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VOM 2024 FAQ
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VOM Culture

Do I have to go to class?  

No.  You can go to as many, or as few, as you want. But the more you go to, the more you will experience what VOM is all about—and the more tunes, tips and techniques you can take home to work on over the rest of the year!

We also highly recommend trying out classes that aren’t your main instrument.

Non-fiddlers are always welcome at fiddle classes (though the fiddle teacher may not be able to answer questions specific to your instrument). Fiddlers can also sit in on other classes to learn more about second voices and accompaniment.  Neither piano nor guitar are set up to incorporate absolute beginners in their instruction, but anyone is welcome to observe and absorb.  We do offer a basic beginner fiddle class, for anyone feeling inspired to play the fiddle.

Singing, dancing, and percussion go hand in hand with instrumental music, and each influences the others, especially in traditional music. Definitely give these classes a try.

How do I know which class to attend?

Since VOM instructors teach by ear, not written music (or “dots”) you should choose your class level based on how comfortable you are learning by ear.  You are welcome to switch classes during the week if the one you first pick seems to be a poor fit.

I want to try the fiddle but I don’t have one.  Can you help?

If you think you would like to try the fiddle, we suggest you ask around, perhaps through our Facebook group - another camper might have a spare they could lend you for the week. Ifshin Violins in El Cerrito also rents instruments. (You will need to make your own arrangements for collection and return.)  Janette Duncan, who teaches our adult beginners, will probably have a few spare fiddles for those basic beginners who become inspired after arriving at camp.

Lodging Questions

How many people are assigned to a single cabin?

Camp Campbell has different sizes of cabins that are designed to house 15-20 campers in long-length twin size bunk beds, with en-suite shared bathrooms, sinks and showers. We avoid filling cabins to capacity, as our campers require more elbow room than your typical YMCA camper.

Can I have a private cabin for myself/myself and partner?

Camp Campbell does not offer private accommodations. Those who want more privacy usually stay in a tent.

Who will be my cabin-mates?

We first prioritize housing requests submitted on the registration form, then assign cabins based upon campers common interests, age ranges, etc. as we know them.  You should tell us your housing preferences for specific roommates, or lodging and shared space tolerances/intolerances, severe allergies, or any other important considerations on your registration form, so that we have it in the database when housing is being assigned. Please provide as much info as possible to make this process easier on everyone. If you realize your cabin just won’t work, we may be able to change cabin assignments.

I live nearby; I want to go home every night. What will my fees be if I do that?

VOM is intended to be an immersive, residential learning experience, so we discourage campers from leaving camp during the week unless absolutely necessary. Plus, the most fun activities happen after dark! In the current climate, we must keep the health and safety of all campers in mind. We are concerned about campers becoming exposed to COVID while away and bringing that infection back to camp. Camp security is also harder to maintain when campers are moving back and forth. We have made rare exceptions in the past - accordingly, you will need to arrange in advance with the Registrar should you need to come in and out of camp.

Camp Campbell charges us the same rate for every adult camper in attendance, no matter where they are sleeping, so we do not offer a reduced rate for individuals who are not staying on site.

Can I stay in my RV/motor home?

Camp Campbell has limited spaces for small van-sized RVs (i.e. a Eurovan or other short wheel-base van conversion).  If you want to stay in a van, you need to indicate this on your registration form and make advanced arrangements with us so we can designate a spot for you.  There are no hookups for RVs.

Facilities Questions

What are the disaster evacuation plans and where can I view a copy?

Camp Campbell has several evacuation routes depending on the location and character of the emergency.  At orientation, YMCA staff will instruct us on what alerts they will use and where we should assemble in case of an emergency.

What's in the linens package?

Linens include top and bottom sheets for the bed, one pillow case, one fleece blanket, one pillow, one hand towel and one small bath towel. If you like a robust pillow, or a decent sized towel for the shower or the pool, we recommend bringing your own. If you get cold at night, the blankets provided may not be sufficient.

How's the wifi? Is there an office I can use? I need to work while I'm at camp.

Access to wifi and cellular service at Camp Campbell exists, but is neither fast nor reliable.  There are no office facilities available for campers.

Is ice available?

Camp Campbell will make available ice for drinks near our bar area, but there is not ice for coolers available.

I have medication that needs to be refrigerated. Can I have access to a fridge there?

Please contact the registrar in advance of coming to camp. We can probably arrange this for you.

I need access to a microwave. Is there one I can use?

Please contact the registrar in advance of coming to camp. We can probably arrange this for you.

Are there laundry facilities?

No.  There is a laundromat in Boulder Creek, 4 miles (10 minutes) south on Highway 9.

What restrictions are there on smoking?  Alcohol? Cannabis?

Smoking is not permitted at Camp Campbell, except in the designated smoking area in the parking lot at the front of camp. Camp Campbell has a no-cannabis policy.  As per California law, alcohol may only be consumed by adults aged 21 or over.  Alcohol consumption, under Camp Campbell’s policies, should be restricted to beer and wine in the main lodge.  Camp Campbell reserves the right to charge VOM if evidence of hard alcohol consumption (i.e empty bottles) is found.

Health and COVID Related Questions

What is your COVID policy?

The following link will take you to the current policy published on our website: http://valleyofthemoon.org/covid_policy.html 

I am a guardian - can I leave camp during the day? Can I bring my child/charge back and forth to camp so they can participate in other activities that week?

As a guardian, we expect you to be on site with your charge 24/7, as we are unable to provide supervision for children. You may be able to sightsee before the concert on Friday afternoon, or before and after camp.

As noted above, VOM is intended to be an immersive, residential learning experience.  We discourage campers from leaving camp during the week.  We are also concerned about campers becoming exposed to COVID while away and bringing that infection back to camp.  Camp security is also harder to maintain when campers are moving back and forth.  We have made rare exceptions in the past - accordingly, you will need to arrange in advance with the registrar should you need to come in and out of camp.

What medical support do you have on site?

YMCA Camp Campbell’s staff (many of whom live on site) have training in first aid and CPR.  The nearest ER is in Santa Cruz, about 35 miles away.  Emergency services can reach camp in about 5 minutes if necessary.

I have mobility issues/use a cane/use a wheelchair. Can you accommodate me?

Camp Campbell contains hills and trails that will be challenging for those with mobility issues. Please contact our registrar with specific details on your condition if you think this may be an obstacle for you.

Children and Minors at VOM

Do you offer childcare? 

No. Parents should make their own arrangements and may arrange for one person to oversee more than one child. That said, we encourage children to attend VOM and be part of the experience.

It says camp is all ages, and it’s at a YMCA camp. Can I send my child/teen on their own?

There are no cabin “counselors” or staff in charge of supervising children at camp. All participants under 18 years of age must be under the supervision of a responsible adult, either a parent, legal guardian, or a temporary guardian designated by the parent prior to the start of camp. The appointed guardian must be willing to take responsibility for the child’s safety, well-being and actions while at camp, and both parties must complete the relevant consent and release forms before they arrive at camp.

More details about our Parent/Guardian policy are available on the website: valleyofthemoon.org/forms.html .

Fee Adjustment Questions

I'm coming as a guardian. Since I'm not taking classes, how much will I have to pay?

You will be charged our regular rate.  Camp Campbell charges us for every person registered. Therefore, we are unable to provide a discount for guardians. However, guardians usually find themselves swept into camp life, taking dance, percussion and singing classes, and otherwise enjoying all the activities offered. You will not be bored.

Can I work at camp in exchange for fees? 

We have work exchange opportunities available. Generally, they are offered to people who have previously attended camp and know what needs to be done. If you are interested in a work exchange position, please contact Allison at allisonhayward@gmail.com.  

We also need and appreciate volunteers. Volunteering is a great way to get to know other campers, help make some of the magic happen, and to position yourself for a possible work exchange position later on.  Our volunteer coordinator Jasmin can be reached at faulkdickerson@gmail.com