ACA Accredited Camp

Camp James is an ACA Accredited Camp

Why an ACA Accredited Camp?

Fun And Safety — ACA Accredited Camps Set the Standard ACA Accreditation means that the camp you are considering for your child cares enough to undergo a thorough (up to 290 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 the camp reflect the most up-to-date, research-based standards in camp operation. ACA and ACA Accredited camps form a partnership that promotes summers of growth and fun in an environment committed to safety.

BEING AN ACA ACCREDITED CAMP HAS MANY BENEFITS:

Healthy, developmentally appropriate activities and learning experiences

Discovery through experiential education

Caring, competent role models

Service to the community and the environment

Opportunities for leadership and personal growth

What’s the difference between state licensing of camps and An ACA Accredited Camp?

Accreditation is voluntary and the ACA assures families that camps have made the commitment to a safe, nurturing environment for their children. Licensing is mandatory and requirements vary from state to state. ACA standards are recognized by courts of law and government regulators as the standards of the camp community.

How do ACA standards exceed state licensing requirements?

The ACA accredited camp process goes beyond basic requirements for health, cleanliness, and food service into specific areas of programming, including camp staff from director through counselors, emergency management plans, health care, and management. ACA applies separate standards for activities such as waterfront, horseback riding, and adventure and travel.

What are some of the ACA Accredited Camp standards that camps rely on?

Staff to camper ratios are appropriate for different age groups
Goals for camp activities are developmentally based
Emergency transportation available at all times
First-aid facilities and trained staff available when campers are present

How can I verify that my child’s camp is An ACA accredited Camp?

Parents can (and should) verify the accreditation status of any camp at any time by visiting ACA’s Web site at www.ACAcamps.org or by calling 1-800-428-CAMP.

If your child’s camp isn’t ACA accredited, ask WHY NOT?

Keep in Mind — Informed parents are best prepared to select a camp that meets their standards for staff, programs, safety, and facilities and strives to promote the welfare of every child.