Smallish theme camp--Tips?

[LowePro]

Hello, my camp is likely going to be quite a bit smaller this year, down from 35-40 people to about 15, due to pregnancies, job issues, and some people taking a year off. We are getting ready to organize our camp and Questionnaire, and I'm looking for any Placement tips or Questionnaire advice relevant for a small theme camp. Such as, does Placement consider small camps any differently? How does the 50x50foot layout relate to smaller camps? What is a reasonable request for space and location? What is typically expected of 15-person camps to get Placement and a few Early passes to set up? We love our neighborhood last year and would enjoy being back there, but we understand our offerings will less than what a larger camp can offer.

Thanks Eplayans

[trilobyte]

I'm giving this a nudge over to the Shelter & Camping board, since it's a more general preparation thread about planning a camp. The year specific boards are intended more for specific announcements and updates on projects happening in that year.

I'd recommend that theme camp leaders read through the theme camp resource guide on the main site, as well as for this post on tips for a successful theme camp questionnaire. There's a lot of great info regardless of whether you're a new or returning camp, and regardless of whether your camp is making big or small changes.

There is no telling you what you need to put on your application in order to secure placement, or early arrivals... first of all, it's a moving target (camps keep upping their game, something that would have gotten placement in years past does not guarantee placement in the future), and second of all, the placement questionnaire is less about you telling placement what you think they want to hear and more you telling placement what your plans are so they can make their placement decisions accordingly.

[some seeing eye]

You camp map will determine the area. Vehicles can take a lot of space.

[Eric]

Our camp has only been larger than 15 once or twice - your map is key. Realistically figure vehicle placement (take when they're getting there into consideration!) and tent/ interactive elements, and go from there. Placement is familiar enough with what realistically works that they seem to take that into consideration when planning. Small camps are always going to be a bit tighter fit, it's part of the fun.

[Sunbeam56]

I think Pulpo Mechanico is a shoe-in... I know I would be disappointed if she doesn't come in 2015.

[LowePro]

Thanks SBeam...I wish I could claim to part of Pulpo--I love that car. But it's just a pic of me that I liked from 2012--it's not my camp or my car

The questionnaire goes live today so we'll dive in and start making our plans. Thanks for the tips all!

[Elliot]

*steps onto soap box. clears throat*
When I become Emperor of ePlaya, I shall decree that all members must use their own face for their avatar.

[Ratty]

Elliott, I agree. Of course you would say that. You have a beautiful face and smile.

[FIGJAM]

I don't want to break the internet!!!

[SnowBlind]

I don't want to break the internet!!!

Why? Are all the pictures of you in a black and blue dress?

[mdmf007]

tips?

The devil is in the details. By that I mean the big things like Shade, Tents, Food get looked at by everyone. The little things are what bite you. Coolers, hammers for stakes, night lights, bicycle tire repair kit, spare glasses instead of contacts, contact solution, tampons, chapstick, chocolate - fruit. make a list now and check it out often.

Stay dusty.