Letter from the Camp Director
Updated 1/10/21 4:00 PM
Update
The health and safety of the campers and staff of Camp Sweeney is our highest priority. With the presence of COVID-19 within the United States, we are actively reviewing and updating our health-related plans and procedures for the summer of 2021. We fully intend to hold in-person sessions for the summer of 2021, and we have a communicable disease plan in place that will be revised in cooperation with public health authorities as additional COVID-19 guidance is provided as we approach summer 2021. Our medical committee is working with resources from the American Camping Association, the CDC and local and state officials to insure the safety of our campers and staff.QUESTIONS ABOUT WHO CAN ATTEND
What are the ages to attend camp?
Camp Sweeney accepts children 5-18. Campers who turn 19 during their senior year of high school may attend camp the summer after they graduate high school.
Will I be the only new camper there?
No. Each year approximately 30% to 40% of the campers are new to Camp Sweeney.
Where do campers come from?
In 2019 campers came from 35 states and 4 foreign countries. Approximately, half the campers come from Texas and Oklahoma.
Does your child have to stay for the full 18 and a half days?
Yes. It has been proven that it takes this long to break old bad habits and form new good ones. To receive the full benefit of the program campers must stay the entire session.
Can I attend multiple sessions?
Yes. Financial assistance is not offered for additional sessions. See application for details.
What if I have to cancel a session?
Please let us know as soon as possible if your enrolled camper is unable to attend. Deposits are non-refundable. However, if you let us know in writing by mail, fax or email at least a month prior to the first day of your enrolled session, we will apply the deposit to an open balance or let you roll the deposit over to the next year. If you fail to return the following year, your rolled-over deposit will be forfeited. Be sure of your cancellation. Once you cancel, the space will go to the next camper on the list. If you would like to cancel your session, please email Camp Sweeney Registrar.
How do I sign up my child?
It’s easy. Just fill out the online application and choose your session preference. We fill up fairly quickly so sign up as soon as possible to secure your spot. Click the SIGN UP NOW button below to find out about session dates and signing up.
QUESTIONS ABOUT COST
What is the cost?
2021 TUITION FEES
Summer Sessions 1, 2, or 3: $3,900
Stayover Weekend: $800
Summer Sessions 1, 2, or 3: $3,900
Stayover Weekend: $800
Do I pay the full cost up front?
A $500 non-refundable deposit is required with your application for enrollment. This deposit is applied to the tuition fee. The remaining balance may be paid in one payment or split up into an interest-free automatic monthly payment plan.
The full amount does not have to be paid before your session starts. The 2020 balance, less financial aid if applicable, must be paid by March 30, 2021. Depending upon when you sign up, you may have a year or more to make payments.
The full amount does not have to be paid before your session starts. The 2020 balance, less financial aid if applicable, must be paid by March 30, 2021. Depending upon when you sign up, you may have a year or more to make payments.
Is there is any assistance available?
Camp Sweeney offers financial assistance to all families who demonstrate financial need. Each year, we grant over 1 million dollars in financial aid to our campers. Our goal is to never turn away any family who demonstrates financial need. To apply for financial assistance fill out the financial assistance section on the camper application. Be sure to send in proof of income documentation as listed in that section. Financial aid is available for children who have diabetes or who are at risk of developing diabetes. Financial assistance is not available for non-diabetic campers or additional sessions.
Does Insurance cover the medical fees?
No. Camp Sweeney does not file health insurance and will not provide a superbill or an itemized list of codes or charges. Because we don’t file health insurance we are unable to accept FSA or HSA payments. If you have concerns about paying the full cost of camp, we encourage you to apply for financial aid on the camper application. You may also contact our office at 940-665-2011 or email info@campsweeney.org to find out more about financial aid and payment options. We want to do everything we can to make coming to Camp Sweeney a reality for your child.
QUESTIONS ABOUT THE MEDICAL PROGRAM
Do you check my child’s blood sugar levels at night?
Yes. Night rounds are made three or more times to check the children for signs and symptoms of low-blood sugar levels, perform additional blood tests and provide needed care.
What if my child has food allergies or celiac disease?
Many of our campers have food allergies and/or celiac disease. Our kitchen and nutritionist work together to provide personalized meals according to dietary needs.
Does Camp Sweeney have low carb/keto diet options?
To review Camp Sweeney's policy in regards to low carbohydrate diets, please click here.
Do I bring my own diabetic supplies?
Camp Sweeney provides syringes, alcohol swabs, insulin, and blood testing equipment/supplies. However, if your child is using a pump or CGM while at camp you will need to pack enough supplies for the full three week session. You will need to supply all other non-diabetic medical supplies and prescription and over-the-counter medications in their original containers.
Will my child be able to use his/her CGM?
Yes, Camp Sweeney staff members are trained to use Medtronic and Dexcom continuous glucose monitors. While at camp, CGMs are used for nighttime monitoring and some mealtime dosing (if your device is FDA approved). Finger stick blood tests are required for treatment of reactions and at designated intervals for CGM calibration as recommended by the FDA.
Will I be able to stay connected to my child’s CGM?
No. CGMs will report to local receivers, but cannot be connected to cell phones while at camp. In addition, local receivers will only be synced to CGM’s in cabins and at special events. If you have any questions about your child’s blood sugar, feel free to contact our medical staff at any time.
Will my child be able to use his/her closed loop pump?
Yes. Staff members are trained to use the Medtronic 670G hybrid closed loop pump. Manual basal rate changes will be made to account for changing levels of activity while at camp.
Will my child be able to use the RileyLink or other "Looping" technology while at camp?
Camp Sweeney allows campers that satisfy a set of preconditions to use the RileyLink or other DIY Artificial Pancreas Systems while at camp. For more details, please review our Diabetes Technology Policies .
Will my child be able to use Tresiba, Toujeo, Fiasp, or non-insulin diabetes medications while at camp?
Yes. We do provide Tresiba and Toujeo in the pen form, and Fiasp in vials. However, if your child is on a non-insulin diabetes medication, please supply enough of this medication to last through the 18.5-day session. All other types of insulins are provided. You may also Email the Registrar regarding your particular diabetes medication.
What insulins are provided by the camp?
We provide:
Humalog
Novolog
Apidra
Lantus
Basaglar
Levemir
Tresiba
Toujeo
Fiasp
Humalog
Novolog
Apidra
Lantus
Basaglar
Levemir
Tresiba
Toujeo
Fiasp
What is Camp Sweeney preparing for the potential of the COVID-19 virus in our area?
COVID-19 and Camp Sweeney
The safety and health of campers and staff is always the highest priority at Camp Sweeney. Because camp happens in a close community, Camp Sweeney has always taken great care to develop and maintain updated medical practices to address a variety of communicable diseases, both common and rare. With the potential spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) within the United States, we have reviewed and are routinely updating our health-related plans and procedures for the upcoming season. While the coronavirus currently poses no immediate concern for camp, we have a communicable disease plan in place that will be revised in cooperation with public health authorities as additional COVID-19 guidance is provided. Additionally, we will work closely with our local public health department to maintain effective protocols for the identification and appropriate treatment of any illnesses that may occur at camp, including COVID-19. In addition to our normal check-in process for campers, we will update our health and wellness screening policies and procedures to reflect the current best practices recommended by public health authorities. Thanks so much for your understanding. Full details about check in procedures will be outlined in the camper-parent handbook that will be emailed two weeks prior to the opening day of your session. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our camp office at 940-665-2011 or by email at info@campsweeney.org.
QUESTIONS ABOUT CAMPER LIFE AT SWEENEY
How can I stay in contact with my child?
BY MAIL: Your child’s assigned counselor (big brother or big sister) will write you mid-session about your child’s progress, highlighting specific achievements your child has made and any problems that may have occurred.
We encourage you to send cards, letters, or packages to your camper. Mail call is a BIG DEAL at Camp Sweeney!
Mail a letter or package through the U.S. Post Office:
Camper’s Name
c/o Camp Sweeney
PO Box 918
Gainesville, TX 76241
If you use a delivery service like FedEx or UPS, our physical address is 10687 FM 678, Whitesboro TX 76273
ONLINE: A secure online parent portal called "My Sweeney" is available to let you see pictures of your child participating in various activities as well as live feed videos.
PHONE: Calls to the medical staff, head counselors, big brothers/sisters, and other staff are welcome. They are best reached at meal times and will be glad to speak with you about your child.
EMAIL: Email your child’s cabin at cabinname@campsweeney.org
FAX: Fax a letter before 11AM at (940) 665-9467. We get a few faxes everyday to put out at mail call.
We encourage you to send cards, letters, or packages to your camper. Mail call is a BIG DEAL at Camp Sweeney!
Mail a letter or package through the U.S. Post Office:
Camper’s Name
c/o Camp Sweeney
PO Box 918
Gainesville, TX 76241
If you use a delivery service like FedEx or UPS, our physical address is 10687 FM 678, Whitesboro TX 76273
ONLINE: A secure online parent portal called "My Sweeney" is available to let you see pictures of your child participating in various activities as well as live feed videos.
PHONE: Calls to the medical staff, head counselors, big brothers/sisters, and other staff are welcome. They are best reached at meal times and will be glad to speak with you about your child.
EMAIL: Email your child’s cabin at cabinname@campsweeney.org
FAX: Fax a letter before 11AM at (940) 665-9467. We get a few faxes everyday to put out at mail call.
Will you be doing laundry?
During the summer session, weekly laundry service is provided for all campers. Make sure ALL clothing items are labeled with the camper’s first and last name. Laundry service is also provided for campers attending stay over weekend.
What about inclement weather?
In the event of severe weather, campers will be directed to the safe rooms in our Shull Activity Center.
QUESTIONS ABOUT PACKING/PREPARING FOR CAMP
What do I need to pack?
CLOTHING: 6 to 8 pairs of shorts, 10 to 12 pairs of socks, 2 to 3 pairs of tennis shoes, 2 to 3 pairs of jeans, 10 to 12 underwear, 2 to 3 pairs of flip flops, 8 to 10 tee shirts, 3 to 4 swimsuits, 1 to 2 sets of dress clothes, 6 to 7 pajamas/night clothes, Light jacket
PERSONAL TOILETRIES: Deodorant, hair brush, hair care products, sunscreen, toothpaste, toothbrush, etc.
LINENS: 4 single twin sheets or 2 twin sets, 2 pillow cases, 1 to 2 laundry bags, light blanket or bedspread, Pillow, 4 to 6 towels
MEDICINE if applicable: Prescriptions or over the counter medications must be brought in ORIGINAL containers - Bring enough for 18.5 days
PUMP/CGM SUPPLIES if applicable: 17 sets of tubing, infusion sets, and related supplies (daily change may be necessary with increased activity). Insulin and testing supplies provided by Camp Sweeney.
Make sure that all belongings are prominently labeled with the camper’s full name.
PERSONAL TOILETRIES: Deodorant, hair brush, hair care products, sunscreen, toothpaste, toothbrush, etc.
LINENS: 4 single twin sheets or 2 twin sets, 2 pillow cases, 1 to 2 laundry bags, light blanket or bedspread, Pillow, 4 to 6 towels
MEDICINE if applicable: Prescriptions or over the counter medications must be brought in ORIGINAL containers - Bring enough for 18.5 days
PUMP/CGM SUPPLIES if applicable: 17 sets of tubing, infusion sets, and related supplies (daily change may be necessary with increased activity). Insulin and testing supplies provided by Camp Sweeney.
Make sure that all belongings are prominently labeled with the camper’s full name.
Do I bring my own diabetic supplies?
Camp Sweeney provides syringes, alcohol swabs, insulin, and blood testing equipment/supplies. However, if your child is using a pump or CGM while at camp you will need to pack enough supplies for the full 18.5 day session.
You will need to supply all other non-diabetic medical supplies and prescription and over-the-counter medications in their original containers.
You will need to supply all other non-diabetic medical supplies and prescription and over-the-counter medications in their original containers.
Can I bring my own sports equipment?
You are welcome, but are not required, to bring your own equipment for the activities we offer (paintball, lacrosse, skateboard with protective gear and more). We will have all the items needed for participation in these activities, but some children prefer to have their own items. Because of safety or space requirements, some equipment may not be kept in the camper cabins. For example, paintball guns are required to be secured by lock in a separate building, but the paintball mask may be kept in the cabin. Again, make sure that all belongings are prominently labeled with the camper’s full name.
So… what should I not bring to camp?
FOOD – Do not bring or mail snacks or drinks of any kind including diet drinks, sugar-free gum, sugar-free candy, sunflower seeds, etc. These items will be provided in sufficient quantities by the camp. Campers are served 3 full meals and at least two snacks every day.
INAPPROPRIATE CLOTHING or APPEARANCE – Do not bring clothing, caps, or accessories with obscene or offensive language or symbols or advertising for tobacco or alcohol. We also ask that male campers not wear earrings. All other body piercings (such as tongue, nose, naval) are not permitted for either male or female campers. Unnatural hair color is also prohibited.
MUSIC – Do not bring personal music to camp on MP3 players or iPods. Musical instruments are welcome.
CELL PHONES – Do not bring cell phones, even if the cell service is not active.
EXPENSIVE OR SENTIMENTAL ITEMS – Remember this is a camp. Things do get lost or broken. Please do not bring money or hard to replace items. Camp Sweeney is not responsible for lost, missing, or broken items.
INTERNET – Do not bring laptops, iPads, tablets, or game systems with internet connection.
INAPPROPRIATE CLOTHING or APPEARANCE – Do not bring clothing, caps, or accessories with obscene or offensive language or symbols or advertising for tobacco or alcohol. We also ask that male campers not wear earrings. All other body piercings (such as tongue, nose, naval) are not permitted for either male or female campers. Unnatural hair color is also prohibited.
MUSIC – Do not bring personal music to camp on MP3 players or iPods. Musical instruments are welcome.
CELL PHONES – Do not bring cell phones, even if the cell service is not active.
EXPENSIVE OR SENTIMENTAL ITEMS – Remember this is a camp. Things do get lost or broken. Please do not bring money or hard to replace items. Camp Sweeney is not responsible for lost, missing, or broken items.
INTERNET – Do not bring laptops, iPads, tablets, or game systems with internet connection.
When do I drop off or pick up my child?
“Opening Days” are the first day of the session. Summer sessions open on Sunday morning, starting at 7AM. We will send you a letter or email telling you exactly when and where to arrive.
“Closing Days” are the last day of the session. Summer sessions close on Thursday. You will receive information in your acceptance letter and again on opening day, and a will receive a postcard a week prior to pick up.
“Closing Days” are the last day of the session. Summer sessions close on Thursday. You will receive information in your acceptance letter and again on opening day, and a will receive a postcard a week prior to pick up.
Are there hotel accommodations near Camp Sweeney where we can stay the night before opening day morning?
Yes, there are many places to stay in the area. Although Camp Sweeney does not recommend hotels, we have compiled a convenience list of several of the hotels in the area.
QUESTIONS ABOUT SWEENEY EVENTS OUTSIDE OF SUMMER
Support groups?
PFC Life! is a way to stay connected with the Sweeney family throughout the year. In these gatherings, current campers will share in their struggles and successes and support one another in the challenges and triumphs they encounter during the year. These nights of Sweeney traditions will bring PFC to the real world!
How can a camper become a counselor?
All staff is required to be at least 19 years of age. All counselors are required to have successfully completed at least 30 hours of college credit. Click here for job opportunities.
QUESTIONS ABOUT TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
What time is opening day registration and closing day pickup?
Opening Day Registration is from 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM.
Closing Day pickup is from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Closing Day pickup is from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
We are planning to drive in the night before opening day. Are there any hotels close by?
Yes. There are several hotels in the area. Please make sure that you book your room far enough in advance to secure accommodations. Click here for a list of hotels near by.
We are planning to fly in for opening day/closing day. What airports are available?
There two airports located about an hour and fifteen minutes south of Camp Sweeney in Dallas, Texas.
DFW – Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
DAL – Dallas Love Field
DFW – Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
DAL – Dallas Love Field
Does Camp Sweeney provide any travel arrangements from the airport to the camp?
Camp Sweeney provides a Point-to-Point travel service to/from DFW Airport only. To find out more information about this service, click the button below.