Frequently Asked Questions

Activities

Q:Can I add additional people to activities once we are at camp?
A:If the activity has the capacity to accommodate additional participants, your group will be charged for the added individuals. Please note that activity fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. Additionally, if the person who made the reservation in UltraCamp is not present at camp, no changes or additions can be made for the weekend.

Q:Can I volunteer to facilitate activities for my group at camp like archery, swimming, ropes, etc.?
A:No, GSNETX employs certified activity instructors for all activities at camp. If you are interested in becoming an activity instructor for GSNETX, please reach out to humanresources@gsnetx.org to inquire about potential employment opportunities.

Q:Can siblings, tagalongs and other family members participate in outdoor activities that require registration, like high rope, archery, zipline, etc.?
A:No, tagalongs, siblings, and other family members are not able to participate in regularly scheduled outdoor activities. However, there may be opportunities for them to join during family events. Please refer to the schedule for available events.

Additionally, any adult participants for activities must register as adult participants, rather than registering with their girls’ program grade level (PGL). Adult participant spaces are limited to prioritize girl experiences.

Q:Do we get to choose our activity times?
A:No. For Camps Bette Perot and Gambill, you will purchase activity spaces in UltraCamp for the number of participants wishing to participate in a specific activity. You will receive your activity schedule approximately 1 week prior to your campout. If your activity has a choice in the description, a camp staff member will reach out to you to ensure we provide the best experience possible.
Please note that some activities may be scheduled on Sunday.

For Camp Whispering Cedars, groups choose their time block in UltraCamp. If any issues arise from bookings, our Outdoor Activities Manager will reach out to you.


Q:If a participant is wearing a cast, boot, brace, etc. what are their options for their activities?
A:Participants must have a medical release from a doctor stating activities they are permitted to participate in as well as any limitations. Please note for any activity, camp staff reserves the right to decline participant participation in regard to safety.


Q:If we miss our activity, can we show up at a different time?
A:No. It is important that all groups show up at the assigned time given by GSNETX camp staff. If individuals miss their assigned activity time, your group will not receive a refund for those activity spots. All payments made for those spaces are non-refundable and non-transferable. Please note that your group may not be accommodated if you arrive late to an activity. If late, you may receive a modified experience depending on the time remaining for that activity, but no refund will be issued in this case.

Q:What happens if bad weather causes an activity to be cancelled or rescheduled while we are at camp?
A:Camp staff will work to reschedule your activity at a mutually agreed-upon time. If activities are rescheduled for a later time during the weekend, you must show up on time for the rescheduled activity. No refunds will be given for ‘missed’ activity time.

If camp staff is unable to reschedule your activity due to weather, the activity fee will be automatically refunded to the card on file for the reservation.


Q:When is swimming offered?
A:Water temperatures are difficult to predict ahead of time since they are greatly influenced by weather. Typically swimming is offered in September and May.

Q:When should I reserve activities for my camping reservation?
A:We recommend that you reserve your activity space as soon as you know that you want to participate in that activity. Activity spaces are limited and the system updates as reservations are made. As a result, if you do not reserve the activity when you see it is available, there is a possibility that someone else may reserve that space before you. However, if you do not see an activity available that you would like to participate in, contact the camp directly:

• Camp Bette Perot: campbetteperot@gsnetx.org
• Camp Gambill: campgambill@gsnetx.org
• Camp Kadohadacho: campgambill@gsnetx.org
• Camp Whispering Cedars, home of the STEM Center of Excellence: campwhisperingcedars@gsnetx.org

Note that any adult participants for activities must register as adult participants, rather than registering with their girls' program grade level (PGL). Adult participant spaces are limited in order to prioritize girl experiences.

Camp Kadohadacho

Q:Are there any limitations on what we are allowed to do while at Camp Kadohadacho?
A:No, there are no restrictions on activities at Camp Kadohadacho. Your group can participate in waterfront activities like swimming, canoeing, and kayaking, as well as bring supplies for archery, hunting, or fishing. However, since there will be no camp staff on duty, you must follow the protocols outlined in the Safety Activity Checkpoints for each activity. Additionally, a certified adult, such as a lifeguard or a canoe/kayak certified adult, is required to supervise these activities.

Q:Is the gear provided for us if we want to camp at Camp Kadohadacho?
A:No. You are responsible for providing all of your camping equipment if you request to reserve a space at Camp Kadohadacho.

Q:What is the Camp Kadohadacho Experience?
A:The Camp Kadohadacho experience is ideal for primitive camping, where you and your troop can enjoy stargazing and discover the local flora and fauna while hiking the camp’s trails. If you’re looking for additional activity ideas for your time at Camp Kadohadacho, feel free to email campgambill@gsnetx.org for suggestions.

Camp Whispering Cedars Workshops/Family Events

Q:Do I need to be part of a troop to participate in outdoor activities, camping, workshops or family events at Camp Whispering Cedars, home of the STEM Center of Excellence?
A:No. You may participate as a Juliette (independent Girl Scout), with other members of your troop, or even as the only Girl Scout from your troop attending the event.

Q:What do I bring with me to Camp Whispering Cedars, home of the STEM Center of Excellence workshops and family events?
A:A list of suggested items will be included in your confirmation email, which is typically sent out 5 days prior to the event. In some cases, it may arrive closer to the event date if details are still being finalized. Confirmation emails will come from campwhisperingcedars@gsnetx.org.

We recommend wearing closed-toed shoes, bringing a reusable water bottle, and packing a snack if your Girl Scout is participating in a longer program.

Q:Will I receive a badge or a fun patch at programs that take place at Camp Whispering Cedars, home of the STEM Center of Excellence?
A:For workshops and “Journey in a Day” experiences, Girl Scouts may receive a badge or fun patch if they complete the full experience. What is awarded depends on the specific program.

Please note:
• Badges/fun patches will not be given if the Girl Scout does not complete the full program (e.g., leaves early, doesn’t participate).
• Awarding patches is at the discretion of the program staff.
• Not all family events include fun patches.

Q:Will there be a meal break during 4-hour programs at Camp Whispering Cedars, home of the STEM Center of Excellence?
A:Yes. All 4-hour programs include a 15-minute break. Please pack a snack for your Girl Scout to enjoy during this time.

Campout Experience

Q:Are girls permitted to attend weekend camp without supervision?
A:No. Girls are not permitted to attend weekend camping without appropriate adult supervision.

Please see Safety Activity Check Points - https://www.gsnetx.org/content/dam/gsnetx-redesign/documents/new-documents/forms/2020_safety_AllSafetyActivityCheckpoints.pdf

Q:Can my troop schedule a time to earn a horseback riding badge when we are camping at Camp Bette Perot?
A:Yes. Please reserve your preferred program grade level in UltraCamp. If you do not see your preferred PGL, please reach out to campbetteperot@gsentx.org with your request.

Q:Do we have to be troop camp trained in order to attend a Family Camp weekend at Camp Bette Perot, Camp Gambill, or Camp Whispering Cedars, home of the STEM Center of Excellence?
A:No, you do not need to be troop camp trained to attend a Family Camp weekend at these locations. However, if you plan to have a campfire and are not troop camp trained, you will need to learn proper fire safety and camp procedures from a member of the camp staff before you start your first fire. Camp staff will coordinate with you upon arrival to schedule a time and location for this brief training and you must agree to follow all procedures shared.

Q:Do you accept other Girl Scouts Council troop camp training certification?
A:Yes. If you are visiting from a sister Girl Scouts Council, we will accept your council’s troop camp training. You will need to send your certification to Customer Care at customercare@gsnetx.org.

Q:How should medications be stored while we are at camp?
A:All medications – including prescription, over-the counter, and herbal – must be stored in a locked container, except when they are in the controlled possession of the adult responsible for administering them, as required by ACA standards.

Medications must be in their original containers, prescribed for the individual who is to receive them, and cannot be expired. A volunteer must have written permission from a parent or guardian to administer medication to a Girl Scout or any participant under the age of 18 at a Girl Scout event or activity.

According to the Safety Activity Checkpoints, Girl Scout councils require an annual health history form to be completed and signed by one parent/guardian for every Girl Scout kept on file with the troop leader. This form should list any significant medical condition, health concerns, allergies, or over-the counter medications the child is not allowed to take. If medication is sent for a trip or activity, it must be in an original labeled container and administered by one designated adult.

These procedures help ensure a safe and healthy camp experience for all participants.

Q:If my troop has made a weekend reservation and paid full price for each participant, can some of my troop members choose only to show up for a day use or a limited time of the weekend?
A:Each group has a designated arrival time on Friday and departure time on Sunday. However, we understand that occasionally circumstances may arise that would prevent a girl from attending the entire weekend.

If you need to request a modified arrival or departure for someone in your troop, please contact the camp directly to inquire about availability for alternate check-in times. Camp staff will let you know if any check-in spaces are available.

• Camp Bette Perot: campbetteperot@gsnetx.org
• Camp Gambill: campgambill@gsnetx.org
• Camp Kadohadacho: campgambill@gsnetx.org
• Camp Whispering Cedars, home of the STEM Center of Excellence: campwhisperingcedars@gsnetx.org

Q:Is day use available for troops?
A:Yes, day use is available at Camp Bette Perot, Camp Gambill, and Camp Whispering Cedars at no charge for troops.

Q:What are the requirements for adult attendees for troop camping?
A:All adult attendees must:
• Be currently registered members
• Have successfully completed the GSNETX background screening process
• Have completed TR402: Protecting Our Girls training

In addition, at least:
• One adult must hold a current Troop Camp Training certification
• One adult must hold a current First Aid/CPR/AED certification from a GSNETX-recognized provider

All required certifications must be submitted at least 4 weeks prior to your campout. Failure to meet this deadline may result in cancellation of your reservation with no refund.

Q:What is primitive camping at Camp Whispering Cedars, home of the STEM Center of Excellence?
A:Primitive camping at Camp Whispering Cedars is located at the designated primitive camp site, which is situated near the Butterfly Pavilion, behind the MakeHer Space and Exploration Center. Please note that we do not provide camping gear, so you will need to bring your own equipment.

Since the primitive camp site is not accessible by car, you will need to park in the parking lot and walk your gear to the site. There are no restrooms at the primitive camp site; however, the closest restroom is located in the Exploration Center. Additionally, the campsite is located at the bottom of a hill, so you will need to walk up and down the hill to access the site.

For any further questions, please contact campwhisperingcedars@gsnetx.org.


Q:Will our group have exclusive access to the camp property?
A:GSNETX aims to provide outdoor leadership experience opportunities to as many girls as possible. As a result, we offer a wide range of programs at our camps, and multiple activities typically take place at our properties each weekend. While your group may choose to reserve all sleeping spaces and designated day use spaces for your camping weekend, please note that there may still be other groups on-site participating in different programs or activities.

Q:Will we have cell phone service at Camp Bette Perot, Camp Gambill, Camp Kadohadacho, or Camp Whispering Cedars, home of the STEM Center of Excellence?
A:Cell phone service varies greatly depending on location, weather, and if you are trying to send a text or make a phone call. Please plan on being unplugged from technology while you are at camp.

Q:Will we have internet access at Camp Bette Perot, Camp Gambill, Camp Kadohadacho, or Camp Whispering Cedars, home of the STEM Center of Excellence?
A:• No, we do not provide internet access for those spending the weekend at camp. We encourage you to unplug from technology and enjoy the outdoors during your stay.
• At Camp Whispering Cedars, home of the STEM Center of Excellence, internet access is available for those spending the day or weekend at camp. However, we still encourage you to use this time to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.

Q:Will we see wildlife while at Camp Bette Perot, Camp Gambill, Camp Kadohadacho, or Camp Whispering Cedars, home of the STEM Center of Excellence?
A:There is a strong possibility that you will encounter a variety of wildlife during your time at camp, including spiders, snakes, insects, birds, armadillos, raccoons, and deer, just to name a few. If you do see wildlife, please remain calm. While you should never approach animals, you are welcome to take a photo from a safe distance. The general recommendation when encountering wildlife is to pause and slowly back away. Remember, we are in their natural habitat.

Cancellations, Transfers, and Refunds

Q:Can I cancel my reservation?
A:If your campout start date is more than 4 weeks away, then you may cancel your reservation online. Please note that the 25% deposit is non-refundable.

After cancelling online, email customercare@gsnetx.org to request a refund for any amount paid beyond the non-refundable 25% deposit. GSNETX will process eligible refunds within 6 weeks of receiving the request. If no refund requested, the refundable balance will remain in your UltraCamp account and can be applied toward another GSNETX campout that is completed by September 30 of the current year.

No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within 4 weeks of the campout start date.

Due to the costs and commitments already made, we are unable to process refunds for cancellations within 4 weeks of your campout. This timeline is consistent with many camps and venues, as it allows us to plan staffing, supplies, and accommodations to ensure a quality experience for all groups. We appreciate your understanding and encourage early planning whenever possible.

No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within 4 weeks of the campout start date.



Q:Can I cancel or transfer my entire reservation and receive a full refund if someone in my group is ill or injured and cannot attend?
A:If your group reserved a cabin, the reservation is for the full unit, and we are unable to offer partial refunds for individuals who are unable to attend.

However, if activity fees were paid separately for the individual who is ill or injured, you may request a refund for that portion. Please email customecare@gsnetx.org before the start of the campout and include a medical note documenting the illness or injury. Refunds for eligible fees will be processed within 6 weeks of receiving all required documentation.


Q:Can I move/ transfer my troop or service unit camp reservation?
A:Reservations in UltraCamp cannot be moved or transferred to another date. However, if the start date of your campout is more than 4 weeks away you may cancel your reservation online and make a new reservation. Please note that the 25% deposit is non-refundable, but can be moved to the new reservation if the camping date is before the final camping weekend in May of the current membership year.

Refunds will not be processed for cancellations made due to a request to move or transfer a weekend reservation within 4 weeks of the start of the originally booked campout.

Due to the costs and commitments already made, we are unable to process refunds for cancellations within 4 weeks of your campout. This timeline is consistent with many camps and venues, as it allows us to plan staffing, supplies, and accommodations to ensure a quality experience for all groups. We appreciate your understanding and encourage early planning whenever possible.

Q:Can I receive a refund if my account shows a credit due to reservation modifications that I have made?
A:If your campout start date is more than 4 weeks away, then you may cancel your reservation online. Please note that the 25% deposit is non-refundable.

After cancelling online, email customercare@gsnetx.org to request a refund for any amount paid beyond the non-refundable 25% deposit. GSNETX will process eligible refunds within 6 weeks of receiving the request. If no refund requested, the refundable balance will remain in your UltraCamp account and can be applied toward another GSNETX campout that is completed by September 30 of the current year.

No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within 4 weeks of the campout start date.

Due to the costs and commitments already made, we are unable to process refunds for cancellations within 4 weeks of your campout. This timeline is consistent with many camps and venues, as it allows us to plan staffing, supplies, and accommodations to ensure a quality experience for all groups. We appreciate your understanding and encourage early planning whenever possible.

Q:If I cancel my reservation, can I choose someone else to have their reservation moved to the building(s) I had reserved?
A:No, reservations are non-transferable.

If you cancel your reservation, the space will be released back into the system and made available for others to reserve through the standard process.

Q:Will a refund be given if someone is deemed ineligible to participate in an option, activity, or event because they do not meet participation criteria?
A:No. Refunds will not be issued for individuals who register for an option, activity, or event they are ineligible to attend.

Examples include (but are not limited to):
– Registering for an activity limited to a specific program grade or age level
– Signing up for an event without being a registered Girl Scout

Please review eligibility criteria carefully before registering to ensure your participant qualifies.


Q:Will we receive a refund if we have to cancel because someone in the group may have been exposed to COVID-19, is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, or is awaiting COVID-19 test results?
A:Yes, GSNETX will provide a refund if you need to cancel for the above reason related to COVID-19.

Financial Aid

Q:What is the deadline for financial aid requests?
A:Financial aid requests must be submitted at least 30 days before your campout reservation. Requests must be completed by the person whose name is listed on the reservation.

We are unable to process financial aid after the date of your campout, and any aid granted will be applied directly to the camp fees. Please note that financial aid is non-transferable.

General

Q:Can we bring an animal to camp with us?
A:No. Visitors may not bring animals to camp, except for trained service animals that support a person with a disability.

This is in compliance with ADA requirements for service animals - https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm.

Q:Do we have to self-check for COVID-19 symptoms prior to arriving at camp?
A:Yes. Everyone attending camp is required to self-check for COVID-19 symptoms prior to arrival.

Q:Do we need to bring sunscreen and bugspray?
A:Yes. Please be sure to bring sunscreen and bugspray with you and reapply frequently while at camp.

Q:How do I create an UltraCamp account?
A:On the main page, please click the link that says, “create an account”. This will help you walk through the process to create an UltraCamp account.

Q:Is an UltraCamp account different from a MyGS account?
A:Yes. UltraCamp is a separate system from MyGS. You will need to create an UltraCamp account if you don’t already have in in order to make camp reservations and activity purchases.

Q:Who do I contact for help logging in?
A:If you have previously created an account and are having difficulty logging in, please click on the link that says, "Forgot login information". You can retrieve your username or reset your password. UltraCamp will send your login details via email or text message.

Housing

Q:Can adult males and females share a cabin, lodge, or tent at Camp Bette Perot, Camp Gambill, or Camp Whispering Cedars, home of the STEM Center of Excellence?
A:No. Camps have separate housing and latrines for males and females. Males must stay in the designated male housing space unless participating in an official GSNETX family camp event or a troop- or service unit-sponsored family camp event that has been pre-arranged with GSNETX. In these cases, all bed spaces in a unit must be purchased, and each family will have their own cabin or tent, with males staying only in the cabin/tent with their family members.

Q:If adult spaces are not available in a unit, can we select one unit for girls to stay in and a different unit for adults?
A:No. The correct ratio of adults to girls for your troop/service unit must be maintained at all times. As a result, girls are not permitted to stay in a different unit than the adults responsible for supervising them. If you have any questions or need help reserving bed spaces for girls and/or adults, please contact the camp directly:

• Camp Bette Perot: campbetteperot@gsnetx.org
• Camp Gambill: campgambill@gsnetx.org
• Camp Kadohadacho: campgambill@gsnetx.org
• Camp Whispering Cedars, home of the STEM Center of Excellence: campwhisperingcedars@gsnetx.org

Q:Is male housing available at camp?
A:Yes, there are dedicated male housing and latrine spaces at each camp location. If male housing is not listed for a particular weekend, then all male housing spaces have already been reserved. Please note: male housing space is limited. If no male housing is available, please contact us to discuss tent lodging options.

Q:May we put adults in the same cabin/ tent as girls?
A:If your troop/service unit reserves all bed spaces in that housing facility (cabin/ tent/ or lodge), then you may have female adults and girls share the space if all GSNETX policies and procedures are followed. This includes having a minimum of 2 unrelated female adults in the cabin. If only part of the beds are available to purchase in that housing facility, then you may not place adults in the cabin with girls from another group.

Q:What is a unit?
A:A unit is typically comprised of a group of cabins or platform tents, a latrine (building that houses showers, sinks, and toilets), and a unit shelter building that has a kitchen and activity space. Fire circles for outdoor cooking are also located in each unit.

The Laird West unit at Camp Bette Perot is a lodge building that has the sleeping space, latrine, and kitchen in one building.

Q:Will I share housing space with other people?
A:If your group does not reserve all of the cabins, lodges, or platform tents in a unit, other groups may purchase the remaining spaces.

GSNETX no longer reserves individual bed spaces within cabins, lodges, or platform tents. All bed spaces within a housing facility (cabin, lodge, or platform tent) must be purchased by your group for exclusive use.

Meals

Q:Are dietary needs accommodated when I purchase meal service?
A:We are able to accommodate most dietary needs, such as vegetarian or dairy-free options. However, please note that our kitchens are not allergen-free, and all food is prepared in shared spaces. While we do not serve nut products, we cannot guarantee the absence of cross-contamination.

After booking your reservation in UltraCamp, you will be prompted to complete a dietary needs form. This form is due 4 weeks prior to your campout.

Q:Are meals included in the price?
A:All campers are responsible for bringing and preparing their own meals, unless camp meals are purchased ahead of time in UltraCamp at the time of making your reservation. Meals cannot be purchased onsite.

Each unit at camp includes a shelter with an oven, stove, and refrigerator.

Payment

Q:How much is the deposit and when is payment due?
A:A deposit of 25% is due at the time the reservation is made and is non-refundable.

The remaining balance is due 4 weeks prior to your campout.

Due to the costs and commitments already made, we are unable to process refunds for cancellations within 4 weeks of your campout. This timeline is consistent with many camps and venues, as it allows us to plan staffing, supplies, and accommodations to ensure a quality experience for all groups. We appreciate your understanding and encourage early planning whenever possible.

Q:May I pay using a check?
A:No. All payments in UltraCamp must be made using a credit or debit card.

Reservation Process

Q:Can I reserve a facility that I do not see listed?
A:No. If a facility is not listed, it is not currently available for reservations. If you have additional questions please contact the camp directly:

• Camp Bette Perot: campbetteperot@gsnetx.org
• Camp Gambill: campgambill@gsnetx.org
• Camp Kadohadacho: campgambill@gsnetx.org
• Camp Whispering Cedars, home of the STEM Center of Excellence: campwhisperingcedars@gsnetx.org

Q:Do I need to list every member of my family/troop/SU (adults and girls) who will be at camp in my reservation?
A:Yes. You are required to include every member of your family/troop/SU who will be attending in the reservation.



Q:How do I make a reservation for FAMILY camping at Camp Bette Perot, Camp Gambill, Camp Kadohadacho, or Camp Whispering Cedars, home of the STEM Center of Excellence?
A:Family camping options may be limited. Please click on the “Reservations” tab then “New Reservation” to make a reservation for family camping. Any family camping options available will be listed under “Family Camp”. Once you select your date choice, you will then choose your housing choice by entering a “1” next to the cabin/tent of your choice. You will then scroll down to “Council Hosted Events” and enter your number of family participants.

You can watch our registration video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONkYpQJ09bg&pp=ygUGZ3NuZXR4

Q:How do I make a reservation for TROOP camping at Camp Bette Perot, Camp Gambill, Camp Kadohadacho, or Camp Whispering Cedars, home of the STEM Center of Excellence?
A:Please click on the “Reservations” tab then “New Reservation”, you will see a list of available camping weekends. Please select the weekend of your choice to make a reservation. You will then select the members of your troop that will be attending with you on the weekend you have chosen to attend.

You can watch our registration video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONkYpQJ09bg&pp=ygUGZ3NuZXR4

Q:How long do I have to modify my reservation?
A:You can modify your reservation up to 4 weeks prior to your camping date. Please note that the 25% deposit is non-refundable.

Due to the costs and commitments already made, we are unable to process refunds for cancellations within 4 weeks of your campout. This timeline is consistent with many camps and venues, as it allows us to plan staffing, supplies, and accommodations to ensure a quality experience for all groups. We appreciate your understanding and encourage early planning whenever possible.

Q:May I bring an infant, toddler, or other non-registered Girl Scout on a weekend camping trip such as day use, troop or service unit camping?
A:We understand that some caregivers may need to bring a nursing infant in order to attend camp with their Girl Scout’s group. If this applies to you, please contact us in advance to discuss arrangements. You will need to bring any supplies or equipment needed to care for your infant, such as a bassinet or portable changing pad.

Please note that any caregiver attending camp with an infant CANNOT count towards the required adult safety-wise ratios, nor can they serve as the First Aid/CPR/AED or Troop Camp Trained adult for their group.
GSNETX may offer council-sponsored family camp events that are open to participants of all ages, including non-registered individuals. These exceptions apply only to official GSNETX events specifically listed as a family-friendly and open to non-Girl Scouts.


Q:Will we receive additional information from the camp regarding our reservation at Camp Bette Perot, Camp Gambill, Camp Kadohadacho, or Camp Whispering Cedars, home of the STEM Center of Excellence?
A:Yes. You will receive an email from the Visitor Experience Coordinator 5-7 days prior before your campout at Camp Bette Perot, Camp Gambill, Camp Kadohadacho, or Camp Whispering Cedars at STEM Center of Excellence. This email includes important details such as your schedule and gate code needed for entry. The information is sent only AFTER the reservation is complete and paid in full, and it is sent to the person who made the reservation. It is important that the person in charge of the campout is the one who makes the UltraCamp reservation, as all communication from camp staff will be directed to that individual.