Frequently Asked Questions

What if my child doesn’t know anyone in the cabin?

Returning campers are our greatest allies in making your child feel welcome and all are under the ever-watchful eyes of counselors who ensure that cabin bonding occurs and new friends are made. With the start of each session, the first thing returning campers do is to prepare to welcome the first timers. Senior campers also volunteer to “adopt” the youngest first timers for the first orientation week of camp. We have many gatherings held with Diabetes Camping Educational Services all designed to integrate new campers into our camp community and to be made to feel a special part of it.

What if my child misses’ home?

It’s not unusual and can happen at almost any age. Our counselors are specially trained and are sensitive to the emotions experienced by campers who miss home. The most important antidotes we offer to a child who is missing home are: love, caring, sympathy and things to do to keep them busy! It is important, too, to acknowledge to the camper that what he or she is experiencing is real, that it can be painful, but with time will pass. We have a commonsense approach... i.e., keep a child that is missing home as engaged in camp life as possible and consult and work with the parents (behind the scenes) to help with the camper’s positive adjustment.

How can I get in touch with my child while he/she are at Camp?

If you have an issue or concern about your child – our Directors or Camp Mentor Counselor is your primary point of contact while your child is at Camp. You may email info@diabetescamping.org or call 310-751-3057. Parents are encouraged to write letters to stay in contact with their camper, especially those who have not been away from home before.

What mailing address do I use to send letters or packages to my child while they are at Camp?

We encourage parents to send a few letters prior to their child's session, as it's always a nice gift for the first day of Camp. All letters and packages for campers should be addressed as follows: Camp Conrad Chinnock Campers First & Last Name Session # 4700 Jenks Lake Road, East Angelus Oaks, CA 92305

Are cell phones allowed at Camp?

After arriving at Camp each summer we’re surprised to discover how many of our campers ignore our cell phone policy and had cell phones with them. This was especially concerning because the phone policy, signed by parents and campers, specifically states that no campers should have phones, or if their phone is part of their CGM system, that their sim cards be removed. We want our campers to gain a new level of independence through our program and not be distracted by text messages or social media during their time at Camp. Those who wish to ignore this policy may be placed on a behavior contract. Camp will not be held responsible for any lost or stolen cell phones and or SIM cards. Thank you for understanding.

When can I visit?

We do not allow families or guests to visit Camp during our youth sessions. If you would like to meet our Staff and Directors prior to Camp we encourage all of our campers to attend our Summer Kick-Off BBQ in June or our family work weekend in April. Attending one of our Winter or Summer Family Camps is also another great option! More info. can be found on our website under the "Events" tab.

How do you protect the health and safety of your campers?

The medical program is designed to impart self-management skills, which can lead to a longer and healthier life. All cabins are fully enclosed to accommodate eight to eleven youth and a trained counselor. Attendance at these sessions is restricted to youth and teens with insulin-dependent diabetes. All sessions are led by a physician with experience working with children and young adults with Type 1 diabetes, and a team of nurses and medical students. Under the watchful eyes of the Medical Staff, campers are encouraged to be involved with their own diabetes care. Each year at camp, many children learn to give themselves insulin injections, how to handle special occasions, try an insulin pump and learn about the importance of diet and exercise.

…on the waterfront?

We follow the American Red Cross guidelines and swim tests, and personalized swim instruction. Our pool does have a roped off shallow end, along with life vests for those in need.

Is there a hospital nearby?

Yes, located in Big Bear Lake & Loma Linda in Redlands.

In case of emergency, how are parents notified?

In the event of an emergency, the emergency contacts of all campers would be notified as soon as possible via, email, EZ-Text and or on social media. Camp has emergency plans for multiple contingencies, including those that would require us to evacuate camp.

Does Conrad Chinnock make provisions for special diets?

We do our best to accommodate lactose intolerant and vegetarian/vegan diets, but ask that you please contact Camp to discuss your child’s dietary needs by emailing info@diabetescamping.org. It's important that you also list any special needs within your camp registration.

What about the Food?

Our food is nutritious and well prepared. Our Food Service Manager along with our dietary staff provides carbohydrate counts for each meal. Assistance will be provided for youth who are unable to count their carbohydrates.

Immunization Policy

While parents may choose to defer the vaccination of their children, for Camp Camp Conrad Chinnock this is not an issue of individual rights and choice, but an issue of public health and policy. The routine vaccination of all campers and staff is an important public health matter especially in the confined environment of a residential summer camp with round-the-clock communal living where illnesses spread much more easily. All those who are attending Camp Conrad Chinnock are required to have age appropirate vaccines as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and the Center for Disease Control (CDC), with the exceptions noted. • DTaP, DT (Diphtheria,Tetanus)
• Tdap vaccine is now required for children over age 11, booster every 10 years
• IPV (Poliovirus)
• HIB (Haemophilus influenza type b bacteria)
• PCV 13 (Pneumococcal) vaccine
• Hepatitis B
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) or serologic evidence of immunity. Adults born before 1957 are assumed to be immune to measles
• Varicella vaccine (Varivax – for Chicken Pox), or serologic or historical evidence of immunity
• Menactra (Meningococcal disease / Meningitis) – required for those age 11 and older •There has been a large number of flu cases in past seasons, and do not know the probability of the flu extending into the summer months. We strongly recommend that all campers and staff have received the flu vaccine. ***In addition, each camper must show proof of a Tuberculosis (TB) test preceding August 2018 for our 2020 sessions. To show verification simply upload your immunization record onto your camper portal.

Camp Safety During COVID-19

We cannot wait to see all of you at Camp once again. We will remain transparent and keep you informed of any updated information or guidelines from the State. We want you to feel comfortable that Camp Conard Chinnock is acting progressively yet responsibly in order to meet the medical and safety needs of all of our children, staff, volunteers, and parents. The outlook is bright as we have already seen a few of our board members and medical volunteers vaccinated. We are working closely with the American Camping Association, CDC, and other health officials to prioritize the health and safety of our community. As more people become vaccinated we sincerely believe there will be in person programs in Summer 2021.

1.) As we strive to make camp as safe as possible for summer 2021, we will be requiring documentation (similar to other health records, vaccination records) for campers and staff to minimize potential risk of COVID-19 infections for all while at camp.

2.) If your child is sick, has a fever, or has any signs of illness, keep them home. If the camp calls you to pick up your ill child, you must be able to pick up your child or secure a local trusted adult to pick up your child within 12 hours.

3.) If someone in your household has tested positive for Covid-19 relevant to your child’s camp time notify the camp office immediately 310-751-3057 to ensure the safety of others, as your camper will not be permitted to attend their session(s). Refund options will be available.

Who joins your staff?

Individuals with camping experience, recent and older former campers, young adults from around the world, together with a core group of professionals that returns every summer to assure the preservation of Camp Conrad Chinnock, traditions and level of excellence–every single member of the Camp Conrad Chinnock staff undergoes an intense selection process that starts with the validation of a deep love and empathy for children of all ages, a pied piper like capacity for getting and keeping kids excited about the opportunities around them and a heightened sense of responsibility and common sense essential in the care and supervision of children.

Where does your staff come from?

We have a core group of counselors that return every summer. It maintains our spirit, traditions and level of excellence. They come from all over Southern California and farther! The balance of our counselors comes from a variety of backgrounds.

How old are your counselors?

Approximately 18 - 30 years of age, with over 85% of them living with Type 1 diabetes themselves.

What percentage of your staff returns the next year, outside of your core group?

Over 80%

How do you select your counselors?

The process is not unlike a college admission or senior job position recruiting effort. It is highly selective. Even if one is a returning alumnus, we ask all of our applicants to compete for each position. We have a formal application process, which includes qualification screening, interviews, personal references and background checks.

What kind of special training do you have for your staff?

Our staff successfully completes an intensive, 3 day, exclusive Camp Conrad Chinnock staff training program offered pre-season, every summer. We also offer pre-season lifeguard training and recertification for First Aid CPR for those positions that require appropriate certifications from staff, especially in certain more “front line” activities like swimming and adventure wilderness trips.

What if we forget to send something with our child?

We'll provide a packing list a few weeks prior to your childs session. We also will remind you more than once to label your child’s clothes, as if they are staying for 2 sessions their clothes are sent off premises for laundry; and, inevitably, some things go missing. As for forgotten items, don’t worry. We have daily US postal service. We have a small camp store for necessities like soap, toothbrushes and hats.

How often is laundry done?

Laundry is sent out only if your child is staying more than one session in cabin laundry bags to the Big Bear Lake Laundromat in town and comes back that evening or next day. We ask that parents send enough clothing to get a child through the week and make sure camper names are included on all clothing. Do not pack expensive clothing, as sometimes clothes do go missing.

How can I communicate with my child?

1.) Parents are encouraged to write letters and mail prior to their session. If you write multiple letters at once we'll happily distribute them throughout the week. Campers can purchase postcards and postage in our Camp store. We do dedicated one evening per session to write home as an all Camp activity. 2.) Visit our Facebook and Instagram page to track your child through pictures and videos. 3.) Communication via the telephone is not encourage to ensure a camper’s complete immersion in our Camp environment. Our Mailing Address is: Camp Conrad Chinnock Childs First and Last Name Session # 4700 Jenks Lake Road, East Angelus Oaks, CA 92305

What makes an ideal Conrad Chinnock camper?

An “ideal” Conrad Chinnock Camper is intellectually curious, environmentally adventurous, enjoys the out-of-doors, is friendly and kind and wants to have fun!

Where are you located?

Among the tall pines of the Barton Flats Recreation Area within the San Bernardino Mountains near Big Bear. Office Address Diabetes Camping and Educational Services 12045 E. Waterfront Dr. Playa Vista, CA 90094 Camp Address Camp Conrad Chinnock 4700 Jenks Lake Road, East Angelus Oaks, CA 92305

What is my best strategy to ensure a space for my child?

Enroll fast and early. Some age categories fill very quickly. Enroll during the December to March months to receive early bird incentives.

How can I donate to the Camp Conrad Chinnock Scholarship Fund?

There are two ways you can donate to the Camp Conrad Chinnock Scholarship Fund. The first is mailing a check made out to Diabetes Camping and Educational Services (DCES) to the Camp office. The second option is visit our "Home" page and click the donation button. All contributions or tax deductible and come with a BIG Thank you!

Can I send care packages to camp?

Absolutely! BUT, please don’t send any food (for bug and critter reasons).

Where is the camp bus stop located?

For better management of our campers we're no longer offering drop-off directly at Camp Conrad Chinnock. All campers must check-in at the bus stop in Fontana, as campers will directly meet their counselor and fellow cabinmates which leads to stronger bonding. Don Day Community Center: 14501 Live Oak Ave. Fontana, CA 92337 You'll see our set-up on the grass near the basketball courts.

Can I drop off my child directly at Camp Conrad Chinnock?

No, to better manage our campers, we are not offering camper drop off directly at Camp Corad Chinnock for any Youth or Teen Session. All campers must check-in at our bus stop in Fontana and ride the bus to camp. If you would like to meet our Staff and Directors prior to Camp we encourage all of our campers to attend our family event(s) or join our family volunteer work weekend in April/May. Attending one of our Winter or Summer Family Camps is also another great option! If you should have more questions, please contact the Camp office at 310-751-3057.

What is your cancellation policy?

1.) In order to continue planning for this summer and to cover expenses associated with payroll, refunds will not be made after May 31st due to illness or change of heart. If you wish to cancel, please notify the office in writing of cancellation to receive a refund minus your $100 non refundable deposit. We understand that this is an investment for our families, but are unable to move forward if we do not secure finances. Thank you for understanding. 2.) If camp is unable to operate due to State Guidelines, our office will contact you to determine how you would like your fees allocated: A.) refund your program fee (minus $50 non-refundable processing fee), B.) apply your fee to future sessions, or C.) consider your fee a tax-deductible donation (the total amount or the amount of your choosing).

Can my camper attend multiple sessions?

Campers are able to register for each session of each camp within the same age range, but space is limited. This means your camper has the opportunity to stay for 1, 2 or 3 sessions of Teen. Same applies for our Youth sessions 4 and 5. While some campers find it harder to stay engage for multiple sessions, we have also received feedback from previous campers that they’ve enjoyed the program and building stronger connections when attended multiple weeks of camp.

2021 Summer Registration

We are thrilled to announce that our registration will open Saturday, March 13th, 2021 for the planning of in-person programing at Camp Conrad Chinnock. Even though we are still waiting to hear from the State on allowing resident camps to officially open, we are motivated to begin the process of summer enrollment. Now more than ever, Camp is critical for the mental health and positive social development of our children and youth. With that in mind, we are committed to ensuring Camp Conrad Chinnock will provide our campers with the best camping experience available. All of us – our campers, our staff, our parents, & families – must work together to ensure a safe, healthy, and successful camp for all of our participants. We ask that you thoroughly review our COVID-19 Guidebook by clicking here prior to registering, as it is intended to help us forge a partnership with our families to ensure that everyone is properly prepared for our first summer back. It remains a work in progress as we continue to gain more knowledge in our quest in providing a safe summer experience. Despite these adjustments, we are confident that Camp Conrad Chinnock will maintain its core values and unique spirit that our campers know and love. Even with the many changes, Camp may not be appropriate for some individual campers during a pandemic. Each individual and family must decide if Camp, modified as detailed in our evolving COVID-19 Guidelines, is the right fit. If you are uncomfortable with the potential risk you may be taking, please keep your child at home. An alternative option includes our “Camp at Home” virtual program which has been running successfully all year. If Camp is unable to operate due to State Guidelines, our office will allow different refund options: A. We will refund the program fee (minus $50 non-refundable processing fee) or B. We will apply the fee to future sessions or C. We will consider the fee a tax-deductible donation (the total amount or the amount of your choosing). We ask that you please pay special attention to our new policies. Session date modifications for easier travel Camper travel to and from Camp (no bus transportation) Campers may not attend multiple sessions To ensure proper distancing we are reducing capacity by 60% to allow for proper physical distancing. (register early!) Together we can bring camp back in Summer 2021!

How many campers do you take?

We pride ourselves on our relatively small size roughly 120 campers at any one time—as it affords a more personalized, nurturing, familial environment and experience. Campers per staff person: fewer than 3:1 Campers per cabin: 8-11 Youngest–oldest: 7-17

Are you gender specific?

We are a residential co-educational camp for all activities with separate sleeping cabins for boys and girls.

Percent of campers repeating enrollment year-to-year

90%

Who is accepted the to the CIT program?

The Leadership Training Program is open to teenagers ages 17 to 19, with or without diabetes, has an application process. Qualifications we look for in our counselors in training are teens that can demonstrate a level of maturity that enables them to assume responsibility and develop strong leadership skills. The applicant must demonstrate an interest in camping and show the ability to learn and work with diabetic children. Being a healthy role-model for children with diabetes is critical! Young leaders are given an opportunity to learn and explore group dynamics, human development, communications skills, recreational programming, and organization. The objective of this two-year program is to build a strong counseling staff for our program and promote leadership in our communities and at camp.

When is the CIT application due?

Applications are due May 1, 2020. However, we accept a limited amount of supreme canidates into our porgram, one a first come first serve basis.

What if I already completed the CIT Prorgram?

If you have already completed the CIT program, you can apply to be on staff member directly online!

What does the 1st year CIT program provide?

The CIT program provides a learning environment for young adults to acquire leadership skills through daily teachings at camp which can be utilized in every aspect of life. All first-year applicants complete an online application with two reference forms. Responsibilities in the first year will include learning camp operations, developmental needs of children, how to lead a group, and other key components of a camp staff member. You may assist in the kitchen, help at the pool, and work in crafts or the store. Focus will be on basic staff and leadership skills.

What are the dirving directions to Camp Conrad Chinnock?

Directions to Camp Conrad Chinnock For family winter and summer sessions we ask that families arrive between11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Camp is approximately two hours from Los Angeles and 2 1/2 hours from San Die­ go. The Highway Patrol requires all vehicles to carry chains/cables or have four-wheel drive. For road conditions, visit www.dot.ca.gov and view Highway 38. 1) Take Interstate 10 towards Redlands. If you are driving east bound on I-10, exit University Avenue and proceed north (towards the mountains). You will pass through the University of Redlands. Go until you reach Lugonia Avenue. If you are driving west bound on I-10, exit Cypress Avenue and turn right. Turn right on Citrus Avenue. Turn left on Judson/Ford St and proceed about one mile until Lugonia Avenue. 2) At Lugonia Avenue (Highway 38), turn right. Proceed approximately 27 miles up the mountain (DO NOT go towards Forest Falls). 3) Turn right on Jenks Lake Road, East. You will encounter Jenks Lake Road, West before the East route, but continue to the East route. Watch for mile marker 29.7. 4) Proceed up the road and turn right at the sign for Camp Conrad Chinnock. The address is 4700 Jenks Lake Road East Angelus Oaks, 92305. For an online map, try http://maps.yahoo.com as it seems to be the most accurate choice. If you reach the South Fork campground you went too far - turn around!

Fun in the snow!?!

Camp is at 6,800 feet, so listen to snow reports for the San Bernardino Mountains at or below that level. Temperatures may range between 20 and 50 degrees. For cur­ rent weather conditions, go to http:// www.bensweather.com/.

I still owe camp fees or haven’t paid money for the camp store. Can I bring the money to check-in?

All fees must be paid by 10 days before camp unless alternative ar­rangements have been made through the ad­ministrative office. Con­tact the office if you have questions regard­ing your balance or store account.

Are car chains required?

Depending on the snow conditions the Highway Patrol requires all vehicles to carry chains/cables or have four-wheel drive. For road conditions, visit www.dot.ca.gov and view Highway 38.

What insurance coverage is provided while at camp?

DCES provides accident/ sickness coverage to camp­ers. This coverage is second­ary to private health insurance held by the family. This cov­erage is separate from our liability insurance and pro­vides coverage for deducti­bles and co-pays as needed.

How is diabetes managed at family camp?

Diabetes management decisions are left up to each family while at fami­ly camp. The medical team is happy to advise and help with the decision making process. There will be time to speak indi­vidually with the Physi­cians and Diabetes Educa­tors by appointment, as well as, informally. This is a great opportunity to ask all those questions you only remember after leaving your doctor’s of­fice! While at camp, ther­apy and diabetes care sug­gestions are not to be used in place of the relation­ship your family already has with your regular diabetes specialist. Instead we ask that they be the topic of discussion at your next visit with him or her.

What happens on the first day of Winter Camp and when does it conclude?

Families will arrive between 11:00a.m. and 12:30p.m. on Saturday. Lunch will be at 1:00p.m. We will have an orientation fol­lowed by family recrea­tion activities, introduc­tions and games, and dinner. After dinner, staff will play a icebreaker games with the kids while the parents enjoy a special social hour with desserts and beverages. The night ends with a fun and en­tertaining activity and snack. The weekend will also include guest speakers, formal and informal discussions, snow play (if weather permits), and most importantly connecting with others who understand Type 1 diabetes. The weekend will conclude after breakfast, as families depart by 10:00am.

2021 Family Winter Camp

We have saved the date on our calendars for January 16 -18, 2021, an announcement will be made as soon as the State and the County of San Bernardino allows residential camps to resume, an announcement will be made.