Our campers and their parents naturally have a lot of questions. Here are some of the more common ones. If you have any other questions, please contact us at riverscamp@gmail.com.
Q: When can I apply for Camp?
A: The application period will open on November 1st. Any applications before this date will not be considered. The deadline for the Early Application Period is December 31. Campers selected then will be notified in early January. If there are still openings, the deadline for the Regular Application Period is February 28. Campers selected then will be notified in early March. If there are still spaces available, applications may be accepted until April 30th.
Q: Do I need to have all of the fly fishing equipment to attend camp?
A: If you have fly fishing equipment, please bring it. We can provide rods, reels, and any other equipment that is needed to fish the Yellow Breeches. The only exception is that we do not provide wading boots or waders. Boots are required to work on the habitat project.
Q: Do I need to be experienced at fly fishing to attend camp?
A: No. First timers as well as experienced fly fishers are welcome. All that is required is a strong desire to learn.
Q: What should I bring to camp?
A: This is probably the most common question we receive. Because of this we have developed a list. Get the list by clicking HERE
Q: What are the rules of behavior for students at camps?
A: Click HERE for camp rules and regulations.
Q: Do I need to bring bedding and towels?
A: Yes. Bring bed linens (XL twin, if fitted), pillow, blanket, washcloth, and towels. Sleeping bags are ok.
Q: How can I follow what is happening at camp?
A: Our Facebook group “Pennsylvania Rivers Conservation & Fly Fishing Youth Camp” will have posts with photos and news from camp.
Q: As a parent, how can I get in touch with my child at camp?
A: Because our focus is outdoor conservation and fishing, the week is pretty full. Students are required to unplug from cell phones and the internet. Cell phones are not permitted except in the dorm rooms at night. Parents will be given a cell phone number at parent orientation to contact camp staff in an emergency.
Q: How do I get to Messiah University?
A: GPS: 40.1579 -76.9853 342 College Avenue, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
From western PA:
Take the PA Turnpike east to the Gettysburg exit (236). Take US 15 south to the Lisburn Road exit (2.7 mi). Go east on Lisburn Road to Grantham Road (0.6 mi). Turn right on Grantham Road to College Avenue (1/4 mi). Turn left on College Avenue to the stop sign (and Oakes Museum sign) at the Jordan Science Center (1/4 mi). Turn right into the parking lot. Enter the Jordan Science Center at the back right of the parking lot.
From eastern PA:
Take the PA Turnpike west to the Gettysburg exit (236). Take US 15 south and continue as above.
Q: Where is camp registration on the Messiah University campus?
A: Registration will be in the Jordan Science Center. There is a parking lot in front of the Center. For a campus map, click HERE.
Q: When should we arrive for registration?
A: Registration is noon to 1 pm and only takes a few minutes. We recommend that families traveling some distance eat in the area prior to coming to registration as the first camp meal is Sunday dinner. There is a Cracker Barrel, Wendy’s, Arby’s, and Subway just off of the Cumberland Parkway exit of US 15 about ¼ mi south of the PA Turnpike. Coming from the south on US 15, there are restaurants in Dillsburg. All are less than 15 minutes from Messiah College.
Q: What is the preferred method to apply for camp?
A: Applying directly on the website. APPLY HERE
Q: Is a letter of recommendation for applicants required?
A: A letter of recommendation can be helpful for the selection committee to learn more about the applicant, but it is not required. Any supplemental information submitted may be sent via email to riverscamp@gmail.com. Be sure that your name is on all recommendations.
Q: Is there an advantage for applying early?
A: The maximum camp roster has been reduced from 32 to 24, so we may fill early. Everything else being equal, the earlier application will be given preference.