FAQs: Camp Fowler Summer Programming

When was Camp Fowler established?

Camp Fowler was originally built in 1944 as Camp Horseshoe. In 2004, Valley Youth House purchased the property and rebranded it as Camp Fowler, continuing its legacy as a place for youth to connect with nature and grow.

Who owns and operates Camp Fowler?

Camp Fowler is owned and operated by Valley Youth House, a nonprofit organization committed to ensuring every young person belongs to a nurturing community.

When is summer programming?

Camp Fowler will host seven sessions from June 24th to August 9th:

  • Session 1 (Day Camp): June 24–28

  • Session 2 (Overnight Camp): July 1–4 (No bus transportation available)

  • Session 3 (Overnight Camp): July 8–11

  • Session 4 (Day Camp): July 15–19 (No bus transportation available)

  • Session 5 – “Build Your Best School Year” (Overnight Camp): July 22–25 (Specialized for McKinney-Vento campers)

  • Session 6 (Day Camp): July 29–August 2

  • Session 7 (Day Camp): August 5–9

What are the hours of camp?

  • Day Camp: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM (Includes lunch and snack)

  • Overnight Camp: Monday 9:00 AM arrival to Thursday 1:00 PM departure (Includes all meals and snacks)

Is transportation provided?

Yes, we provide bus transportation for most sessions:

  • Bethlehem Bus: Departs at 8:15 AM (exact location TBD)

  • Allentown Bus: Departs at 8:45 AM from Trexler Middle School

Transportation Disclaimer:
Transportation is not available for Day Camp Sessions 2 and 4. Parents and guardians must provide transportation for these sessions.

What is the cost to participate?

Camp Fowler uses tiered pricing to ensure affordability for all families:

  • Over $85K Household Income: Day Camp $462 | Overnight Camp $990

  • $50K–$85K Household Income: Day Camp $277 | Overnight Camp $594

  • Under $50K Household Income: Scholarship eligible

  • Additional Details:

    • A $65 non-refundable deposit is required for each registration.

    • Scholarships require a $65 registration fee per week. Families receiving scholarships can register for up to two camp weeks. Any additional weeks must be paid in full, with payment plans available.

    • Coupons or sibling discounts are only available for non-scholarship weeks.

    • For questions about discounts, contact HRiker@valleyyouthhouse.org.

What does a typical day at camp look like? Waiting for confirmation on this but I imagine it’s pretty similar

Day Camp Schedule (Monday–Friday):

  • 8:15 AM: Bethlehem Bus Pick-Up

  • 8:45 AM: Allentown Bus Pick-Up

  • 9:00 AM: Arrival/Registration

    • Group check-ins and morning loops

  • 10:00 AM: Large group activity and rotations

  • 12:00 PM: Lunch

  • 1:00 PM: Afternoon rotations

  • 2:30 PM: Free choice time

  • 3:15 PM: Closing loop, snack, bead recognition ceremony

  • 4:00 PM: Dismissal

  • 4:20 PM: Allentown Bus Drop-Off

  • 4:40 PM: Bethlehem Bus Drop-Off

Overnight Camp Schedule (Monday–Thursday):

  • Follows a similar structure to Day Camp during the day, with evening activities like:

    • Campfires, night hikes, talent shows, night swims, and more

  • 10:30 PM: Lights Out

  • Thursday Dismissal: 1:00 PM with corresponding bus drop-offs

What types of activities are offered at Camp Fowler?

Camp activities include:

  • Swimming, gardening, STEM projects, and art

  • Team-building, high and low ropes courses, and archery

  • Creek exploration, hiking, and slip-and-slide fun

  • Sports like kickball, basketball, and soccer

What are the accommodations and facilities like?

Camp Fowler offers:

  • New, climate-controlled cabins

  • ADA-accessible swimming pool and dining hall

  • The Carter Family Center, a 5,000-square-foot facility with a STEM lab, arts lab, and flexible spaces for year-round programming

  • Additional amenities: archery range, ropes courses, sports fields, gaga pit, basketball courts, nature trails, and more.

What is the food like at Camp Fowler?

Camp Fowler provides balanced, nutritious meals served in the dining hall. We also offer a new salad bar featuring produce from our camp garden.

What is the staff-to-camper ratio?

Camp Fowler ensures at least 2 staff members for every 10 campers to maintain a safe and engaging experience.

Are there international counselors at Camp Fowler?

Yes! We welcome counselors from around the globe. This year, our team includes staff from Scotland, Nigeria, Turkey, Finland, Mexico, England, Zambia, and Uganda.

Can campers bring cell phones and other electronics?

At Camp Fowler, we have a no cell phone and electronics policy to encourage campers to fully immerse themselves in the camp experience and connect with nature and each other. This policy helps create a more authentic camp environment, where campers can focus on building relationships, participating in activities, and enjoying the outdoors without distractions. It also promotes a break from screen time, allowing campers to experience the benefits of unplugging and being present in the moment. NOTE- campers can “check-in” their phones with the Camp Director where they will be secured in a locked drawer. These campers will have limited access to communicate with family.

How can I register my child for camp?

Click here to register: http://app.campdoc.com/register/vyhcf

Who can I contact with questions?

Contact our Registration and Administrative Specialist, Hailee Riker:

What other programs does Camp Fowler offer?

Camp Fowler offers year-round programming, including:

  • Outdoor adventure education, school field trips, team-building, and retreats

  • Customized events for all ages, including adults, such as birthday parties and corporate retreats