Youth Programs - FAQ

• How do I register my child for a camp/program?
• When will I receive an email with camp details?
• Do you keep a wait list once a camp is full?
• What is your refund policy?
• When and where is Check-in/Check-out?
• Who will supervise my camper at camp?
• How does Outreach & Engagement select their counselors?
• Where will my camper eat while on campus?
• What if my child has food allergies/dietary needs?
• Where can I find a camp schedule?
• What is the cell phone policy?
• Safety While on Campus
• Disciplinary Procedures
• How do I schedule a visit to tour campus?
• Residential Camps

How do I register my child for a camp/program?

1. Online: On the camp page, find the "Register" tab. Upon clicking the "Register Now" button, you will be redirected to provide camper information and submit payment. Credit card payments (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express) can only be accepted through online registration.

2. By Mail:  Download, complete, and print the Youth Program Registration Form and mail with check payment to:

   JMU Outreach & Engagement
   Attn: Youth Programs
   127 W Bruce St, MSC 6906
   Harrisonburg, VA 22807

When will I receive an email with camp details?

No later than 1 week prior to the start of each program.

Do you keep a wait list once a camp is full?

Yes, once a camp has reached its max capacity, we offer a waitlist signup. When a camper cancels, the next camper on the waitlist will be notified for registration.

What is your refund policy?

If a registration is cancelled for any reason, the individual or organization making the original tuition payment will receive:

1. A full refund if the cancellation request is received at least 1 week prior to the start date of the program;
2. No refund for a “No Show” or for a cancellation request received less than 1 week prior to the start date of the program.

When and where is Check-in/Check-out?

For day campers, check-in times and locations are specific to each camp and instructions will be e-mailed out no later than 1 week prior to the start of each program. Check-out will take place at the same location as check-in.

For residential (overnight) campers, information for check-in on the first day of camp will be emailed out no later than 1 week prior to the start of camp. Camp-specific dorm assignments, as well as maps and addresses will be included. Check-out will take place at the same location as check-in.

Who will supervise my camper at camp?

Campers are supervised 24/7 by a team of professional male and female counselors as well as JMU faculty and staff. For residential camps, all counselors, including a head counselor, will live in the residence halls and supervise all campers throughout the week.

How does Outreach & Engagement select their counselors?

Camp counselors are JMU graduate and undergraduate students who are vetted through an extensive hiring process that includes a series of interviews, criminal background checks, and intensive training.

Where will my camper eat while on campus?

Some full day camps/programs and all residential camps/programs will eat their meals on campus in our dining facilities and/or have catered meals provided by dining services. Half day and full day camps/programs will have one snack a day provided.

What if my child has food allergies/dietary needs?

If your child has special dietary needs, food allergies, etc., please indicate this on your registration form (notification must be given prior to the start of the program).

Where can I find a camp schedule?

A sample schedule can be found on each program's page. A finalized schedule will also be included in your detailed confirmation email prior to the start of camp. For residential camps, schedules will be provided at check-in.

What is the cell phone policy?

Cell phones offer the best means for campers and parents to keep in touch during camp; therefore, we do not prohibit cell phones from camp. However, cell phones should not be used during any scheduled academic programing or activity and should NEVER be a source of disruption in the classroom. Campers will refrain from using electronic devices (i.e. cell phones, iPads, computers, etc.) during instructional periods unless otherwise authorized. If campers are unable to adhere to this policy, the Camp Director may confiscate the electronic device until the end of camp.

Safety While on Campus

The James Madison University Police Department regularly patrols the campus and surrounding area. There are interior courtesy telephones in buildings, Area of Rescue Assistance (ARA) phones in stairwells, and outdoor emergency “Blue Light” phones across campus that allow instant communication with JMU Police. The dedicated on-campus emergency number is 540-568-6911.  For more information, please see the Public Safety website at www.jmu.edu/pubsafety/.

Disciplinary Procedures

Students/parents must review and sign the Student Code of Conduct. JMU Outreach & Engagement expects each camper to have a successful camp experience, therefore, the misbehavior of one or a group of campers will not be permitted to impact negatively on other campers. Disciplinary steps, outlined in Student Code of Conduct, may be omitted or repeated at the discretion of camp staff.

How do I schedule a visit to tour campus?

If your camper is interested in attending James Madison University, we highly encourage you to take advantage of your time here! To schedule a campus visit, contact the Office of Admissions at 540-568-5681 or visit their website.

Residential Camps

What does the cost of camp include? Camp costs are all-inclusive and cover tuition, dormitory lodging, field trip transportation, meals, snacks, drinks, and all camp-specific materials and supplies needed for camp.

What clothing does my camper need to bring to camp? During the day, there will be a lot of walking around campus, so comfortable closed toed walking shoes are a must! Also, with the weather being unpredictable, please do not forget to include a raincoat or umbrella. Additionally, most camps include a trip to UREC, so be sure to pack a swimsuit! We also expect campers to dress as they would at their own school. Summer Honors Institute Only: Please pack at least one nice outfit for the graduation ceremony.

What supplies will my camper need in the dorm room? Campers residing in campus residence halls are required to bring their own linens and toiletries. Ideas of what to bring:

Toiletries
Bedding (sheets, blanket for X-long twin)
Pillow
Sunscreen
Tennis/running shoes or hiking boots
Bathing suit
Shower shoes 
Alarm clock
Bath towel/wash cloth
Snacks for room 
Extra cash for snacks, outside food, souvenirs
Books/games (for evening downtime)

Will my camper have access to the internet while at camp? Yes, students will receive log in information upon check-in.

Can my camper request a roommate? Yes! We do accept roommate requests and try our very best to meet them! To request a roommate, please contact us.

What if my camper needs to leave campus during camp? For safety reasons, campers are to remain on campus for the duration of camp unless the program activity requires otherwise. If a camper must leave campus for any reason, we must have prior written permission from the parent/guardian, and the Camp Director must grant specific permission.