions of the land (land grants) were sold to two rich white men in the colony who each operated their own nearby ferry businesses on the Potomac River. At that time, no bridges across the Potomac River had been built, so ferry businesses that transported people, wagons, and horses across the river via ferry boat were booming.

The last owners of the land before it was purchased by the Arlington Girl Scout Council (predecessor of Girl Scouts Nation’s Capital) were Victor & Mary Lougheed in the 1930s. The couple purchased this property outside of Lucketts, Virginia for their home and Mr. Lougheed’s workshop. Victor Lougheed’s half-brothers founded the prominent aerospace company Lockheed-Martin, and Victor was an accomplished author, inventor, and engineer. Five years after Victor’s untimely death in an automobile accident, on May 8, 1948, the widowed Mary Lougheed sold the property to the Arlington Girl Scout Council. A month later, on June 19, 1948, the Arlington Girl Scout Camp opened, but the name didn’t stick. In 1949, the property was renamed to Camp Potomac Woods.

Programs

Me and My Pal: Me and My Pal (Sat-Sun)
(Grades Pre-K-5) Fee: $100

Bring your favorite adult to Camp Potomac Woods and see what Sleep-Away Camp is all about! You will experience the best parts of camp, including swimming, target sports, arts and crafts, nature exploration, and of course, s’ mores! Trained Camp Staff will provide all of the activities and caregivers will provide supervision for their campers. All attendees, campers and adults, must be currently registered members of Girl Scouts Nation’s Capital, with the exception of preK campers. There will be a separate lottery that includes all Me and My programs, it will open on January 11th with the regular camp lottery. Eligible campers may enter both lotteries.

Session Date
3B July 1-2 (Saturday- Sunday)
Animal Adventures: Animal Adventures (2-night)
(Grades K-1) Fee: $370

Give camp a try for the first time with your favorite stuffed animal and your new friends. Play games, make a craft, sing songs, try a s'more, and have a dance party!

Session Date
4B July 5-7 (Wed- Fri)
8A July 30- August 1 (Sun- Tues)
Forest Fairies: Forest Fairies
(Grades 1) Fee: $625

Search for fairies and other creatures in the forest at Camp Potomac Woods! You will make fairy houses, design a set of wings, and learn about protecting the outdoors. All while working towards the Daisy Eco Learner badge with your new friends. It's sure to be a magical week at camp!

Session Date
1 June 11-16
2 June 18-23
6 July 16-21
7 July 23-28
Storybook Adventure: Storybook Adventure
(Grades 1) Fee: $625
Watch as your favorite stories come to life. Explore Potomac Woods with visits to never never land, the Pooh Tree, and more. Discover how a simple story can become an incredible adventure, experience new activities each day that will thrill your imagination.

Session Date
3 June 25-30
5 July 9-14
Expedition Outdoors: Expedition Outdoors
(Grades 2-3) Fee: $625

Feeling adventurous? Try a little bit of everything in this outdoor expedition! Take a hike, test your aim at target sports, play games, and work towards the Brownie Outdoor Adventurer badge. One night, choose with your fellow campers whether to sleep outdoors in hammocks, tents, or under the stars.

Session Date
3 June 25-30
4 July 2-7

6 July 16-21
7 July 23-28
Eco Explorers: Eco Explorers (2 Night)
(Grades 2-3) Fee: $370

Love to discover the world around you? Spend your time learning all about the environment at Camp Potomac Woods as you hike the River Walk trail, learn to build a campfire, and create art inspired by the outdoors.

Session Date
4b July 5-7 (Wed- Fri)
8a July 30- August 1 (Sun- Tues)
Brownie Blast: Brownie Blast (2-Night)
(Grades 2-3) Fee: $370

Explore Potomac Woods with your new friends and see what camp's all about. Spend this short week hiking the trails, playing games, singing songs, and making your own s’more!

Session Date
4B July 5-7 (Wed- Fri)
8A July 30- August 1 (Sun- Tues)
The Great Potomac Bake Off: The Great Potomac Bake Off
(Grades 2-3) Fee: $625

Are you ready to become a champion baker? Work towards your Brownie Home Scientist badge as you explore different ingredients and how they react to each other! Try your hand at baking and try science experiments to learn how you can use everyday ingredients to create amazing masterpieces!

Session Date
1 June 11-16
2 June 18-23
5 July 9-14
6 July 16-21
Diggin’ It: Diggin’ It
(Grades 2-3) Fee: $625

Its time to get a little dirty as we dig up all that camp has to offer. Explore the layers of camp learning more about rocks, dig up some dinosaurs and learn what fossils can teach us about the world around us, our own teeth, and how to care for both! You'll even go for a hike in or near the Peace Creek.

Session Date
5 July 9-14
6 July 16-21
7 July 23-28
Splish, Splash, Splat!: Splish, Splash, Splat!
(Grades 2-3) Fee: $625

Spend extra time in the pool, have a dance party, and play with different kinds of art. Splish Splash and Splat through water games and paint games. You’ll even work towards your brownie outdoor art creator badge.

Session Date
1 June 11-16
2 June 18-23
3 June 25-30
Blox and Bops: Blox and Bops
(Grades 2-3) Fee: $625

Learn some of the basics of coding and work to design a game. Keep the patterns going as you make music, playing with rhythms and more. How do coding and music connect, and how can blox and bops come together for the perfect creation?

Session Date
1 June 11-16
2 June 18-23
3 June 25-30
Tajar Trackers: Tajar Trackers
(Grades 2-3) Fee: $625

Grab your notebook and pen as you learn more about the Tajar. Take a hike to look for clues, learn about camp’s history and traditions, and work with a team to build the ultimate Tajar Trap. Will you and your team be able to track down the Tajar?

Session Date
5 July 9-14
6 July 16-21
7 July 23-28
Bullseye!: Bullseye!
(Grades 4-5) Fee: $625

Enjoy extra target sports time as you improve your technique at both archery and slingshots. At the end of the week, you’ll put your skills to the ultimate test by taking part in a target sport competition! When you’re not perfecting your aim, you’ll get a chance to swim at the pool, cook over a campfire, and more!

Session Date
1 June 11-1
4 July 2-7
7 July 23-28
8 July 30- August 4
S’mores & More: S’mores & More (2-Night)
(Grades 4-5) Fee: $370

Looking for s’more fun? Try out camp in this mini session where you’ll focus on trying a little bit of everything at camp - songs, games, hiking, target sports, and more!

Session Date
4b July 5-7
8a July 30- August 1
Water Otters: Water Otters
(Grades 4-5) Fee: $625

Learn the basics of paddling through your water adventure. Go for a hike next to or in the peace creek and see all that Potomac Woods has to offer. Spend some extra time by the pool with water games, swim time, or learning new water based skills.

Session Date
2 June 18-23
3 June 25-30

4 July 2-7
5 July 9-14
6 July 16-21
Showstoppers: Showstoppers
(Grades 4-5) Fee: $625

Take a chance to be center stage or find your groove behind the scenes. Try your hand at dance, drama, music, and more this week as you and the others in your unit work together to create a showstopping performance.

Session Date
1 June 11-16
2 June 18-23
5 July 9-14
6 July 16-21
Thanks, I made it myself: Thanks, I made it myself
(Grades 4-5) Fee: $625

Work towards your Junior Jewler Badge as you try your hand at making all sorts of wearable art! Try a trashbag fashion show, make your own necklace, and learn about many new unique ways to make something you can wear!

Session Date
3 June 25-30
4 July 2-7
7 July 23-28
8 July 30- August 4
Blast Off: Blast Off
(Grades 4-5) Fee: $625

Have you ever dreamed of being an astronaut, rocket scientist, or just love learning about the world around you? Try your hand at designing the best rocket, stay up late to watch the stars, and spend time doing epic experiments.

Session Date
1 June 11-16
2 June 18-23
3 June 25-30
Voyagers: Voyagers
(Grades 4-5) Fee: $625

Test out your camping skills like firebuilding and knot tying while working on the Junior Camper badge. You and your fellow campers will take a vote to camp out in tents, hammocks, or under the stars. Take a voyage next to or in the peace creek and complete a camping challenge!

Session Date
5 July 9-14
6 July 16-21
7 July 23-28
Axes & Arrows: Axes & Arrows
(Grades 6-8) Fee: $625

How's your aim? Explore the world of target sports and try throwing tomahawks, knives, and slingshots. You'll also work towards the Cadette Archery badge as you improve your aiming skills. At the end of the week, you'll put your skills to the ultimate test by taking part in a target sport competition!

Session Date
1 June 11-16
2 June 18-23
8 July 30- August 4
Castaways: Castaways
(Grades 6-8) Fee: $625

What would it be like if you were a castaway left with only what you had in your bag? Learn skills like firebuilding, forraging, knot-tying, and shelter building. Try your hand at archery, slingshots, tomahawks or knife throwing. Work with your group to improve your skills and pack your bags wisely as you prepare for the ultimate primitive camping challenge.

Session Date
5 July 9-14
6 July 16-21
7 July 23-28
I Can Totally Make That: I Can Totally Make That
(Grades 6-8) Fee: $625

Whether its Woodworking, Fashion Design, or Engineering you are capable of some pretty amazing things. Build, Design, Craft and more as you try new skills and improve old ones. Take a look through a magazine or bring your favorite idea from Pinterest and create (or recreate) a masterpiece.

Session Date
3 June 25-30
4 July 2-7
Totally Tubular: Totally Tubular
(Grades 6-11) Fee: $675

This week is all about discovering happiness in nature! Get your adrenaline pumping during a river tubing trip, then relax at camp and take part in some low-key activities. You'll make friendship bracelets, unwind at the pool, try yoga and meditation, and just enjoy camp.

Session Date
1 June 11-16
3 June 25-30
6 July 16-21
Rock the River!: Rock the River!
(Grades 6-11) Fee: $675

This week is all about water! Spend extra time at the pool, learn to canoe, and practice your camping skills. Challenge your skills by going on an overnight canoe trip down the potomac river!

Session Date
2 June 18-23
5 July 9-14
7 July 23-28
Chill Out: Chill Out (2-night)
(Grades 6-11) Fee: $370

Enjoy your time relaxing in the forest at Camp Potomac Woods! Take a break and make friendship bracelets, chill by the pool, nap in a hammock, and hang out with your new friends!

Session Date
4B July 5-7 (Wed- Fri)
8A July 30- August 1 (Sun- Tues)

Teen Leadership Opportunities

Check out all of our leadership programs under the “Teen Leadership Opportunities at Sleep-Away Camp” dropdown.

Our leadership programs allow girls in grade 9+ to mentor younger campers and learn how rewarding it is to be camp staff. After girls complete the first Counselor-in-Training (CIT) two-week program, they can move on to the more advanced CIT II program and/or enhance their skills in our Junior Counselor (JC) program.

Camp Winona Hughesville, MD

About

A perfect camp for both new and returning campers, Camp Winona allows campers to explore the wonders of the outdoors in a fun, safe, traditional camp setting. Located in Hughesville, MD, Winona offers a wide variety of programs ranging from weeklong themed specialty activities to two-night minicamps.

While at camp, campers will enjoy meals provided by a professional food service and cook at least one camper-led meal over the fire. Campers sleep on cots with mattresses, covered by a camp-provided bug net in screened glen shelters without electricity or air conditioning.

Campers will safely explore all camp has to offer, including swimming in the pool, tie-dying, exploring nature, teambuilding challenges, and taking aim at target sports. Campers may also see one of the magical mermairies (the camp mascot) as they hike to visit at least one of Camp Winona’s destination locations during their stay: Fossil Creek, Mermairy House or Hammock Village. For campers in grades K-11 for the 2022-2023 school year.

History

Girl Scout Camp Winona is a member of the American Camp Association and has achieved accreditation status, by completing a voluntary peer review process of standards applicable to our program. Accreditation means that camp undergoes a thorough review process by outside camping professionals every three years.

Camp Winona in Hughesville, Maryland, offers girls so many exciting ways to experience nature. The camp covers 178 beautiful acres featuring lodges, glen shelter units and open fields.

Camp Winona has archery, tomahawk, and slingshot ranges, and Trefoil Pond for canoeing and kayaking. There are many trails for girls to explore the geological history of the camp.

Programs

Me & My Pal: Me & My Pal (Sat-Sun)
(Grades Pre-K-5) Fee: $100/person

Bring your favorite adult role model to Camp Winona and see what sleep-away camp all is about! You will experience the best parts of camp, including canoeing, target sports, tie-dye, nature exploration, and of course, s’ mores! Trained Camp Staff will provide all of the activities and food; guardians will provide their girls’ supervision during this exciting overnight experience! Every participant will receive a camp T-shirt and sleep-away camp patch. All attendees, girls and adults, must be currently registered members of Girl Scouts Nation’s Capital.There will be a seperate lottery that includes all Me and My programs, it will open on January 11th with the regular camp lottery. Eligible campers may enter both lotteries.

Session Date
3B July 1-2
Wish: Wish (2 Night)
(Grades K-1) Fee: $370

If you had 3 camp wishes, what would you do with them? Safari through the woods? Dance in your socks? Design a super villain gadget? Make your wish come true during this two-night program!

Session Date
6A July 16-18
6B July 19-21
Fairy Trails: Fairy Trails (2 Night)
(Grades K-1) Fee: $370

Join the realm of fairies for this two-night program. Go on quests and hike into the woods to find the fairies. Build fairy houses, tell your hero stories around a campfire, and experience more adventures.

Session Date
4B July 5-7

6B July 19-21
Wilderness Explorers: Wilderness Explorers
(Grades 1-2) Fee: $625

The wilderness must be explored! A Wilderness Explorer is a friend to all, be it plants or fish or tiny mole. Learn friendship and wilderness survival skills! Explore the woods on a hike, learn fire skills, and test your skills in the wild.

Session Date
2 June 18-23
6 July 16-21
8 July 30- August 4
Go with the Flow: Go with the Flow
(Grades 1-2) Fee: $625

We can learn a lot by watching how water relates to the world around it. It goes with the flow. Spend the week learning how to go around any obstacles and test your skills with a water challenge. Splash your way down to the pond or spend time in the pool as you learn to face challenges as a team.

Session Date
3 June 25-30
5 July 9-14
Once upon a Time: Once upon a Time (2 Night)
(Grades 1-2) Fee: $370

Once upon a time…. Is just the beginning of your story. This two-night camp will be filled reading short stories and bringing them to life. Create your story at camp and put your creativity to the test as you illustrate your very own story. On your last night at camp, you'll have the opportunity to share YOUR story with others

Session Date
4b July 5-7
6a July 16-18
6b July 19-21
Quest for Fairy Dust: Quest for Fairy Dust (2 Night)
(Grades 1-2) Fee: $370

The fairy dust has been taken and we need a team of brave heroes to help us find it. Explore camp, take a hike through the woods, and find clues to help us bring the fairy dust back to the fairies. You will work on your hero skills with activites like obstacle courses, swimming, or even protecting the fairy in a game of capture the fairy all while you build trust through team building.

Session Date
4b July 5-7
6a July 16-18
6b July 19-21
Lights, Camera, Confidence: Lights, Camera, Confidence
(Grades 1-2) Fee: $625
Get your creative juices flowing and get ready to be entertained! This week is all about the Lights! Camera! And Confidence! Preforming arts is more than just being center stage. You will get to learn some theater games, put on a unique skit, and learn about confidence while you build yours up!
Session Date
2 June 18-23
5 July 9-14
7 July 23-28
Camp Chef: Camp Chef
(Grades 3-4) Fee: $625
Calling all Tiny Chefs! If you love food and creativity, this the program is for you. You will spend your week eating custom made creations. Make your own Chef outfits, cook on a campfire, and learn knife safety! What creation will you make? You'll even work toward the simple meals badge.
Session Date
2 June 18-23
7 July 23-28
8 July 30- August 4
Decade Discoveries: Decade Discoveries
(Grades 3-4) Fee: $625
Travel through time and explore the past while you work toward the Playing the Past badge! Where will your time machine take you? Learn about the skills used in the past like candle making and leather working. Learn about the heroes and villains of the time, and dress up for a dance party! What will your adventures hold? Only time will tell.
Session Date
3 June 25-30
9 August 6-11
Engineering Kindness: Engineering Kindness
(Grades 3-4) Fee: $625

Have you ever wondered how an electric toothbrush works or how an invention is designed? In this program you will gear up for a week of designing, building, and testing prototypes. You will learn about the engineering process and how engineering effects the world and environment. You’ll work toward your Eco Bagde, all while learning to engineer with kindness by finding out how our decisions affect others and the planet.
Session Date
2 June 18-23
5 July 9-14
9 August 6-11
Kids Knight Out: Kids Knight Out (2 Night)
(Grades 3-4) Fee: $370
Knights Wanted! Come to knight school, where you will learn to make armor, do a target sport, and build a castle! Adventure into the woods on a hike for a knightly quest and tell your stories around a campfire. For Honor, Sacrifice, and the Glory!
Session Date
6A July 16-18
6B July 19-21
Camp Sight: Camp Sight (2 Night)
(Grades 3-4) Fee: $370
Explore the world of camping at its core! Learn fire building, shelter building, and knot tying. Go on a hike through the woods to learn about plants. This adventurous two-night camp is all about learning the skills you need to enjoy camping!
Session Date
4B July 5-7
6A July 16-18
6B July 19-21
Bridge Builders: Bridge Builders
(Grades 3-4) Fee: $625

Let’s get building! Practice wood working and engineering skills to get across the water to the surprise that awaits. Whether you decide to build a boat, bridge, or something else, you'll have to figure out how to get there. On the other side of this weeklong camp you will be doing all things camp! Face challenges in the pool, hike through the woods, and learn how to build connections with other people.

Session Date
3 June 25-30

6 July 16-21

8 July 30- August 4
All you can Beat: All you can Beat
(Grades 3-4) Fee: $625
Let the rhythm flow! Spend the week living in the music and working toward the Musician Badge. Write a song, participate in a drum circle, and find your own beat to march to. Music can be used to express emotion, tell stories, and inspire. What will music teach you? Work Toward the Musician Badge.
Session Date
5 July 9-14
8 July 30- August 4
Splash Spies: Splash Spies
(Grades 3-5) Fee: $625

So you think you have what it takes to be a spy? Now its time to take the training! Make a splash as one of the first spies to specialize in the Winona spy water training and work towards earning the Detective Badge. Learn some forensics, spend time boating at the pond, and solve a mystery!

Session Date
2 June 18-23
7 July 23-28

8 July 30- August 4
Mud Monsters: Mud Monsters
(Grades 5-7) Fee: $625

At this weeklong camp prepare to get dirty! You will be painting with water balloons, spray paint, and more. Take a hike in the woods, and get dirty while you connect with nature, learn some new skills, and make some epic art. Work toward your Outdoor Art Apprentice badge

Session Date
3 June 25-30
7 July 23-28
Be Brave!: Be Brave!
(Grades 5-7) Fee: $625

Explore the life of Merida! Become a target sports legend as you practice your skills in slingshots, archery, and more! While hard at work toward the archery badge, discover the true meaning of courage and undo a beastly curse before it's too late. You can even choose to sleep out one night in a tent or under the stars.

Session Date
8 July 30- August 4
Go Go Gadgets: Go Go Gadgets
(Grades 5-7) Fee: $625

Inspectors needed. Come learn how to build gadgets that will help you solve a camp mystery. You will spend part of your week learning engineering and forensics. While at camp learn about tracks left by both animals and humans, pull fingerprints, build a Periscope, and even write a note in invisible ink! When you aren’t solving a mystery, you will be swimming at the pool and adventuring into the woods.

Session Date

3 June 25-30
5 July 9-14
7 July 23-28
Internet Explorers: Internet Explorers
(Grades 5-7) Fee : $625

No phones at camp no problem! It’s time to experience the viral videos watch online; will you choose to do trick shots in archery, make giant elephant toothpaste, or even swim in a bowl of cereal. Become a content creator and show everyone what camp is all about by making a camp promotional video that will break the internet.

Session Date
2 June 18-23

8 July 30- August 4
9 August 6-11
Pirate Paradise: Pirate Paradise
(Grades 5-7) Fee: $625
Divide your time between the pool and Trefoil Pond while completing pirate training! Find out if you can outmaneuver your friends in a canoe or kayak, and challenge other boats to a water fight as you race around the pond. Then, test your skills capsizing and building a pirate float. On land, search the trails for hidden treasure and perfect your aim with target sports.

Session Date
2 June 18-23
5 July 9-14
9 August 6-11
You did what at Camp?!: You did what at Camp?!
(Grades 5-8) Fee: $625

It’s time to make camp slay! Spend the week giving camp activities the glow up they deserve! Will you float a fire on the pond, throw color powder at a dance party, design a raft, or make slime? No matter what you choose leave with stories that sound like they came from a movie.

Session Date
3 June 25-30
4 July 2-7
7 July 23-28
Mission Survive: Mission Survive
(Grades 7-11) Fee: $625

Your Mission should you choose to accept it… survive an overnight using your resources and gain wilderness skills at camp Aquasco. Learn the 8 basic survival skills and put that knowledge to the test while working toward the Primitive Camper Badge. Will you and your team thrive or just survive?

Session Date
3 June 25-30
4 July 2-7
9 August 6-11
Bandit: Bandit
(Grades 8-11) Fee: $625

Take Over CAMP! This is your chance to make some of the decisions that make camp run while you work on your leadership skills. It’s your camp what will you do with it. Run campfire? Plan an all-camp game? Change the rules at a meal? The possibilities are endless.

Session Date
3 June 25-30
8 July 30- August 4

Teen Leadership Opportunities

Check out all of our leadership programs under the “Teen Leadership Opportunities at Sleep-Away Camp” dropdown.

Our leadership programs allow campers in grades 9 and up to mentor younger campers and learn how rewarding it is to be camp staff. After campers complete the first Counselor-in-Training (CIT) two-week program, they can move on to the more advanced CIT II program and/or enhance their skills in our Junior Counselor (JC) program.

Camp May Flather Mount Solon, VA

About

Camp May Flather

At Camp May Flather, campers unplug and soak in the scenic George Washington National Forest, while experiencing high adventure. Campers choose from a ton of amazing activities, including exploring nature while hiking or backpacking, challenging themselves through natural rock climbing, caving, canoeing, and rafting. All campers participate in swimming, arts & crafts, archery, climbing tower, teambuilding, and games.

During their stay, Campers sleep on cots with mattresses, covered by a camp-provided bug net in screened glen shelters or platform tents without electricity or air conditioning. They will enjoy meals prepared by a professional food service, with at least one camper-led cookout over a fire. And, following enhanced health and safety procedures, campers will enjoy both camp traditions such as campfires, wish sticks, theme days. For campers in grades 4-11 for the 2022-2023 school year.

Summer Sleep-Away Camp

History

Named after the woman who championed the camp’s fundraising, May Flather, the camp we know today first opened its gates to campers in 1930. A year before, in 1929, a primitive trail camp was held on-site, but the additional fundraising supported the construction of permanent buildings in time for the 1930 opening. Girls from the District of Columbia Girl Scout Council rode a train to camp, swam in the river, and did horseback riding! If you attended camp at this time, you would have received a packing list that included required items such as a camp uniform, beret, wool knickers, and oxford shoes; hand axes were optional. In 1947, the packing list was updated to include wooden clogs to wear to the pool. It was not until 1983 that Camp May Flather began to offer the high adventure programs they are known for today. The first, called Sky High, focused on activities such as rock climbing and caving, which girls still experience every summer.

Since opening in 1930, Camp May Flather has been open every summer except for 1949 when a June flood forced the camp to close for the season. Over its years, Camp May Flather has had some interesting history. In 1955, the District of Columbia Girl Scout Council desegregated the camp four years before Virginia began to desegregate public schools. The next year, in 1956, the last unit Frontier, was built, adding to the camps sleeping accommodations. During the 1960s, the United States Military used the camp location for training. Service members parachuted into the area around the Pioneer campsite and rappelled on the cliffs nearby.

Camp May Flather has also had a few notable guests! In August of 1930, First Lady Lou Henry Hoover visited the site. A Girl Scout herself, she donated money helping to start the camp and was there for the dedication of the Shawnee Bridge. Just like the bridge, many of the original camp structures, including the Dining Hall and Stone Lodge, remain and are in use today. When you visit Camp May Flather, you can’t help but connect with the magic and memories of past Girl Scouts and experience all of the camp’s history, beauty and rustic charm.

Programs

Explorers: Explorers
(Grades 4-6) Fee: $625

Have an adventure at Camp May Flather! Reach for the sky on the climbing tower and natural rock wall. You’ll go creek stomping, cook over a fire, head off camp for an exciting canoe trip, and so much more!

Session Date
2   June 18-23
4   July 2-7
6   July 16-21
8   July 30- August 4
Pioneers: Pioneers
(Grades 4-6) Fee: $625

Step back in time and learn what camp might have been like in the early days of Girl Scouting. Try out archery & slingshots. Learn how to safely use a pocketknife and try whittling. Spend a night camping out at a primitive site in tents. You’ll get a chance to work towards the Explore May Flather Patch. It’s a blast from the past, but you’ll also get to climb the tower, do crafts, and more!

Session Date
2   June 18-23
4   July 2-7
6   July 16-21
8   July 30- August 4
Wild About Water: Wild About Water
(Grades 4-6) Fee: $625

Cool off at camp in this water filled week. Have a pool party, play lots of water games, explore North River, and even head off camp to try canoeing! Once you dry off you'll get a chance to try out the climbing tower, target sports, and more.

Session Date
3 June 25-30

4 July 2-7
5 July 9-14
7 July 23-28

8 July 30- August 4

9 August 6-11
Rocks Rock: Rocks Rock
(Grades 4-6) Fee: $625

Reach for the skies with this week of climbing challenges. You will get to spend time learning important knots and working on your skills during multiple sessions at the climbing tower and then move on to our natural rock wall. Once back on the ground, you will have plenty of time to enjoy other great camp activities too!

Session Date
3 June 25-30
5 July 9-14 7 July 23-28 9 August 6-11
Action Adventure: Action Adventure
(Grades 5-7) Fee: $675

Do you want to climb to the top of the tower and find out just how dark it is in the depths of a cave? You can try both this week, as well as go canoeing, cook over a campfire and try archery too! Discover your adventurous side in this exciting week.

Session Date
3 June 15-30
5 July 9-14
7 July 23-28
9 August 6-11
Cave Crawlers: Cave Crawlers
(Grades 5-7) Fee: $675

Encounter underground wonders in this exciting week at camp! Spend some time at a local cave exploring its dark muddy depths, then head to a local show cave, and see its wonders under the big lights. Back at camp, you will also have time to visit Stone Lodge, try your hand at archery and more!

Session Date
2 June 18-23
4 July 2-7
6 July 16-21 8 July 30-August 4
Art Gallery: Art Gallery
(Grades 5-7) Fee: $625

Get messy and embrace your inner artist in this fun-packed week. Inside Stone Lodge, you will get to spend time working on our old-fashioned looms, making jewelry, and more! Once cleaned up, you will head to the trails to see what art you can find in nature. At the end of the week, show off your creations in a camp art gallery show!

Session Date
2 June 18-23
5 July 9-14
Camp Scene Investigation: Camp Scene Investigation (CSI)
(Grades 5-7) Fee : $625

There's a mystery waiting to be solved at Camp May Flather. Put your problem solving skills to the test and work towards solving the mystery with the help of science. Work towards earning the Cadette Special Agent Badge. During your time at camp you'll also get to try out the climbing tower, target sports, and more!

Session Date
3 June 25-30
6 July 16-21
8 July 30-August 4
9 August 6-11
Party in the USA!: Party in the USA!
(Grades 5-7) Fee: $625

What's better than spending a week at camp? Having a week long party at camp! On Tuesday we'll celebrate the fourth of July and go see some fireworks. Throughout the week we'll also celebrate New Years, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and have a big birthday bash! We'll also fit in time for climbing, target sports, and more!

Session Date
4 July 2-7
Woodland Theater Company: Woodland Theater Company
(Grades 5-8) Fee: $625

In this creative week you'll learn what goes into making a theater production come to life. Learn about set design, costuming, improv, and more! Your group will work together to put on a show of your own design. You'll also have a chance to explore the low ropes course, climb the tower, and take aim at archery.

Session Date
5 July 9-14
6 July 16-21 9 August 6-11
Trailblazers: Trailblazers
(Grades 5-8) Fee: $625

In this adventurous week, you will get to venture out on a 2-night backpacking trip in the George Washington National Forest! You will get a chance to work on the Cadette Outdoor Journey Award and improve your outdoor skills. Girls should be able to carry a 30-pound pack and bring broken-in hiking boots.

Session Date
2 June 18-23 8 July 30- August 4
Climbing Challenge: Climbing Challenge
(Grades 6-8) Fee: $675

Are you ready for a challenge? Work towards the Cadette Climbing Adventure badge during this packed week at camp. You will learn all about climbing and belaying, then you’ll get to practice those new skills on the climbing wall and small natural rock wall. Finally, end your week with a trip off camp to tackle new heights on challenging rock faces.

Session Date
2 June 18-23 6 July 16-21
Be Inspired: Be Inspired
(Grades 6-8) Fee: $675

Can't decide between art and adventure? With this program you don't have to! Head off camp to explore a local cave and go canoeing. After each adventure you'll have a chance to create a piece of art based off that experience! You'll also have a chance to go hiking, climb at the tower, and more!

Session Date
5 July 9-14
8 July 30- August 4
Craft Craze: Craft Craze (2-Weeks)
(Grades 6-8) Fee: $975

Get settled in at this two-week camp and try your hand at different arts and crafts. Take a trip back in time with candle making, weaving on looms, and basket weaving. You’ll also get a chance to do some knitting or crocheting. Wrap up your week by reinventing an old-fashioned craft with modern materials!

Session Date
6-7 July 16-28
Thrilltastic: Thrilltastic (2-Weeks)
(Grades 6-8) Fee: $1030

Tackle multiple adventures during this two-week program. At camp, you will visit the challenge course, the climbing tower, and a natural rock face. Spend extra time on the archery and tomahawk ranges, honing your skills. Off camp, you will experience caving, canoeing, and backpacking! Campers should be able to carry a 30-pound pack and have broken-in hiking boots.

Session Date
2-3 June 18-30
H2O Venture: H2O Adventure (2-Weeks)
(Grades 6-8) Fee: $1030

Don’t forget your swimsuit for this water-packed, action-filled two-weeks! Start off your week practicing your strokes in the canoe, then take it up a notch with some rafting. Then try your hand at kayaking and even go on a stand up paddle board trip! When you feel too waterlogged, be sure to take some time to challenge yourself on the climbing tower or hit a bullseye during archery!

Session Date
2-3 June 18-30
8-9 July 30- August 11
Adrenaline Rush: Adrenaline Rush
(Grades 7-11) Fee: $675

Are you ready for a fast-paced week of activities that will make your heart pound? In this week at camp, you will get to navigate a pitch-black cave and go rafting, as well as enjoy all the other general activities May Flather has to offer.

Session Date
3 June 25-30 5 July 9-14 7 July 23-28
Art in Action: Art in Action
(Grades 7-11) Fee: $625

Get messy and embrace your inner artist in this action-packed week. Inside Stone Lodge, you will get to spend time working on our old-fashioned looms, then take the art outside for splatter painting and more! Once cleaned up, you will head to the trails to see what art you can find in nature. Finish your week with a camp paint night!

Session Date
4 July 2-7
7 July 23-28
Expedition Wilderness: Expedition Wilderness
(Grades 7-11) Fee: $625

Discover yourself as you unplug and escape into the wilderness. This week, you’ll push your limits and camp out under a blanket of stars! Spend your week backpacking in a wilderness area within the Shenandoah Valley. Perfect your outdoor skills and backcountry etiquette, all while working towards the Senior Trail Adventure badge. Campers should be able to carry a 30-pound pack and have broken-in hiking boots.

Session Date
4 July 2-7
Off the Beaten Path: Off the Beaten Path (2-Weeks)
(Grades 7-11) Fee: $1030

Test your limits in this backpacking program! Warm-up with a two-day hike in the George Washington National Forest, and then perfect your outdoor skills with a four-day hike in the Shenandoah National Park on the Appalachian Trail. Campers should be able to carry a 30-pound pack and have broken-in hiking boots.

Session Date
6-7 July 16-28
River Rush: River Rush (Grades 7-11) Fee: $675

In this action-filled week, you will spend a day taking in nature as you canoe on a beautiful mountain lake. Then get ready to take your water game to the next level with a rafting trip. Back at camp, experience all the opportunities May Flather has to offer.

Session Date
2 June 18-23 4 July 2-7 6 July 16-21 8 July 30-August 4 9 August 6-11
Rocks N' Ropes: Rocks N' Ropes (2-Weeks) (Grades 7-11) Fee: $1030

It’s all about climbing and caving in this two-week adventure. You will gain skills on our climbing tower before you head to an adventurous natural climbing site. Then you will head underground to explore the natural wonders of two different caves.

Session Date
4-5 July 2-14 8-9 July 30-August 11
Speleology: Speleology
(Grades 7-11) Fee: $675

Encounter underground wonders in this exciting week at camp! Spend some time at two local caves exploring thier dark muddy depths, then head to a local show cave and see its wonders under the big lights. Back at camp, you will also have time to visit Stone Lodge, try your hand at archery and more!

Session Date
3 June 25-30 7 July 23-28
Adventure Bound: Adventure Bound (2-Weeks)
(Grades 8-11) Fee: $1030

This two-week program encompasses everything May Flather has to offer! At camp, you will visit the challenge course, the climbing tower, and a natural rock face. Off camp, you will experience caving, canoeing, backpacking, and work towards the Senior Climbing and Trail Adventure badge! Campers should be able to carry a 30-pound pack and have broken-in hiking boots.

Session Date
4-5 July 2-14

Teen Leadership Opportunities

Check out all of our leadership programs under the “Teen Leadership Opportunities at Sleep-Away Camp” dropdown.

Teen Leadership Opportunities at Sleep-Away Camp

Teen Leadership Opportunities

Take the lead and experience camp from the counselor’s perspective!

Our leadership programs allow teens in grade 9 and above to mentor younger campers and learn how rewarding it is to be camp staff. After teens complete the first Counselor-in-Training (CIT) two-week program, they can move on to the more advanced CIT II program and/or enhance their skills in our Junior Counselor (JC) program. There will be a separate lottery for Counselor-in-Training Programs, that will open January 11. Eligible teens can enter both the regular program lottery and the CIT lottery.

Counselor-in-Training (CIT) I: Counselor-in-Training (CIT) I (2-Weeks)
(Grades 9-11) Fee: $975

Want to work at camp someday? In this fun, hands-on camp, you’ll go in-depth to develop your leadership skills in preparation to become a camp counselor. Discover your own personal leadership style as you work to identify and build on the strengths that you already possess. Get ready to build connections, make memories, learn and laugh with your fellow CITs, and lead the way for younger Girl Scouts while earning your CIT I pin!

Camp Date
Potomac Woods Session 5-6: July 9-21
May Flather Session 2-3: June 18-30 or Session 6-7: July 16-28 Winona Session 5-6: July 9-21
Counselor-in-Training (CIT) II: Counselor-in-Training (CIT) II (3-Weeks)
(Grades 10-11) Fee: $1050

Continue building your leadership skills as you move another step closer to working at camp and earn your CIT II pin! Explore your strengths and passions, define your personal ethics, and get to know other future role models. Turn your dreams into reality; spend your first week in training, your second week finding your true camping passion in the units or specialty program areas, and your last week working in your favorite area.

Camp Date
Potomac Woods Session 1-3: June 11-30
May Flather Session 3-5: June 25-July 14 or Session 7-9: July 23-August 11 Winona Session 7-9: July 23-August 11
Junior Counselor (JC): Junior Counselor (JC)
(Grades 11-12) By Application ONLY

Requirements: Must be 16 years of age or older and completed 11th grade by summer. Completion of CIT I/II preferred, not required.

Ready to take your leadership experience to the next level? This paid position is the ultimate leadership experience for high school students not yet old enough to become full-time staff members. As a Junior counselor, you will join the camp staff team, work alongside staff, hold similar job responsibilities, and inspire campers! You’ll work with the camp leadership staff to set your schedule, selecting weeks to work, receiving training, and leading activities. Junior counselors work a range of weeks at each camp (usually 3-4 weeks) but still go home over the weekend. Teens cannot be both a CIT and junior counselor in the same summer, at the same camp. Junior counselors who turn 18 during the summer may be given the option to apply for a full-time staff position. This year, applicants will be able to indicate on their applications if they are interested in specializing in lifeguarding, archery/slingshots, boating, program, and arts & crafts (opportunities depend on the camp).

Space is limited. All junior counselor applicants will be interviewed. Placement in the program is based on experience and is at the discretion of camp directors. Teens will receive a stipend for being a Junior Counselor.

The application link is coming soon.

More information about each camp location and Junior Counselor positions can be found at www.gscnc.org/resident. For questions, contact Emily “Sparrow” Reece at camp@gscnc.org or 202-274-3305.

Camp Date
Potomac Woods Weeks available from June 11- August 4
May Flather June 18- July 14 or July 16- August 11
Winona Weeks available from June 18- August 11
Camp CEO: Camp CEO
(Grades 10-12 as of Sept 2023) Fee: $75

Take your leadership to the next level and kick off a new Girl Scout and school year at Camp CEO. Join us for a fun-filled, action-packed weekend in nature. Connect with prominent businesswomen who will share their life lessons and leadership journeys. Discover how your interests, skills, and dreams can transform you into a leader. Discover, connect, and take action with CEO’s to make the world a better place while enjoying traditional camp activities. Email camp@gscnc.org for more information.

Camp Winona

Date tbd in Late September. Registration will open late spring.

Registration Dates

Registration Dates
To allow for a smoother registration process, we will be having a registration lottery for our Sleep Away Camps.

January 11: Sleep Away Camp Lottery Opens

January 25: Sleep Away Camp Lottery Closes

February 13: General Registration Opens for any remaining Sleep Away Camp Spaces

Registration Timeline

January 11: Lottery Opens for May Flather, Potomac Woods, and Winona

January 25: Sleep Away Camp Lottery Closes

February 13: General Registration Opens for any remaining Sleep Away Camp Spaces

Registration for Summer Day and Evening Camps 2023 opens at 10 AM

February 21st: Virginia based Day/Evening Camps

February 22nd: Camp Tag-a-Long

February 23rd: Maryland based Day/Evening Camps

How to Register for Camp

General Registration is open for sleep away camp. If your camper has not registered for camp yet or would like to attend more than one week you can do so now! You can view openings via the program grid, https://bit.ly/3DRlmdd, or the registration landing page, https://bit.ly/3HXKDTW

For assistance at any point in this process, please contact our Customer Care team by email: customercare@gscnc.org or phone: 202-237-1670.

Remember, campers must register for the program units based on the grade they are currently in for the 2022-2023 school year.

Parent Information Sessions

Mark your calendars now for our 2023 Camp Webinar Series! This is your opportunity to ask questions, preview our sleep-away camps, and be the first to learn new and exciting updates. Each webinar will cover a different topic relevant to both new and returning campers (and parents too!) how to register for camp, programs for campers, forms, home missing, communication, and so much more!

We encourage both new and returning campers to join us for our first webinar in the series. We will provide you a sneak peek of our exciting 2023 programs and go over the lotter registration process.

Webinar 1: Sleep Away Camp Basics and How to Register

Join us to learn what Sleep Away Camp is all about. We'll look at the three different camps and what programs are offered. We'll cover basics such as where do campers sleep, what do they do, and how long do they stay. Learn about the lottery registration system, what the timeline is and how it will work. We'll also have a time for questions at the end.

December 13, 2022 – 7 to 8 PM

Webinar 2: Sleep Away Camp Forms, Deadlines, Packing Lists, and More.

Join us for our second webinar of the season to learn all about preparing for camp. We will cover the forms needed, essential deadlines, packing tips, and more!

March 23, 2023 – 7 to 8 PM

A third webinar, virtual campout/open house, or in person open house will be available in late spring. More details to come.

COVID-19

COVID-19 and Camp

The COVID-19 pandemic has created a lot of uncertainty in the world, but rest assured, we are staying on top of the latest updates and striving to make the best of this summer! We will post updates as needed to this section, and if you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out to us at camp@gscnc.org.

Safety is a cornerstone of Girl Scouting. As we develop exciting programs for your campers, we will continually update our camp health and safety procedures as applicable. We are regularly monitoring COVID-19 recommendations from the CDC, American Camping Association, state and county health departments, and Girl Scout Nation’s Capital’s COVID-19 Response Guidelines.

While we are offering more opportunities this summer, we are still below pre-covid capacities to allow for social distancing as needed.

The situation is evolving, and changes to information and recommendations are ongoing. To ensure the highest level of safety for our campers and staff, we will make final decisions on COVID 19 policies in spring 2023 --once we have a better idea of what summer will bring.

Questions?

For questions about any sleep-away camp programs or locations, please contact us at camp@gscnc.org.
For questions about registration (account help, camp registration, payment, refunds, etc.), please contact us at customercare@gscnc.org or 202-237-1670

Not a Girl Scout? Not a Problem!

Sleep-away camp is open to all girls completing grades K – 11 and parents/ guardians who attend our Me and My Pal overnight programs.

Any girl or adult who is not a current member is welcome to attend sleep-away camp, but they must register and become a Girl Scout Nation’s Capital member at https://mygs.girlscouts.org/. The registration fee is $25. After registering as a member, you can then enter the lottery/register for camp.

If you have questions about becoming a member or have problems, please contact customercare@gscnc.org .

Summer Sleep-Away Camp

Camp Potomac Woods Leesburg, VA

About

History

Programs

Me and My Pal

Animal Adventures

Forest Fairies

Storybook Adventure

Expedition Outdoors

Eco Explorers

Brownie Blast

The Great Potomac Bake Off

Diggin’ It

Splish, Splash, Splat!

Blox and Bops

Tajar Trackers

Bullseye!

S’mores & More

Water Otters

Showstoppers

Thanks, I made it myself

Blast Off

Voyagers

Axes & Arrows

Castaways

I Can Totally Make That

Totally Tubular

Rock the River!

Chill Out

Teen Leadership Opportunities

Camp Winona Hughesville, MD

About

History

Programs

Me & My Pal

Wish

Fairy Trails

Wilderness Explorers

Go with the Flow

Once upon a Time

Quest for Fairy Dust

Lights, Camera, Confidence

Camp Chef

Decade Discoveries

Engineering Kindness

Kids Knight Out

Camp Sight

Bridge Builders

All you can Beat

Splash Spies

Mud Monsters

Be Brave!

Go Go Gadgets

Internet Explorers

Pirate Paradise

You did what at Camp?!

Mission Survive

Bandit

Teen Leadership Opportunities

Camp May Flather Mount Solon, VA

About

History

Programs

Explorers

Pioneers

Wild About Water

Rocks Rock

Action Adventure

Cave Crawlers

Art Gallery

Camp Scene Investigation

Party in the USA!

Woodland Theater Company

Trailblazers

Climbing Challenge

Be Inspired

Craft Craze

Thrilltastic

H2O Venture