COVID-19 FAQ

For 2022, our Medical Committee has determined that all overnight campers and staff must be vaccinated against COVID-19.

We know that campers and their families will have a lot of questions surrounding COVID procedures going into the camp season. At Gales Creek Camp, the medical decisions are made by a volunteer committee of practicing medical professionals, including several adult and pediatric endocrinologists, a pediatrician, nurses and a pharmacist. This Medical Committee has working knowledge of both the COVID-19 pandemic and our camp operations. They meet regularly to evaluate and discuss GCC’s medical policies and procedures, and for the continued safety of all campers and staff, their decisions are final. Given the close nature of summer camp, the committee decided unanimously that anyone attending or working at overnight camp in 2022 must be up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccinations.

If you have questions, please see the FAQs below. We will update these regularly. If you have additional questions, we would be happy to hear from you. Please email us here or call (503) 968-2267.
Updated 5/13/2022


Q: Given recent developments, will the vaccination policy be lifted or changed?

A: As restrictions lift across the state of Oregon, our Medical Committee continues to meet regularly to assess the state of the COVID-19 pandemic as it concerns our 2022 Gales Creek Camp season. Our current vaccination policy, requiring all staff and overnight campers to have up-to-date vaccinations by the beginning of their camp session, will remain in place for the full duration of the 2022 season. We are always happy to answer any questions you or your camper may have regarding this policy.


Q: How do we provide proof of vaccination?

A: You'll need to submit a copy of your camper's COVID-19 vaccine card to us at least two weeks before your camp starts. After completing registration, you can upload your campers vaccination record within your account in the DOCUMENT CENTER, found in the left menu. Click UPLOAD DOCUMENTS. We accept photocopies or photographs. Or you can send it to us by any of the following methods:

  • Email registration@galescreekcamp.org

  • Fax (503) 992-6785.

  • Mail to

Gales Creek Camp Foundation

6950 SW Hampton St Suite 242

Tigard, OR 97223.


Q: Will that include a booster shot?

A: To be up-to-date, anyone eligible for a booster shot will be required to have itor they must have received their initial round of vaccines within 5 months of the start of their camp. Check this chart from the CDC to see booster eligibility.


Q: Can we test instead of being vaccinated?

A: Unfortunately, we are not able to accept a negative test as an alternative to vaccination.


Q: Will a negative COVID test be required to attend camp?

A: Yes. We ask that families test their camper 48-72 hours before arriving at camp for drop-off. We will provide each family with a free at-home COVID test kit in their information packet, which is mailed 1-2 weeks before each camp. Your camper will also be tested upon arrival. This pre-screening procedure will help ensure COVID-19 isn't camping with us this summer.


Q: What if we're signed up for camp but my camper gets sick just before our week?

A: Please never bring a sick kiddo to camp, even if you know it's not COVID-19. Campers live very close together and we don't want to spread anything. If you need to cancel due to illness, we will make it easy for you. Just let us know. You will get a full refund and we will still send your camper their t-shirt and swag.


Q: Will campers need to wear masks?

A: We will follow CDC and OHA recommendations to determine policies around masking and distancing. We expect those recommendations will continue to evolve throughout the summer, and we will let campers and families know what to expect before their camp starts. In any case, campers and staff may choose to wear a mask at any time.


I need to know more…

We understand your concern. Camp is a very special place for many people and we never want any of our campers to feel left out. Our Medical Committee has reviewed recommendations and research and has determined that, in the camp setting, requiring full vaccination is the only way to ensure that we can safely host camp this summer. We would be happy to connect you with one of the doctors that represents this committee, who may be able to answer any further medical questions or concerns you have regarding COVID-19 vaccines. Please email us here or call (503) 968-2267.