University of Florida

4-H Camps: Information for Parents

As a parent, you can expect...

  • Your child to have a safe and memorable camp experience.
  • Your child to grow, learn about nature and make new friends.
  • All acitivities and educational programs are taught or lead by University of Florida 4-H saff. All summer staff are American Red Cross certified in First Aid and CPR.
  • All waterfront activities are supervised and led by summer staff that is American Red Cross Waterfront Lifeguard Certified.
  • Your child to have the opportunity to participate in some of the following camp activities: canoeing, kayaking, swimming, recreational games, archery, campfires, fishing, health lifestyles and much more!

You are encouraged to write your child at camp. Address your letter to:

  • Name of Camper
    c/o Name of Camp
    Address
    City, FL  ZIP

Florida 4-H Camp Addresses

Camp Cherry Lake
3861 NE Cherry Lake Cr
Madison, FL 32340
Camp Cloverleaf
126 Cloverleaf Rd
Lake Placid, FL 33852
Camp Ocala
18533 NFS 535
Altoona, FL 32702
Camp Timpoochee
4750 Timpoochee Ln
Niceville, FL 32578

Florida 4-H Camp Mission Statement

To help develop life skills in youth through experiential education in a camping environment.

Florida 4-H Camp Motto

Building Life Skills Through Outdoor Adventures

Encouraging independence

In Florida 4-H programs we encourage independence and responsibility among our campers. We ask that you do not call your child at camp or instruct her/him to call you.  If an emergency arises, contact your county Extension office.

Help your child pack for camp, but let her/him help also.  Allow your child the opportunity to decide what they need to bring to camp and how to fit everything into their bag. This process helps youth learn organizational skills. Plus, they will have to pack their own bag to return home. 

Your camper will be expected to attend activities as scheduled.  There is a variety of classes that offer flexibility and choice of activities.

What to Bring

  • Sheets and blanket, or sleeping bag
  • Pillow (if desired)
  • pajamas (or clothing to sleep in)
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Brush and comb
  • Soap
  • Shampoo
  • Towels and washcloth
  • Swimsuit
  • Sweater or jacket
  • Tennis shoes or sneakers
  • Flip flops to go to the waterfront
  • Several changes of play clothing
  • Under garments
  • Postcards and stamps (if you would like them to write to someone)
  • Sunscreen lotion
  • Flashlight
  • Camera
  • Insect repellent

Clearly label all belongings!

What NOT to Bring

  • Electronic games
  • Radios or CD/tape players
  • Chewing gum
  • Food
  • Fireworks
  • Alcohol or tobacco products
  • Guns, knives (including pocket knives) or any other items that could cause harm to another camper


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Updated Research

Research has shown camping helps kids build life skills in a safe environment while having fun.  The American Camp Association (ACA) has just posted the results of a multi-year research study in which thousands of parents and campers provided information before camp, after camp, and six months after camp.
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