Champ Camp Great Outdoors at St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church

Reviews

• JR

  Janine Rodgers

  Sep 22, 2026
  5.0
  There was a viral trend this past summer of 2026 that encouraged parents to "give your child a 90s summer" which included endless popsicles, bike rides until sundown, and running through sprinklers. While the intention of this trend is wonderful, it isn't always possible for working parents of younger children, like my family. Very luckily, Champ Camp: Great Outdoors at St. Dunstan's existed to fill the void and provide my child the ultimate "90s summer". My son attended Champ Camp every week this summer and I can not speak highly enough of the experience. Each week, he got to experience field trips, family events, water days, sports and time in nature. He filled journals with drawings, did art projects and even did a little community service! I would like to give a special shout out to the Camp Director, Tori Albertson. Tori created an environment where the kids felt safe to be themselves but also push their comfort zones a little bit. For example, on the first day of camp for my son, they went on a field trip to go rock climbing. While my son loved bouldering, he was more hesitant to actually belay due to the height. Tori explained to my son that he didn't need to belay- he was absolutely fine to continue doing the activities he preferred but the counselors were available if he chose to try something new. With this gentle encouragement, he eventually tried to belay and was so proud of himself! Even better, he earned a "bravery" bead during the end of day bead ceremony which he made sure to tell me as soon as I picked him up. He was so proud of himself and that day really set the tone for the whole summer. My son was so excited to go to Champ Camp every day (he even asked to go on the weekends) and especially loved field trip days. As Camp Director, I appreciate that Tori was able to find a group of counselors who really nurtured the kids and created magical memories. Whether it was nature journaling, hiking Torrey Pines or gifting beads during the bead ceremony, my son has memories of a true 90s summer. As a parent, I was confident every day that my son was in safe hands with counselors who would put his needs first which was especially reassuring as a parent of a neurodivergent child. Whether it was managing their sensory needs (such as giving them options like a calm cabin or bringing headphones on a field trip) or optimizing the group dynamics to ensure all the kids enjoyed their time at Camp, Tori and the counselors created a safe and nurturing environment for all the kids regardless of their particular needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Champ Camp Great Outdoors at St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church