Gateway Summer Camp Guide 2026
Camp Welcome from Amanda Dempsey
Dear Camp Families,
Welcome to another exciting summer at Camp Kateri! My name is Amanda, but some of your girls might know me by my camp name, S’more! I am thrilled to welcome you and your Girl Scouts to our summer camp program. We are so excited to have your family joining us for a season filled with adventure, growth, friendship, and unforgettable outdoor experiences.
I have been part of the Gateway Council for over 15 years, and our camp properties have truly become a second home to me. Both of my daughters grew up in this council, attending summer camp year after year and falling in love with camp life, its traditions, and the confidence that comes from trying new things in a supportive environment.
As a mom and as the Director of Outdoor Girl Experience and Property, I have seen firsthand how powerful these experiences can be. Camp builds independence, resilience, courage, and lifelong friendships—and it is also a whole lot of fun. From singing songs and making new friends to outdoor adventures and shared laughter, camp is a place where girls can be joyful, curious, and themselves. It is my deepest privilege to create opportunities for every girl to have access to the outdoors, try new things, and discover her own strengths in a safe, supportive environment.
Your Girl Scouts are about to begin, or continue, their own camp journeys, and we are honored to be part of them. Our dedicated staff is committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and enriching environment where every camper can grow, explore, and shine.
Thank you for trusting us with your Girl Scouts this summer. We cannot wait to welcome them to Camp Kateri and Kugelman and help create memories that will last a lifetime.
Yours in Girl Scouting!
Amanda Dempsey/ S’more Director of Outdoor Experience and Property
Director Jessica Del Real
Hello Girl Scouts and Families!
Last summer, I had the pleasure of serving as Assistant Camp Director at Kateri and Kugelman, and I’m thrilled to step into the role of Camp Director this summer. This will be my fifth summer working in camps! When I’m not at camp, I love hiking, running, and exploring my Pensacola community! I began my camp journey as a counselor and lifeguard with Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast, where I first fell in love with camp life. I went on to explore camps across Virginia and Texas, but quickly realized that nothing compares to the magic of Girl Scout camp. That realization led me to take a new adventure and find my home with Gateway Council.
I cannot wait to meet our 2026 campers and help create unforgettable memories.
See you at camp!
(Moose)
WHY GIRL SCOUT CAMP IS THE PLACE TO BE
Choosing Girl Scout camp means more than just a week away, it’s an experience that sparks confidence, friendships, and adventure. Here’s why girls love it (and parents do too!):
Affordable Adventures
Girl Scout camp is designed to be accessible. While comparable camps in the area average $850 for a week, a week at Girl Scout camp is just $525 thanks to council subsidies provided by grants and our generous donors, making summer camp dreams a reality for every girl.
Power Up Your Camp with Cookies
Girls can use their cookie business to make camp even sweeter! Earn Gateway Green to help pay for registration, or even score a free week of camp—while building business skills.
Safe, All-Girl Environment
Safety is our top priority. With strict supervision ratios, adherence to Safety Activity Checkpoints, a high-quality Girl Scout trained and background screened staff, an American Camp Association-accredited facility (Camp Kateri), and experienced healthcare professionals on site, you can rest easy while she explores and grows.
Technology-Free Fun
Camp is a no phone zone! Girls disconnect completely to reconnect—with nature, friendships, and themselves—through outdoor adventure, team challenges, and pure fun in a safe, unplugged space.
Memories and Friendships That Last
From campfire songs to shared laughter in the bunk, friendships formed at camp often last a lifetime, and the memories will too.
Expert-Led Experiences
With over 100 years of experience in girls and the outdoors, Girl Scouts knows how to create meaningful, fun, and empowering experiences that stick.
She’ll
Gain Independence
Being away from home helps girls become self-reliant, make choices on their own, and embrace new experiences.
GATEWAY CAMPS FOR 2026
Resident Camp Week 1
June 7 - 12
Resident Camp Week 2
June 14 - 19
Resident Camp Half-Week
June 14 - 16
STEM Day Camp
June 15 - 19
SMILE Camp
June 15 - 19
Resident Camp Week 3
June 21 - 26
Resident Camp Week 4
June 28 - July 3
Day Camp
June 29 - July 3
Resident Camp Week 5
July 5 - 10
Resident Camp Half-Week
July 5 - 7
Resident Camp Week 6
July 12 - 17
Day Camp
July 13 - 17
CIT Training
March 20 - 22
CIT Training
March 27 - 29
Camp Kateri
Camp Kateri
Camp Kateri
Camp Kateri Camp Kateri
Camp Kugelman
Camp Kugelman Camp Kugelman
Camp Kugelman Camp Kateri
$475 until March 31
beginning April 1
$475 until March 31 $525 beginning April 1
$265 until March 31 $315 beginning April
$150/Girl Scout
$215/non-Girl Scout girl
$150/Girl Scout
$475 until March 31
beginning April 1 $475 until March 31 $525 beginning April 1
$350/Girl Scout
$475 until March 31 $525 beginning April 1 $265 until March 31 $315 beginning April $475 until March 31 $525 beginning April 1
$325/Girl Scout
$200/Girl Scout
$200/Girl Scout
CAMP ESSENTIALS
Register for Camp
Visit our camp webpage to review 2026 Camp Sessions.
First time visitors to our online registration must become a registered user by creating a profile and password when prompted during the registration process.
Register for your chosen camp session. Campers will register for sessions using their August 2026 grade level.
A non-refundable $25 deposit is required to hold your spot. You can pay as you go, with all final balances due two weeks before your camp session begins.
Early bird pricing of $475 ends on March 31 at 11:59 PM ET. Price increases to $525 on April 1.
Health and Wellness at Camp
At resident camp our onsite Healthcare Manager is available to treat acute medical needs and help support the wellness and safety of all campers! We use Camp Docs as our confidential electronic medical records system- this system allows you to upload your camper’s physical and is where our Healthcare Manager will record any illnesses, injuries, treatment, and medication delivery. Prior to your camp session you will receive a link via email to set up your camper’s Camp Docs account.
Every camper is required to have a current physical that has been completed within one year of the last day of their camp session.
Please note that our camp and healthcare team may not be equipped or staffed to support complex medical needs. If you have questions or concerns about your campers medical needs please email customercare@gsgateway.org to set up a meeting with our camp leadership team.
Camperships
GSGC is committed to ensuring every girl has the opportunity to participate in Girl Scout Summer Camp. While funds are limited, the council makes every effort to provide financial support so that no girl is unable to attend camp due to financial hardship.
Apply for a 2026 Summer Camp Campership here: Camperships
Camp Buddies
Campers are able to request one buddy to be paired with during room assignments. Buddy requests must be submitted at the time of registration. Only one buddy may be requested, and they must match. Buddies must be in the same Girl Scout level. Girl Scout levels for camp are determined by their grade in August 2026.
Daisy: Kindergarten and 1st grade
Brownie: 2nd and 3rd grade
Junior: 4th and 5th grade
Cadette: 6th through 8th grade
Senior: 9th and 10th grade
Ambassador: 11th and 12th grade
Gateway Green
Earned Gateway Green from the Cookie Program? Register for your camp session and pay the $25 non-refundable deposit to hold your spot.
Then complete the Gateway Green Usage Request form and select “Program Event or Camp Registration” and we’ll take care of it for you. Once we have everything completed, you’ll receive an email confirmation letting you know she’s all set!
If you earned a free week of camp from the Cookie Program you will need to register and pay the $25 non-refundable deposit to hold your camp spot. You will then receive a voucher with a code to complete your registration payment.
Rallyhood
A rally will be created for each camp session prior to the start of camp. You will receive an invite to the rally 2 weeks prior to the start of the camp session. These rallies will be used to share photos, camp updates, and other important information. Rallies are intended for parent/ guardian use only.
Required Forms:
Code of Conduct
GSGC Camper Release Form
GSGC Photo Release
GSGC Camper Information Form
Fun & Adventure at Camp
At camp, every day is full of excitement! Activities vary by session, age, and property, and may include:
Water Fun:
Swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, water games
Skill-Building:
Archery, STEM experiments, robotics, outdoor cooking
Creative & Performing Arts:
Arts & crafts, jewelry making, wood art, line dancing, sing-a-longs
Games & Team Challenges:
Relay races, lawn games, scavenger hunts, all-camp games
Camp Traditions:
Campfires, songs, all camp games, talent show
Every activity is designed for fun, friendship, and new adventures!
AM I READY FOR OVERNIGHT GIRL SCOUT CAMP?
Camp Readiness Quiz
Read each statement and give yourself 1 point for every question you can answer “Yes!” to. Be honest—this quiz is just for you!
I feel good about spending a few nights away from home.
I can handle my own basics like brushing my teeth, showering, and getting dressed.
I can follow camp rules and listen to awesome adults who aren’t my parent or caregiver.
I’m comfortable sleeping in a cabin or room with other Girl Scouts.
I can sleep without a night light (or I have a plan that helps me feel comfortable at bedtime).
I can speak up and ask for help if I need it—even if I feel a little nervous.
I’m excited to try new activities, even if I’ve never done them before.
I can be kind, respectful, and friendly to girls who may be different from me.
I can work through small problems (like losing something or feeling frustrated) and keep going.
I can keep track of my belongings—like my clothes, flashlight, and toiletries.
I’m okay being outdoors, even when it’s hot, buggy, or a little messy.
I can unplug and enjoy a few days without screens, technology, or my cell phone.
I’m excited about campfires, songs, making new friends, and having tons of fun at camp!
Scoring: Add up your total number of “Yes” answers. Maximum score: 13 points
0–5 points: Not Quite Ready for Camp
That’s okay! Overnight camp is a big adventure. You might enjoy starting with day camp or practicing short overnight stays to build confidence.
6–9 points: Ready for Camp with Support
You’re on your way! With a little preparation, like talking about camp routines, packing together, or choosing a shorter session—you could have a great camp experience.
10–13 points: Sign Up Now!
You’re ready for overnight Girl Scout camp! You’re excited, independent, and open to new adventures— camp is going to be amazing!
7:00 AM
8:00 AM 8:15 AM
9: 15 AM
DAY IN THE LIFE AT RESIDENT CAMP
Rise and shine
Flag ceremony and morning announcements
Breakfast
AM cabin kapers
9:30- 11:45 AM
12:00 PM
1:00- 2:00 PM
2:00- 4:00 PM
4:00- 6:00 PM
6:00 PM
7:00 PM
8:30 PM
10:00 PM
Camp classic activity: kayak, canoe, archery, swimming
Lunch
R&R: Quiet time in units to rest and reset for the afternoon
Choose your own adventure: cupcake decorating, diamond jewelry making, paddle boarding, splatter art, paper circuit experiment
Choose your own adventure: tie dying, line dancing, slip and slide kick ball, wood carving, rockets
Dinner
All camp games
Showers
Lights out
SAMPLE MENU
Breakfast
Eggs, bacon and sausage, biscuits, hashbrowns, fruit, yogurt, and cereal bar, milk and juice
Lunch
Chicken tenders, tater tots, green beans, salad bar, fruit, ice cream sandwich, water and Gatorade
Snack
Granola bar, cheese stick, and tangerines, water and Gatorade
Dinner
Build your own pasta, marinara or alfredo, chicken or beef, broccoli and garlic bread, salad bar, cupcake, water and Gatorade
Please note any food allergies at the time of registration. We may not be able to accommodate all dietary restrictions and food allergies. Email customercare@gsgateway.org with questions or concerns.
SAMPLE PACKING LIST
Clothes
• underwear (at least one pair per day)
• socks that cover the ankle (at least one pair per day)
• shorts (at least one pair per day)
• t-shirts, tank tops (at least one pair per day)
• sweatpants or athletic pants (one pair)
• sweatshirt or sweater (just one)
• swimsuits x2 (either one-piece or athletic two-piece)
• rash guard- optional
• pajamas (at least one pair per two nights spent away)
• raincoat or poncho
• hat
Bedding
• pillow in a pillowcase
• twin sheet set with blanket or sleeping bag (if your camper is prone to bedwetting, please pack 2sheet sets and a machine-washable blanket)
Toiletries
• liquid soap or bar soap
• shampoo and conditioner
• toothbrush and toothpaste
• comb/brush
• deodorant
• sunscreen (non-aerosol)
• bug spray (non-aerosol)
• sanitary napkins/tampons
• hair ties
Shoes
• closed-toe tennis shoes
• swim shoes (non-flip-flops)
• one pair of shower shoes (flip-flops/crocs)
DO NOT BRING
• CELL PHONE
• Food, gum, candy, soda, drink mixes
• Jewelry
• Valuables
• Electronics
• Hair dryer/curling iron
• Cash outside what is provided at Trading Post
Necessary Equipment
• flashlight with batteries and extra batteries
• water bottle
• Two Towels per 2 nights (four towels for week-long) (one or two for pool, one or two for shower)
• mesh bag for wet clothes
• backpack to carry items around camp
• laundry bag
Optional Equipment
• lantern with batteries
• camera (expensive digital cameras are NOT suggested)
• pre-addressed/stamped stationery
• pencil/pen and notebook
• book to read
Zero Tolerance Policy
Gateway Council maintains a strict, zero-tolerance policy for the following:
• Possession of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, vapes, etc.
• Physical aggression or behavior that puts other campers in harm’s way.
• Camper possession of electronic devices including cell phones, tablets, smart watches
COUNSELOR IN TRAINING
$200/Girl Scout
Are you camp pro and ready to take your next step in your Girl Scout Leadership journey? Become a Counselor in Training!
CIT 1s discover what it’s like to be a counselor at Girl Scout camp. You’ll learn how to connect with campers of all ages, assist and observe camp staff,
Register for CIT Training at Camp Kugelman
March 20 - 22, 2026
lead group activities like songs and games, and make a difference alongside fellow CITs. As a role model for younger campers, you’ll grow your leadership skills while having fun and making an impact.
Register for CIT Training at Camp Kateri
March 27 - 29, 2026
Click the button to register for CIT Training at Camp Kugelman or Camp Kateri!
GROW WILD AT RESIDENT CAMP
Resident Summer Camp Sessions Run June 7 - July 17, 2026
Camp days are the best days!
Get ready to Grow Wild this summer, where adventure begins the moment you arrive! Girls will enjoy classic camp traditions like canoeing, kayaking, archery, fishing, SWAPS, and campfire songs, while also creating a personalized schedule filled with activities they choose. From tie-dye and wood crafts to hands-on STEM fun and paddle boarding, every camper can root herself in new experiences and branch out into bold adventures. Make new friends, discover new passions, and let your wild side shine, adventure starts here!
Resident camp is an overnight experience. Campers can register for a half week or full week session based on their readiness! All sleeping units for summer camp are air conditioned.
Half Week $265 until March 31; $315 beginning April 1
Whole Week $475 until March 31; $525 beginning April 1
for Week 1: June 7 - 12
for Week 2: June 14 - 19
for Half-Week: June 14 - 16
for Week 3: June 21 - 26
for Week 4: June 28 - July 3
EXPLORE CAMP KATERI
Nestled in Hawthorne, Florida, just 30 minutes southeast of Gainesville, Camp Kateri spans 550 acres of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Campers can enjoy activities such as archery, canoeing, sailing, kayaking, swimming, hiking, and nature exploration.
Accommodations suit a range of experiences and include air-conditioned cabins, open-air cabins, treehouses, and tent pads, with space for up to 213 campers. Most units offer access to an air-conditioned unit house for added comfort.
Join us at Camp Kateri for unforgettable programs like Summer Camp, Aquatics Weekends, and our festive Winter Wonderland Campout!
Camp Kateri is and ACA accredited camp. ACA is the only national accrediting body for camps of all types. ACA’s accreditation standards focus on health, safety, and risk management, and are used as benchmarks by government entities. ACA accreditation provides public evidence of a camp’s commitment to the well-being of campers and staff.
Troop camping information
EXPLORE CAMP KUGELMAN
Troop camping information
Located on the shores of beautiful Perdido Bay in Lillian, Alabama, just 30 minutes from Pensacola, Camp Kugelman offers a relaxed, beachside camp experience. This sandy, waterfront property features dormitory-style, air-conditioned sleeping accommodations for up to 50 guests.
Amenities include a commercial-grade kitchen, private beach access, a swimming pool, and an archery range. Campers can enjoy kayaking, swimming, and archery in a scenic coastal setting.
Join us at Camp Kugelman for exciting programs like Spring Break: The Great Escape, Summer Camp, Adventure for All Fall Camp, and the magical Winter Wonderland Campout!
STEM DAY CAMP
Jacksonville - June 15 - 19, 2026
$150/Girl Scout, $215/non-Girl Scout girl
Juniors and Cadettes are invited to join us for an exciting in-person day camp of interactive STEM experiences led by real world professionals! Each day, we’ll meet a different expert in the STEM field and learn all about their career and field. By the end of the week, you’ll have explored the full spectrum
of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math and be ready to take the STEM world by storm! Our STEM Series Camp provides the full Girl Scout camp experience with hands on STEM activities, camp songs, games, s’mores, SWAPS, and more!
Examining STEM careers
Nature scavenger hunt
STEM with friends
Making balloon cars
Collecting evidence
Exploring the world
Trying new things
Learning about pollution
TALLAHASSEE DAY CAMP
Try your first overnight experience at Day Camp
$350/Girl Scout June 29 - July 3, 2026
Looking for a summer adventure that helps you grow? Join us for Tallahassee Day Camp, where every camper can branch out, explore new experiences, and strengthen their roots in the outdoors!
Spend your week dancing with friends, discovering new skills, and diving into colorful crafts that let your creativity blossom. Test your courage on our low and high ropes courses, cool off with swimming, and learn tasty new tricks with campfire cooking.
Throughout the week, choose from a forest of fun activities like jewelry making, resin art crafts,
archery, and even a camper talent show where you can let your unique gifts shine.
New this summer! Campers can extend the fun with a brand-new optional overnight experience on Thursday night. Enjoy a cozy campfire, evening activities, and a memorable night under the trees, perfect for campers getting ready for future overnight camp adventures.
This is your chance to grow, explore, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Come take root with us!
JACKSONVILLE DAY CAMP
July 13 - 17, 2026
Jacksonville Day Camp will be held in our new Leadership Center!
$325/Girl Scout
Get ready for an action-packed week of discovery, creativity, and adventure at Girl Scout Day Camp! Each day, girls will dive into one of the four Girl Scout pillars (STEM, Life Skills, Financial Literacy, and Outdoors) through hands-on activities, games, and challenges designed to build confidence and spark curiosity.
Girls will earn one badge each day, working alongside friends while learning from special guest experts who bring each theme to life in fun and engaging ways. From problem-solving and creativity to teamwork and exploration, every day offers something new to discover.
On Thursday, as girls explore the Outdoors pillar, campers will have the exciting option to stay overnight! This optional overnight experience is
Try your first overnight experience at Day Camp
a gentle introduction to sleeping away from home, filled with classic camp fun and supported by our experienced staff, perfect for girls preparing for future overnight camp adventures.
We’ll wrap up the week with a Sisterhood & Celebration Day, complete with a Court of Awards where girls will proudly receive their earned badges and celebrate everything they’ve accomplished together.
This week-long experience builds independence, confidence, and skills while setting girls up for success as they take their next step toward overnight camp. Whether it’s a camper’s first camp experience or they’re ready for something new, this is a week they won’t want to miss!
Register for Jacksonville Day Camp: July 13 - July 17 DB
Click the button to register for Jacksonville’s Day Camp!
SMILE CAMP
June 15 - 19, 2026
$150/Girl Scout
At SMILE Camp, our counselors are the heart of the program, and we’re looking for rising 8–12th graders who are ready to make a positive impact. As a counselor, you’ll guide younger campers through arts and crafts, interactive games, and outdoor adventures, serving as a mentor, role model, and friend. Each counselor is paired with a camper who is living with physical impairments, intellectual disabilities, autism, hearing, and/or
Meaningful
visual impairments, allowing you to build a strong connection and support their individual needs, helping them feel confident, included, and empowered. If you love working with kids, enjoy new experiences, and want to create fun, lasting memories, SMILE Camp is the perfect opportunity to make a difference and embrace an unforgettable adventure.
LOOKING FOR A SUMMER JOB ?
Love the Outdoors?
Looking for a summer job that makes a difference? Join our Girl Scout Summer Camp team and help girls grow wild!
Working at Summer Camp is more than a job, it’s a chance to shape future leaders.
Camp staff inspire girls through outdoor adventures, hands-on learning, and meaningful connections, all while building leadership, teamwork, and professional skills of their own.
Spend your summer making memories and a difference.
Staff Training starts May 31- June 5
Weekly Summer Camp sessions run June 7 – July 17
Positions Available:
Jr. Lifeguard – 15+ years old (American Red Cross certification required, Training available)
Lifeguard – 18+ years old (American Red Cross certification required, Training available)
Jr. Counselor – 16+ years old
Counselor – 18+ years old
Program Team – 15+ years old
Kitchen Aid – 15+ years old
Chef – 25+ years old
Apply today
