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Registration for summer camp 2026 will open on January 26 at 5:00 p.m.
Beautiful Camp Na Wa Kwa is closer than you might think!
Just half way between Terre Haute and the Indianapolis airport, its calm green trees and running streams will make you feel part of the outdoors. On over 250 acres, troops and families will have the ability to explore the forest trails, canoe in the pond, and stomp in the creek! Troops and families will also make memories of a lifetime participating in activities like tie-dying, the climbing wall, & archery.
Meet the Director!
Howdy! My name is Liz Hamilton
(camp name - Olive). I am stoked to be the Camp Director for two camps
- Sycamore Valley and Na Wa Kwa. I am excited to play outside, spend
some time in nature, and create magical moments for the girls! When I
have a spare moment this summer, you'll likely catch me on the rock wall
or zipline or near a body of water. I love all things adventure and
outdoor recreation and hope to help create or deepen a sense of awe in
the Girl Scouts who attend camp!
Summer Camp Options 
Mini Overnight: Adventure is Out There
June 4-6
Grades 2-12
Explore camp, different outdoor activities, and multiple areas of science. Girls will be able to try new activities and determine their interests and passions. Camp has so many opportunities for adventure! Which will you explore?
All girls that attend this session of camp will earn a Girl Scout badge, the Girl Scout Mental Wellness patch, as well as an exclusive camp patch and a camp t-shirt!
Brownie – Outdoor Adventurer along with the Mental Wellness patch
Junior – STEM Career Exploration along with the Mental Wellness patch
Cadette – Archery along with the Mental Wellness patch
Senior – Paddling along with the Mental Wellness patch
Ambassador – Survival Camping along with the Mental Wellness patch
Day Camp: Week of Wellness
June 9-13
Grades K-12
What does wellness mean to you? Girls will experience the positive impacts of creating art, spending time in nature, exercising, and caring for themselves and others during this week of wellness. There are so many ways to care for our bodies, on- and off-camp!
All girls that attend this session of camp will earn a Girl Scout badge, the Girl Scout Mental Wellness patch, as well as an exclusive camp patch and a camp t-shirt!
- Daisy – Outdoor Art Maker along with the Mental Wellness patch
- Brownie – My Best Self along with the Mental Wellness patch
Junior – Staying Fit along with the Mental Wellness patch
Cadette – Science of Happiness along with the Mental Wellness patch
Senior – Cross-Training along with the Mental Wellness patch
Ambassador – First Aid along with the Mental Wellness patch
Full Week Overnight: Lights, Camera, Summer Camp!
June 15-20
Grades 2-12
Welcome to center stage! This week will be all about the spotlight as we welcome girls to show off their unique talents and earn their Performance badges while at camp! Girls will have the opportunity to create and design pieces for an art show and to plan solo or group routines while at camp (or come with one prepared) to perform in front of camp at the Amphitheater on the final nights of camp!
All girls that attend this session of camp will earn a Girl Scout badge, the Girl Scout Mental Wellness patch, as well as an exclusive camp patch and a camp t-shirt!
Brownie – Dancer along with the Mental Wellness patch
Junior – Musician along with the Mental Wellness patch
Cadette – Public Speaker along with the Mental Wellness patch
Senior – Troupe Performer along with the Mental Wellness patch
Ambassador – Outdoor Art Master along with the Mental Wellness patch
Day Camp: Crafty Critters
June 23-27
Grades K-12
It's time to get creative at camp! This week girls will be some crafty critters and will come home with critter and nature-themed art projects, as well as Maker or Artist badges. Girl scouts will spend time in the arts and crafts room as well as outside, getting to experience all of the joys of camp.
All girls that attend this session of camp will earn a Girl Scout badge, the Girl Scout Mental Wellness patch, as well as an exclusive camp patch and a camp t-shirt!
Daisy – Art and Design along with the Mental Wellness patch
Brownie – Art and Design along with the Mental Wellness patch
Junior – Art and Design along with the Mental Wellness patch
Cadette – Comic Artist along with the Mental Wellness patch
Senior – Collage Artist along with the Mental Wellness patch
Ambassador – Photographer along with the Mental Wellness patch
Fees
Day camp at Camp Na Wa Kwa is an experience for Girl Scouts from different troops and groups to meet outdoors each day and have outdoor adventures! Fun and exploration are on the agenda every day as campers swim, sing, make crafts, play games, and more. Girl Scouts attend as individual campers and are placed in units according to their grade in the fall. Please note: This is not troop camp and an entire troop is not guaranteed to be placed together in one unit.
Register on opening day to save $10 on your total registration cost!
Day camp fees - per person
- Na Wa Kwa camper fee (campers grades 1-9) $225
- Non-Girl Scout fee $275
- Day camp aide fee (campers grades 7-12) – must have completed training to sign up for this $100
- Tag-a-long program fee $100
- Day Camp Aide in Training fee (campers grades 7-12) – must be completed before your Girl Scout can be a camp aide $125
Mini-Overnight camp fees - per person
- Na Wa Kwa camper fee $325
- Non-Girl Scout fee $375
Full Week Overnight camp fees - per person
- Na Wa Kwa camper fee $425
- Non-Girl Scout fee $475
Full payment is due at time of registration. However, a payment plan may be set up at the time of registration if registering online. These payments will automatically be withdrawn according to our payment plan from the card in which you use at the time of registration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my camper ready to go to camp?
We have a great tool that will help you determine what is best for your camper. Take our camp readiness quiz to decide if your camper is ready for an overnight camp or if day camp might be the best option for them.
Can my Girl Scout attend as an individual?
They don't need to have their troop to have a camp adventure! Many visit camp on their own and make brand new friends that stick with them for life!
Can my Girl Scout bring a buddy?
Campers can bring a buddy from their troop or a friend who is not yet a Girl Scout. Buddies can be placed together according to program session, age, and Girl Scout level. During the registration process you may want to indicate a buddy you know is signing up for the same camp session as you. This buddy should also request you. Attending camp with a friend from home is great, it's also great to make new friends. Please limit your buddy requests to one buddy. Buddy requests are accommodated when possible, not guaranteed.
What if they are NOT a Girl Scout?
You don't have to be a Girl Scout to attend one of your camps. Whether they are a first-time camper or an experienced adventurer, an outdoor enthusiast or a creative artist, they will find their perfect program at one of our camps. For all of those who are not current Girl Scout members at the time of registration, a non-refundable $50 registration fee will apply.
When does camp registration open?
Registration officially opens January 27 at 5 p.m. Online reservations will be accepted at that time on a first-come, first-served basis.
How to Register:
Online at https://www.girlscoutsindiana.org/camp it's that simple!
What does my registration include?
Registration fees include a camp patch, 2 badges, and a t-shirt. Plus, you get to make memories that will last a lifetime!
What if the weather is bad?
While at camp, every counselor is in touch with the camp director who is consistently monitoring the weather. We are aware of any storms headed our way and have procedures in place to protect our campers. Some activities may be affected by weather, and in this case, refunds are not issued.
How can I prepare my camper?
It is important for families to talk with their camper about what to expect to come this summer. The American Camp Association has great resources for families available at https://www.acacamps.org/campers-families.
May I visit my camper during camp?
Our camps are not open to parents, family, or other visitors during camp sessions so that we may provide a safe and secure environment for all participants. All participants and staff must be registered and all adults must have complete background checks prior to camp in order to attend. We do welcome adult volunteers that are able to work the entire week their Girl Scout attends camp. We will waive camp fees for your Girl Scout for working that week. Adult volunteers may be working in the kitchen and providing food service, in a unit as an assistant unit leader, or at the waterfront as a lifeguard (certification required).
Can my Girl Scout attend multiple sessions?
There is no limit to the number of sessions each Girl Scout may attend (financial assistance is available for one session only).
Will you be asking campers and staff to share their pronouns during introductions?
As we have worked to become a more inclusive and supportive organization, we routinely invite campers and staff to share their pronouns during introductions, and we will continue to do so as a way of affirming and acknowledging everyone’s identity. Campers are not required to share their pronouns.
How will campers be assigned to their sleeping accommodation?
On the application, prospective campers will be asked to list the sleeping accommodations with which they would be comfortable: same-gender, gender-inclusive, or no preference. Those who identify as girls and who request same-gender housing will be grouped together. Gender-inclusive housing is available.
How will my camper’s privacy be maintained in their unit?
We have private changing areas for all campers. In the interest of everyone’s comfort and safety, campers are asked not to change clothes in front of one another. Staff are trained to respect and maintain the privacy of campers and to reinforce a culture in which campers respect one another’s privacy.
What if our family has questions or concerns about these practices before or during camp?
Campers and camp families are welcome to ask questions or address any concerns to Customer Care at customercare@girlscoutsindiana.org or 317.924.6800. Staff are trained to bring any concerns about campers to the immediate attention of the camp director.
Is the cost that I pay for my camper to attend a camp session the actual cost?
We are delighted to offer the Girl Scout summer camp experience at a cost significantly below the actual expenses, which can average over $500 per camper. To sustain this affordability and ensure all girls benefit fully from our camp adventures, we invite you to consider making an optional contribution during the registration process. Your support makes a lasting difference in creating memorable experiences for every participant.
Is financial assistance available?
Girl Scouts of Central Indiana is committed to providing a positive experience to everyone who wants to be a Girl Scout. PAG's are provided so that a family's economic status will not be a barrier to participation.
To apply, submit the PAG application with your camp registration and health history form. A $40 deposit per Girl Scout is required to secure their placement. This deposit is not refundable unless your child cannot be placed into a session. Use a separate grant application per Girl Scout. Please fill out your PAG at the same time as your registration form.
All applicants will be notified by email as to the approval of the request.
All PAG information is kept strictly confidential. A limited number of grants are available for one camp session per participant. The entire amount of your request is not guaranteed but is taken into consideration.
When do my camp fees need to be paid?
Full fee must be paid no later than May 31 for all camp dates. Failure to do so will result in loss of reservation. A minimum $40 deposit is due at the time of registration.
When does registration close?
Registration closes two weeks before the beginning of each camp session or when the session is full, whichever is first.
What is the refund procedure?
The camp fee does not cover the entire cost of your child attending camp. The remainder is covered by various funding sources that support Girl Scouts of Central Indiana. For this reason, the refund policy is:
- Refunds are given only if written cancellation is received at least two weeks prior to sessions.
- $40 of fee will be retained for handling charges.
- Bus fees are not refundable.
Refunds are not given for no shows or campers leaving camp early due to personal reasons including homesickness, sports, family vacations, behavior, lice, etc.
Meals and Snacks
Day Camp:
Campers will need to provide their own lunch each day at camp. Please plan ahead and include your child’s lunch in an insulated lunch box if possible. They will eat their lunch with their group.
A pre-packaged snack will be provided each day. To ensure camper safety, food allergies and/or special diets cannot be accommodated. Campers are welcome to bring their own non-refrigerated snacks and put in their backpack. No discount can be provided if a camper does not eat the camp snacks.
Mini Overnight and Full Week Overnight Camp:
Meals will be provided for breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the days in which campers are at camp. Meals will consist of items that can be cooked over a fire or grab and go continental meals. If your camper needs special diet accommodations, please plan to provide your meals that can be heated in a microwave.
Older Girl Leadership Opportunities
Day camp aides have long been a part of the day camp experience. Day camp aides provide a variety of skills, talents and support to younger campers while continuing to develop their leadership skills in an adult-supported and supervised environment.
Want to be a day camp aide this summer?
Each Girl Scout wanting to be an aide at camp must have completed an aide in training session. Aide in training sessions are available during the day camp weeks offered at this camp location. Girl Scouts must be able to attend the entire week in order to complete the training.
This training is designed to reinforce basic skills and to give a foundation for leading and working with younger Girl Scouts in the outdoors. You must be going into grade 7-12 in the fall. Aide in Training sessions are available for $125 per session.
Experienced day camp aides and Girl Scouts who have complete training may apply to be a day camp aide. Applicants may apply for a maximum of 2 of our sessions. The cost is $100 per session. The fee includes a day camp T-shirt and patch. You must attend all five days in order to be a Day Camp Aide.
Want to be a Counselor in Training (CIT) this summer?
The Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program is a Girl Scout leadership program that helps girls develop skills to mentor younger campers and become camp counselors. The CIT program is a good option for campers who are interested in becoming camp counselors or want to improve their leadership skills. Camp Na Wa Kwa will be offering the CIT 1 program during the Full Week Overnight (June 15-20).
CIT 1 is open to 9, 10, 11, & 12th graders. A camper participating in CIT 1 must be able to attend a virtual training prior to camp, have been a day camp aide at a day camp session prior to this year, and be able to stay the full week of the camp session you register for. The CIT 1 Virtual Training will be held on Tuesday, May 6th at 6:00 p.m. Please email Liz at lhamilton@girlscoutsindiana.org if you have a scheduling conflict.
The cost of a CIT 1 session is $425 (registered Girl Scout). CIT 1 participants will receive a camp patch, t-shirt and their CIT 1 pin.
Open House
Are you interested in getting a sneak peek of camp before it begins? This is also a great opportunity to meet our volunteer directors and participate in some camp fun, too! Camp Na Wa Kwa's open house is Friday, April 18, 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Want to continue the camp fun and sleep away from home for a night? Following the open house will be a movie night and a stuffed animal slumber party! The sleepover will conclude at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 19. Registration for the movie and sleepover are separate.
Registration is not required for the open house, but it is encouraged. Feel free to stop by anytime during this timeframe to chat with us! Please note that the open house will end at 8:30 p.m. so allow yourself plenty of time to check out camp and ask any questions. Please register for the movie night and slumber party if you plan on attending.
Refund Policy
The camp fee does not cover the entire cost of your child attending camp. The remainder is covered by various funding sources that support Girl Scouts of Central Indiana. For this reason, the refund policy is:
- Refund are given only if written cancellation is received at least two weeks prior to sessions
- $40 of fee will be retained for handling charges
- No Refund on additional donations made to camp during the registration process
Refunds are not given to no shows or campers leaving camp early due to personal reasons including homesickness, sports, family vacations, behavior, lice, etc.
Day Care During Camp (Tagalongs)
If you are a registered day camp volunteer attending all week and have a younger child, she or he may enjoy participating in the tag unit. Trained staff will provide activities on-site for your child. Day camp volunteers can place a younger child in the tag unit for $100/child for the week. The fee included a day camp T-shirt, patch, daily snack, and supplies. This fee cannot be pro-rated if your child does not stay every day. The tag unit is for the children of volunteer staff only. Girls registering for the tag unit must be 3-4 years of age; girls who are incoming kindergarteners should register for day camp as a Girl Scout Daisy. Boys registering for the tag unit must be 3-12 years of age. All children registering for the tag unit must be out of diapers.
Optional After Care Opportunities
Back by popular demand is the opportunity to extend your day at camp with our optional after care program during our day camp weeks. This option program runs Monday- Friday from 3:30-6:00 p.m. for an additional fee of $60 per camper. Spots will be limited so register early. Pick-up will be at 6:00 p.m. and there is no bus service at this time. Campers will be in programming during this time. Parents should pick up campers at 6:00 - there is no additional time allotted after 6:00 p.m. Each camper participating in this program opportunity will get the opportunity to expand their camp adventures by participating in activities each afternoon.
Transportation
Day Camps
Car Riders: drop off no earlier than 8:30 a.m. and pick up between 3:45 - 4:00 p.m.
Bus riders: Typical bus pickup times fall between 7:15 - 8:30 a.m. and drop off times fall between 3:45 - 5:00 p.m. Girls may attend the session of their choice. However, transportation will only be provided according to the day camp bus transportation per camp. Information will come via email a few days before each session with bus stop times. Bus stop selection cannot be changed after being submitted with registration due to the safety of the girl.
Transportation stops will include:
Mini Overnight Session (June 4-6)
- Terre Haute – Forsythe Community Center Hosted by Girl Scouts, 1100 Girl Scout Lane, Terre Haute 47807
Day Camp Session 1 (June 9-13)
- Terre Haute – Forsythe Community Center Hosted by Girl Scouts, 1100 Girl Scout Lane, Terre Haute 47807
Full Week Overnight (June 15-20)
- Indianapolis - Girl Scouts of Central Indiana Founder's Lodge, 7201 Girl Scout Lane, Indianapolis 46214
Day Camp Session 2 (June 23-27)
- Terre Haute - Forsythe Community Center Hosted by Girl Scouts, 1100 Girl Scout Lane, Terre Haute 47807
- Bloomington - Tri North Middle School, 1000 W 15th St., Bloomington, IN 47404
Typical Day at Camp
Get ready for FUN at day camp!
- 8:30-8:45 a.m. | Arrive at Camp
- 9:00 a.m. | Opening Flag Ceremony
- 9:30-10:30 a.m. | Art, badge or nature activities
- 10:45-11:30 a.m. | Swimming, hiking or archery
- 11:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. | Lunch
- 1-3:15 p.m. | Themed Activity and snack
- 3:15-3:45 p.m. | Closing Flag Ceremony
- 3:45-4:00 p.m. | Depart Camp
Get ready for FUN at overnight camp!
- 7:15 a.m. | Wake up
- 8:00 a.m. | Breakfast
- 9 a.m. | Morning activities (arts and crafts, canoeing, nature)
- 12:00 p.m. | Lunch
- 1:30 p.m. | Afternoon activities (swimming, arts and crafts, nature)
- 6:00 p.m. | Dinner
- 7:00 p.m. | Evening activity
- 9:30 p.m. | Lights out (varies slightly by age)
Every day at camp is filled with different adventures and fun experiences! The schedule above represents a "typical" day at day and overnight camp, but note there may be variations in daily schedules and activities due to the spontaneity of camp!
Volunteer at Camp
Do you have a passion for working with children and enjoy the outdoors? Volunteer at the day camp! Without volunteers, the valuable learning experience would not be possible for the Girl Scouts of central Indiana. Interested parents and adults are invited to register.
Volunteer selection
The selection of volunteer staff is based on the qualifications of the applicant and staffing needs of each session. Attend camp for the entire duration of the session in which you volunteer for – this includes overnights when included as part of the session. All volunteers must be able to become a registered Girl Scout member and complete a background check.
Volunteer benefits
- Attend the day camp free of charge
- Waive the camp fee for a camper of your choice
- Make a difference in a campers life
To be a volunteer and waive a camper’s fee you must
- Attend the pre-camp meeting of your week
- Attend camp for the entire duration of the session in which you volunteer for – this includes overnights when included as part of the session
Please understand that you are expected to volunteer the entire week. This is for the safety and wellbeing of our campers. No exceptions!
Volunteer Training
All day camp volunteers must attend the virtual pre-camp meeting for the session(s) you are assigned to. At this meeting, we will go over what to expect at camp including safety protocols for the week. Also, you will learn about the specifics of the session from the Volunteer Day Camp Director.
Pre-Camp Meeting dates:
- Thursday, May 22, from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.
What to pack for Camp
What to bring to camp each day (day pack) Bring these items daily to camp in a backpack or similar type bag. Mark the bag with the camper’s name, unit name, and bus stop name or “car rider”. Your camper will carry her backpack around so please only pack what the weather warrants that day.
- Water bottle (bottles with a screw on lid are best)
- Swimsuit and towel
- Sit upon – this is something that campers will use to sit on the ground when needed during activities
- Sunscreen and insect repellant. Your camper will need to apply their own sunscreen and insect repellant. Please show them how.
- Hat or Bandanna
- Raincoat or Rain poncho (if weather warrants it)
- Boots or extra shoes (if weather warrants it)
- Extra socks
- Sack Lunch
If you are attending any overnight camps – during the summer, use the following lists as a packing guide.
Clothing
- Underwear (enough for each day plus one extra)
- Socks (enough for each day plus one extra)
- T-shirts or tops
- Two sweatshirts
- Shorts
- Long pants
- Raincoat or poncho
- Swimsuit
- Pajamas
- Sturdy closed-toed walking shoes
Equipment
- Backpack for carrying items around camp
- Sleeping bag or twin-sized sheets and blankets
- Pillow and pillowcase
- Water bottle
- Mess kit (a plastic plate, bowl, and silverware)
Toiletries and Key Items
- Deodorant
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer
- Sanitary napkins or tampons
- Lip balm or chap stick
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Towels (for swimming and showers)
- Washcloth and hand towel
- Toothpaste and toothbrush
- Comb or brush
- Sunscreen
- Bandana or hat
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Shower shoes or Flip Flops
Optional Items
- Books to read
- Camera
- Facial tissues
- Notebook/journal and pencil or pen
- Stationary or postcards and stamps
- Stuffed animal
- Sunglasses
Camp Values & Culture
Girl Scouts of Central Indiana Camp Values
Girl Scouts of Central Indiana Transgender Inclusion Statement
As part of our ongoing effort to create a more inclusive camp experience, we have given campers the opportunity to share their pronouns and/or preferred name during introductions, but this is not required. Research has shown that respecting and affirming a person’s gender identity plays a critical role in protecting their mental health. We are committed to providing a safer experience for all campers, both physically and mentally. Showing respect for each camper’s identity is aligned with that intention.
On the application, prospective campers will be asked to list the sleeping accommodations with which they would be comfortable: same-gender, gender-inclusive, or no preference. We will do our best to support every camper in coordinating sleeping arrangements. These expanded housing options are intended to create an environment in which all campers feel safe, affirmed, and validated at camp and as part of our broader efforts to be an inclusive and equitable organization. We also recognize that this may make some parents, guardians, and campers uncomfortable and that you may have many questions about why we are doing this and just how this approach will be implemented.
This approach is the result of extensive discussions and thorough review of research surrounding the importance of supporting LGBTQ+ youth, who often face mental health challenges at significantly higher than average rates. A few statistics:
- More than 40% of LGBTQ+ youth have seriously considered attempting suicide in the last year
- One in five trans* youth attempts suicide each year (but when a transgender youth is empowered to share pronouns, use their chosen name, and is affirmed for who they are, that risk is cut in half)
- Substantial majorities of LGBTQ+ youth report feeling unsafe at school because of bullying and harassment
Learning more about LGBTQ+ identities and the challenges these youth encounter as they seek acceptance and affirmation can be a vulnerable process, and as a camp community, we acknowledge that we still have much more to learn. We invite you to participate in that journey with us and to help us create an even more inclusive camp experience for all our participants—without judgment or barriers, and with dignity and grace.
For more information, please see the list of resources below.
Indiana Youth Group—Resources for LGBTQ+ youth and parents
Children and Gender Identity: Supporting Your Child (Mayo Clinic)—Contains information for supporting and advocating for a gender non-conforming or transgender child
The Trevor Project—Provides information and crisis support 24/7 for LGBTQ+ youth; also publishes Guide to Being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary Youth
Gender Spectrum—Works with children, families, and institutions to create gender sensitive and inclusive environments; includes guidance for families considering camp for their gender-expansive children
Land Acknowledgement Statement:
We acknowledge that Girl Scouts of Central Indiana camps reside on indigenous lands. Camps Ada, Dellwood, Gallahue, Na Wa Kwa and Sycamore Valley recognize the myaamia (Miami), kaskaskia, and kikaapoi (Kickapoo) as nurturers of this land. We honor and respect the lasting relationship that exists between these communities and their territories. As we work to build courage, confidence and character in Girl Scouts, we continue to be mindful of the histories and contributions of the original caretakers and are deliberate in our efforts to honor them.
Other Programs
Interested in attending some of our spring or fall programming at this camp location? Check out these fun program opportunities and sign up before registration closes or all spaces are filled!
- International Women's Day - Outdoor Journey in a Day | March 8 (Daisies and Brownies)
- International Women's Day - Self-Care Saturday | March 8 (All ages)
There's more where that came from! Check the events calendar for a full list of programs. Also, consider joining the Camp Na Wa Kwa Rally on Rallyhood to keep up to date on all things camp and outdoors!
Thank You to Our Supporters!
Check back soon!
If you are interested in being on staff, applications will be accepted beginning in January. Apply here!
Facility Reservations
Looking to reserve a camp for your next troop or service unit campout? Visit our Council Facility Reservation page.
RESERVE