Cherry Valley Summer Camp

Accommodation

Camp Cherry Valley’s accommodation is rustic yet thoughtfully structured for comfort and safety. Campers sleep in canvas tents raised on wooden platforms, each tent equipped with cots and mattresses so they’re off the ground and better insulated from damp or uneven terrain.

The tent platforms are nestled under the shade of native cherry trees, adding a scenic canopy overhead and a real sense of “camp-away” atmosphere. Shared group sites mean campers live in a troop or unit community, helping build bonds and shared memories. Facilities like showers and bathhouses are available nearby, although laundry for campers is not offered — so packing appropriately is important.

Accessibility is considered, and the camp can assist physically disabled campers in partnership with troop leadership. The key is that while the environment is outdoor-focused and rugged compared to resort lodging, it’s designed for youths who thrive in a tent-camp, nature-immersed setting.

Meals

Meals at Camp Cherry Valley follow a cafeteria-style dining hall tradition that supports both community and efficiency. After assembly and grace, troops are dismissed in assigned order to the dining hall where they sit together for the week at consistent table assignments, fostering troop identity and teamwork. Waiter duty rotates by troop, giving campers a role in setting tables, wiping down, and helping serve—it’s part of the camp’s model for responsibility and leadership. The menu covers the needs of active youngsters, with hearty portions and multiple meal shifts when camp size requires it.

For campers with special dietary needs or restrictions, families can notify staff in advance so that substitutions and accommodations can be arranged. The dining experience also includes communal sitting, chaplain-led or all-denominational services on Sunday evenings, and grace before each meal. For parents, the main takeaway is that the meals are structured, communal, and support the camp’s broader values of responsibility, group respect, and good nutrition in an outdoor setting.

Safety

Safety is built into Camp Cherry Valley’s operations from gear to program. The waterfront area — on a calm island cove — is managed in strict accordance with scouting policies. Swim checks are required before using the water, and all boating or kayaking activities require orientation, certified swimmers, and personal flotation devices. Campsites follow the “two-deep leadership” model, meaning at least two adults are always present. Check-in and check-out systems exist for all adult leaders. Quiet hours apply at night, and rules around fuel, fireworks, and bikes promote responsible behavior. The terrain is island-hilly, so physical readiness is recommended, and campers are reminded to know their limits, especially on hike days. All of this means parents can be confident they’re sending their children to an environment where outdoor adventure is managed with mature safety systems.

Health & Medicine

Camp Cherry Valley’s health and medicine setup is well organized. The Health Lodge is staffed by qualified medical personnel — such as an EMT, nurse, or physician — and is equipped to handle emergencies. Serious cases are supported by local medical treatment facilities accessible by island transport. Medications must be clearly labeled and submitted in their original packaging with instructions and are reviewed during intake. The camp accommodates special medical needs: CPAP machines have designated tent-sites with power access, and special dietary or medical conditions must be declared in writing before camp. For families, these policies mean that children with ongoing medical or dietary needs are not automatically excluded—but clear communication is required ahead of time.

Camp Traditions

An important part of the Camp Cherry Valley experience is its tradition and spirit. The camp runs each week with a strong sense of troop identity, ceremonies, evening campfires, themed nights, and whole-camp games or challenges. “Hike Day” once a week sends all campers off on island trails, reinforcing that this is not just a stay-put camp but a true expedition. Living in campsite groups, rotating waiter duty in the dining hall, and participating in evening gatherings build memories and community. The waterfront traditions—snorkeling with bright garibaldi fish, sailing, and exploring sea life—give a distinct flavor unique to the island setting. The camp also emphasizes respect for nature, self-reliance, and service to the group, which are key traditions carried forward by staff and alumni. These customs help make the week more than just activities—they shape character and lifelong friendships.

The program at Camp Cherry Valley offers an ideal mix of structure and freedom. Each day is divided into morning, afternoon, and evening segments — and one full day weekly is dedicated to a longer island hike. In the mornings campers engage in merit-badge classes of their choosing. During troop time in the afternoon they get to pick from a variety of activities, and evenings are reserved for special campfire programs, games, and storytelling.

The island setting elevates the experience with clear ocean water, marine life snorkeling, sailboats, and remote trails. Younger or less experienced campers gain confidence, older ones push boundaries, and leadership builds naturally. Whether your child loves being on the water, exploring trails, trying new skills, or simply hanging out with a great group, there’s something to ignite them.