Parent Guidebook

Please note that additional summer registration information will be sent by email leading up to camp.

SUMMER 2025 REGISTRATION 
Please note that your registration process will go more quickly if you have already submitted all required forms and tuition payments prior to arriving on campus.
 Log in to your parent account and finish the enrollment forms.  

• Returning students/ campers: Friday, June 20 from 9:00 AM Eastern Time until 3:00 PM in Culver's Multi-Purpose Building.  

• NEW students/ campers: Saturday, June 21 from 10:00 AM Eastern Time until 3:00 PM.  

Each family will sign-up for a reservation time to complete the registration process prior to arriving on campus. Students/campers arriving by Culver bus do not require a reserved time slot as we have a special procedure for those arriving by Culver bus. More information will be sent by email with these registration sign-up details as we get closer to summer starting. 

Parking 

If you are arriving by car, enter the campus at Culver Academies' main entrance gate off of State Road 10. Parking is available behind the Culver Chapel and adjacent to the Multi-Purpose Building. After parking, please proceed to the Multi-Purpose Building to complete the registration process. 

Note: Parking in the Henderson Ice Rink Parking lot is restricted to private vehicles displaying handicapped parking tags and authorized Culver vehicles. 

Luggage Drop-Off 

Tents for luggage drop-off are located conveniently near the designated parking locations. All luggage will be tagged with your camper's name and unit. Culver staff will deliver luggage to your child's dorm, barracks, or cabin.  

• Woodcraft campers and parents can drop off luggage at the large tents before heading to the Woodcraft Camp for cabin and unit assignments.  

• Upper School students will have the option to take their luggage directly to their unit or drop it off at the tent. 
   

After Dropping Off Your Luggage 

• Woodcraft Campers and parents can proceed to Woodcraft Camp located on State Road 10, 0.5 miles east of the Culver main gate. 

• Upper School Students and parents can proceed to their dorms and barracks on the main campus. Be sure to check where their unit is located before leaving the Multi-Purpose Building and look for signage on the dorms and barracks. 

• Again, Upper School students may choose to keep their luggage with them and bring it directly to their room in lieu of using the drop-off tents. 

Arriving By Bus 

If your child is arriving by a Culver bus, the bus will bring them to the Multi-Purpose Building for registration. After completing the registration process, the bus will take Woodcraft Campers and their luggage to Woodcraft Camp. Upper School students will be directed to their dorm or barracks.  

Of note, your child will have access to their cell phone when they arrive on campus long enough for them to contact you to let you know they have made it safely. 

Please read through the following transportation information very carefully.  In order to serve our families better, we have adopted several long-requested changes to make it easier (and often less expensive) to get your child and their luggage to and from Culver. After you have thoroughly read the arrival and departure information AND you know precisely how your child is getting to and from Culver, you are ready to fill out our arrival and departure information page. You can log in to your parent account here. 

Unaccompanied Minors 

If your child is traveling as an unaccompanied minor to camp this summer, it is critical that you contact the Transportation Officer by email at cssct@culver.org or by phone at 574-842-8486.

Off-Campus Permits

Students/campers may only be signed out by the authorized adults.

Campers are allowed to leave campus with parent-authorized supervision during the pre-established permit times. Permit times are listed below. Please note that there will be no overnight permits. All times are listed in Eastern Time (one hour ahead of Chicago).

Upper School students who have an immediate family members (siblings) in Woodcraft Camp must first sign out in their Unit Office with their counselor and then go to Woodcraft to sign out their brother or sister. Upper School students can check out 2 Woodcraft campers maximum during the permit time from 12:00 PM until 3:00 PM.

2025 Permit Schedule

Saturday, July 5, 2025, AND Saturday, July 19, 2025
12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
 Naval Band, D&B, Troop, Deck 7, Honor Organization Members return no later than 4:30 PM

Of note on Saturday evenings: 6:00 pm Honor Organization Performances, 7:00 pm Adjutant's Call for the weekly Garrison Parade. Parking is available behind Memorial Chapel. 

Sunday, July 6, 2025 AND Sunday, July 20, 2025
12:00 PM – 7:00 PM 

Culver respectfully asks that parents understand and abide by the no-permit restriction during non-authorized days/times. 
 

Permit FAQ's

How do I sign my child out? 

If a camper is going on permit, the camper must be signed out at their Unit Headquarters (Woodcraft) or Senior Counselor's office (Upper School). Counselors will greet you at the Unit Headquarters and Counselors' Offices to facilitate the permit check-out process.

At the end of permit, Woodcrafters should be dropped off at their Unit Headquarters. Counselors will be there to welcome campers back to campus. Upper School students should report to their unit office immediately upon arrival back to campus to turn in their permit form to their counselor. 
 

Can my child go on permit with another family? 
 
Please review the current permit permissions you have already submitted for your camper. To review your current selections, please log in to your Parent Portal account and select “Summer Enrollment Forms”. Permit Authorizations are located under the “Other Forms” section.

If you need to make changes to these permissions, please reach out to the Summer Admissions office at summer@culver.org and include your camper’s senior counselor or division/wing commander on the email.

What if my child is not going out on permit? 

Not every child goes out on permit. For those who stay on campus, there will be activities to keep campers busy during weekends at Culver. There will be scheduled times for recreational sailing for Upper School and recreational skating and swimming for all campers along with other activities.

Many of the facilities including the Fitness Center will be open for campers to use during permit times.
 

Permit Reminders 

• Our campers must be well-fed and properly hydrated during permit time. Please refrain from greasy foods and soft drinks – especially before Saturday evening's Garrison Parade! 
   
• While students are on permit the following may only be done under the immediate supervision of a parent/guardian: 
  • Swim, sail, and/or participate in any boating or water activity.
  • Drive (if they have a license) a car or golf cart.
      
• Students must wear proper Dress uniform during off-campus permit and observe all Culver Summer Schools & Camps rules and regulations.
   
• Campers and students must be supervised the entire time while on permit and must be returned to their units no later than the end of permit time. Campers have activities scheduled on campus after permit concludes and need to be back on time.
   
• Parking will be available at the Schrage Leadership Building, behind the Chapel, at the Henderson Multipurpose parking lot, and off of Academy Road.
   

What to Do during Off-Campus Permit: 
 
While off-campus with your child, you may consider some of the options below: 

• Enjoy the town of Culver's Lake Fest festivities 

• Explore the Culver Museum in town 

• Dine at one of the great restaurants in the town of Culver 

• Visit Plymouth – about 15 miles north of Culver – for movies, bowling, restaurants, Wal-Mart, and other stores. 

• Visit South Bend/Mishawaka – about 40 miles north of Culver – for a larger selection of stores and restaurants. 

For the safety and security of our campers and staff, please keep in mind that the Woodcraft campus is closed to the public while camp is in session.

We kindly request that families remain off-campus during the first two weeks to allow campers to begin the adjustment process to Culver's schedule. This includes retreat parades, council fire, Woodcraft Awards, and athletic events. It is important to note that Garrison Parades are open to the public and families are welcome to attend.
 
We welcome families and guests to attend retreat parades, Council Fire, and Woodcraft Awards on the two permit weekends. For more information on permit weekends, please visit the permit information section above. 

Thank you for your understanding and support!
 

Golf Cart Guidelines

In recent years, the use of golf carts has increased significantly on our campus. While we recognize the convenience of golf carts, this fact cannot outweigh the hazards to campus safety and respect for our beautiful campus. In an effort to prioritize student and camper experiences, we are asking you to abide by the following guidelines.

• Golf carts are to be driven on paved pathways unless navigating to designated golf cart parking areas.
• Golf carts are expected to yield to pedestrians and monitor a 5-mph speed limit.
• We request that golf carts respect all related signage, barricades, and roped areas.
• We realize that golf carts serve a valuable purpose for those who are less mobile. Please be assured reasonable judgment will be extended to those who are in need of this convenience.

Garrison Parades:

• Golf carts are not permitted to park along the east or west end of the Henderson Parade Field. Please utilize golf cart parking areas between the Health Center and Vaughn Equestrian Center.
• Golf carts are not permitted on the sidewalk directly south of the Health Center (lakeside). Please navigate to the north of the Health Center to access the designated parking area.
• No pets are allowed at Garrison Parades.

 
Woodcraft Permits, Retreats & Award Ceremonies:

• Golf carts are not permitted in the main cabin areas on both the boys and girls side of camp. Exception is green Woodcraft staff carts used to operate camp.
• Designated parking areas are marked at both the upper & lower entrances to the cabin living areas. Please park and walk to the Division and Wing Headquarters to sign out your child.
• Golf carts crossing Cardinal Bridge will park west of the sand volleyball courts or west of the gravel path (Cardinal Creek side), not blocking the gravel path.
• During retreat parades, golf carts are not permitted to park along the girls cabins, north of the retreat field. Please feel free to bring a lawn chair to view the retreat parade.
• Golf carts crossing under Hwy 117, via the White-DeVries Rowing Center, are asked to park at the bottom of the hill.
• For Woodcraft award ceremonies, golf carts are not permitted to park along the amphitheater, please utilize the parking areas and bring a lawn chair or blanket to view the event.
• No pets are allowed at retreat parades or Woodcraft award ceremonies.

As a reminder, golf cart parking is only permitted in the designated golf cart parking areas as indicated on the campus golf cart traffic routes and parking area map. 

The Campus Safety Team will have a presence on campus and will be providing friendly reminders regarding golf cart use. We regret any inconvenience these guidelines may create. However, we believe the safety of our community and the pedestrian character of our campus is a priority. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. If you have questions, please contact Campus Safety at 574-842-8000.

Healthcare
Woodcraft Camp: The Waterfield Health Center is located on the Woodcraft campus to meet the medical needs of your Woodcraft camper 7 days per week.  Dr. Chris Ricketts oversees the Waterfield Health Center as Culver’s medical director, Ms. Karissa Toupin serves as the in-house provider with years of experience as a nurse practitioner. The Waterfield Health Center is staffed with RNs and an Athletic Trainer throughout the day.  If your camper has medical needs after 10:00 PM Monday through Friday or 5:00 PM Saturday or Sunday a counselor or major will accompany your camper to the The Health Center on the Upper School campus. 

Main Campus: The Upper School Health Center is staffed 24/7 with experienced RNs and overnight accommodations for both Woodcraft and Upper School campers when necessary.  At both health centers, the staff will determine treatment, admission, duration of inpatient status, and discharge for any camper seeking assistance.

Communication
Campers are seen at the health centers by a registered nurse and referred to a provider as needed.  Parents receive notification from the Health Center about their camper’s visit only when they are seen by a medical provider (nurse practitioner or medical director).  The notification is sent through Point and Click Electronic Medical Records system.  Parents are NOT notified when the camper sees one of the nurses on duty.  Every attempt will be made to reach a parent by phone in an emergency. 
 

Medical Charges
Culver Academies Health Center covers the cost of almost all treatment rendered at the facility with the exception of Lice Treatments.  Please see the information below regarding our Lice policy and fees.  Almost every student visit is covered through the student’s tuition. However, if there is an occasion to screen a student for chemical substances, parents are responsible for charges submitted by the laboratory performing blood, saliva and/or hair sample screenings. All such payments will then be charged to the camper or student’s charge account. There is no fee for staying overnight in the Health Center. Over-the-counter medication prescribed by the Health Center is also free of charge. Parents are responsible for the cost of any prescription medicine and some durable medical equipment prescribed by the Health Center, which is billed to the student’s account.

Lice Treatment
Culver Summer Schools and Camps prioritize the health and well-being of all campers attending their program. As part of their preventive measures, Culver Summer Schools and Camps has implemented a lice/nit inspection policy in collaboration with a company called Lice Perspectives. During the registration process, all campers will undergo a thorough hair inspection to ensure a lice/nit-free environment.  During the registration process, any head lice cases found will be professionally treated by Lice Perspectives and a parent/guardian will be billed a reduced flat treatment rate of $280 per person, with no subsequent cost. This rate is discounted during the registration process. 
 Immediate lice treatment is not always possible during the registration times due to high volumes at registration.  For campers that are found to be positive, Lice Perspectives will give instructions on when to return for lice treatment that day.

• For campers who are found to have evidence of head lice/nits that arrive WITH a parent/guardian, instructions will be given on where to go until it is time for treatment. Positive campers will not be permitted into the cabin/dorm area without completion of the lice treatment. 
   
• For campers who are found to have evidence of head lice/nits WITHOUT a parent/guardian present will have arrangements coordinated at some point during the day or evening to return for treatment.  If positive, the camper will stay at the Health Center until the treatment appointment.   Again, positive campers will not be permitted into the cabin/dorm area without completion of the lice treatment.
   
• If a camper arrives on a NON-REGISTRATION Day (any day other than June 20 & June 21, 2025) or at any time throughout camp and is found to have lice/nits, Lice Perspectives will not be on site.  In this situation, a non-toxic, pesticide-free enzyme treatment will be applied to the camper’s hair/head by a nurse to begin the treatment process.  Once this is applied, the camper can return to the cabin for the night. The camper will then report to the Health Center the next day to meet with Lice Perspectives and complete the treatment.  The price for Lice Perspectives treatment company to come on-site during non-registration days is $350 per person. 

IMPORTANT: To be proactive, it is a good idea to have your child's head checked by a local health care provider or a qualified person (such as a school nurse, lice company, primary care doctor’s office) prior to arriving at camp.  This is especially important if you feel that your child may be at risk for head lice (attended a prior camp, was with a relative/friend who has had head lice, had an outbreak in school, etc.) The cycle of lice can take up to two weeks with an at-home treatment.  The treatment provided by Lice Perspectives is a one-time treatment, however, the appropriate education for home, parents and follow-up checks will be provided.

• Although frequent head checks prior to camp may help in detecting an early outbreak before arrival at camp, it does not eliminate the possibility of lice being found at registration. 
   
• Please note that campers are in close proximity with one another throughout camp.  Due to weekend permits and exposure to the general public, Culver Summer Schools & Camps cannot guarantee that your camper will not contract lice during camp.  Properly educating your camper prior to camp not to share hats, brushes, combs, hair accessories, pillows or blankets with other campers will lower the rick of contracting lice.  Again, if lice/nits are found at any time other than during registration, the charge for treatment will be $350 per person.

Medical and Dental Leaves
Medical and/or dental leaves are scheduled through the Health Center with Ms. Suzie Corey. Students departing on medical leave will sign out at the Health Center and sign back in at the Health Center with a return to camp slip outlining important pertinent medical orders and/or restrictions.

Medications
Medication rules and policies pertaining to medications are designed to maintain a safe camp environment while recognizing that campers must have the ability to access appropriate medications.

Woodcraft Camp: Woodcraft campers will be dispensed ALL medications from the Dispensing center located in the Orthwein Dining Hall.  All prescription medication must be registered through the Health Center.

• Woodcraft campers will not receive prescription medication that has not been prescribed to them personally by a physician and is not appropriately labeled in ENGLISH with the name of the medication, strength, date of prescription, student’s name, physician’s name, and direction for administration. 
• Daily medication dose packets created by a pharmacy are encouraged for ease in administering. 
• Only enough medication to cover the 6 weeks of camp will be accepted. 

Refer to the Medication Policy signed during the online registration process for information regarding what medications will be dispensed at Woodcraft camp.

Upper School: Upper School students will be dispensed a weekly supply of qualifying medications at the Health Center.  All prescription medication must be registered through the Health Center.

• Upper School campers will not receive prescription medication that has not been prescribed to them personally by a physician and is not appropriately labeled in ENGLISH with the name of the medication, strength, date of prescription, student’s name, physician’s name, and direction for administration. 
• Daily medication dose packets created by a pharmacy are encouraged for ease in administering. 
• Only enough medication to cover the 6 weeks of camp will be accepted.  

Securing Prescription Medications: All prescription medication, except that requiring refrigeration, must be properly always secured under lock and key. Upper School students have a lockable desk drawer for this purpose. 

Students may not share or sell prescription medication. Parents or providers should not send prescription medication directly to students. Medication must be sent to the Health Center for distribution to the student. Non-prescription medication is to be used according to the guidelines provided with the medication. Parents should be aware of the medication their student possesses.  

Refer to the Medication Policy signed during the online registration process for information regarding what medications will be permitted and dispensed at camp.

SMART Tuition Account

Culver Academies has partnered with SMART Tuition to present statements, process your payments, and provide easy access to your account information.

We will make it easy for you to

• Select a payment method that works best for you
• Choose to receive a monthly invoice, or
• Set up recurring automatic payments from your bank account or credit card
• Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express are accepted

Access your account online

• Review account history, transaction details, and print invoices
• Edit your contact information, password, and payment method
• Make a payment or set up recurring payments. Tuition needs to be paid in full and is due April 1st.

Receive payment and follow up reminders

• For recurring payments, a reminder is emailed 7-10 days before the due date
• For missed payments and outstanding balances, you will receive an email and phone call

Speak with a customer service representative

• Live agents are available Monday – Friday 7:00 a.m. – 1:00 a.m.
• Spanish speaking representatives are available
• Call toll-free to make payments at (888) 868-8828
• International families can contact (925) 316-4286 to speak with a representative

International campers are required to purchase the international insurance through Culver and will be charged accordingly. Benefits will be paid for 100% of covered medical expenses (except for above usual and customary charges) up to $500,000 for each Injury or Sickness. Please note that there may be additional charges to the Tuition Account for supplies, over the counter medications, and prescriptions administered by the Health Center that may not be covered by the international insurance. We encourage you to read the insurance policy brochure below.

The insurance information must be provided to Culver by the start of camp. Further details will be included on your camper's Pre-Enrollment Checklist. 

• International Insurance Plan Summary
• International Insurance Brochure

What spending money options are available for my child? 

• Bring your own Debit or Credit card 
• Sign up for a reloadable debit card 
• Anyone with a US bank account: Greenlight 
• Mexico residents: CI Banco for campers from Mexico 
• Bring your own prepaid gift card (Visa/Mastercard, available at most grocery stores or pharmacies) 
   

Where can money be spent while at Culver? 

• Students can visit our on-campus restaurant, The Shack, for hamburgers, pizza, shakes/smoothies, and salads, in addition to grab-and-go items like fruit and sandwiches. 
• Our Campus Store stocks everything your student will need this summer, from fans to toiletries and clothing. 
• The Culver Uniform Department 
• Woodcraft campers have a store at Woodcraft Camp for basics. 
   

How does the Greenlight reloadable gift card work? 

Greenlight is a debit card for kids that is managed by parents. With the tap of a button, send money to your kids — anytime, anywhere. No trips to the ATM, no cash, no hassle. Set flexible parental controls that are right for your family and get real-time notifications every time your kids spend money. Kids get real-life lessons in earning, spending, and saving. There is no minimum age.  

Check out the Greenlight FAQ. 

How will my child’s identity be verified when they make a purchase at Culver? 

Your child's identity will be verified prior to making a purchase on campus by checking their photo ID card. If your child brings a pre-paid gift card to campus their name should be written on it with a permanent marker prior to arrival. 

What happens if my child’s card gets lost? 

If a card is lost, your child is responsible for letting their counselor know as soon as possible. From there, they will notify parents/guardians so that it can be reported as lost, and a new card can be issued.  We recommend parents purchase cards in small denominations. 

Often, if a card is lost, there is a website where you can input the gift card information and have it reissued. We recommend that you take a picture of the front and back of gift cards in case you have to utilize this feature. 

How will the cards be kept secure while at camp? 

Woodcrafters’ cards will be kept by each cabin counselor in a security lockbox when not in use. 

Upper School students should keep their cards in their lock drawer in their room when not in use. 

Are there parental controls available for the gift cards? 

Not all cards offer parental controls. We recommend finding a gift card/debit card that you feel comfortable with. Greenlight offers a debit card that can be reloaded with funds. 

Gift cards purchased at major retailers or on campus will not have parental controls. 

Can I send cash with my child? 

We recommend that students do not arrive to camp with cash. 

Can my child get cash while on campus? 

An automated teller machine (ATM) from 1st Source Bank is located on campus in the lower level of the Lay Dining Center, next to the Campus Store. Any student with a major bank card or a 1st Source Bank Resource Plus Card may use the ATM, but he or she must have a PIN number. Students with a 1st Source Bank-issued card may enjoy the convenience of using the ATM without incurring any fees. All other cards may be subject to a foreign ATM fee. 

However, we do not recommend that students pull out cash, since a debit card or Visa gift card can be used at all locations on campus.  

What if I have another question about spending money at camp? 

Please contact the Culver Summer Schools & Camps Office at summer@culver.org for inquiries. 

During the 6 weeks that your child is enrolled in Culver Summer Schools and Camps, they will attend a spiritual reflection or religious service weekly. As part of your pre-camp registration process, you will select which service your child will attend from the following five offerings: 

Roman Catholic Mass – 9:00 AM Sundays 
Mass is the Roman Catholic community coming together to worship and honor God. There are many opportunities for students to be involved in the Mass: helping the priest at the altar, proclaiming the word of the Lord, distributing the Eucharist, leading the congregation in song, or providing music for the Mass. 

Mindfulness Service – 9:00 AM Sunday (Woodcraft), 10:30 AM (Upper School) 
Woodcrafter campers will participate in mindfulness activities and short, guided practices. They will learn and practice research-based self-calming techniques. Upper School students will be introduced to basic mindfulness concepts and practices. Through activities and short, guided practices, they will learn research-based self-calming techniques. Upper School students will also be introduced to mindful decision-making. Both services will be led by Kristen Counts, OT/L, Certified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for Teens Instructor. 

Protestant Worship Services – 10:30 AM Sundays 
The Protestant traditions represented by Culver students are as diverse as those of the culture at large. This service is all-inclusive and Christ-centered- offering with readings from scripture, a sermon, and time for prayer at every Sunday service. 

Islamic Studies – 6:30 PM Fridays 
Each Friday Muslim students gather for the opportunity to learn about Muslim life and practice. Topics include the importance of charity and the significance of religious pilgrimage. Students explore the relevance of the Qur’an and the Prophet’s life to their lives at Culver. 

Jewish Prayer – 6:30 PM Fridays 
Shabbat, Hebrew for day of rest, is the most important day in the Jewish calendar. Conducted in Hebrew and English, this service includes the lighting of the Sabbath candles, the recital of Kiddush, and prayers over wine and bread and the Sabbath day itself. Discussions concerning Jewish life, practice, and world affairs will also take place as a part of this service option. 

Travel Documents
If your child was picked up at Chicago O'Hare airport, his or her counselor will collect their travel documents, such as passports, visas, and return airline tickets upon their arrival on campus. These documents will be labeled, sealed, and stored for safekeeping. 

The Transportation Office will return all travel documents for those campers departing campus by air as they board the bus to the airport. Therefore, if you need to change your child’s departure from campus, please contact the Transportation Office at cssct@culver.org as soon as possible to ensure that their travel documents are in the proper location. 
 

Camper and Luggage Pick Up

Campers will be ready to depart campus at the end of the graduation ceremonies on Saturday, August 2, 2025. Upper School graduation will take place at 8:30 A.M. and Woodcraft Camp graduation will take place at 9:45 A.M. We expect the graduation ceremonies to last about an hour.

Woodcraft Camp: After Woodcraft Graduation, parents can accompany their camper to the unit area where they will check out their child and get their luggage. 

Upper School: After Upper School Graduation, parents can accompany their student to their unit dorm/barracks to check out their child and get their luggage.
 

Health Center and Medications Pick-up

Woodcraft Camp: The Waterfield Health Center will be open until Friday, August 1 at 12:00 P.M. The Woodcraft Dispensing Center will close by noon on Saturday, August 1.

Medications will be packaged and delivered to the units on Friday afternoon to be packed away in the camper's luggage. Campers will be given their medication doses Friday night and Saturday morning if they are still on campus. 

Upper School: The Health Center will be open until Saturday, August 2 at 1:00 P.M. for remaining medication pickups.

 

Lost and Found

• Please encourage all campers to be proactive and ensure that they have packed the appropriate items prior to departing campus.
• All items in the Lost and Found for Woodcraft Camp will be brought to Woodcraft Headquarters.
• All items in the Lost and Found for Upper School will be brought to Sally Port before the end of the graduation ceremonies. After that time, all items will be moved to the first floor of the Naval Building. 

If your camper is missing something when they arrive home, please contact the Summer Admissions Office by email at summer@culver.org or by phone at 574-842-8300.

Please note that all items will be held for up to 3 weeks and then will be donated.

 

To view the map of Culver's campus, click here.

Please select the school your child is enrolled in to view the uniform and packing list:

2025 Packing Lists - COMING SOON!

Shipping Luggage before Camp

Please print your child's complete name and Culver's address on all pieces of luggage as follows: 

Camper's Name 
Woodcraft Camp <or> Upper School 
1300 Academy Road 
Culver, IN 46511 
USA 

Culver Summer Schools and Camps has partnered with Ship Camps to make baggage delivery to and from camp easier for everyone. Ship Camps offers round-trip, door-to-door service with outstanding customer support and an experienced operations team that ensures on-time delivery, continuous baggage monitoring and tracking as well as detailed coordination with our camp staff.

For these reasons, we recommend that you consider Ship Camps as one of the options to get your camper’s bags to and from camp. 

Setup with Ship Camps is quick, taking just a few minutes. Starting February 1st, you can visit https://shipcamps.com/culver-camps or call 855.540.2267 to book the service. 

Once setup is complete, Ship Camps will mail you your shipping labels, pick your bags up from home prior to the camp session AND drop off at your desired location after camp.

We strongly encourage getting orders booked with Ship Camps by or before April 15th, 2025!

Sheets and pillowcases are included in your campers’ boarding experience at no cost to you.

Please do not send your camper with sheets or pillowcases this summer. During the registration process, campers will receive four sheets and two pillowcases.  At the end of camp, campers must return all sheets and pillowcases to their counselor.  Campers who do not turn in these items may be charged.

Camp Preparation Labeling

1. Item Marking

• It is important that each item brought from home have your child’s name clearly written in permanent ink (think Sharpie or laundry pen (Rub-a-Dub) – not ballpoint pen).
• The best places for markings are on the inside of the collar or waistband.
• Campers should include their camper ID number along with their name.
•  Items you receive at registration will be marked by Culver for your child during the first week of camp before the item leaves the Uniform Department. Exceptions include belts and shoes.

Parents and campers must understand that all garments sent to the Culver laundry will be marked by Culver using a 400-degree heat seal label. Culver’s uniforms accept this label without damage; however, non-uniform items can (and often do) melt.  For this reason, Culver does not accept any responsibility damage to non-uniform items sent to the laundry for cleaning. Please do not mark clothing items from home with iron on labels.  These labels are not commercial grade, and they will come off during our laundry operations – resulting in your child’s clothing being unidentifiable and non-returnable to your camper.

2. Items brought from home and labeled with another person’s name (sibling, friend, other)

• New and returning campers bringing previously owned uniform items may bring them to the dorms, barracks and cabins. These items will be relabeled by the Uniform Department during the first week of camp. Please ensure the items are clean when you drop them off and bring a list of items with quantities that you will be dropping off.
• The quantity of accepted items to be relabeled is limited to the number of required items for camp. See uniform packing list for the number of items.

 New and returning campers should report to the Culver Multi-Purpose Building on the day of Registration and follow the directions provided.
 

E-mail

Culver communicates with parents primarily by e-mail. If you have any questions prior to the start of camp, you may send an email to summer@culver.org and a staff member will get back to you as soon as possible, usually within one business day. During camp, any e-mail with questions or concerns regarding your child will be sent directly to his/her senior counselor. The counselor e-mail addresses will not be activated until the start of camp and will be available to you at registration.

BUNK 1 (Optional Service)

Culver has partnered with Bunk 1 again this summer. Bunk1 offers families a simple way of staying connected with their campers. With Bunk1, you can access secure online photo galleries with facial recognition and send printed notes to your camper(s) from a desktop browser and their easy-to-use mobile app for iOS and Android devices.

Bunk 1 currently offers:

• Photo Gallery- Bunk 1 photographers take and post photos every Monday, Wednesday and Friday while camp is in session. Please keep in mind that we have over 700 students in Woodcraft Camp, and we try our best to capture our campers and students in a large variety activities while they are here on campus!
• Bunk Notes- are the fastest and easiest way to deliver one-way communication to your camper. Families can send their camper letters, customized with photos, borders, puzzles, and more from the Family Portal. These letters are printed at camp, sorted, and delivered once daily (Monday through Friday) right to each unit’s mailboxes and delivered to campers along with the traditional mail. Please note that Bunk Notes can be sent on Saturday and Sunday, however, they will not be received by campers until Monday. It is important to note that Bunk Notes sent prior to Week 3 will be collected but not delivered until Monday of Week 3. This allows time for the students to adjust to being away from home.

For more information about Bunk1, please visit our Photo Services page. 

Mail

If you would like to send your Woodcraft Camper mail or a care package while he/she is at camp, you are welcome to do so. Culver recommends sending letters, books, pictures, magazines, or other non-food items. The address to send items to your camper is as follows:

Woodcraft Camper's Name
Culver Woodcraft Camp
Woodcraft Division/Wing #
1300 Academy Rd
Culver, IN 46511

Phone

Woodcraft cabins are not equipped with telephones. You may reach your child via telephone by calling his/her respective Division or Wing Headquarters between 8:00 AM and 9:00 PM EDT. Only emergency calls should be made outside these hours. Division and Wing Headquarters' phones operate 24 hours/day. In the case of an emergency, when the senior counselor cannot be reached, call the Woodcraft Headquarters at 574-842-8400 or the Officer In Charge at 574-842-8324.

You may also contact the Parent Liaison who will be able to answer questions regarding your child’s overall adjustment and progress. The Parent Liaison may be reached at 574-842-8401 or wcpl@culver.org. 

Until the first permit on July 5, 2025, to help your child adjust to camp, campers will not be able to receive phone calls. You may contact your child’s Commander or Parent Liaison to check on their status.  Please encourage your child to write instead of telephoning. Campers are not permitted to use cell phones.

Please keep in mind...

• While the counselors/commanders are expected to spend the majority of their time with the campers, they do have an office email and phone should you need to reach them.
• Please understand, though, that they may not always be immediately available as commanders and counselors have campers under their supervision to attend to at all times.
• All counselor contact information will be provided both at registration and by email on registration day.

Rooted in our military leadership system, all Woodcrafters follow the following guidelines for personal appearance:

• Hair must be a natural color.
• All Male students must meet these haircut standards:
  • Hair on the top of the head will be neatly groomed
  • Length and bulk of the hair will not be excessive, ragged, unkempt, or extreme appearance
  • When combed straight down, hair will not fall over the ears or eyebrows or touch the collar
  • Lines or designs will not be cut into the hair, scalp, or eyebrows
  • In all cases, the hair will not interfere with the normal wear of military headgear
  • Sideburns will be neatly trimmed.
  • Click here to view the Haircut Inspection Standards.
• All Female students must follow these hair guidelines:
  • Hair needs to be pulled back and up, neatly, during all formations
  • Simple black, brown, or blonde hair ties and bobby pins may be use.
• Barbers will be available at summer registration to give haircuts to those who are interested and also to those not meeting the above regulations. Woodcrafters are also welcome to get their haircut at home prior to arriving.
• Makeup, perfume/cologne, and nail polish are not to be worn during camp.
• Jewelry is not to be worn at camp with the following exceptions during authorized times:
  • One pair of small earrings (no larger than a size of a pencil eraser)
  • Religious necklace
  • Crafts made at camp

Culver's Electronic Policy

Culver Summer Schools and Camp's electronics policy is simple to understand: NO CELL PHONES OR ANYTHING THAT CONNECTS TO THE INTERNET/WIFI.

We ask that our parents please help us enforce this policy. If you are personally dropping your children at Culver, PLEASE take their cell phone(s) with you. A camper caught in possession of a cell phone has committed an honor code violation. Consequences for not adhering to our cellphone/any device that connects to the internet include: losing rank and/or privileges – this would be particularly true for upperclassmen.

For those campers arriving by air, we understand and fully expect parents to insist that their children carry a cell phone while they are traveling by themselves. We simply ask that you remind your children to surrender their cell phones to their counselors once you have received the phone call that they have arrived safely. 

Other electronic devices:
Music players, tablets, smartwatches, computers, and cameras are among a list of electronic devices that campers tend to bring. As many of these devices have multiple functions, the rules tend to get a little fuzzy - and the last thing we want to do is build a lengthy list of various devices by brand and model numbers.

The best guideline that we can offer is this:

Any electronic device that has the ability to communicate, either through the Internet or Cellular data plans, is prohibited. Laptops and tablet computers are not allowed. Digital cameras are fine, as are many music players. Keep in mind, however, there are a number of music players and smartwatches that have Wi-Fi capability and can connect to the Internet - this type of device is not permitted. We encourage campers to bring traditional watches with them to keep time. 

Please select the school your child is enrolled in to view the uniform and packing list:

2025 Packing Lists - COMING SOON!

Shipping Luggage before Camp

Please print your child's complete name and Culver's address on all pieces of luggage as follows: 

Camper's Name 
Woodcraft Camp <or> Upper School 
1300 Academy Road 
Culver, IN 46511 
USA 
 

Culver Summer Schools and Camps has partnered with Ship Camps to make baggage delivery to and from camp easier for everyone. Ship Camps offers round-trip, door-to-door service with outstanding customer support and an experienced operations team that ensures on-time delivery, continuous baggage monitoring and tracking as well as detailed coordination with our camp staff.

For these reasons, we recommend that you consider Ship Camps as one of the options to get your camper’s bags to and from camp. 

Setup with Ship Camps is quick, taking just a few minutes. Starting February 1st, you can visit https://shipcamps.com/culver-camps or call 855.540.2267 to book the service. 

Once setup is complete, Ship Camps will mail you your shipping labels, pick your bags up from home prior to the camp session AND drop off at your desired location after camp.

We strongly encourage getting orders booked with Ship Camps by or before April 15th, 2025!

Sheets and pillowcases are included in your child's boarding experience at no cost to you.

Please do not send your child with sheets or pillowcases as they will be awaiting their arrival in their dorms/barracks. 

Camp Preparation Labeling

1. Item Marking 

• All uniform items are heat sealed, plus white undershirts, underwear, socks, etc. Items you receive at registration will be marked by Culver for your child before the item leaves the Uniform Department. Exceptions include belts and shoes. 
   

• All garments sent to the Culver laundry will be marked by Culver using a 400-degree heat seal label. Culver’s uniforms accept this label without damage; however, non-uniform items can melt.  For this reason, Culver does not accept any responsibility for damage to non-uniform items sent to the laundry for cleaning. 
   

• Items brought from home should have your child’s name clearly written in permanent ink (think Sharpie – not ballpoint pen). 
   

• Please do not mark clothing items from home with iron on labels.  These labels are not commercial grade, and they will come off during our laundry operations – resulting in your child’s clothing being unidentifiable and non-returnable to your camper. 
   

2. Items brought from home and labeled with another person’s name (sibling, friend, other) 

• New and returning campers bringing previously owned uniform items may bring them to Registration for relabeling. There will be a specific table at Registration to drop off items for relabeling.  Please ensure the items are clean when you drop them off and bring a list of items with quantities that you will be dropping off. 
   

• Relabeling previously-used uniforms is a time-consuming process, and on Registration Day the Uniform Department is set up to issue and label new uniforms under a very specific process.  The quantity of accepted items to be relabeled is limited to the number of required items for camp. See uniform packing list for the number of items. 

As a leadership-based program, one of the valuable lessons we foster throughout the summer is self-confidence. Living in a dorm/barracks setting provides students with the opportunity to step outside of their comfort zone and learn the necessary skills of independent living.

In order to best support your child as they get acclimated to our residential summer camp program, students will not be able to make or receive phone calls for the first two weeks. This is crucial for establishing routines and being fully immersed in all that Culver has to offer here on campus. 

Below you will find options available to communicate with your Upper School student:

BUNK 1 (Optional Service)

Culver has partnered with Bunk 1 again this summer. Bunk1 offers families a simple way of staying connected with their campers. With Bunk1, you can access secure online photo galleries with facial recognition and send printed notes to your camper(s) from a desktop browser and their easy-to-use mobile app for iOS and Android devices.

Bunk 1 currently offers:

• Photo Gallery- Bunk 1 photographers take and post photos every Monday, Wednesday and Friday while camp is in session. Please keep in mind that we have over 600 students and campers in Upper School, and we try our best to capture our campers and students in a large variety activities while they are here on campus!
• Bunk Notes- are the fastest and easiest way to deliver one-way communication to your camper. Families can send their camper letters, customized with photos, borders, puzzles, and more. These letters are printed at camp, sorted, and delivered once daily (Monday through Friday) right to each unit’s mailboxes and delivered to campers along with the traditional mail. Please note that Bunk Notes can be sent on Saturday and Sunday, however, they will not be received by campers until Monday. It is important to note that Bunk Notes sent prior to week 3 will be collected but not delivered until Monday of week 3. This allows time for the students to adjust to being away from home.

For more information about Bunk1, please visit our Photo Services page. 

SENDING MAIL

If you would like to send your Upper School student mail or a care package, you are welcome to do so. Culver recommends sending letters, books, pictures, magazines, or other non-food items. The mailing address is as follows:

Upper School Student’s Name
Culver Upper School
Unit Name and # if applicable (I.e., Naval 1, Deck 2, etc.)
1300 Academy Rd
Culver, IN 46511
United States

Your child's unit assignment will be provided at registration. Returning Upper School students are placed in the same unit as previous summers.

Note: Boys Units are Naval (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Band), Troop or Aviation, Girls are in Decks (1 through 7)

PHONE

Landline phones are available for students to use in the hallways and common area lounges of their dorm/barrack. Students can make outgoing calls during their free time. Calls within the United States and Canada are free; however, calling cards are available for purchase in the Campus Bookstore for calls to other countries. 

Again, please note that to best support your child as he/she gets acclimated to our residential summer camp program, students will not be able to make or receive phone calls for the first two weeks. This is crucial for establishing routines and acclimating to the Culver lifestyle.

Please keep in mind...

There are specific office email accounts and phone numbers should you need to reach your son/daughter's counselors directly. Contact information for each unit’s counseling staff will be provided both at registration and by email on registration day. Please keep in mind that they may not always be immediately available as counselors are always supervising their students at formations, activities, intramurals, and all other events that comprise the Culver summer lifestyle.

BEST PRACTICES for communicating with your child while they are at Culver: 

• Discuss the communication avenues available during the summer with your child prior to leaving and provide some convenient times (after the first two weeks) when they might reach you.
  • From a student schedule standpoint, this is usually on Saturday or Sunday afternoons when they have free time.
  • Evenings just before TAPS (lights out) is generally not a good time as counselors are making announcements and ensuring their needs are met before lights out.
• Out of consideration to others attempting to use the phones available and to combat possible homesickness, please limit all calls to five to ten minutes.
• Consider using Bunk1 to send family updates and communications. While this is a one-way communication from you to them, it allows them to maintain some connection to home when they have time to read the message. Bunk 1 messages are typically distributed within 24-48 hours to the student (not delivered on Saturdays and Sundays). Therefore, any urgent or sensitive information should not be conveyed via Bunk 1. To share urgent or sensitive information please contact the unit counselor directly via their email address or telephone number provided on registration day.

Details on the 2025 Summer School of Aviation are coming soon!

Details on the 2025 Summer School of Aviation are coming soon!

 

Rooted in our military leadership system, all Upper Schools students model and uphold excellent personal appearance. The following guidelines are expected:

• Facial piercings and visible tattoos are not permitted.
• Nail polish is never acceptable.
• Hair must be a natural color.
• In addition, all Male students must:
  • Be clean-shaven at all times.
  • Meet the haircut standard:
    • Hair on the top of the head will be neatly groomed
    • Length and bulk of the hair will not be excessive, ragged, unkempt, or extreme appearance
    • When combed straight down, hair will not fall over the ears or eyebrows or touch the collar
    • Lines or designs will not be cut into the hair, scalp, or eyebrows
    • In all cases, the hair will not interfere with the normal wear of military headgear
    • Click here to view the Haircut Inspection Standards.
•  Sideburns will be neatly trimmed.  The base will not be flared and will be a clean-shaven, horizontal line. Sideburns will not extend downward below the bottom of the ear.
• Barbers will be available at summer registration to give haircuts to those who are interested and also to those not meeting the above regulations. We encourage students to get their haircut at home prior to arriving on-campus. 
• The following guidelines are specific to cadets enrolled in the Summer School for Girls:
  • Female students may wear one pair of small earrings (no larger than a size of a pencil eraser) and/or a religious necklace during authorized times.
  • Simple black, brown, or blonde hair ties and bobby pins may be used. Hair needs to be pulled back and up, neatly, during all formations.

*All Upper School students will receive a full student handbook upon arrival from their counselor with further details and guidance/policies. 

Culver's Cell Phone Policy

Culver Summer Schools and Camp's electronics policy is simple to understand: NO CELL PHONES OR ANYTHING THAT CONNECTS TO THE INTERNET/WIFI.

We ask that our parents please help us enforce this policy. If you are personally dropping your children at Culver, PLEASE take their cell phone(s) with you. A summer student caught in possession of a cell phone has committed an honor code violation. Consequences for not adhering to our cellphone/any device that connects to the internet include: capping or losing rank and/or privileges – this would be particularly true for upperclassmen, honor organization dismissal, additional TUXIS requirements.

For those campers arriving by air, we understand and fully expect parents to insist that their children carry a cell phone while they are traveling by themselves. We simply ask that you remind your children to surrender their cell phones to their counselors once you have received the phone call that they have arrived safely. Asking students for their cell phone/any device that connects to the internet is part of the student check-in process when they arrive to their assigned dorm/barracks. 

Other electronic devices:
Music players, tablets, smartwatches, computers, and cameras are among a list of electronic devices that campers tend to bring. As many of these devices have multiple functions, the rules tend to get a little fuzzy - and the last thing we want to do is build a lengthy list of various devices by brand and model numbers.

The best guideline that we can offer is this:

Any electronic device that has the ability to communicate, either through the Internet or Cellular data plans, is prohibited. Laptops and tablet computers are not allowed. Digital cameras are fine, as are many music players. Keep in mind, however, there are a number of music players and smartwatches that have Wi-Fi capability and can connect to the Internet - this type of device is not permitted. We encourage students to bring traditional watches with them to keep time.