After a two-year hiatus from traditional camping, thousands of youths in West Virginia will pack their bags and head to 4-H camp this summer.
West Virginia University Extension 4-H offers countless opportunities for 4-H’ers throughout the state to attend summer camp, from county camps to varying statewide camps, there is something for all ages. In addition to the usual overnight residential camps, some counties also offer day camps, including those targeted to younger children.
“Camp is an important part of the out-of-school time that youth have during the summer months,” said 4-H Youth Development Program Director Brent Clark. “We know that camps will be a new concept to many of our younger 4-H participants, but we are excited to welcome them to the many different types of camps we offer.”
4-H camps provide students with valuable learning opportunities and help them develop skills in leadership, problem solving and creativity—just to name a few. Campers also engage in unique activities ranging from archery and STEM programming to art and dancing, all while forging lifelong friendships.
“You feel a sense of belonging from the acceptance of 4-H,” said Emily Yates, a Hardy County 4-H’er. “You’re going to come and not only have a good time but you’re going to learn something, and learning is how you grow.”
Each county in West Virginia offers some type of camping program for 4-H’ers in their community. In addition, there are eight statewide camps offered this summer, all with varying focuses and age groups.
“Our camps give youth the experiences and skills to help them develop and grow through their young lives,” said Clark. “It gives them the opportunity to build positive relationships with others, practice independence, participate in safe risk-taking, gain leadership skills, appreciate differences, build self-respect, practice responsibility, become resourceful and gain many other crucial life skills.”
Costs for each camp vary, but financial assistance is available for some programs. For more information about WVU Extension 4-H camp opportunities, visit https://extension.wvu.edu/youth-family/4h/camps or contact your local WVU Extension office.
If you want to learn more about WVU Extension, visit extension.wvu.edu or follow @WVUExtension on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram.
-WVU-
slk/05/19/22
CONTACT: Sydney Keener
Communications Specialist
WVU Extension
304-293-8986; slk0014@mail.wvu.edu