Accommodation
Campers stay in shared cabins designed to foster community and connection. Cabins house multiple campers, grouped by age and gender, and each group is supported by trained counselors who supervise, guide, and help maintain a positive living environment.
Shared cabin life offers campers a chance to develop independence, responsibility, and teamwork. Kids participate in daily routines together, support one another, and learn to navigate communal living — an experience that helps build confidence and close friendships. The rustic, nature-oriented setting gives campers a sense of a traditional outdoor retreat, where they can unwind, unplug, and fully immerse themselves in camp life.
Meals
All meals are included in the camp experience. Campers enjoy three daily meals prepared on-site and served in the camp dining hall, with menus designed to support active, energetic days outdoors. Meals are communal, allowing campers and counselors to share stories, bond, and cultivate a strong sense of community.
The daily rhythm typically includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and scheduled hydration or snack breaks. Following lunch, campers have a short rest period to recharge before afternoon activities. The focus is on healthy, balanced food options that help campers stay energized and ready for all their activities.
Safety
Safety is a core priority at GOSF Youth Summer Camp. The staff includes trained counselors, lifeguards, and medical professionals who provide consistent supervision and ensure camper well-being throughout the week. Activity areas such as the pool, archery range, and canoeing zones follow strict safety guidelines.
Camp policies also help maintain a safe and respectful atmosphere. Electronics such as cell phones and cameras are not permitted to protect camper privacy and encourage fully engaged participation. Behavioral guidelines and modest dress requirements ensure that all campers feel comfortable and secure. Any repeated or serious safety violations can result in dismissal to protect the broader camp community.
Health & Medicine
The camp maintains on-site medical oversight, supported by doctors or nurses who are present to assist with everyday health needs. Parents must provide complete and accurate health information before camp begins, including allergies, medical conditions, and any required accommodations.
All medications — whether prescription or over-the-counter — must be adequately submitted upon arrival. They must be in original packaging and clearly labeled. Medications may only be administered if correctly documented in the camper’s health file. These procedures help ensure that each camper’s medical needs are handled safely and responsibly throughout the stay.
Camp traditions
GOSF Youth Summer Camp has a long and beloved history within the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco, dating back to the early 1980s. Its traditions reflect a blend of faith, community, and joyful summer activities. Daily routines include morning and evening worship services, communal meals, and shared cabin life.
Camp-wide signature traditions often include talent shows, skit nights, campfires, songs, and special themed events. These create a sense of belonging and continuity for returning campers. The combination of spiritual grounding, shared experiences, and outdoor fun helps create meaningful memories that many campers cherish for years.