CAMP BRAVE TRAILS FAQ

Who can apply for Camp Brave Trails?

Camp Brave Trails is designed for youth ages 12-17, who identify as LGBTQ+, questioning, or an ally. Camp Brave Trails is not an ordinary camp, we are mix between a leadership institute and a summer camp. We welcome youth who have great interest in leadership skill development, activism, and creating a kinder, more just world. Campers of varying leadership levels are welcome to apply, as long as they are eager and enthusiastic to learn. We welcome out-of-state and international campers.

What should we expect while at camp?

• A welcoming LGBTQ+ inclusive space that respects all identities and pronouns.

• Emphasis on leadership skill development, learning, personal growth, and identity exploration.

• A highly social environment with ample community time and opportunities for camper bonding; expect a lively and proud atmosphere.

• Immersed in nature! Both of our sites provide rustic forests, majestic mountain terrains, and expansive grassy fields.

• An electronics-free experience, encouraging campers to unplug and create more friendships and memories.

• Fostering independence: Campers are encouraged to spread their wings and make their own decisions.

• Engaging social justice and leadership workshops that both challenge and inspire campers.

• A strong expectation of maturity, kindness, consent, and compassion among all participants.

locationS

We gladly welcome out-of-state and international campers. For safety, only registered families will receive the exact camp address.

• Our California camp is located outside of Riverside County.

• Our Pennsylvania camp is located in Southeastern Pennsylvania.

Please Note: both of our locations for summer 2025 are new camp locations.

application process

Camp Brave Trails utilizes a camper admission process that mirrors the approach of college admissions. Every prospective camper, whether new or returning, must complete our application and participate in a video interview before receiving formal acceptance to the camp. This process serves the purpose of getting to know the camper and ensuring their readiness for a program focused on leadership development and social impact.

All campers will record themselves responding to interview questions available in the camper application portal and then upload the link to their video. The video does not need to be polished or elaborate, and its sophistication will not affect the chances of admission.

Upon the submission of the camper's application, video, and a $5 application fee, our interview committee will review these materials. Subsequently, we will inform you if your camper has been admitted in one of our monthly admissions waves, placed on a waitlist for a future wave, or encouraged to reapply next year. Admissions waves occur on the first of every month until we reach capacity.

Our interview committee actively seeks campers from diverse backgrounds and various leadership levels who share an interest in creating positive change within their communities and the world. We understand that the application and video interview may make some campers nervous, and that's absolutely fine. Nervousness indicates a camper's commitment and passion, which are essential aspects of leadership!

Please note that not all applicants will be admitted to Camp Brave Trails. Our camp is specifically designed to focus on leadership development rather than being solely a social camp. We look for campers who are genuinely enthusiastic about activism, eager to acquire leadership skills, and committed to building a LGBTQ+ community. Financial need will not affect a camper's eligibility for admission. Campers are selected by a diverse committee consisting of volunteer staff and camp alumni.

Camper Selection Committee

UNICORN JUSTICE LEAGUE PROGRAM DETAILS

The Unicorn Justice League (UJL) initiative was established with the aim of nurturing exceptional campers into future community leaders. While UJLs remain part of the camper community, they will assume additional responsibilities, tackle challenging tasks, and have the privilege of being mentored by our most accomplished Brave Trails staff members. As their time in the UJL program progresses, we aspire to equip them with the skills, values, and determination necessary to embody the Brave Trails Mission and embrace the spirit of #MakeItLikeCamp all year long.

The Unicorn Justice League is a one year, invitation only program for campers age 17. Campers who have demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities, as recognized by their cabin counselors and other camp staff, will be extended an invitation to apply by the Brave Trails leadership team on November 1st. These invited applicants will respond to UJL-related questions, which will be carefully reviewed by a former UJL leader. Upon the review of their application video, campers will receive an invitation to join the program. For those campers not selected for the UJL program, they still have the option to return for their final year at camp as a regular camper.

Upon successful completion of the UJL program and a growth year, campers will have the opportunity to apply for positions on the camp staff before reaching the age of 21. It is important to note that completing the UJL program does not automatically guarantee a staff position in the future. UJL graduates must undergo the same application, interview, and qualification assessment process as any other staff applicant.

Bunking at camp

Campers stay in cozy, bunk style cabins along with 9-10 peers of the same age group and two adult counselors for support and safety. We divide campers into cabin groups by age; we never divide campers by gender. There are plenty of bathrooms and shower houses, complete with privacy for maximum comfort. Our staff intentionally work to create a nurturing, homey, and festive environment where new and returning campers can easily bond and create lifelong friendships!

camp food

All meals and snacks are included in tuition. Our kitchen staff takes pride in delivering nutritious meals that keep our campers going throughout the day. Campers enjoy three balanced meals per day, along with snacks and special treats! We gladly accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free diets, but require proper notice for appropriate planning. If your camper has a serious food allergy or aversion that you feel may impact their camp experience, please call a director to discuss further. We are NOT a nut or allergen free campus. All meal will be prepared in the same kitchen and prep spaces.

Dates + Rates + Financial Assistance

To learn more about our dates, rates, and financial assistance, CLICK HERE.

our staff

Having a knowledgeable, passionate, diverse, nurturing, and super fun staff is our secret sauce! Our directors dedicate a lot of time and energy to assembling a multifaceted group of professionals to carry out our mission and give our campers the summer of a lifetime.

Every staff member at camp has undergone an extensive application, interview, and background check process. Our staff undergo a mandatory, rigorous onsite safety training before campers arrive at camp. Our team is complete with medical staff, therapists, lifeguards, teachers, working professionals, and many more experienced professionals. The average age of our staff is 27, which we are proud of as the national average age for summer camps staff is typically 20. Many staff members return to camp each summer from all around the country and even internationally.

accreditation

We are proudly accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA) and part of the Western Association of Independent Camps (WAIC). We know our LGBTQ+ youth deserve to have a top of the line summer camp experience. This is why we have committed to being a fully accredited summer camp since day one of operating. The American Camp Association (ACA) accreditation process is a commitment by camps to the highest standards of health, safety, and program quality. This means we meet over 250 standards in health, safety, staffing, training, and transportation, which are verified and inspected by the ACA on a regular basis.

The Western Association of Independent Camps (WAIC) is an organization of summer camp owners and directors, dedicated to operating excellent youth programs. On top of American Camp Association accreditation, WAIC offers us the opportunity to collaborate with independent camps across the country to ensure we are going above and beyond the status quo in providing a quality camp experience.

transportation

We offer transportation, via charter bus, to and from the closest international airport to our camp locations. Transportation spots are limited and first come, first serve. Registered campers will receive a camper handbook which will outline the exact time the camper must depart/land at the airport in order catch the camp bus. Transportation is an additional fee of $50 each way.

out of state & International campers

We gladly welcome out of state and international campers. We have welcomed campers from over 50 states and 17 different countries! A large percentage of our camper’s travel to camp. We require all international campers to have a valid passport and travelers health insurance.

Will a covid vaccination be REQUIRED to attend camp?

We urge all camp attendees and staff for the 2025 season to ensure they are fully vaccinated, including having received their COVID vaccination and up-to-date boosters. We also advise taking a rapid test 2 days before your arrival at camp. In the event that a camper exhibits COVID symptoms during their stay, they will be subjected to testing. If a camper tests positive for COVID, they will be asked to leave camp to protect the well-being of fellow campers, as our cabins are shared accommodations.

SAFETY AT CAMP

Now more than ever, the safety of Brave Trails campers is at the forefront of our planning.  

Here’s some of the ways we keep campers safe at Brave Trails:

• Confidential Camp Location: The camp’s physical address is only shared with registered camper families, and all marketing materials refer only to broad geographic areas. We also ask campers and staff to not geotag our location and to share it only with those who need to know.

• Community Screening: All campers go through a video screening process to confirm they are part of the LGBTQ+ community or are affirming allies.

• Thorough Staff Selection: Our dedicated, affirming role model staff undergo a detailed application process, which includes interviews, background checks, and reference verification.

• Extensive Safety Training: Our camp staff are rigorously trained in safety protocols, including identifying unfamiliar individuals on site and responding to potential threats using the “Run, Hide, Fight” model endorsed by national law enforcement agencies.

• Local Partnerships: We establish proactive relationships with local authorities before each camp session.

• Partnership with the FBI: We collaborate with the FBI to address any potential threats or harmful rhetoric received via email or social media.

• American Camp Association Certified: Brave Trails meets the highest industry standards as an ACA-certified camp, following all recommended best practices.

Our number one priority is the safety (both physical and emotional) of our campers.

Medical & Mental Health at Camp

Health and Well-being at Camp

At Brave Trails, we hold a deep commitment to the physical and mental well-being of each of our campers during their stay. Safety is our paramount concern, and we maintain a dedicated team of medical and mental health professionals on-site at all times. Our medical team offers essential care, first aid, and oversees the distribution and storage of medications for both campers and staff throughout their camp experience. Our mental health team provides empathetic support, offering conversations (not therapy) and encouraging campers who may require a little extra care, addressing mild emotions like homesickness and more. We take pride in nurturing campers in a LGBTQ+ affirming environment. Please note that all campers are required to have health insurance to attend camp. Any medical or mental health issues beyond basic care and first aid will be handled through local urgent care or hospital facilities.

Special Considerations for Campers with Disabilities or Mental Health Needs

If your camper has a physical disability or a mental health condition (beyond mild depression or anxiety), we encourage you to reach out to a camp director before applying. This ensures that we can be well-prepared to welcome your camper and make their experience with us as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. We find that open and detailed communication with our staff beforehand greatly enhances the camper's time at camp. All campers should be capable of independently performing essential tasks, including eating, bathing, dressing/undressing, following directions, and navigating our hilly, rustic, forest-based campsite. We are pleased to offer accommodations such as bottom bunks, activity modifications, preferred seating at camp events, and other adjustments within our capacity to support campers' unique needs.

Important Note

While the camp experience can be therapeutic and joyful, it's essential to understand that we are not a therapy camp. Campers should arrive in a stable emotional and mental state. Despite the positive and empowering nature of camp, it is both physically and emotionally demanding. We do, however, foster a mental health-positive environment, and many campers with mild to moderate anxiety, depression, or dysphoria often thrive at camp with their positive coping strategies. We encourage campers to bring prescribed medications and non-electronic coping tools like journals, sketchpads, fidget toys, or favorite books. Campers who have been hospitalized for mental health concerns should wait one full year before applying to ensure readiness for the camp experience. Camp Brave Trails should never serve as a substitute for proper mental health care.

ACCESSIBILITY AT CAMP

Inclusive Environment and Accessibility

Brave Trails places a strong emphasis on creating an inclusive environment that caters to the accessibility needs of our campers. We kindly request both campers and their caregivers to provide relevant information during the camper application process. This information is crucial for us to prepare and set up the necessary resources to effectively support your camper during their stay.

Current Accessibility Information

All of our 2025 camp locations are equipped with accessibility options to support our campers. To help us provide the best experience for your camper, please share any specific needs during the application process. We are committed to making camp enjoyable for campers of all abilities. We're also excited about our future move to a permanent location, which will allow us to expand our accessible facilities and pathways, further enhancing the inclusivity of our camp in the coming summers.

Neurodiversity

At Brave Trails, we celebrate neurodiversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all campers. Our staff and volunteers undergo neurodiversity training to ensure they can provide knowledgeable support, and we have licensed therapists on-site to offer additional assistance when needed. We thoughtfully design our activities and spaces with neurodiversity in mind, offering low-sensory areas, noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, and following a "challenge by choice" model to accommodate various needs and preferences. To best support our neurodiverse campers, we encourage families to share specific needs during the application process, allowing our inclusion team to develop personalized care plans and ensure a positive camp experience for everyone at camp.

Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or ASL Interpreter Needs

For potential campers who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or require ASL interpreters, please reach out to our team so that we can work to make the necessary accommodations with the available resources.

If you have any questions for our team, please do not hesitate to contact us via email at info@bravetrails.org.

Refund Policy

We understand that unforeseen changes can happen at any time and as such, this refund and payment policy ensures a transparent agreement between Brave Trails and the applicant, as well as their parent/legal guardian. Keep in mind that while camp starts in the summer for campers, our staff works all year long to plan and ensure campers have a safe, fun, and well organized camp experience, including: admissions, pre-camp administrative work, camp supply purchasing, camp staff vetting/hiring/training, program planning, meal planning, and much more. We start ordering supplies and hiring staff members for your camper as early as January. As such, this policy ensures a clear and fair outcome of what will follow if your camper needs to drop out of camp at any point, for any reason.

All applications must be accompanied by a $100 non-refundable deposit toward each camper’s tuition. The deposit will be charged upon the camper’s official acceptance to camp, after their camp interview. Credit card and debit card are the two forms of payment accepted by Camp Brave Trails, unless you are paying the entire amount of tuition upfront within one month of acceptance to camp or are an international camper paying via money order. Families may choose one of two payment plans upon acceptance to camp:

1. Pay in full within one month of acceptance to camp.

2. Monthly Auto-Pay Payment Plan. Payments will be automatically charged to your primary card on file on the first of every month until June 1st.

50% of tuition is due by April 15 and the full tuition amount is due by June 1. Any balance on the camper’s account on April 15th and June 1st will be automatically charged on these dates to the primary card on file. Failure to make payments on these dates will result in the loss of the campers spot and the camper will need to re-apply to camp if they still wish to attend. If you are having trouble making your payments, please communicate with a Brave Trails director at least 72 hours before the payment due date(s) and we will do our best to work with you.

If you need to cancel your camper’s enrollment at any point, you must fill out the online cancellation form with the following understanding:

– Prior to March 1st all tuition payments are refundable, minus the $100 non-refundable deposit.

– Cancellations on or after March 1st will incur a $500 administrative fee.

– Cancellations on or after April 1st will incur a $750 administrative fee.

– Cancellations on or after May 1st will incur a $1000 administrative fee.

– Cancellations on or after June 1st are non-refundable. 

There will be no fee reduction, allowances, refunds, rebates or reimbursement for absences from camp due to illness, injury, homesickness, dismissal from camp, voluntary withdrawal, no-show, late arrival, family emergencies, vacation, summer school, unexpected visits or events, unhappiness with the program, or for any other reason. There will be no fee reduction or reimbursement for changes in programming on our part. All decisions to change programming are made with the best interest of the camper’s safety and experience in mind. 

In the event that the camper is dismissed, removed, or leaves camp early for any reason (poor behavior, homesickness, illness, injury, unhappiness with the program, etc.), the camper’s parent or legal guardian is 100% financially responsible for any cost associated with exiting the camper from camp within 24 hours. The family is 100% responsible for arranging transportation, purchasing tickets (plane, bus, train etc.), and costs associated with pick-up & drop-off (airport drop-off, taxi, etc). If a Brave Trails staff member is available to provide transportation to the airport for early departure, there is a $150 staffing & mileage fee to be paid before the ride is given.