Andrew Pace
May Flather Girl Scout Camp, nestled in the scenic landscapes of California, offers a transformative outdoor experience for girls of all ages. Established to foster leadership, teamwork, and a deep connection with nature, the camp provides a range of activities including hiking, archery, arts and crafts, and environmental education. Named in honor of May Flather, a pioneering figure in Girl Scouting, the camp embodies her spirit of adventure and commitment to empowering young women. With its rustic cabins, serene lakeside views, and dedicated staff, May Flather Girl Scout Camp creates a safe and inspiring environment where girls can build confidence, forge lifelong friendships, and develop a greater appreciation for the natural world.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Big Bear Lake, California, USA |
| Type | Girl Scout Camp |
| Accommodation | Cabins, platform tents, and tent camping |
| Capacity | Approximately 250 campers and staff |
| Season | Summer (primarily June to August) |
| Programs Offered | Outdoor skills, leadership development, STEM activities, arts and crafts, swimming, boating, hiking, and environmental education |
| Facilities | Dining hall, health center, campfire circles, archery range, challenge course, and waterfront area |
| Ages Served | Primarily girls aged 6-17 (varies by program) |
| Affiliation | Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council |
| Notable Features | Located in the San Bernardino National Forest, emphasis on outdoor adventure and personal growth |
| Accessibility | Programs and facilities designed to accommodate diverse abilities |
| Staff | Trained counselors, program specialists, and support staff |
| Environmental Focus | Sustainability practices and conservation education |
| History | Named after May Flather, a prominent Girl Scout leader and philanthropist |
| Website | Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council (for latest updates and program details) |
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What You'll Learn
- Camp Activities: Outdoor skills, crafts, games, and team-building exercises for girls to explore and learn
- Accommodations: Rustic cabins, tent camping, or lodge-style housing options for a comfortable stay
- Staff and Volunteers: Trained leaders, counselors, and volunteers ensuring a safe and engaging environment
- Programs and Themes: Seasonal programs, badge workshops, and themed events to enhance the camping experience
- Location and Facilities: Scenic natural setting with hiking trails, lakes, and modern amenities for convenience
Camp Activities: Outdoor skills, crafts, games, and team-building exercises for girls to explore and learn
Girls at May Flather Girl Scout Camp thrive by immersing themselves in activities that blend skill-building with fun, fostering independence and camaraderie. Outdoor skills form the backbone of the camp experience, teaching practical survival techniques while instilling confidence. For instance, girls aged 8–12 can learn to build a fire using only natural materials, a task that sharpens problem-solving abilities and connects them to nature. Older campers, aged 13–17, might tackle more advanced skills like orienteering with a map and compass, preparing them for future adventures beyond the campgrounds. Each activity is designed to challenge and empower, ensuring every girl leaves with tangible skills and a sense of accomplishment.
Crafts at camp are not just about creating souvenirs; they’re opportunities for self-expression and creativity. Using materials found in the surrounding environment, such as leaves, twigs, and pinecones, girls can design nature collages or weave bracelets from plant fibers. These projects encourage resourcefulness and reduce reliance on store-bought supplies. For younger campers, simple activities like making s’mores holders from sticks or painting rocks with messages of kindness foster fine motor skills and imagination. Older girls might explore more complex crafts, like carving wooden spoons or creating tie-dye bandanas, which allow for personalization and artistic exploration.
Games at May Flather Girl Scout Camp are carefully curated to promote teamwork, strategy, and physical activity. A favorite among all age groups is the "Human Knot" challenge, where girls must untangle themselves without breaking hands, fostering communication and collaboration. For a more energetic option, "Capture the Flag" encourages strategic thinking and agility, while "Nature Scavenger Hunts" combine physical movement with environmental awareness. These games are not just for fun; they subtly teach negotiation, leadership, and conflict resolution, skills that translate to real-world scenarios.
Team-building exercises are the glue that binds the camp community, creating lasting bonds among girls from diverse backgrounds. One effective activity is the "Trust Walk," where blindfolded participants rely on their peers for guidance, strengthening trust and empathy. Another impactful exercise is the "Group Shelter Build," where teams must construct a makeshift shelter using tarps and ropes, emphasizing collaboration and resource management. These activities are particularly powerful for older campers, who often return home with a deeper understanding of teamwork and mutual support. By integrating these exercises into the daily routine, the camp ensures that girls not only grow individually but also learn to thrive collectively.
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Accommodations: Rustic cabins, tent camping, or lodge-style housing options for a comfortable stay
At May Flather Girl Scout Camp, the accommodations are designed to cater to a variety of preferences and comfort levels, ensuring every camper finds their ideal retreat. For those seeking a traditional camping experience, rustic cabins offer a perfect blend of simplicity and shelter. These cabins, often equipped with bunk beds and basic amenities, provide a cozy space to unwind after a day of outdoor adventures. Imagine gathering around a crackling fire pit just steps from your cabin, sharing stories under the starry sky—it’s a quintessential Girl Scout moment.
If you’re craving a closer connection to nature, tent camping is the way to go. Pitch your tent in designated areas surrounded by towering trees and the soothing sounds of the wilderness. Pro tip: bring a sleeping pad and extra blankets, as nights can get chilly. This option is ideal for troops looking to build resilience and teamwork, as setting up camp becomes a shared challenge and victory. For younger scouts (ages 6–10), consider pairing tent camping with a nearby cabin for quick access to restrooms and shelter in case of unexpected weather.
For groups prioritizing comfort without sacrificing the camp vibe, lodge-style housing is a game-changer. These facilities often feature bunk rooms, indoor bathrooms, and communal spaces for meals and activities. Lodges are particularly well-suited for older scouts (ages 12–18) or leaders seeking a more relaxed stay. They’re also a practical choice for camps hosting special events or training sessions, where participants need a reliable base for planning and collaboration.
Choosing the right accommodation depends on your troop’s goals and dynamics. Rustic cabins strike a balance between adventure and convenience, tent camping fosters self-reliance and camaraderie, and lodge-style housing ensures comfort and accessibility. Whichever option you pick, May Flather Girl Scout Camp guarantees an immersive experience that strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories. Pack accordingly, embrace the spirit of the outdoors, and let the accommodations enhance your journey.
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Staff and Volunteers: Trained leaders, counselors, and volunteers ensuring a safe and engaging environment
At May Flather Girl Scout Camp, the backbone of every successful session lies in its staff and volunteers—a dedicated team of trained leaders, counselors, and helpers who transform the camp into a safe, engaging, and transformative environment for girls. These individuals are not just supervisors; they are mentors, role models, and facilitators of growth, ensuring every camper leaves with newfound skills, confidence, and memories.
Training and Preparation: The Foundation of Safety
Before a single camper arrives, staff and volunteers undergo rigorous training tailored to their roles. This includes certifications in first aid, CPR, and wilderness safety, as well as specialized training in conflict resolution, emotional support, and age-appropriate programming. For example, counselors working with younger girls (ages 6–11) receive additional instruction in child development and behavior management, while those leading outdoor adventures for teens (ages 12–17) are trained in advanced survival skills and risk assessment. This layered approach ensures that every activity, from archery to campfire storytelling, is conducted with the highest safety standards.
Creating Engagement: The Art of Connection
A safe environment is only half the equation; the other half is creating an atmosphere where girls feel inspired to explore, learn, and bond. Staff and volunteers achieve this through a blend of structured programming and spontaneous connection. For instance, counselors might lead a morning hike with built-in challenges (like identifying five native plants) but also pause to let campers share stories or ask questions. Volunteers often serve as "floating support," stepping in to assist with activities or simply being present to listen. This balance of guidance and autonomy fosters trust and encourages girls to step out of their comfort zones.
Volunteers: The Unsung Heroes
While paid staff form the core team, volunteers play a critical role in enriching the camp experience. These individuals—often former Girl Scouts, parents, or community members—bring unique skills and perspectives. A volunteer with a background in environmental science might lead a workshop on sustainability, while another with artistic talent could organize a mural project. To maximize their impact, volunteers are paired with activities that align with their strengths and interests. Practical tips for volunteers include arriving early to familiarize themselves with the camp layout, bringing a positive attitude, and being open to learning from both staff and campers.
Continuous Improvement: Feedback and Reflection
Ensuring a safe and engaging environment is an ongoing process. Staff and volunteers participate in daily debriefs to discuss what went well and identify areas for improvement. For example, if a camper expresses anxiety during a ropes course, the team might adjust the activity’s pacing or provide additional reassurance in future sessions. Campers and their parents are also encouraged to provide feedback through surveys and exit interviews, which helps refine programs and training for the next season. This commitment to reflection ensures that May Flather Girl Scout Camp remains a dynamic and responsive community.
By prioritizing training, fostering connection, leveraging volunteers, and embracing continuous improvement, the staff and volunteers at May Flather Girl Scout Camp create an environment where girls can thrive. Their dedication is the invisible thread that weaves together every aspect of the camp experience, making it both safe and unforgettable.
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Programs and Themes: Seasonal programs, badge workshops, and themed events to enhance the camping experience
At May Flather Girl Scout Camp, the changing seasons offer a natural framework for immersive, educational programs that deepen campers’ connection to the outdoors. Seasonal programs are designed to align with the unique characteristics of each time of year, fostering an appreciation for nature’s cycles. In spring, for instance, girls aged 8–12 can participate in a “Buds and Blooms” workshop, where they learn about plant biology, create nature journals, and earn the Junior Gardener badge. Summer shifts focus to water conservation with the “River Rangers” program, ideal for Cadettes (ages 11–14), which includes stream studies, water filtration experiments, and kayaking. Fall introduces “Leaves of Change,” a program for Brownies (ages 6–8) that combines leaf identification, art projects, and storytelling around campfire safety. Winter, though quieter, offers “Snow Science” for older girls, teaching snowshoeing, ice crystal formation, and winter survival skills. Each season’s program integrates badge requirements while leveraging the environment’s natural teaching moments.
Badge workshops at May Flather are structured to maximize skill-building in a condensed, hands-on format. Unlike traditional troop meetings, these workshops are led by certified instructors who specialize in specific badge topics, ensuring girls receive expert guidance. For example, the “Outdoor Art Explorer” workshop for Daisies (ages 5–6) focuses on the basics of the Drawing badge, using natural materials like charcoal and clay. Older girls can tackle more complex badges, such as the “Digital Photographer” workshop for Seniors (ages 14–17), which includes field trips to scenic locations and lessons in photo editing software. Workshops are typically held on weekends to accommodate busy schedules and last 3–4 hours, with all materials provided. A key advantage is the opportunity for girls to work alongside peers from different troops, fostering collaboration and new friendships.
Themed events add a layer of excitement and creativity to the camping experience, often blending entertainment with educational goals. The annual “Mysteries of the Forest” event, held in October, transforms the camp into an interactive detective game where girls solve nature-based puzzles to earn clues. This event is particularly popular with Juniors (ages 9–11) and ties into the Detective badge. Another highlight is the “Space Explorer Night” in July, where girls of all ages learn about constellations, build model rockets, and participate in a stargazing session led by a local astronomer. For younger campers, the “Fairy Garden Festival” in May encourages imagination and teamwork as they design miniature gardens using natural materials. These events are not only memorable but also strategically designed to meet badge requirements while engaging girls in unconventional ways.
To enhance the impact of these programs, practical tips can ensure a smooth and enriching experience. For seasonal programs, encourage girls to bring weather-appropriate gear, such as waterproof boots for spring or layered clothing for fall. Badge workshops often have limited spots, so early registration is advised, and parents should review prerequisite skills beforehand to help girls prepare. For themed events, consider carpooling to reduce transportation stress, and pack snacks that align with the theme—for example, “moon pies” for Space Explorer Night. Camp staff also recommend that girls keep a reflective journal to document their experiences, which can later be used for badge reflections or troop discussions. By combining structure with flexibility, these programs and themes create a dynamic camping experience that caters to diverse interests and learning styles.
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Location and Facilities: Scenic natural setting with hiking trails, lakes, and modern amenities for convenience
Nestled in the heart of a pristine natural landscape, May Flather Girl Scout Camp offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and modern convenience. Imagine waking up to the sound of birdsong, surrounded by towering pines and the gentle lapping of a nearby lake. This idyllic setting isn’t just a backdrop—it’s an invitation to explore. With miles of hiking trails winding through diverse ecosystems, campers of all ages can discover hidden waterfalls, observe wildlife in their natural habitats, and challenge themselves on varying terrains. For younger scouts (ages 6–11), shorter, well-marked trails like the “Whispering Pines Loop” provide a safe and engaging introduction to outdoor adventure. Older teens (ages 13–17) might tackle the more rugged “Summit Trail,” which rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
While the natural setting is undoubtedly the star, the camp’s facilities ensure that comfort and convenience are never compromised. Modern cabins equipped with bunk beds, electricity, and nearby restroom facilities strike the perfect balance between rustic charm and practicality. For those seeking a more immersive experience, tent sites are available, strategically placed to maximize privacy and access to nature. The central lodge serves as a communal hub, featuring a spacious dining area, a cozy fireplace, and a first-aid station staffed by certified professionals. Pro tip: Pack layers and waterproof gear, as weather in this region can shift quickly, and you’ll want to be prepared for both sunny hikes and unexpected rain showers.
One of the camp’s standout features is its proximity to multiple lakes, each offering distinct opportunities for recreation and learning. Lake Serenity, with its calm, glassy surface, is ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and introductory swimming lessons (life jackets provided for all age groups). Meanwhile, Lake Adventure’s deeper waters and surrounding cliffs make it a hotspot for advanced water activities like paddleboarding and fishing. Safety is paramount, with trained lifeguards on duty during all water-based programs. For a quieter experience, consider visiting the smaller Reflection Pond, where campers can sketch, meditate, or simply enjoy the tranquility of nature.
The integration of modern amenities into this natural paradise is a testament to thoughtful planning. Solar-powered lighting along pathways reduces environmental impact while ensuring safety after dark. A state-of-the-art outdoor amphitheater hosts evening programs, from stargazing sessions to campfire storytelling, fostering a sense of community and wonder. For educators and troop leaders, the camp’s on-site nature center provides resources for hands-on learning, including microscopes, field guides, and interactive exhibits on local flora and fauna. Practical tip: Schedule a visit to the nature center early in your stay to tailor your troop’s activities to their interests and skill levels.
Ultimately, May Flather Girl Scout Camp’s location and facilities create a harmonious blend of adventure and comfort, education and relaxation. Whether you’re leading a troop of eager beginners or seasoned outdoor enthusiasts, the camp’s diverse offerings ensure that every camper leaves with a deeper connection to nature and lasting memories. By prioritizing both the preservation of its natural setting and the needs of its visitors, the camp sets a standard for outdoor education that is as inspiring as it is practical.
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Frequently asked questions
May Flather Girl Scout Camp is a scenic outdoor camp located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, offering a variety of programs and activities for Girl Scouts of all ages.
The camp is situated near Lake Tahoe, California, in the beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains, providing a stunning natural setting for outdoor adventures.
Activities include hiking, swimming, boating, archery, arts and crafts, team-building exercises, nature exploration, and campfire programs, among others.
The camp operates seasonally, typically from late spring through early fall, with programs available for troops, individuals, and families during specific sessions.
Registration can be completed through the Girl Scouts of Northern California website or by contacting the council directly for available sessions, fees, and requirements.
