Frequently Asked Questions
If you don't find your question and answer below,
drop us a line.
Q: When is camp?
A: North Star Quest Camp happens in two camp sessions. They are usually the last two weeks in July, or the last week in July, and the first week of August. Camp Dates will be posted on our front page as soon as we know them. Sign up for the Camp Bulletin to receive an email whenever new Registration info is available.
Q: What does NSQ Camp do with the information it has about campers?
A: NSQ Camp only gathers what is needed to provide care for campers. All information is kept confidential. We will never share your information with anyone.
Q: Can I go to both camps?
A: Sorry, no. We do the same program twice with new campers and counselors at each camp.
Q: Is it a "sleep-away camp"?
A: Yes. Campers stay Sunday afternoon through Thursday afternoon.
Q: Is there transportation provided?
A: We do not have a camp shuttle, but our Registrar will arrange car-pooling during the registration process. If your camper needs a ride, or if you have some extra seats, we'll talk about it then.
Q: When do I drop off / pick up my camper?
A: Campers are asked to arrive at 3pm on Sunday, then they stay at the campground until family brunch on Thursday. Parents, guardians, friends, and supporters are invited to join us at the Mattole Camp on Thursday morning from 10:00-11:00am for family brunch. After hugs and food, we will enjoy a performance by the campers about what they learned at camp. Expect to be back on the road, headed home between 12:30 and 1:00.
Q: Where is camp held?
A: Mattole Camp and Retreat Center, 36841 Mattole Road, Petrolia, CA 95558. Find map and directions here.
Q: How do I register for camp?
A: Check out the Registration Process overview here.
Q: How do I get a scholarship?
A: During the Registration process, we will ask you about your needs and ability to pay, then send you the appropriate payment link. North Star Quest will never turn a camper away because they can’t pay! We offer a sliding scale as well as payment plans. We reserve a MINIMUM of 30% of our spots for campers who request scholarships.
Q: What's camp like?
A: Fun and enlightening. Read the "Day at Camp"
Q: Who can go to camp?
A: Any girl, female identified or “assigned female at birth” individual who is going into 6th through 9th grade next fall. Read our Statement on Gender for more details.
A: NSQ will never turn a camper away for financial reasons. During the registration process, you can ask for a sliding scale or full scholarship.
Q. Something has happened in my life and I can't go to camp after all. Can I get a refund?
A: We understand that life can throw surprises. Up to 2 weeks before the beginning of Camp One, we will refund your fees minus 15% due to bank and administrative fees. After the two weeks out deadline, two weeks before the beginning of Camp 1, we cannot provide refunds. If you need detailed assistance with this, please call and speak with us.
Q: How can I help?
A: Donate or volunteer. Contact us and tell us about your unique gifts.
Q: What do I need to bring?
A: During the intake process we will send you a What to Bring Letter with car pool information, balance due, and more. Feel free to review it now on the What to Bring page.
Q: Are there beds and showers?
A: Yes. Campers sleep indoors in little cabins with electricity, bunks, private restrooms, and private showers. Most other camp activities are held outdoors.
Q: What about food?
A: All meals are provided, including snacks and treats. Most dietary restrictions can be accommodated. (Vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, lactose free, nut allergies, etc.) There is a place on the Registration Form to list dietary needs, and our chef is extremely conscientious.
Q: Do you have any medical staff?
A: There is a Registered Nurse on staff to dispense prescribed medication, administer aid, and give emergency care if necessary.
Q: Is NSQ affiliated with a church or group like Campfire or Girls Inc.?
A: No. We are a totally local non-profit project of the Ink People Center for the Arts based in Eureka, CA. We rent out the Mattole Camp and Retreat which is owned by the Presbytery of the Redwoods.
Q: Is this an "arts" camp?
A: Not really. NSQ is devoted to fostering confidence and self respect in our campers. Many activities are creative, and include a variety of "arts" such as drawing, painting, cooking, dancing, writing, and other performance. There are also a variety of other activities including sports, science, crafts, games, and swimming.
Q: Is this a camp for "at risk" campers?
A: We do not seek out or reject campers who are labelled "at risk."
NSQ is a safe confidential space where all are welcome. Every adolescent, regardless of where they come from, or what they've been through can benefit from activities like the ones we offer. All the NSQ campers are treated equally with compassion, respect, and individual attention to their needs and strengths. If you have specific concerns about your camper, please call camp staff at 707-633-4522.
Q: How do I pay?
A: During the Registration process, the Registrar will send you a link to a payment page. If you would prefer to pay by check, money order or cash, we can give you instructions for how to do that once your camp spot is confirmed.