Welcome to C.H.O.S.! I’m so glad you’ve decided to become one of the participants in this fun and exciting program! I will try to answer most of your questions in detail as you read on, but right up front I want to express my sincere hopes for you as you attend the Outdoor School. First I hope that you will walk away with a deeper appreciation for God’s presence in nature; after all, the program’s motto is “learning to experience God’s creation simply.” Secondly, I hope that you learn the techniques of lightweight backpacking, and how to experience and enjoy hiking in the mountains simply, safely and efficiently. And lastly, I hope that you have LOTS OF FUN and enjoy yourself and the company of others. It is important that both you and your parents read the following information carefully. A lot of the group’s common experience depends on you being fully prepared for this new adventure. And if you find that you have other questions, please call (828) 646-0272 or email wendy@lakelogan.org. Now to the business of getting you ready for your CHOS program. So far, we’ve received your application and your deposit. Thank you! So now, along with this letter, you will find the following information that you and your parents or guardians will need to review and/or complete. Please Do NOT Staple any forms together. - Camper's Health History and Healthcare Recommendations Form to be completed by parent/guardian and a physician (you may instead send a copy of a physician signed medical form completed within the past 22 months if you so desire). It is required that all immunization dates be recorded on this form.
Important…. Attach a photocopy of your insurance card (Medicare/Medicaid if applicable), front and back, to the Health History form enclosed.
- Consent to Participate form to be signed by both you and by a parent or guardian.
- Community Covenant form that also needs to be signed by both you and a parent or guardian.
- Packing List… PAY SPECIAL ATTENTION to this, and please follow it closely!
- NOC Rafting Waiver - Needs to be signed by parent and camper
PLEASE TAKE NOTE:
The completed forms and the balance of registration fee should be mailed to the Camp Henry Office at least 3 weeks prior to your arrival at camp. If the necessary forms and the tuition balance are not returned by this deadline, Camp Henry reserves the right to deny a camper enrollment and retain the $150.00 registration deposit. CHOS registration will be from 3:00 – 5:00 on the Sunday that begins your week of CHOS. And if you find you are going to arrive after 5:00 (or, perhaps, not at all) please call the camp phone at (828) 646-0272. Otherwise we will be calling you. Pick-up at the conclusion of the program is Saturday at 10:00 a.m. Please be prompt in arriving for pick up. All medicines, non-prescription or prescription, will be collected at registration, held, and administered by the CHOS staff. Frequently Asked Questions Q. What is lightweight backpacking and why do it?
A. Lightweight backpacking is essentially hiking with a lightweight pack instead of the “traditional” way of backpacking that brings to mind images of trudging along with a crushing load on one’s back while wearing large, and awkward boots. So, lightweight backpacking is the practice of carrying lighter weight and less equipment. This will enhance your outdoor experience by allowing you to focus more on what’s around you and less on the burden of your pack. It will also help you to travel faster and to be more mobile and safer. It will also reduce the stress and strain on your body, your risk of injury, and your environmental impact. Q. What are we going to be doing?
A. When you arrive you will be spending the night at Lake Logan at our new primitive outdoor school. Here you will learn such things as how to use the equipment we provide, how to cook on the trail, how to stay warm and dry, outdoor hygiene, basic first aid, alpine tower climbing, and much more! Then the whole group will head out on the trail for a few days to hone in your new skills. At the end of your trip you will be picked up and transported to one of the scenic and exciting white water rivers in our area for a day of rafting! Q. Do I have to climb if I’m scared of heights?
A. Nope. First of all we have a philosophy called “challenge by choice.” This recognizes that we all have different comfort levels and different skill levels in any given activity. So we ask that you to challenge yourself and encourage others. Secondly, it’s a good and natural thing to have at least some fear of heights; almost everyone does. Q. What is expected of me in terms of my abilities and fitness?
A. Attitude is everything. Well… most everything. You will need to be able to put on a 20ish pound pack and hike a few miles. In other words, if you hate physical activity, this might not be for you. But as long as you keep a good attitude everything should work out just fine.
You are in for the time of your life. See you at CHOS! Sincerely,
Ian Williams
Ian Williams
Camp Henry Director | 
