What kind of clothing should I wear/pack?
Complete packing lists will be sent out for overnight campers, but generally, comfortable clothing that can get wet and dirty are recommended. Snug-fitting shoes (sneakers/tennis shoes) are also recommended, while Crocs© and other open, sandal-type shoes, and rain boots, are discouraged for field activities.
How much money should campers bring?
Participants in day camps will not need any spending money. Overnight campers may wish to bring change for the vending machines in the dorm, or a small amount to spend at the local convenience store for snacks. It is not recommended that campers bring more than $20. Since campers visit the Estuarium after-hours, souvenirs can be purchased in the Gift Shop on the last day of camp when parents return for pick-up.
What do I need to provide prior to the camper arriving?
All overnight campers will receive a handbook with packing lists, rules, and camp release forms in May prior to camp starting. Release forms will be due back on the date specified in the handbook. Day campers will just need to provide the application form prior to arriving.
What are the living arrangements like?
Overnight campers live in the campus dorms and are assigned one roommate of the same gender. Rooms have 2 twin beds, a dresser, desk, and 2-3 small closets. All rooms also have individual a/c units. There are communal restrooms, one for males and one for females, at opposite ends of the dorm. Single rooms are not provided except in the event of odd numbers and assigned at the head counselor’s discretion. See our Facilities Page for more information
What sort of supervision do campers have?
Day camp groups have 1-2 educators and an intern present throughout the day. Overnight campers have one of three educators for each activity, an intern, and 5 counselors that live in the dorms and accompany campers to activities and meals.
What happens if a camper is injured?
All Discovery Hall Programs educators are certified in First Aid and CPR. If additional medical attention is needed, campers will be transported to the physician’s office or nearest emergency room in Mobile, and parents will be notified.
How are daily medications handled?
Overnight campers who take daily medications, whether prescription or over-the-counter, will report to the head counselor each day at their specified dosage times. All medications are handed over to the head counselor on the first day of camp, and a record of doses delivered is maintained throughout the camp.
What is done in the event of severe weather?
Brief thunderstorms and showers are common during the summer, but typically only last a few hours. Field activities will continue as scheduled unless there is thunder and lightning, at which point an alternative, an indoor activity will be substituted. Educators will attempt to make up the missed activity later. In the event of a hurricane or tropical storm advisories, DISL will follow its Hurricane Preparedness Plan. If the DISL must be evacuated, campers will be transported to the University of South Alabama in Mobile, and arrangements made with parents for pick-up.
Can I send my child via airplane?
Yes. Campers arriving by air should fly into Mobile Regional Airport. Flight details must be provided to the Registrar at least 1 week in advance, so arrangements can be made for a counselor to pick campers up. Counselors will also transport campers back to the airport on the last day of camp for return flights, if necessary.
