Frequently Asked Questions – Camp
We have a Camp Policy Page on the Website with important information for all prospective campers and their parents. Click here to see Camp Policies.
What is Your Refund Policy?
A $50 non-refundable/non-transferable deposit is required for each camper registration. Anything paid over the deposit will be refunded if there’s a cancellation.
What Is the Toll on the Hood River Bridge?
The Port of Hood River charges $2 cash each direction on the bridge.
The Bridge of the Gods in Cascade Locks also charges $2 cash for crossing in each direction.
The bridge crossing the Columbia River in The Dalles is free.
What Is Tiered Pricing?
We use Tiered Pricing so that people who may not be able to afford camp have a less expensive option that enables them to send their children to camp. We have many generous people who choose to pay more for their child to attend camp in order to make this possible. Tier 1 is drastically reduced; Tier 2 is also reduced but covers basic camp costs. Tier 3 is truly the cost of camp. All campers are treated the same and no one knows which Tier their parents paid to get them there.
Should I Put Money on My Child’s Camp Store Account?
We have a camp store that is open to campers once per day. It is their chance to buy a little snack and relax while eating in a fun setting. $2-$5 per day is typical and younger campers will be limited to 2 snack/drink items per day. Healthy options are available.
We also have Camp Jonah t-shirts ($15), sweatshirts ($30) and baseball caps ($20).
Money can be added to your child’s store account at check-in, or during the week.
What if I have Left Over Camp Store Money?
If your child is scheduled to attend another camp later in the summer, the funds automatically roll over to their store fund for that camp.
Contact the office is you wish to transfer leftover funds to a sibling.
Camp funds with balances over $10 will be refunded back to the form of payment that was initially used. Camp funds with balances under $10 will be cleared and those funds will be donated back into the store.
Is There a Dress Code?
We ask that all campers dress modestly. Clothing should not draw attention to the body, for both male and female campers. No short shorts, thin straps, distractingly tight apparel, low neckline tops or bare midriffs or backs. Swimsuits should be one piece or tankinis. This dress code will be modeled by Staff at Camp Jonah. Ultimately, appropriateness will be determined by Directors.
Can parents or guardians volunteer, stay nearby, or visit while their child is at camp?
We love involved families and truly appreciate your enthusiasm for camp! Our experience shows that camp works best when campers can fully engage, build independence, and connect with their cabin mates and leaders. With that in mind, camp days are designed as a drop-off experience so campers can settle in and make the most of their time together.
That said, Trout Lake is a wonderful home base for families—especially those sending kids to Day Camp. There are many great options for camping, cabins, and a motel in and around Trout Lake, making it easy for parents and guardians to stay nearby (lodging does tend to book quickly, so we encourage families to plan ahead). This allows you to enjoy the area during the day and still spend afternoons and evenings together after camp.
Thank you for trusting our team and for helping us create a safe, fun, and confidence-building experience for every camper.
How do I know my kids are safe?
All our staff must pass a background check as well as go through an extensive hiring process and child safety training prior to arriving to camp. Visit our Policies Page for more information on our camp policies
Are campers allowed to bring phones or electronics?
Camp is a chance to unplug and be fully present, so personal phones and electronic devices are not allowed during the camp session. This includes cell phones, smart watches with messaging capabilities, tablets, gaming devices, and similar electronics, as they can be a safety concern and a distraction from camp activities. Any devices brought to camp will be safely stored and returned at the end of the session. Campers have access to the camp office phone if they need to call home, and parents may contact the office at 509-395-2900 to be in contact with their child.
Can I make a friend request?
Yes! When you register for camp, you may request to be in the same cabin as one friend who is within one grade level of you.
We cannot guarantee more than one friend request. If a group of campers all request each other, we reserve the right to split the group as needed to create the best overall cabin experience.
All friend requests must be submitted during registration at least one week before your camp session begins.
