At Camp with Camille

	Camille at Camp Ginger Cascades

By Kathleen Cullinan

Camille, 11 years old
Girl Scout Council of Catawba Valley Area
Camp Ginger Cascades

GirlsOnly caught up with Camille between her busy schedule of nature walks, challenge-course climbing, skits and swimming to find out a little about her camp life at Camp Ginger Cascades in North Carolina.

There are so many options for girls during the summer, even the schools have programs. "I don't like the day programs at school, not when I can be at camp. My mom and I talk about all the different things I can do during the summer, but this is where I want to come. I've been coming for five summers, this is my sixth."

Always New Friends

Even though camp has a buddy program, where you can bring a friend from home, Camille prefers to make new friends at camp. "I have a best friend I made here the very first time I came. It's easy to make friends. You're scared you won't, but every summer I've made a new friend. It's easy 'cause everyone here is so nice."

Feelin' Good

Most people complain about walking up stairs and hills, but Camille likes how healthy it makes her feel. "You're out here in nature and just walking up and down the mountains makes you feel better. You're exercising, but having fun, too."

Lots to Do

Camille could easily go to Camp Ginger Cascades for years to come and she wouldn't have to do the same thing twice. "I've gone to different programs here. They change most of them every year. This year I am in Sacajawea Surprises. We're going to be learning about Native American skills and a few famous women like Pocahontas and Sacajawea." The group will make their own moccasins, learn how to tell direction from the sun and stars, as well as other typical camp activities.

Camille sometimes stays as long as three weeks at camp only heading home on the weekends. "I tell my mom and grandparents that they can write me and I'll write back. They get a little homesick for me sometimes."

Favorite Things

When asked why she keeps going back to camp every year, Camille had a list of things she liked: "I like the corn dogs, all the activities, talking with everyone, swimming and making friends." Most of all, Camille liked that there was always someone to talk to. While her favorite staff member is Rocky, she feels everyone at Camp Ginger Cascades "is always having a good time and they are willing to help you out when you're feeling down."

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