Why You’ll Want to Pick Up Your Camper
As a Cheley parent, you’re part of the journey that helps shape your camper’s transformative summer. From packing their duffels to hearing their stories after camp, your role is vital. If you’re deciding between dropping your camper off at the start of the summer or picking them up at the end, here’s why we recommend choosing pick-up.
The Start: A Journey of Independence
For many campers, the trip to camp—especially by plane—is a rite of passage. It’s an opportunity to step into their independence and take the first big step toward a summer full of growth and adventure. Flying to camp and riding the bus with fellow campers and Cheley staff is often a bonding experience, easing those first-day nerves and setting the stage for the weeks ahead.
For parents, saying goodbye at camp can be tough—you may find you don’t want to leave! Allowing your camper to step into camp on their own creates a natural transition, helping them embrace their independence from the very beginning. The journey itself—through the airport, bus ride, and arrival at camp—often becomes a meaningful and empowering part of their summer story.
If you’re feeling a little nervous about sending your camper on their own, don’t worry. Our staff are ready to support them from the moment they arrive, and the journey itself often becomes a memorable start to their camp story.
The End: A Celebration of Growth
While drop-off marks the beginning of their adventure, the end of the term is when the magic truly comes full circle. The highlight of this experience is Final Saturday–a special day that allows you to step into your camper’s world, meet their counselors and friends, and witness the traditions that make Cheley so unique.
Final Chapel sets the tone for the day, with heartfelt “What Camp Means to Me” speeches delivered by campers from each unit. This is followed by a BBQ lunch or family picnic—a wonderful opportunity to share stories and connect.
The day continues with Recognition Ceremonies, where campers are honored for their accomplishments, whether earning patches, milestones, or personal achievements. These moments allow you to celebrate your camper’s growth while getting a deeper glimpse into the skills and connections they’ve built throughout the term.
By the time pick-up arrives, you’ll have celebrated their achievements and gained a meaningful glimpse into the growth and connections they experienced at camp.
Here’s why Final Saturday is so special:
- Witness Their Confidence: Campers return with newfound self-assurance and independence that’s hard to put into words—but easy to see in person.
- Share the Stories: From their favorite hikes and rides to unforgettable campfire moments, your camper will be bursting to tell you all about their summer.
- Immerse Yourself in Cheley Traditions: Final Saturday offers a rare opportunity to experience the Cheley magic firsthand. You’ll meet their counselors and friends, explore their cabin/wagon and favorite spots, and celebrate their journey.
To ensure every unit has the opportunity to fully participate in their meaningful unit-specific closure activities, pick-up times have been carefully scheduled following Final Saturday events. These activities are separate from Final Chapel and Recognition Ceremonies and are designed for campers and staff within their units to reflect on their summer experiences, celebrate their unique connections, and bring meaningful closure to their time at Cheley.
The Best of Both Worlds
Of course, we know that schedules can be tricky, and not every family can pick their camper up. That’s okay! Whether you’re there for drop-off, pick-up, or both, your camper will have an incredible experience.
If you do have to choose, we hope you’ll consider pick-up. Attending Final Saturday and being there for the close of camp is the perfect way to celebrate all the growth and memories your camper has made during their time at Cheley.
Ready to plan your visit? Check out our Final Saturday blog post for everything you need to know. We can’t wait to welcome you!
