Charging Parents: Constant Camper Contact, Worth The Cost?

The kid tax is a common surcharge that RV parks and campgrounds implement, charging families a few extra dollars per child per night. While some campgrounds include children in their pricing, others charge extra for kids over a certain age, and others still charge for any child under the age of 18. This extra charge is often justified by campground owners as a way to cover the costs of additional resources used by children, such as water, sewage, and maintenance. However, RVing families often feel that this is unfair and that their large families are being discouraged from staying at these campgrounds.

Camper's age and extra fees

Campers' ages and extra fees:

The fees for campers vary depending on their age, with some camps charging extra for older campers. For example, Camp Carolina charges a $1000 deposit, with a $250 non-refundable fee, and additional fees for airport pick-ups and drop-offs. They also recommend a spending allowance of $35 per week for each camper, which will be refunded if there is any leftover money. On the other hand, some RV parks include two kids in their base price but charge extra for additional children. This is often referred to as the "kid tax" and can range from $3 to $15 per child per night. The rationale behind this extra fee is that each additional person creates more waste and uses more resources, resulting in higher costs for the campground.

The "kid tax" is a controversial topic among RVing families, with some understanding the business rationale and others feeling indignant about what they perceive as an unfair penalty for larger families. To avoid these extra fees, RVing families can opt for government-owned parks, which rarely charge extra for kids, or join discount camping programs like Passport America. On the other hand, campground owners defend their pricing structure by arguing that they need to cover the costs of waste management, pool maintenance, and facility repairs caused by older children.

To strike a balance, some campground owners suggest implementing all-inclusive pricing or offering separate camping prices that exclude access to amenities like pools and mini-golf. Additionally, they can empower their staff to waive fees for late arrivals or short stays, and even consider allowing older kids to earn their fees by performing chores around the park.

Cost of resources

The cost of resources is a significant consideration for any camp or RV park, and these costs are often passed on to the parents or guardians of campers. These fees can vary depending on the age of the camper, with some camps charging extra for children over a certain age, such as 10 or 12 years old. The rationale behind these charges is that older children tend to consume more resources and can be more destructive, resulting in higher maintenance and repair costs for the camp.

Additionally, camps and RV parks incur various operational costs that contribute to the overall cost of resources. These include plumbing, electrical, and septic system maintenance, as well as labour costs for cleaning, maintenance, and office staff. Camps with pools, for example, may need to incur additional costs for water, chemicals, and heating. Furthermore, camps offering transportation services, such as airport pick-ups and drop-offs, will need to factor in fuel costs and vehicle maintenance.

Another factor influencing the cost of resources is the impact of campers on the natural environment. For instance, camps may need to implement measures to control insects and rodents attracted by food waste, especially in cabins or other enclosed spaces. This can involve purchasing pest control products or services, increasing the overall cost of resources.

To manage these costs, camps and RV parks may include them in their nightly rates or charge additional fees. Some camps choose to include children in their base prices, while others charge a flat rate per child, which can be as low as $25 or as high as $150 per child. These fees can also depend on the duration of the stay, with longer stays sometimes resulting in discounted rates.

Furthermore, camps and RV parks may offer alternatives to reduce the financial burden on parents. For example, they may suggest sending a cheque to the camp office, which can be deposited into the camper's bank account, or they may recommend joining discount camping programs that offer lower rates for larger families.

Camper's safety

Camper safety is paramount. Here are some measures to ensure the safety of your campers:

Health and Wellbeing

• Ensure all campers have had a physical examination within a year of their arrival.
• Implement a health screening on opening day, with a focus on identifying and treating head lice.
• Maintain a well-equipped infirmary with nurses on staff to monitor and address any health issues.
• Establish clear communication protocols with parents, informing them of their child's health status and any treatments administered.
• Promote healthy habits, such as trimming nails, wearing closed-toe shoes, and applying bug spray.
• Provide nutritious meals and daily snacks, accommodating any dietary requirements.

Transportation

• Offer airport pick-up and drop-off services for campers, with designated arrival and departure times.
• Ensure that unaccompanied minors have completed the necessary forms and that their phones are securely stored until departure.
• Implement a no-cash policy for campers to prevent theft or loss.

Security

• Install security measures such as GPS trackers, alarms, and steering wheel locks to deter theft and improve van security.
• Utilize physical and visual deterrents to discourage theft and protect valuables.
• Implement safety measures for elevated roof beds, such as safety nets, to prevent accidental falls.

By following these guidelines and staying vigilant, you can create a safe and enjoyable environment for campers.

Camper's experience

Campers' Experience

The experience of being a camper has evolved over the years, with technological advancements and changing societal norms shaping the way young people engage with the outdoors and connect with their parents. While camping was once seen as a chance to disconnect from the world, the advent of smartphones, tablets, and laptops has led to a cultural shift, with many campers now expecting constant contact with their parents.

For campers, the ability to stay connected with their parents can provide a sense of comfort and security. It allows them to share their experiences in real time, seek guidance when needed, and feel supported throughout their time away from home. This constant contact can be especially reassuring for first-time campers or those who may be facing homesickness. Additionally, having access to technology can provide a sense of familiarity and connection to their everyday lives, making it easier to adapt to the camp environment.

On the other hand, the presence of technology can also create challenges and distractions for campers. The very devices that offer connection and comfort can sometimes hinder their ability to fully immerse themselves in the camp experience. Camp is meant to be a sanctuary, a place to unplug and develop independence. However, the constant pings and notifications of incoming messages or social media updates can be hard to ignore, leading to divided attention and a sense of always being "on."

Furthermore, the pressure to stay connected can also impact campers' interactions with their peers and camp staff. Instead of engaging in face-to-face conversations or participating in camp activities, some campers may find themselves glued to their screens, missing out on the opportunity to form new friendships and create lasting memories. Additionally, the easy access to devices may lead to issues such as cyberbullying, gossip, or the sharing of inappropriate content, creating a whole new set of challenges for camp administrators to address.

To navigate this complex landscape, many camps have implemented strict rules regarding technology use. While some camps may choose to ban devices altogether, others allow limited access during designated times, aiming to strike a balance between connectivity and detachment. Ultimately, the goal is to create a safe and positive environment that fosters growth, independence, and meaningful connections, both with the outside world and within the camp community itself.

As technology continues to evolve, camps will need to adapt their policies and practices to strike the right balance between embracing the benefits of technology and preserving the traditional camp experience. By encouraging healthy digital habits and providing clear guidelines, camps can empower campers to make the most of their time away from home, fostering a sense of adventure, self-discovery, and lasting memories.

Camper's health

Camper health is of utmost importance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Here are some detailed guidelines and recommendations to maintain and promote the health of campers:

Health Screening and Supervision:

• Campers should undergo health screening by medical staff upon arrival, during their stay, and before departure. This includes a physical examination within a specified timeframe before their arrival.
• Campers with recent exposure to contagious diseases should delay their arrival to ensure the safety of other campers.
• Daily health surveillance and supervision should be conducted by cabin counselors, who monitor personal cleanliness, proper grooming, and adherence to good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing.
• Camp policy should emphasize the importance of good hygiene, including daily showers, twice-daily tooth brushing, and regular handwashing. Hand sanitizer should be readily available in dining halls and program areas.
• Campers' health should be monitored by medical professionals, such as nurses or doctors, who reside at the camp or are on call. These professionals should have experience in pediatrics and emergency care.

Health Center and Medical Care:

• The camp should have a designated Health Center that is staffed 24/7 with medical personnel. This center should include a treatment room, isolation room, kitchenette, and separate sleeping quarters for boys and girls, ensuring privacy and comfort.
• All medications should be securely stored and distributed by the camp's professional medical staff only.
• A camp doctor or nurse should visit the camp regularly, and skin inspections should be conducted by nurses for each age group once a week. Common issues like blisters, bug bites, and poison ivy should be addressed.
• In the event of emergencies or serious health issues, campers should have access to a nearby hospital or medical clinic. Parents should be promptly notified and billed for such services.
• Health insurance is required for all campers.

Preventive Measures and Safety:

• The camp should promote preventive health care practices and make every effort to maintain the health of campers during their stay.
• Campers should be encouraged to wear closed-toe shoes to reduce the risk of slips, trips, toe injuries, and falls.
• Packing recommendations should include breathable clothing, lightweight long sleeves and pants to deter bug bites, sunburn, and poison ivy exposure.
• Bug spray is essential, and its regular use should be emphasized to campers.
• To prevent the spread of head lice, campers' hair should be screened upon arrival, and parents should be advised to check their children's hair before arriving at camp.
• Fire drills and other safety drills should be conducted regularly for both campers and staff.
• The camp should have a comprehensive written safety plan that covers maintenance, staff training, camper orientation, emergency procedures, and safety equipment for program activities.
• The camp should ensure that all physical facilities are safe and properly maintained, with regular inspections to identify and address potential hazards.
• Food preparation and handling should adhere to safe and sanitary practices, and kitchen employees must maintain high standards of personal hygiene.
• Waterfront activities must be supervised by certified lifeguards, with one lifeguard for every 25 bathers. All aquatic staff should be trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
• Campers should always be supervised while in the water, and the buddy system should be implemented.
• Camp trips should be supervised by mature and experienced counselors who are competent in the relevant activities and can make decisions that ensure campers' safety.

By implementing these comprehensive health and safety measures, camps can provide a secure and enjoyable environment for campers, giving parents peace of mind.

Frequently asked questions