Property Resource Guide

Transcription

1 Girl Scouts San Diego Property Resource Guide for Groups & Troops July 2014

2 Contact Information Resource Center (property reservations) (619) Resource Center (equipment) (619) Camp Winacka Ranger Office (760) Camp Whispering Oaks Ranger Office (760) For more information or for additional numbers: Girl Scouts San Diego Emergency Contact (866) Answering Service

3 This resource is for day and overnight use of Girl Scouts San Diego properties by local troops, groups and service units and members of Girl Scouts of the USA and Boy Scouts of America. Girl Scout Mission Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. Girl Scout Vision To be the world s best leadership experience for girls. Outdoor Education Mission We aim to inspire positive and challenging experiences in the outdoors, building interpersonal connections between people and the natural environment while sharing life changing adventures. Index of Sections 1) Introduction 2) Training Requirements 3) Reservation Guidelines 4) Property Descriptions 5) Policies 6) Other 7) Forms 1

4 Thank you for using Girl Scouts San Diego s property. We have beautiful sites located throughout San Diego and Imperial counties to serve Girl Scouts and the community for both day and overnight use. In order to reserve property you must: Complete the reservation form Be a member of Girl Scouts San Diego, member of Girl Scouts of the USA, Boy Scouts of America, or an approved collaborator, community partner, non-profit, government or for-profit organization. Ensure proper training and insurance (if applicable) We offer reservations at the following facilities for day and overnight use: Balboa Campus Meeting space, lodges, tent camping, Sandra Brue art center, Ellen Browning Scripps nature center, amphitheater, adventure zone, Groce Family Tree House, Fran Styles Archery Range Escondido Program Center (EPC) North Coastal Service Center (NCSC) Camp Winacka (Julian) (WIN) Camp Whispering Oaks (Julian) (CWO) Meeting space, lodge, tent camping, archery Meeting space, available for day use only Lodges, rustic cabins, primitive tent camping, pool, kitchen, dining area, archery, challenge course (high & low), nature center Modern cabins, tent camping, kitchen, dining area, archery, challenge course (high & low) 2

5 Any Girl Scout troop using Girl Scouts San Diego property overnight must have one adult who has completed Let s Camp training. (This training is required for troops attending overnight events in modern cabins where program and cooking are prepared for you.) This course introduces volunteers to the basics of planning and overnight, outdoor progression, girl behavior, safety and program activities. The Let s Cook training is required for troops planning on providing program meals (girl cooking) or for service unit encampments where troops and groups plan program and cook. This course teaches volunteers the ins-and-outs of planning a meal while observing established safety guidelines. If you are cooking with your troop, Let s Cook is required. If you are cooking for a large group (three troops or more), you must use a certified camp cook approved for our properties. This applies to Girl Scout troops and outside groups. Certified cooks can be hired through the resident camp specialist. Let s Tent training is required if troops are camping in rustic cabins or tents. This course also teaches rustic outdoor living skills, environmental stewardship and safety. A group using council properties must provide a First Aider currently certified in first aid and CPR. For requirements based on group size and acceptable training providers, refer to Volunteer Essentials, chapter 4 (Safety-Wise). This document is posted at Encampment director training is required for groups camping (three or more troops). This training is required before events and is recommended before planning starts. 3

6 Property Availability Properties are available for use between Labor Day and Memorial Day only. For overnights, check-in is at 4 p.m. and check-out is at 2 p.m. the following day (or day of departure for multi-night stays). Check-in and Out For safety and insurance purposes site users must check-in and out with council staff, where one is present. Payment Information Payment is due at the time of reservation. Major credit cards are also accepted. See page 5-6 for detailed payment information. Cancellations and Refunds Cancellation of reservation must be received in writing at the Balboa resource center within 30 days prior to the troop/group reservation date, and 60 days for groups renting entire site. If this deadline has been met, the reservation fee will be refunded. Excessive cancellations will jeopardize future camping privileges. Any site-usage fees received will not be refunded if: Final payment and required documents are not received on or before due date. A troop/group fails to show up for their scheduled reservation or arrives more than six hours late without notifying council staff. Reservation is cancelled less than 30 days prior to troop/group reservation or 60 days for groups renting entire site. Cleaning and Additional Charges Because Girl Scouts take very good care of our council properties, they are no longer required to provide security deposits. In the rare instance that property is left in an unacceptable condition, the user group may be billed for additional cleaning or repair charges. If charges are left unpaid, our council reserves the right to deny future access to the responsible party. No additional charges will be added provided: The property department certifies the clean-up was satisfactory and approves a Property Exit Ticket. All keys are returned to the council office within 24 hours of check-out time. Keys may be returned by mail or dropped off at the Balboa or Escondido resource centers. There are no damages to buildings, grounds or furniture. Keys Keys for use of property may be collected during business hours, M-F 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Keys may be sent via postal mail, this service should be requested from resource center staff no less than five working days prior to event to ensure keys arrive before reservation. In some instances, a security alarm code may be needed. Equipment Assorted resources, books, videos, DVDs, program kits, camping and sports equipment are available for checkout. Find full equipment list online at or at your local resource center. 4

7 Insurance and Other Required Paperwork Forms must be completed in-full, including all necessary approvals and signatures. Overnights require approval of activity consultant, volunteer support coordinator, service unit manager or outdoor education specialist. Activity consultants cannot approve their own forms. They can be signed by the service unit manager, volunteer support coordinator or outdoor education specialist. Required trainings must be completed. Additional insurance must be purchased if applicable (girls will engage in high risk or organized sports, and/or non-girl Scouts will be on property). As with all Girl Scout activities, Permission, Health History, Safety and Risk Management and In-Town Contact forms must be completed. General Insurance Information Additional insurance for Girl Scout troops is not required for overnights at council properties unless non-members will be in attendance. All registered Girl Scout members are covered by Girl Scouts activity insurance for three days/two nights. Any troops wishing to stay longer than two nights must purchase additional insurance. Non-Girl Scout groups must provide proof of liability insurance coverage, and proof of not-for-profit status. Insurance required is general liability with a combined single limit for bodily injury and property damage of one million dollars ($1,000,000). Girl Scouts San Diego must be named as additional insured party. An original copy of the certificate of insurance must be received with final payment to verify policy and limits. Non-registered participants (non-member children or adults) must be covered by purchasing additional activity accident insurance. You must contact the program assistant at (619) to get a form. Forms must be returned back to Girl Scouts San Diego at least five days prior to the event. Making Reservations Girl Scout troops Prior to making a reservation troops must confirm with their Service Unit Activity Consultant that properly qualified adults are available for activities that require them. Troops visit click on the property page, and select from the list and descriptions of properties/facilities. Then click on the Make a Reservation button, select available dates, follow the system prompts, and pay the user fee in full. Service Unit Encampments Service units reserve property dates through an annual lottery process held in March. The council s Property Reservation Specialist inputs the dates in the reservation system, collects reservation fees to hold the dates, and invoices service units for the balance of their user fees at a later time. Outside User Groups Non-Girl Scout groups contact the Property Reservation Specialist at (619) to negotiate their contract for property and facility use, sign the contract, and pay security and reservation deposits. The balance of the user fee is invoiced for payment at a later time. Reservation Confirmation When reservations are made, our council s Property Reservation Specialist s the Service Unit Activity Consultant to confirm that properly qualified adults will lead activities. (For activities requiring trained facilitators or lifeguards, the Property Reservation Specialist ensures they have necessary certifications.) The Property Reservation Specialist sends a confirmation package via and notifies reserving parties of any issues that must be resolved. 5

8 Other Users are reminded that they are renting exposed sites: the council cannot offer guarantees regarding rain, or other natural conditions. The council reserves the right to cancel reservations due to hazardous site conditions. In this case, all fees will be refunded. Directions and Information for Troop Camping Site Reservations 1. All correspondence will be with the Outdoor Trained Adult. 2. Please reserve only the space you will use to ensure maximum use of our council facilities. More than one troop occupying one cabin/unit can use one reservation. More troops than can occupy as a single housing space on council property is considered an encampment. 3. Troop Camping training (Let s Camp, Let s Cook and/or Let s Tent) is required to reserve council facilities. Troops may reserve a site for a single night or weekend. 4. Additional charge for program resources, archery, pool and lodge/kitchen are payable at time of reservation. These may be added later depending upon availability. 5. Cancellation of a reservation must be received in writing to the council within 30 days prior to the troop/group reservation date. if this deadline has been met, the reservation fee may be refunded or applied to future reservations within 12 months. Excessive cancellations will jeopardize future camping privileges. A full refund or another date will be issued if the camp is closed by council personnel due to inclement weather. 6. It is the responsibility of the Outdoor Trained Adult to notify the resource assistant as soon as possible of any changes in information on the reservation, including arrival and departure times. 7. To facilitate communications between troops sharing camping facilities (units, levels) your phone number will be given to other leaders unless you request otherwise. 6

9 Fees for usage of Girl Scouts San Diego properties day and overnight use can be found in the insert. Facility Description/Notes Balboa Campus: Balboa Park Day Use Capacity Overnight Capacity Center Facilities 123 shared parking spots Leadership Center 1 room Leadership Center 2 rooms Leadership Center all 4 rooms Florence Burnham Hall Lodge: Cabin 1 Lodge: Cabin 2 Tent Sites: Levels 1 & 2 Amphitheater (Level 1) Sandy Brue Art Center (Level 1) Heated building, kitchenette (microwave, refrigerator), tables & chairs available Heated building, kitchenette (microwave, refrigerator), tables & chairs available Heated building, kitchenette (microwave, refrigerator), tables & chairs available Heated building, kitchen (microwave, stove, refrigerator), tables & chairs available Cabin 1 includes an enclosed heated building, full kitchen, mattresses on floor, tables and chairs, bathroom/showers, fire circle, picnic area, use of amphitheater, and access to Tree House. 6 parking spaces Cabin 2 includes an enclosed heated building, full kitchen, mattresses on floor, tables and chairs, bathroom/showers, fire circle, picnic area, and access to Tree House. 10 parking spaces BBQ, fire circle, picnic area, shares indoor bathroom/showers and parking with lodge. Cement seating, lighting for stage and seating, back-stage area; must be reserved with Level 1 Lodge. Shares bathroom and parking with level 1. Fully equipped art center with program kits, art supplies and outdoor space for art programs. Cost also includes staff facilitator. Shares bathroom and parking with Level day use only N/A 80 day use only N/A 160 day use only N/A 80 day use only N/A N/A 24 day use only N/A Ellen Browning Scripps Nature Center (Level 2) Groce Family Tree House Outdoor space for nature and science programs. Cost includes staff facilitator. Shares bathroom and parking with Level day use only N/A Six levels, each with its own unique features. 25 N/A 7

10 Facility Description/Notes Balboa Campus: Balboa Park cont. Day Use Capacity Overnight Capacity Adventure Zone Certified staff engages your group in team building activities, low elements, and a 40-ft climbing wall. Two hour sessions for Brownies and older (excludes climbing tower) and 4 hour sessions for Juniors and older (includes climbing tower) are available. Min. 10 Max. 20 N/A Archery Available M-F until 5 p.m. and Sun. after 2 p.m. 32 N/A Escondido Program Center: Kit Carson Park Center Facility 10 shared parking spots; must bring in additional port-a-potties to accommodate 120 for day use. 120 total at any time (45 lodge; 27 tent) 72 Lodge Tent Sites Archery Mattresses on floor, kitchenette, bathrooms/showers, outdoor cooking and fire ring. Shares refrigerator, bathroom/showers, outdoor charcoal grill cooking and fire ring with lodge. Covered porch, shared use between lodge and tent campers. Available M-F until 5 p.m. and Sun. after 2 p.m N/A North Coastal Service Center: Carlsbad Center Facility Conference Room Large parking lot in industrial complex. Meeting space 46 N/A 8

11 Facility Camp Winacka: Julian Description/Notes Day Use Capacity Overnight Capacity Center Facility 55 shared parking spaces Lodges: Meadow Vista Oak Knoll Lodge refers to an enclosed cabin with heat, restrooms, fireplace and mattresses on the floor. Cooking can be done either indoors or on sheepherder stoves, depending on the site. Sleeps 24; kitchen with stove, oven and microwave; mattresses on floor Sleeps 24; kitchen with stove, oven and microwave; mattresses on floor Shady Glen Sleeps 36; mattresses on floor Mountain View Sleeps 36; mattresses on floor Rustic Cabins: Morning Side Hideaway Hilltop Rocky Ridge Primitive Camping Primitive Tent Site Kitchen and Dining Area GEICO Reception Center Environmental Center Pool Archery Challenge Course Rustic Cabins are enclosed cabins or canvas sided buildings with bunks and access to a separate bathroom and sheepherder stoves, no heat or electricity Sleeps 38; 4 cabins of 8 beds, 1 cabin of 6 beds; screened open air cabin, each side of cabin houses 4 people with separate access. Sleeps 38; 4 cabins of 8 beds, 1 cabin of 6 beds; screened open air cabin Sleeps 48; 6 cabins of 8 beds; canvas sided, wooden floor and roof Sleeps 40; 5 cabins of 8 beds; wooden cabins with shutters Primitive Camping includes barbeques, tables and port-a-potties. There is no running water. Picnic table, port-a-potty, fire ring, BBQ, tent space; no water on site. Industrial full-sized kitchen (must have appropriate training). Used for encampments and large groups only* Computers for adult use, phone, restroom, camp information board Outdoor space, program kits and ideas for exploring nature At Camp Winacka, available June thru 2 nd week in October. Lifeguard required. Shared by Camp Winacka and Camp Whispering Oaks, available M-F until 5 p.m. and Sun. after 2 p.m. Shared at Camp Winacka and Camp Whispering Oaks, subject to availability N/A 28 N/A 43 N/A 96 N/A 32 N/A 32 N/A

12 Facility Description/Notes Camp Whispering Oaks: Julian Day Use Capacity Overnight Capacity Center Facility 44 shared parking spaces Modern Cabins: Black Oak Engleman Oak Live Oak Tent Sites: Site 1 Site 2 Site 3 Kitchen and Dining Area Archery Challenge Course Modern Cabins with heat and electricity, restrooms, refrigerator and shared program shelter. Cooking can be done on propane or sheepherder stoves (no barbeques provided). 3 cabins of 16 campers each; 1 room with 4 beds 3 cabins of 16 campers each; 1 room with 4 beds 3 cabins of 16 campers each; 1 room with 4 beds Tent Areas barbeque, tables and porta-potty. Sleeps 24; has fire ring, port-a-potty, running water 2 sheepherder stoves Sleeps 20; has fire ring, port-a-potty, running water 2 sheepherder stoves Shares port-a-potty with tent site 2, running water, 1 sheepherder stove Industrial full-sized kitchen (must have appropriate training). Used for encampments and large groups only* Shared by Camp Winacka and Camp Whispering Oaks, available M-F until 5 p.m. and Sun. after 2 p.m. Shared by Camp Winacka and Camp Whispering Oaks, subject to availability. 16 per cabin 16 per cabin 16 per cabin 16 per cabin 16 per cabin 16 per cabin N/A 32 N/A 32 N/A *See Let s Cook under Training Requirements (page 3) 10

13 Additional Resources: Camp Winacka and Camp Whispering Oaks Ropes Course: (fall 2013) Camp Winacka and Camp Whispering Oaks shared challenge course offers low and high ropes course designed to enhance leadership, teamwork, and problem solving skills, and improve communication, cooperation, support, trust. Participants will learn to think creatively and critically, develop climbing skills and participate in the ultimate challenge through Girl Scouts San Diego ropes course program. Challenge Course A challenge course is a series of mental challenges and physical obstacles that help to build: Team Building Team building is an organizational practice that improves team effectiveness through cooperation, trust and communication. Programs are customized to fit the specific needs of each group. Low Ropes Course Explore and recognize the benefits of highly effective teams and team building. Groups will experience enhanced cooperation, communication and appreciation for individual strengths and differences. Trust Support Integrity Self Awareness Communication Group Acceptance Group Cooperation Personal Confidence Problem Solving Skills Leadership Development High Ropes Course Take your group to a higher level by utilizing elements that are 30 feet in the air. Participants use ropes and harnesses to negotiate the course as well as a 300 foot zip line. Our high ropes course can be used in conjunction with our low ropes course or as a stand-alone team building experience. Participants must be in second grade (Brownie Girl Scouts) and older to participate in the low element course. Participants must be 4 th grade (Junior Girl Scouts) and older to participate in the high element course, including zip line. The course is available to rent during September to May, weather permitting. Ropes Course Instructors Our Ropes Course Instructors are highly trained and qualified to lead your group through the ropes course tailored to your group goals. Fees include area rental, equipment usage, and facilitator costs. All ropes course reservations require two trained council facilitators. The course is designed to offer progressive challenges to girls year after year. Each session is designed with games, problem solving initiatives, and select course elements based on age and ability of group to work together on each progressive challenge. Encampment directors will work with Girl Scout camp staff to ensure that course scheduling and usage best meets the needs of your particular group. Factors that affect scheduling include number of girls, age of participants, program priorities and desired outcomes. 11

14 Balboa Campus: Balboa Park Lodge Camping (indoors) Unit: Sleeps: Parking Spaces: Notes: Level (more on main level) Mattresses on floor Level Mattresses on floor Level Mattresses on floor Subtotal: Tent Camping 93 lodge campers Unit: Sleeps: Parking Spaces: Notes: Level Shares bathroom and kitchen with lodge campers Level Shares bathroom and kitchen with lodge campers Subtotal: 72 tent campers Day Use Total Subtotal: Additional Users: day users Type: Lodge Camping 93 Tent Camping 72 Notes: Day Users 150 Total: 315 Upper level must be reserved to accommodate 150 day users Capacity: 12

15 Escondido Program Center: Kit Carson Park Lodge Camping (indoors) Unit: Sleeps: Parking Spaces: Notes: Lodge Mattresses on floor (49) Subtotal: 45 lodge campers Tent Camping Unit: Sleeps: Parking Spaces: Notes: Tenting Shares bathroom and kitchen with lodge campers Subtotal: 27 tent campers Day Use Subtotal: Additional Users: day users Notes: Port-a-potties must be brought (at the expense of the user group) to accommodate additional users. One potty per 15 additional users. Total Type: Capacity: Lodge Camping 45 Tent Camping 27 Day Users 48 Total:

16 Camp Winacka: Julian Lodge Camping Unit: Sleeps: Parking Spaces: Notes: Oak Knoll to share Has kitchen with stove, oven & microwave; mattresses on floor Meadow Vista to share Has kitchen with stove, oven & microwave; mattresses on floor Shady Glen to share Mattresses on floor Mountain View Male Housing Subtotal: Rustic Cabins lodge campers 55 to share 55 to share Mattresses on floor Has separate bathroom Unit: Sleeps: Parking Spaces: Notes: Hilltop to share 6 cabins of 8 campers each; canvas sides, wooden floor and roof Morning Side to share 4 cabins of 8 campers each; 1 cabin for 6 campers; screened open air cabins Rocky Ridge to share 5 cabins for 8 campers each; wooden cabins with shutters 55 to share 4 cabins for 8 campers each; 1 cabin Hideaway 38 for 6 campers; screened open air cabins Subtotal: 164 tent campers Day Use Total Subtotal: Additional Users: day users Type: Notes: Lodge Camping 122 Rustic Cabin Camping 164 Day Users 174 Total: Meals may be difficult as lodge can only seat 240 people Capacity: 200 (overnight maximum) Primitive tent site (no facilities or running water) available at Lower Lake for experienced campers; call resource center for details. 14

17 Camp Whispering Oaks: Julian Lodge Camping Unit: Sleeps: Parking Spaces: Notes: Black Oak to share 3 cabins of 16 campers each, 1 room with 4 beds Engleman Oak to share 3 cabins of 16 campers each, 1 room with 4 beds Live Oak to share 3 cabins of 16 campers each, 1 room with 4 beds Subtotal: Tent Camping 163 lodge campers Unit: Sleeps: Parking Spaces: Notes: Site to share Has fire ring, port-a-potty, running water, sheepherder s stove Site to share Has fire ring, port-a-potty, running water, sheepherder s stove Site to share Shares port-a-potty with tent site 2, funning water, sheepherder s stove Subtotal: 56 tent campers Day Use Total Subtotal: Additional Users: day users Type: Notes: Lodge Camping 163 Tent Camping 56 Day Users 175 Total: 394 Meals may be difficult as lodge can only seat 160 people Capacity: 15

18 Location 1231 Upas Street, San Diego, CA Facility Description Located in the northwest corner of Balboa Park, the Balboa Campus serves as our council headquarters and includes a resource center, council store, meeting rooms, program space, lodges, tent camping, amphitheater, Art Center, Nature Center, Adventure Zone, Tree House and staff offices. Entrance gates to each lodge level are located on Richmond Street. Both winterized lodges and grounds for tent camping are available for troop or group camping as well as for large service unit events. Levels are secured through tall fencing and locked gates. For meeting and program space, we offer the Leadership Center, which includes four rooms separated by portable walls and a kitchenette. Florence Burnham Hall offers additional meeting space and a full kitchen. These are available for day use only. Brick lodges on levels one and two are heated with flush toilets and hot showers. Kitchens are equipped with an electric stove and oven, microwave and two refrigerators. There is no cooking of raw meat indoors per City of San Diego. Grills are provided for cooking or groups should pre-cook meat prior to visiting the site. Inside features include a fireplace, mattresses, tables and chairs. Cleaning supplies, toilet paper, brooms and mops are provided. The outside fire ring, flagpole and flag are shared with tent campers. Tenting areas on levels one and two share indoor bathrooms and one refrigerator with lodge campers. Barbecues and a fire ring are available for cooking. The fire rings are shared with lodge campers for campfire programs. Sheltered fireplaces for cooking in inclement weather are available on the Level 1 and 2 porches. Please use charcoal only in the barbecues. Safe Foot Paths Use stairs between all levels rather than the road for the safest pathway. The road should only be traveled by vehicle. Use the main level Richmond Street exit when traveling off property by foot as to avoid traffic in the parking areas. Tours Self-guided tours are available of the Balboa Campus and the surrounding facilities. For information or to arrange a self-guided tour for a troop/group, contact the resource center property assistant at (619) or property reservations@sdgirlscouts.org. Parking The main parking lot is on the upper level. Spaces for a limited number of cars are available on each of the cabin levels. Overflow cars should be parked on the upper level lot after gear is unloaded. All cars parked on cabin levels must back in so that the lots can be evacuated quickly in an emergency. Activity Ideas San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park museums, theaters, Space Theatre and Science Center, International Houses of Pacific Relations, the Arboretum, Florida Canyon Nature Preserve, other downtown attractions. 16

19 Level 1 Amphitheater The outdoor amphitheater features concrete seating, lighting for stage area; must be reserved with lodge on Level 1 Sandy Brue Art Center Located on Level 1, the art center features art supplies, program kits and outdoor space with tables and chairs to tap into your creative side. See Balboa Campus Activities Guide for more information and a list of program kits available. Level 2 Ellen Browning Scripps Nature Center Located on Level 2, the nature center offers outdoor space, program kits and ideas for exploring the natural setting of our property at Balboa Park. See Balboa Campus Activities Guide for more information and a list of program kits available. Level 3 Adventure Zone Team-focused games, initiatives, low elements. Girl Scout Juniors and up can tackle a 40-foot climbing wall. The aim of many of the activities is to allow the individual to see themselves and their team as increasingly capable and competent. By paying close attention to progression, and starting with ground games and initiatives, groups and individuals feel confident graduating to activities which involve some physical emotional risk. By sharing individual successes and setbacks with a supportive team, participants gain self-esteem, and practice working successfully in a large group. Groce Family Tree House Located on Level 3, the tree house is a multi-level program area offering participants a unique space for a troop meeting, doing badge work or just exploring. Children must be supervised at all times. Fran Styles Archery Range Located on Level 3, the archery range can be used with a certified archery instructor. 17

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21 Location 3050 Las Palmas, Escondido, CA Facility Description Located in the heart of Kit Carson Park, the Escondido Program Center offers a range of services to North County volunteers as well as an additional camping site for the council. Best suited for troop or group overnight and day camping, the building is winterized for beginning campers, and the grounds behind the building offers space to tent camp. The facility is secured through fencing and locked gates and is patrolled by the local police department. The site offers a centrally heated wooden lodge with flush toilets and hot showers, inside fireplace, mattresses on floor, tables and chairs. Kitchen is equipped with a refrigerator; one electric stove top (no oven) and one small microwave oven. Cleaning supplies, rake, shovel, broom and mops are provided. A back porch with canvas sides is available for group use. Before use, adults should perform a safety check that playground equipment is sound, and that loosefill material on ground is evenly distributed. Shared outdoor space includes a fire ring, barbecue and eight picnic tables for 56 people, playground, flagpole and amphitheater that seats 85. Archery equipment is also available for use on site. Tent campers share indoor bathroom with cabin campers. A refrigerator, barbecue and two picnic tables are available for each of the three tent areas. Parking There is limited parking inside the fence of the program center. When this lot is full, cars may be parked in the large public parking lot adjoining the program center. Be sure to keep the gate locked at all times. Activity Ideas The San Diego Zoo Safari Park, the arboretum and hiking trails in Kit Carson Park, North County Fair Shopping Mall, the Ostrich Ranch, the San Pasqual Battlefield, Bates Nut Farm, hiking in the San Deiguito River Park, fishing or aquatic activities at Lake Hodges and Pinery Tree Farm, Escondido Park Rangers from the Lake Dixon Ranger Station can be contacted at (760) to give a nature talk. 19

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23 Location 4949 Pine Hills Road, Julian, CA Elevation 4,000 Feet Facility Description Camp Whispering Oaks is located in San Diego County near the mountain town of Julian. It is comprised of 58 acres of varying terrain in the Cuyamaca Mountains with cabin and tent camping facilities. Warm and dry during the summer, warm days and cool nights in the spring and fall; it can be cold and snowy during the winter. Camping here affords the opportunity to experience all four seasons. A lodge with a fireplace, dining tables and a full kitchen is located near the entrance of the facility. The lodge is available for program activity by troops; however, the kitchen must be additionally reserved. A paved play court is located just below the lodge. Additionally, an irrigated play field is available for program usage. Equipment for sports and games is available in the sports shed adjacent to the red ball field. A shared flagpole is located adjacent to the ball field. Playground structures are located near Engleman Oak and Live Oak. Adults must supervise girls use of playground. Before use, adults should perform a safety check that playground equipment is sound, and that loose-fill material on ground is evenly distributed. Seasonally, a small pond may be available for environmental activity; dependent upon rainfall. Program decks adjacent to tent site #1 are a great location for nature activities or stargazing. An amphitheater able to seat 200 girls is available for ceremonies, campfires and performances. Smaller troop size fire rings are located in tent sites one and two. Camp Whispering Oaks shares a challenge course and archery range, trained facilitators are required for use. Check In/Out All users must check in and out with the on-duty camp ranger. The on-duty ranger can be contacted through the walkie-talkie box in each program shelter. She/he will give you keys if you need them and answer any questions about the site. The ranger does live on site so please respect his/her home and privacy. Parking There is a designated parking area at Camp Whispering Oaks. This area is located on the southeast side of the main road beyond the health facility. All vehicles must be backed into parking spaces for emergency evacuation. Vehicles may only be parked near cabins for loading/unloading and emergency purposes. Communication Units are equipped with a walkie-talkie box that communicates with the portable walkie-talkies. You cannot call another unit s built in walkie-talkie. A ranger will be available by walkie-talkie day or night. 21

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25 Location 4720 Boulder Creek Road, Julian, CA Elevation 3,800 Feet Facility Description Camp Winacka is located in San Diego County near the mountain town of Julian. It is comprised of 625 acres of varying terrain in the Cuyamaca Mountains with two small lakes, cabin and rustic camping facilities. Warm and dry during the summer, it can be cold and snowy during the winter. The GEICO Reception Center Located in the parking lot of camp; offers a place for troops and groups to meet up and rest before heading to their sleeping quarters. There are restrooms and camp maps located in this building. This is a great place for groups to check-in for encampments. The lodge, located in the center of camp, is a covered and enclosed space with retractable canvas walls. It offers a fireplace, small stage, dining tables and a full, industrial-sized kitchen which is available with an additional reservation. There is a flagpole near the lodge for shared use. A flag and sashes are available. A shared campfire ring seats 245 people and is located near the upper lake. Each unit site (except Oak Knoll and Meadow Vista) has a campfire ring for use of those troops assigned to the unit. An observation tower is located on the hill behind Morningside unit; the tower is a good hike destination. Picnic tables and port-a-potty are on site. Adults must supervise girls activities at the observation tower. A beautiful tent site at lower lake is available for primitive tent camping. Picnic tables, a barbecue, fire ring, a port-a-potty and spaces for tents are provided. There is no water available on site. Arrangements for keys must be made with on-site ranger. Parking is limited and several hundred feet from campsite. Camp Winacka shares a challenge course and archery range, trained facilitators are required for use. Groups can explore nature in the Environmental Center. Canoeing and lake exploration is available at the lake located near the campfire ring. Check In/Out All users must check in and out with the on-duty camp ranger. The on-duty ranger is located at the GEICO Reception Center, and does live on-site so please respect his/her home privacy. Luggage Service A member of the property staff is on-duty from 2-8 p.m. on Friday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays to transport your gear to Hilltop, Morningside, Hideaway or Rocky Ridge. Unload your cars into the bin marked for your area. Hand-pushed luggage carts are also available to transport gear. There is a limit of one truckload per troop or per unit for encampments. Parking Five paved areas plus two gravel overflow parking areas (70 spaces) are designated for parking; one at the main gate, one in front of the GEICO Reception Center, two close to Meadow Vista and one near the lodge. Vehicles must be backed into parking spaces. In order to minimize impact on the meadow, no private vehicles are allowed on dirt roads. 23

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27 Swimming Pool Located at Camp Winacka, adjacent to the lodge. It s available for use with proper supervision. See Safety Activity Checkpoints for the lifeguard and swim watcher ratios. Must be specifically reserved, keys can be picked up from the ranger. Pool is open June 1 thru the second weekend in October. Challenge Course A low - high ropes course is available for reservation Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for Camp Whispering Oaks campers and Saturdays from 1 to 5 p.m. for Camp Winacka campers. Sundays are negotiable. Groups must use a certified ropes course instructor. A first aider and first aid kit must be present. Keys can be picked up from the ranger. See page 13 for more details. Hiking There are several hiking trails laid out for your enjoyment. Maps are available. All trails are clearly marked. Dehr Creek Trail This trail is a 9/10-mile loop trail. A trail map can be found at the reception center. Lakes Lower Lake is a delightful, serene hiking destination; a place to do nature study, write poetry or have a Girl Scouts Own. Upper Lake is near Camp Winacka s campfire ring. Exploration of the shores can be a fun and educational activity. Because the water is not clear, swimming is not allowed in either lake. Observation Tower Located on the hill behind Monringside Unit, the tower is a good hike destination. A picnic table and port-a-potty are available on site. Adults must monitor all activities at the observation tower for safety purposes. Environmental Center Located behind the Oak Knoll unit. The environmental center offers outdoor space, program kits and ideas for exploring the natural setting of our property. Sports Equipment and Play Field Both a grass field and a hard court are available at Camp Whispering Oaks. The equipment is stored in a nearby shed, and is available based on the honor system. Please make a note on your Property/Equipment Damage Report if the sports equipment gets damaged. Water Play Located at Camp Whispering Oaks, this area can be fun on a hot day! Misters in an open pavilion provide a great place for cooling down. 25

28 All groups using Girl Scouts San Diego property are advised to have the following with them: Roster listing name, address and emergency contact information for all participants. Listing of all participants with known allergies/health conditions and activity restrictions, or other accommodations. Signed permission to seek emergency treatment for all minors. Alcohol and Drugs Alcohol is the most abused drug among youth in the United States. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted on Girl Scout owned or operated sites at Girl Scout-sponsored activities. Any ALL ADULT non-girl Scout groups planning to serve alcohol must obtain written approval in advance. Recreational drugs of any kind are prohibited. Animals Site users and temporary staff may not bring dogs, cats or other pets onto council property with the exception of service animals. Pets belonging to full-time staff must be under control and on a 6 leash whenever site users are present. Earthquake In the event of an earthquake, move quickly away from buildings, utility poles and power lines. Do not re-enter any building until permission is received from site staff or authorities. If you are inside during an earthquake, stand in a doorway or under a heavy piece of furniture such as a desk or bed. Stay away from windows. Cover your head and neck with your arms in a crouching position. Electrical Storm Lightning will seek tall objects, so stay away from lone trees, drinking fountains and hilltops. Seek shelter under a low clump of trees, in a building or automobile. Don t hold a radio or cell phone, especially one with an antenna. Downed power lines are extremely dangerous. Stay clear and don t touch them. Do not touch a victim who is in contact with a downed power line. Contact the event director or property staff if there are any electrical problems. Do not try to put out an electrical fire with water. All sites are equipped with fire extinguishers. Emergency Transportation At least one vehicle in operational order must remain available at all times. This vehicle must not be used for other jobs and must always have enough fuel to reach primary emergency locations. Evacuation The event director must determine an emergency signal and designated meeting spot in advance, and communicate this information to all adults in pre-event materials. A typical signal is three long blasts of a car horn or air horn, repeated until everyone has gathered. A typical meeting place is a camp flag pole. Upon hearing the emergency signal, each troop or unit will gather immediately and proceed together to the designated meeting spot. There, the event director or designated person will conduct a head count and communicate further instructions. If it is necessary to immediately evacuate camp, campers will be loaded into every available vehicle and shuttled to a safety zone designated by the event director. Drivers may need to make more than one round trip. Other than medically necessary items, belongings are left behind. A practice emergency drill should be held as soon as practical once most participants have arrived. 26

29 Fire If inside a building, pull the fire alarm immediately. If you are outside, send runners to sound the alarm. Report the size, location and nature of the fire to an adult in charge or the local authorities by calling 911. The adults in charge are responsible for conducting a fire drill with campers the first day of any program on Girl Scouts San Diego property. Firearms, Hazardous Materials and Equipment Firearms, air guns, weapons, ammunition or explosives are not allowed on council properties at any time. If you bring tools of any kind (power or hand), flammable liquids such as gasoline, paint thinner, etc., please notify council staff so materials can be in locked storage when not in use. These materials should be used only by individuals who are trained and experienced in their use. First Aid Supplies and Equipment Girl Scouts San Diego does not supply these items. All troops must supply their own first aid/cpr trained adult and first aid kit to camp. First aiders must be trained by a nationally recognized provider of training. See Volunteer Essentials Chapter 4 for requirements. Food Safety 1. Food shall be stored in appropriate food storage areas. Food should not be stored on the floor. Food should be stored at a temperature range of degrees Fahrenheit for as short a time as possible. 2. Smoking is not permitted in any food preparation or serving area. 3. Garbage containers in the kitchen and dining areas shall be kept covered except when in continuous use. 4. All dishes shall be scraped clear of food particles. 5. Dishes shall be washed using the three-sink method (hot soap water wash, hot clear water rinse, boiling water rinse or chemical disinfectant rinse). All dishes shall be air-dried. Clean and sanitize all food contact surfaces after each use. 6. All food service utensils shall be returned to the appropriate storage location to protect them from dust and contamination between uses. Only clean and sanitized utensils and equipment should be used for food preparation. 7. Temperature of refrigerators should be monitored daily and recorded on the chart posted. Temperatures should be no higher than 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Notify council staff of any problems. 8. The kitchen shall be cleaned according to instructions provided before leaving the site. Intruders Discuss with campers what to do if they see a stranger around camp: tell all adults. If an intruder/stranger appears non-threatening, an adult should ask, May I help you? and direct them offsite if necessary. if they have camp business, the adult should contact staff or the encampment director for an escort. Contact 911, staff, encampment director and/or facility manager immediately if a prowler is spotted. Care for children who are frightened by prowler (real or imagined) by listening to fears and reassuring them. Do not dismiss fears. Kitchen Rules Most kitchens have basic cooking utensils, pots and pans. Equipment may be used and should be washed, dried and stored appropriately. At Balboa there is no cooking of raw meat indoors per City of San Diego permitting regulations. A certified cook is required when cooking for large groups, consult resident camp specialist for information. 27

30 Lost or Missing Camper In the event a camper is missing, immediately notify the adult in charge. The adult in charge should have a communication plan to notify other adults as needed to look for the child, including in other groups, in sleeping bags, bathrooms, dining areas, etc. Try to involve as few people as possible at first. Please try to keep all other campers together so more adults can search for the missing child. Any searchers under 18 should use the buddy system. If camper is not found after 15 minutes, call 911. Notify a council representative at this time. Continue searching for lost camper. After emergency personnel arrive, council staff (or designated adult) should notify parents or guardians. Complete an Accident/Incident report form documenting your procedures. Have all parties involved provided a written description of the search efforts and send to program manager by the next day. Major Injuries and Accidents If you are the adult or first aider at the scene: 1. Do not rush or panic. Count to ten and evaluate the overall situation. 2. Take charge. Be firm and clear with your instructions to campers. Use a calm tone of voice. 3. The adult with the highest level of certification is delegated the responsibility to aid injured parties. Give priority attention to caring for the needs of the victim. 4. Delegate another adult to ensure safety of the other children by taking them away from the immediate scene and organizing singing, games and other activities. 5. If it is a large group event; contact the director and/or health supervisor as quickly as possible. 6. Once the director/health supervisor arrives at the scene, summarize the situation and answer questions. That person will take charge. 7. Assign someone to call the council office to report a major emergency, (866) ; the answer service will assist you. Remain by the phone for a return call. 8. Be sure to accurately fill out the Accident/Incident report soon after the event. (See Necessary paperwork section for more information.) Report emergencies and near misses even if no injury resulted. 9. If contacted by the media, indicate as pleasantly as possible that the reporter must speak to the council spokesperson that can provide more complete and accurate information. 10. Make one phone call to the group s in-town contact. 11. Assist in completing the Accident/Incident report. Restricted Areas Stay on marked trails and roads at all times to avoid falls, poison oak and to prevent erosion and disturbance to plant life. Stay out of buildings not assigned to your troop/group. Sleeping Arrangements Where beds are provided, they are placed to meet health department and fire marshal standards. In situations where mats are placed on the floor, please remember there is no head-to-head sleeping. All mats should be placed 30 apart with an aisle separating rows of mats. All participants must sleep in their own bed. Smoking Due to possible fire hazards, there are very limited smoking areas on our property. Information on designated smoking areas will be included in confirmation packets. It is never acceptable to smoke in the presence of Girl Scouts. 28

31 Supervision All troops or groups must provide their own qualified adult supervision of youth, according to ratios found in Volunteer Essentials and the Safety Activity Checkpoints. Valuables and Belongings Groups are discouraged from bringing valuables, including electronics, personal sports equipment, etc. Waterfront Rules Swimming is allowed only when the Camp Winacka pool is open and only under the supervision of an adult (18 years or older) holding current lifeguard certification and CPR and First Aid certifications. There will be one lifeguard (over 18 years of age) for every 25 swimmers. One adult (over 18 years old) watcher is required per every 10 swimmers. For swimmers, one of the lifeguards must be an adult (the other can be 16 years or older). All waterfront personnel must be out of the water supervising swimmers. Lifeguards are responsible for sharing Camp Winacka pool rules with all swimmers. Adults renting the pool are also responsible for going over swimming rules with minors prior to using the swimming pool. The buddy system should be used to account for swimmers. One head lifeguard will be in charge of all other lifeguards and watchers while at the swimming pool. Supervising staff should be familiar with emergency waterfront procedures. Waterfront Emergencies In the event of a serious accident (especially involving a head/neck injury or loss of consciousness) please clear swimming pool immediately. The lifeguard in charge will give instructions regarding emergency procedures. Call 911 immediately. Once the victim has been transported, you must complete an Accident/Incident report and submit to the program manager. Weather & Hazardous Conditions Renters are reminded they are renting exposed sites which are subject to changing weather conditions. The council reserves the right to cancel reservations due to hazardous site conditions, or other conditions beyond its control. In such cases, all fees will be refunded. 29

32 Animals Bats If close indoor contact with bats is experienced during Girl Scout activity, Girl Scouts and volunteers should remove themselves from the space or building and notify camp staff for resolution. This may often mean opening doors and windows and turning off interior lights allowing the bat/s to exit the structure. If bats continue to enter the structure, the activity should be abandoned until an inspection can determine the route of entry and the deficiency corrected. If adult volunteers suspect bats living in buildings or camp structures, activities should be abandoned until an inspection determines otherwise or corrective action is taken. If physical contact is made with bats the council should be notified as well as the County Health Department for future guidance. Depending on circumstances, medical attention or further evaluation may be needed. The bat/s in question should be captured if possible by camp staff for rabies testing by the County Health Department. Girl Scouts and adult volunteers should not attempt capture. Bees 1. Remove the stinger if present. Scrape it out with a credit card or finger nail 2. Wash stings with soap and water 3. Apply an ice pack for five to fifteen minutes. Be careful not to freeze the skin 4. Treat swelling by elevating the swollen body part above the heart If the victim begins to have any of the following symptoms CALL Difficulty breathing Dry hacking cough Swelling and itching about the eyes Sense of constriction in throat or chest Massive rash Sneezing and wheezing Sense of uneasiness Mosquitoes Wear long sleeves, long pants, socks and closed shoes. Use repellants on exposed skin when in an area where mosquitoes are present. Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn, April through October. Wetlands and marshes are prime mosquito locations. Although mosquitoes can carry West Nile Virus, it is rare in San Diego and Imperial Counties. Please report any dead birds seen on trail or around camp to camp ranger. Rattlesnakes Most bites occur when people try to handle a snake. Snakes naturally defend themselves when cornered or surprised. They do not go out hunting for humans to bite! Never step or reach into holes, behind or under logs, etc., where you cannot see. Don t walk barefoot where snakes are found, especially after dark. Snakes can be more easily seen on the trail than under brush. Stay on the trail! Hikers in front of the line should say FREEZE! and point at a snake on the trail to alert the other hikers. If bitten: 1. Keep the victim calm 2. Transport to medical care as soon as possible 3. If bite is on an arm or leg, keep bitten area below level of heart 4. Do not apply a tourniquet 5. Do not apply ice or cool the wound 6. Do not attempt incision and suction 7. If bitten in a rural area, immobilize the bitten part and walk out slowly 8. Care for shock 30