Below are the answers to our most frequently asked questions. Is there a question that we've missed? If so, feel free to contact us and ask.

My camper has specific medications that are on a strict schedule, can you accomodate that?
All medications are dispensed by trip leaders in charge of medications during health calls set up by leaders, camper and parents. In addition, campers and parents meet briefly with the health officer and trip leader upon arrival at camp to review the medical history/exam forms, discuss any current health or medication needs of the camper, and to collect any medications.

Where do your campers and staff come from? Are there many former campers on staff?
About 60% of our campers are from Michigan, 25% from other Midwestern states and the remainder from all parts of the US and, at times, from Europe, South American and Asia. We tend to get the largest group of campers from Ann Arbor and the East Lansing in Michigan and from the greater Chicago area. Staff reflect the geographic makeup of the camper population, to some extent, with many from Michigan colleges and universities. About 25% of the staff will be international. Last summer we had staff from England, Australia, New Zealand, Poland, Russia, Canada, Bulgaria, Italy, Moldova, Sweden and Holland. Roughly 25% of the staff will be former campers from either Camp Lookout or Crystalaire.

May campers go swimming whenever they want to?
Campers are not allowed to swim on adventures unless the trip leaders approve the swim area and lifeguards are in place. During swim times, there will be one certified lifeguard for every 8 swimmers. In addition, campers use a buddy system when swimming. Each camper checks into the swimming area with a "buddy" and they swim together-- and watch out for each other. Lifeguards are required to do frequent formal buddy checks whenever campers are swimming.

How many staff are present? What is your staff to camper ratio?
Typically, on most adventures there will be 2 staff for every 8 campers.

Are staff trained for medical emergencies?
All Crystalaire Adventure staff are either certified Wilderness First Responders or are trained in Wilderness First Aid. Our staff are also all certified lifeguards. On a typical adventure there will be at least on Wilderness First Responder and a trip leader trained in Wilderness First Aid.

My camper has dietary needs, can you accomdate those?
Most dietary needs can be accommodated on adventures. It is important that when registering for an adventure that a camper and parents begin a conversation about specific needs with Crystalaire Adventures staff.

Do you have any suggestions as to what (and how) to pack for an adventure?
Each Crystalaire Adventure is different and requires specific gear and packing styles. Once registered, campers will receive a packing and gear list along with a detailed itinerary of the trip. If you have questions prior to registration about gear and packing requirements please contact us info@crystalaireadventures.com

What kind of religious association does your camp have?
There is no religious affiliation and we offer no religious services.

How can I communicate with my camper while they're on an adventure?
Most adventures are in remote wilderness areas with no cell phone service or land lines. Trip Leaders communicate with Park officials and the Camp Lookout office upon arrival and departure of trip. Trip itineraries are communicated to the Park Service and Camp Lookout who monitor trip progress and timely departure from wilderness areas.
During travel times before and after trips, campers are welcome to use personal cell phones, and in some instances, a camp cell phone to check-in with parents.

Is there anyone I can talk with, who lives in my area, about your camp? Is there a current or former camper you can refer me to talk with?
We would be happy to connect you with camp families from your city with whom you could speak about camp. Email or phone (231-352-6609) the camp office.

Where's a place to stay when I bring my kids to camp?
The Inn at Watervale is located near Camp Lookout. The Watervale website has detailed information about making arrangements to stay there during the summer. Click here for more information