Survival Guide

This page contains more detail to help you plan for camp: learn about accessibility, communications between camp and outside camp, and info on medical care.

Accessibility Notes

Vision 

A paper newsletter is distributed each day, which contains important information about camp. If you would like an electronic version that is compatible with a screen reader, let the newsletter editor know. We have a blind Elioteer who has taught us about the need to introduce ourselves verbally before speaking, and when there is an event that is very dependent on visuals (for example a slide show of photographs), other campers have sat next to them to verbally describe what is shown. If you would benefit from similar support, let the Deans know.

Trained service animals are allowed at Seabeck. Pets are not allowed, nor are emotional support animals.

Hearing:

We use microphones / amplified sound for most major events (such as morning program, lunchtime announcements, and evening events). If you are having difficulties hearing, don't hesitate to talk with the AV volunteers and they can help to troubleshoot ways to make things more audible for you. There is assisted listening equipment in the meeting house. We are working to train AV volunteers in its use. When you complete the form to sign up for a small group, you may request an indoor group as that will be easier to hear than an outdoor group.

Neurodiversity

We have had many neurodiverse folks attend camp. Things can get loud at times, so folks with auditory sensitivities may find headphones or earplugs a helpful tool to pack. Some folks at camp love to give and receive hugs, but if you prefer not to be touched, people are generally quite good about asking for consent and/or understanding when you share that you prefer not to be touched. For oral sensitivities: there are special diet options, and at all meals, there are many different options that might accommodate your preferences. You may also bring  your own food from home and store it in your car, or in a refrigerator in the dining hall.

In the morning program for children and youth, most staff will be familiar with neurodiversity and know some accommodations that might help. But when you fill out your child's medical form prior to camp, we encourage you to share any tips that would help your child feel included and supported at camp.

Medical Devices

All rooms have electricity and can accommodate things like CPAPs. There are available refrigerators if you have medication that needs to be kept cold.

Mobility

Seabeck has a large campus (map) with many buildings. For navigating between buildings, most of the paths are paved. (The fire pit and swim beach can only be accessed via dirt paths.) There are moderate hills on several paths, but they are navigable with a scooter or with assistance pushing a wheelchair. We also have a golf cart at every camp so if you need a ride, all you need do is text our volunteer to come and fetch you to take you where you need to go.

For meetings and activities - the following buildings are wheelchair accessible: the Inn lobby and Dining Hall, Juniper, Pines, the lower floor of the meeting house, Rhododendron, lower Colman, the A Frame Lounge, small group meeting areas in: Huckleberry, Salal, Spruce, Maples, (maybe Firs). These buildings require climbing a few stairs: Chapel, meeting rooms in Tamarack.

The following spaces require climbing a flight of stairs: Upper Meeting House, Upper Colman, all meeting rooms in Reeser.

For lodging: on your registration form, you will be able to mark whether you need an ADA accessible room, ground floor with level entry, ground floor with some steps OK, or need to be close to a bathroom. Learn more about housing options on the Seabeck site. Rooms with a private bath do cost more than those with a shared bath. If you have a physical need which requires a private bathroom but the cost is prohibitive, you are encouraged to apply for a scholarship to make up the difference in cost.

If you have any additional questions about accessibility and accommodations, please contact the Eliot registrar, and she will help you find answers and solutions for how we can support your full participation in camp.

Communication at Camp

Most cellular phones work here, though depending on your service provider, coverage can be spotty. There are phones in the Inn lobby and outside the Pines lounge for local calls and calling card calls.  Free wireless internet access is available throughout  the conference center grounds. The wifi is generally sufficient for tasks like checking email. If you need to take a zoom call for work or have a Telehealth appointment, this can be done from most places on campus, but sometimes you may have to move around to find a good signal. Do not count on being able to stream movies while lying in your bed.

Mail or packages can be sent to the Seabeck office, if essential. Postage may be purchased at the Seabeck Conference Center office. Outgoing mail is picked up from the office at 4 p.m. The Seabeck office is staffed 24/7. The office can be reached at (360) 830-5010.

Emergencies and First Aid

In case of emergency, call 911 and then notify the Seabeck office in person or phone 360-830-5010. 

First Aid supplies are available in the Inn Lobby, children's program areas, and on the swim dock (during summer). Fellow campers who have volunteered for First Aid assistance will be identified at the all-camp orientation on the first day. During summer swim times, a staff member at the lagoon usually has an air horn and 911 cell phone for emergency use. For additional assistance, ask an Eliot staff member. 

Medical Facilities

For urgent care, follow this link for Seabeck's list of local medical facilities. To download a PDF of a map to Silverdale's medical clinics, please click here.  Please note that the former Harrison Hospital in Silverdale is now called St. Michael Medical Center.