Camp FAQ's

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  • We will be evaluating the ongoing COVID situation and making changes to camps accordingly. While we cannot require vaccinations or masks, we recommend that campers utilize both to prepare for a safe camp experience. We highly recommend that campers get vaccinated before coming to camp if possible and that campers test negative for COVID within 72 hours of the start of camp. While masks are not required, they are currently recommended for inside activities, and camp will have a limited supply of disposable masks for campers to use if desired.

    Overnight campers may be asked to provide proof of negative COVID-19 test within 72 of the start of camp (dependent on University policy at time of camp).

    COVID protocols may change so make sure to check back in periodically.

  • Please review the ASAC cancellation policy.

    We will always try to accommodate requests to switch camps, but the ability to do so will depend on space. Campers will not be able to be moved to a different camp week that is already full. Call Kellie Donajkowski at 512-245-6176 to determine if camps can be switched 

  • Scholarship availability varies from year to year. Please visit our scholarship page to see current scholarship opportunities and criteria. Additional scholarships may become available throughout the spring, so make sure to check in periodically. The majority of our scholarships are for campers from the Central Texas (Austin to San Antonio) region, however there are statewide opportunities that also may be an option. Please call Education Director Kellie Donajkowski at 512-245-6176 or eardc_education@txstate.edu if you have any questions about scholarships. 

  • Overnight campers stay 3 nights in dorms on the Texas State University Campus. Two campers will share a room and all campers will have access to gender-segregated, shared bathrooms. Male and female campers will be on different floors, with male and female teachers and college intern counselors present throughout the night. Afterwards, campers will spend 2 nights at University Camp where they will stay in gender-segregated bunk houses with male and female teachers and college intern counselors present throughout the night.

  • Activities will vary depending on the session, but some science activities/topics that may happen are water chemistry, macroinvertebrates, habitats, invasive species, and more. The camps are designed to introduce campers to the amazing world of aquatic science through a holistic, inquiry-based learning environment. We strive to make sure the entire camp is an educational experience and even our fun and games are designed to get campers to think scientifically. Campers are encouraged to ask questions and given tools to investigate those questions for themselves. Campers participate in hands-on learning activities in the lab and in the field facilitated by knowledgeable staff that are either active research scientists or teachers. Our goal is to give campers the chance to experience what it is like to be real scientists. All of the equipment and methods that we use for the activities are professional-grade and indoor activities take place in a university laboratory. 

  • Each participant will be required to take a simple swim test upon arrival.   Due to the nature of the camp, the ability to swim and tread water is mandatory for all campers.  Campers who are poor swimmers will be required to wear a life jacket during any swimming activities, or be required to sit out the activity, depending on the nature of the activity.  The swim test consists of being able to swim 20 yards in a flowing river without stopping or touching the bottom.  It is required that all campers wear life jackets during the raft trip.  Lifeguards will administer the swim test and be present for all swimming activities. 

     

     

  • Homesickness is most common in our younger aged campers, but can happen to anyone, especially if this is the first time they have been away from home for this long. We do our best to comfort and redirect their attention towards engaging in the camp activities and it usually fades within the first day or two. If your camper contacts you asking for an early pickup, please talk to our camp director first and we will provide you with a first-hand report of how your camper is doing and help you to make a decision that is in the best interest of your camper. 

  • We do not encourage phone calls and we do not allow visits during camp, except in cases of emergencies. We have found this disrupts the camp experience and can exacerbate homesickness issues. We are fully aware of our responsibility to care for your child and we take that very seriously. 

  • Campers should pack light and everything should fit inside their luggage! Plastic bags do not make good luggage! Campers that have to carry many separate items are much more likely to misplace important items. We recommend 1 suitcase or duffel and 1 backpack that can double as a day pack. If things don’t fit inside, you might be over packing. Giant trunks that your camper cannot manage by themselves are not appropriate.  

  • All of our staff are trained in first aid and CPR and are equipped to treat minor cuts and bruises. In the case that a camper requires medical attention, they will be taken to the Texas State University Student Health Center (SHC) for treatment if it is a minor injury or illness. In case of a more serious issue, they will be taken to the CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital San Marcos emergency room. Parents/guardians will be notified immediately by phone in the event of any emergency involving their camper. 

  • Please contact Kellie Donajkowski, Director for Education at 512-245-6176 or eardc_education@txstate.edu 

     

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