Camp Fire Central Ohio

In addition to the information below, we strongly recommend parents read our 2011 Parent Handbook.

What is Camp Fire USA Central Ohio Council (CFCO)?

CFCO, founded in 1913, is affiliated with Camp Fire USA, and is a free-standing 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Camp Fire USA was founded in 1910 as America’s first nonsectarian, interracial organization for girls and in 1975 expanded services to include boys. Camp Fire’s mission is to build caring, confident youth and future leaders. The mission is achieved through delivering evidence-based programming in Camp Fire clubs, before and after school educational programs, day camp, and various residential camp experiences encompassing Camp Fire’s 12 core values.  Please see Mission/Core Values.

What is Camp Wyandot?

Founded by CFCO in 1928, Camp Wyandot is a fun, educational, and nurturing place where all children ages 8-18, no matter their backgrounds, are welcomed. As evidenced by a returning camper rate of almost 60%, which is higher than the national average, youth enjoy and benefit from the camp experience. Parents report the following impact on their children after attending camp: they return home energized; they exhibit improved confidence and self-esteem; children learn responsibility and independence; and they get exercise and are away from video games and TV. Parents view the camp as a safe, nurturing place where their children have new experiences, meet new friends and learn skills that will last a lifetime.

Camp Wyandot is bordered on three sides by the Clear Creek State Nature Preserve, 4,769 acres designated as a special scientific, scenic and geologic area. Centuries of flooding by glacial melt water has cut the present gorge area through Black Hand sandstone, leaving behind scenic cliffs and rugged formations overlooking Clear Creek.  Over 794 species of vascular plants have been located in the Clear Creek Valley including Mountain Laurel, Pink Lady’s Slipper, Trailing Arbutus (Mayflower), Rattlesnake Plantain, Goldenseal, White Trillium, Skunk Cabbage, Creeping Phlox, over 35 species of fern and possibly the only naturally occurring rhododendron in the Midwest.

Many of the species of birds in and around Camp are “bird species of interest” in the Audubon Important Bird Area program in which Clear Creek earned recognition.  Camp Wyandot’s naturalist is a master Field Ornithologist and helps the youth learn about the environment and rare species.

What is the ACA and why is its accreditation important?

American Camp Association (ACA) Accreditation means that your child’s camp cares enough to undergo a thorough (up to 300 standards) review of its operation — from staff qualifications and training to emergency management. American Camp Association collaborates with experts from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Red Cross, and other youth-serving agencies to assure that current practices at your child’s camp reflect the most up-to-date, research-based standards in camp operation. Camps and ACA form a partnership that promotes growth and fun.

Who are your campers?

Most of our campers are from central Ohio.  In 2010, 58% of our campers were female and 42% male.  About 60% of our campers are returning campers which is above the national average.  Many of our campers enter the Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program and become counselors.

Does my child need to be in a Camp Fire club to attend Camp Wyandot?

Camp Wyandot is open to all! Membership in Camp Fire or participation in Camp Fire clubs is not a requirement to attend camp. We welcome campers who are members of Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, 4H and other scouting organizations, as well as children who are not affiliated with a scouting program.

Who are your counselors and how are they trained?

Our counselors are college-aged adults who receive extensive training.  A thorough background check is performed on all counselors.  We hire counselors who are enthusiastic, encouraging, and caring.

Where will my child stay at camp?

Younger campers stay on cabin row along Lake Atagahi in screened-in cabins.  Older children stay in secluded units on the opposite hill living in tebins (½ tent, ½ cabin) or tree houses.

What will my child do at camp?

For a thorough explanation of camp activities, please refer to our Camp Activities page.

At Camp Wyandot we focus on small group living and group decision making grounded in Camp Fire traditions.  With their counselor the children develop their own schedule for the week including activities such as boating, creeking, hiking, swimming, crafts, singing, storytelling, fishing, cookouts and games.  In addition, there is one overnight in each session.

Older campers learn advanced skills such as making fire-by-friction, building primitive shelters, multiple overnights, and archery.

No matter the age, your child will not be bored!

What if my child needs medical attention?

All staff are trained in Red Cross first aid and emergency procedures.  On staff the entire summer is qualified medical personnel who dispenses prescriptions and administer medical care.  The Health Center has beds for children who need to rest away from their cabin for a time.

What will my child eat at camp?

Our cooks prepare nutritious meals.  All meals have a vegetarian option.  Should your child have dietary restrictions we will accommodate them.  Please contact the camp director in advance.

What should I pack for my child?

Please see our packing list. Also read our 2011 Parent Handbook so you are aware of items and behaviors that are not permitted at camp.

What if I have more questions?

Please contact Lisa Graham in the Camp Fire office at 614-481-8227 or email her at lisa@centralohiocampfire.org