FAQ
Which Summer Farm Camp is the best option?
We have three different camp themes, but they are all farm-based and fun-filled! The camp descriptions on the website offer a glimpse into some special activities for each camp. Campers may register for one themed week or all three.
What type of activities are included in Farm Camp?
Winter, Spring, and Summer Farm Camps all include farm animal interactions, learning healthy food preparation in our Garden Kitchen, and outdoor activities throughout Tollgate Farm, which may include our fields, forest, pond, and gardens. We focus on hand-on activities to give kids a true farm experience. All weeks of Summer Farm camp also include fishing, canoeing, and camp skits.
How large are the groups?
We separate camps into smaller groups of approximately 12 campers of the same developmental age and stage.
Who are the staff?
Each group experience is led by an Educational Leader with assistance from at least one teen Steward (grades 10-12). Summer Farm Camp groups are also assisted by Stewards-in-Training (grades 7-9). The Educational Leaders are a highly qualified team of educators consisting of teachers, biologists, environmental educators, and agronomists all trained in the Experiential Model of Learning and positive youth development principles. Stewards are older youth who have an interest in developing their leadership skills, and they act as role models for the campers. Our model of small group sizes, expert teaching staff, and positive role modeling assure that campers have a fun, safe, and educational experience.
What is 4-H and how does it play a role in camp?
4-H is a learn-by-doing, fun, educational program, helping youth in their growth and development and compliments experiences received at home, school and other organizations. With the help of caring adult volunteers, 4-H helps young people gain the skills they need to be successful. As a member of 4-H, there are many other opportunities to get your camper or steward involved, including approximately 50 4-H clubs in Oakland County where members work with a large variety of project areas including agriculture, aerospace, community service, horses, science and technology, and more.
As a 4-H camp, Tollgate Farm Camp focuses on experiential learning, giving all participants opportunities to learn by doing. We require all campers and Stewards to complete their free enrollment in Oakland County 4-H.
How often do I need to enroll in 4-H?
The 4-H year begins September 1st and runs through August 31st. There is no fee to enroll in 4-H.
What about lunch?
Farm Camp is active, so please provide a healthy, balanced, nut-free lunch that will help your child endure a rigorous and fun day at camp. Tollgate will supply two snacks each day.
What should my camper wear each day?
When selecting clothing for Farm Camp, please keep the weather in mind as we spend the majority of our time outside. Comfortable, layered clothing and closed-toe shoes or boots with socks are necessities. We may get muddy, so it’s recommended to pack extra socks and a change of clothes.
What is your camper to staff ratio?
Our camper to staff ratio is 10:1. This ratio does not include our teen volunteers.
How does Farm Camp deal with inclement weather?
Although we love to spend time outdoors, camper safety is our priority. We always have indoor learning spaces available to use if needed. During extreme temperatures we may shorten or reschedule our outdoor activities. On very hot days during the summer, we will slow down our schedule, utilize shaded areas, encourage more water breaks, and use water play to cool off.
When will registration open?
Registration for all camps usually opens in January.
What do drop off and pick up procedures look like?
Camper drop-off runs from 8:45-9:00am. Caregivers must park and walk their camper to the check-in location to sign them in. Check-in is either in the Historic Barn or outdoors at the top of the hill by the parking lot – this information is shared through email before the first day of camp. Camper pick-up is 3:45-4:00pm at the same location. Adults must show a photo ID to sign out their campers.
Do you offer extended care?
Aftercare is available from 4:00-5:00pm for pre-registered campers only. Aftercare pick-up is in the Activity Center.
What is your refund policy?
If cancellation is needed, please be prompt. Cancellations from June 1 through two weeks prior to your first day of camp result in a $100 cancellation fee. No refunds 14 or fewer days from the first day of your camp week. For all cancellations made prior to June 1, full refunds minus a $25 processing fee will be given.
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