Here are some things to keep in mind as you and your child prepare for camp...
Homesickness: Prior to the summer, parents can help establish the basis of a successful adjustment by following these tips.
• You might discuss the sorts of things you and your camper will write about to each other during the summer.
• Make a letter writing packet that includes pre-addressed stamped envelopes, paper, pen, etc.
• Discuss and help your child list a set of personal goals for their camp experience.
• Choose family photos to send to camp.
• Plan a diary to record camp experiences that can be shared after the summer.
• Include the family as a supportive part of an independent camp experience.
• Please do not make any "private deals" such as "Just call me if you are unhappy and you can come home." Accent the positive instead, and let your child know that counselors and camp directors will be there to help. We have found that most campers make the best of their summer experience only when parents fully support their efforts to adjust to being independent and spending a week away from home.
Each summer, we have very few children who suffer more than usual from homesickness. We begin by recognizing that it is natural to miss home. We work with each child individually, listening and talking about his or her feelings. Of course, we also notify parents if there is a significant homesickness and work with you to implement the best plan. In these instances, you will be a key to your child's adjustment to camp. It is rare that a Camp Roanoke camper leaves due to homesickness. After all, children are active and involved as soon as they arrive at Camp Roanoke.
Anticipating Camp: This spring, campers may wonder, "What will my activities be like?" "Am I going to have fun?" "Who will my friends be?" Campers benefit from encouragement, and a reminder about how brave and wonderful they are to take the step they are taking.
Encourage your child to form friendships, try new activities, and confide in staff as needed. So, let your child know that his or her efforts this summer will be enthusiastically supported by our staff.
FINALLY (for Parents): We recognize that the camp experience is a special one for parents too, and we recognize your desire to be part of the camp experience. Before or during the summer, feel free to call or email us whenever needed. We can also arrange for you to speak with your child's counselor after camper arrival.
Camp Roanoke is located just off Interstate 81 in western Roanoke County. If you are coming from Roanoke, we are approximately 20 minutes from the intersection of I-81 and I-581. Please print out the Directions to Camp Roanoke for your use.
Listed below are several businesses offering accommodations relatively close to Camp Roanoke. Other possibilities exist further into Roanoke and can be found at www.visitroanokeva.com.
Holiday Inn Salem
I-81, Exit 137. 1671 Skyview Rd., Salem, VA 24153. 540/389-7061, 800/HOLIDAY.
Quality Inn, Roanoke/Salem
I-81, exit 141. 179 Sheraton Drive, Salem, VA 24153. 540/562-1912.
Comfort Inn-Salem
I-81, exit 137 to 151 Wildwood Rd., Salem, VA 24153. 540/387-1600.
Knights Inn
I-81, Exit 137. 301 Wildwood Road, Salem, VA 24153. 540/389-0280.
Super 8 Motel-Salem
I-81, Exit 137. 300 Wildwood Rd., Salem, VA 24153. 540/389-0297, 800/800-8000
Camper Drop-Off & Pick-Up Schedule
Drop off - Campers are to be dropped off daily, Monday - Friday at Camp Roanoke between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM. For Campers utilizing our satellite transportation from Tanglewood Mall, drop-off is from 8:00 AM - 8:20 AM.
Pick up - Campers are to be picked up daily, Monday - Friday from Camp Roanoke at 4:00 PM. For Campers utilizing our satellite transportation from Tanglewood Mall, pick-up is from 4:40-4:50.
We have found that it is often difficult for some kids to make the adjustment to camp life if they are in contact with home. If you do need to make contact with your child, choose from one of the following options:
Staff is certified to properly administer medications and provide limited medical services. All medications (prescription / over the counter) need to be packaged and labeled in the following manner:
Food Items: Please send your camper with a packed lunch. Refrigeration and microwave capabilities are unavailable, so please pack accordingly. We will provide a morning and afternoon snack. Due to severe allergies, please refrain from packing peanut products in your child’s lunch. If peanuts cannot be avoided, please have your child notify their counselor that they have peanut products that day.
A suggested clothing and equipment list is included within the Registration Packet for each camp session. See the link at the bottom of the page for Registration Packets and Packing Lists. Please label all of your child's personal items.
Registration Packets & Packing Lists
Registration Packets for Summer Camp and other important information can be found on our Registration and Forms page. Registration packets contain forms for camper information, permission forms, and important health forms. All forms from the registration packet must be returned before your child can attend camp.
If you would like printed registration form mailed to you, please call either Camp Roanoke at 540-387-6114 or Roanoke County Parks, Recreation & Tourism at 540-387-6078.
Important! Be certain to review the packing lists included in the registration packets