Frequently Asked Questions...

for Parents

Where is Camp Canyon located and how would my child get there?

Located in the beautiful foothills of the Allegheny Mountains in Bethany West Virginia, Canyon is a short 30 minute drive from the Pittsburgh International Airport.

Our campers come from many different locations and we offer many options for their arrivals. A majority of our campers fly into the Pittsburgh International Airport and are met by Camp Canyon staff. We also offer escorted flights from certain US Cities. Of course, families are always welcome to drive their children to camp as well.

From any location in the Eastern US, Canyon is only a quick flight and short drive.

How do you choose your staff?

Canyon has a one of a kind staffing arrangement. With a combination of local college level coaches and instructors, American and international "skill specific" professionals and ties to Education/Phys Ed/Recreation programs throughout the US, Canyon's staff sets the standard in the camping industry. Most of our staff are over the age of 21 and have had prior camping or teaching experience. All staff receive pre-camp orientation and continued support throughout the summer as well. Staff creativity and enthusiasm is encouraged at Camp Canyon. "Fun" is not only stressed. It's a requirement.

How does the program change when it rains?

Unlike any other camp, Canyon's facilities offer the ability to continue our planned programs, rain or shine. Our outdoor fields, courts and specialty areas are beyond comparison. AND, we have the unique ability to say, "There are NO rainy days at Canyon." With indoor tennis courts, basketball courts, pool, track, equestrian arenas and multi purpose centers, there is never a "rain day" at Canyon. Our campers have it all, rain or shine!

Is Camp Canyon a specialty camp or a general camp / a single-sex camp or a co-ed camp?

Camp Canyon has the ability to create multiple specialty camp experiences within a traditional camp setting. By combining the best of staff and best of facilities, Canyon creates an opportunity for exceptional instruction and learning in a fun and exciting environment that has possibilities that never end.

Our youngest campers are given the opportunity to select at least one specialty where they can receive concentrated instruction in a particular area while they are also scheduled through a set rotation of activities. This ensures that campers receive exposure to a wide variety of camp programs. With quality instruction, our younger campers will have a well-rounded knowledge of each sport and activity and may find a new favorite in the process.

As campers join the older ranks, they are given more opportunities to focus on particular activities and skills they want to improve on and to master. The number of options and the amount of time spent in those options increase as the camper's age and focus increases. Our oldest campers can get as specific or as diversified as they want in their schedules. Canyon can be structured as a completely diverse general camp, a series of one- week specialty camps or a completely focused full-summer specialty camp that still incorporates traditional camp elements.

The Canyon program intentionally groups athletic instruction by gender and ability within an age group to provide the greatest opportunity for focused instruction and growth. Special gender specific activities are also part of the Canyon Program so that our campers enjoy the camaraderie of a single-sex experience. At the same time, Canyon offers co-ed camp accessibility for activities and special events that are age appropriate. This gives us the best of both worlds creating a wonderful instructional program while also allowing for traditional co-ed opportunities with age-appropriate social interaction.

What are the dining facilities like?

At Camp Canyon there is a healthy buffet at every meal! Even the picky eater leaves satisfied.

Breakfast includes a selection of cold and hot cereals, fruit, yogurt and a hot dish such as pancakes, French toast, waffles, eggs, etc. Lunch and dinner buffets offer sandwich options such as cold cuts, chicken patties, and salad spreads, as well as a salad bar, pizza/pasta bar and hot dish items including all of the camp favorites: tacos, chicken patties, hamburgers, hotdogs, chicken wings, ribs, etc.

Water, Milk and real fruit juices are available at every meal.

Camp Canyon encourages healthy eating habits and encourages each camper to choose healthy, well-balanced meals. Staff are trained to monitor camper meal choices to assist us in these goals.

Do you accommodate food allergies and special medical needs?

We can provide the necessary medical attention in addition to the much needed TLC. We are happy to work with families on an individual basis regarding specific camper needs.

What is a typical daily schedule of fun?

Every day at Canyon offers something special in the program. However, in general, campers can look forward to a schedule that resembles the time frames below:

Wake-up/Bunk Organization (7:30 - 8:00 am)
Breakfast (8:15 am)
Line up/Flag Raising (9:45 am)
Major (10:00 - 11:30 am)
Lunch (12:15 pm)
Rest/Specialty Instruction (12:45 - 1:45 pm)
Afternoon 1 (Minor/General Swim) (2:00 - 2:45 pm)
Afternoon 2 (Minor/General Swim) (3:00 - 3:45 pm)
Snack (3:45 pm)
Afternoon Select (4:00 - 4:45 pm)
Shower/Rest (4:45 - 5:30 pm)
Dinner (6:00 pm)
Evening Program (7:00 - 8:30 pm)
Snack (8:45 pm)
Lights Out (Varies by age)

Are there uniforms at Canyon?

Canyon is a partial uniform camp. Basic uniforms are used for certain activities like field trips, tournaments and other special camp events. Families are provided a recommended packing list for convenience that will include these uniform requirements.

What if I have other questions about Camp Canyon?

We would enjoy speaking with you about all that Camp Canyon has to offer. Prospective families are invited to call us any time at 800-917-1902 or email us at info@campcanyon.com.