When does registration open?

Registration is now open for the summer 2025 sessions. To be updated when registration opens for future sessions and events, you can join our mailing list at the bottom of every page of this website.

When will campers sign-up for classes and community workshops?

Sign-up for classes typically begins 1-2 months before a summer session.

How does it work with the youngest children?

Children ages 2-5 have dedicated Kid City programming. Children younger than 2 spend their day with a family member.

How much does it cost?

See our list of camp fees.

Are scholarships available?

Yes, limited financial assistance is available. Aid is based on need and capacity to have a positive impact on the atmosphere and diversity at camp. 100% of the per-camper fee will be waived if a group determines that they cannot afford camp at the aid level approved. Please email info@caznw.org for more details.

What are the accommodations like?

When you register, you will be offered a range of group housing options that are priced according to size and amenities. Alternatively, campers can opt to bring their own tents or RV for camping at a discounted rate. Bathroom and shower areas are near housing areas and shared by all. Electric outlets are available in all fixed housing units. See the map with housing options here.

Can a child attend without a parent or guardian?

No. At the time of registration, every camper under age 16 designates at least one adult to take responsibility for parental-type supervision.

Are there any water activities at camp?

Caz Northwest has waterfront access to Puget Sound, where campers can swim, kayak, or canoe. Water activities are open during designated times and under supervision of a staff lifeguard.

May campers invite guests to join us?

Yes, guests may be hosted by a registered camper, subject to

• Confirmation from the camp director,

• Registration at least 2 days prior to the guest’s arrival, and

• A maximum stay of two nights.

Please use this form to register and pay guest fee for each guest.

Friends and family may join us for the performances on the final day of camp without prior registration.

Do I need to bring my own instruments to camp?

Campers who are experienced playing a musical instrument typically bring it to camp.  Campers who enroll in a beginner-level music class can usually borrow an instrument or rent one from the instructor for a small fee, depending on the instrument.  Further details will be available in the catalog of class descriptions that is circulated before camp.

What else should I pack?

See our list of suggested items.

What is the food like?

It is simple, healthy, nutritious, and — in our opinion — more tasty than typical “camp food.” When possible, it is organic.

We collect information on campers’ dietary restrictions during registration, and our kitchen staff will work with you to accommodate many dietary restrictions including vegetarian, vegan, nut-free, and gluten-free diets. If we are unable to fully meet your needs, you will have access to an auxiliary refrigerator. Please bring your own storage containers and label them with your name.

What precautions against COVID are there?

We are committed to taking steps to keep our camp experience a healthy one for campers and staff. While it is impossible to prevent the spread of disease completely, we have several requirements for campers and staff to participate in our camp:
• We require that all participants submit a medical form, which includes medical provider contact info, allergies and other medical conditions, and the dates of your latest tetanus and COVID shots.
• We require that participants who are more than 18 months old have either 1) received a COVID vaccine during the 12 months prior to camp, or 2) been diagnosed with, and recovered from, COVID during the 6 months prior to camp. We recommend that all participants have received the most recent COVID vaccine, regardless of time since their previous vaccination.
• We require that all participants self-test for COVID before leaving home (within 24 hours of arrival to camp) and take a selfie of themselves with their negative test to bring to camp. If the test is positive, please stay home. Free covid tests can be ordered through USPS.
• For those that are unable to self test and/or document their self test prior to camp arrival, we require a COVID test upon arrival at camp. Participants who receive a positive test result at arrival will be asked to return home.

Will there be internet or cell service?

Cell service and internet connections are spotty at camp. Many campers remark at how wonderful it is to be unplugged for a week, especially for community bonding. During meal times, we strongly discourage the use of mobile phones. If you unplug and need to be reached during camp, others can contact you through the office phone of Sound View Camp: 253-884-9202.

What is the weather like? How about bugs?

Evenings are often cool at camp, and rain is always a possibility. Our suggested packing list advises you to bring sweaters, warm jackets and hats for outside evening performances. Mosquitos can be present, especially at twilight, so we recommend that you pack insect repellent.

I arrive at SeaTac by plane. How can I get to camp?

If you are coming with 2 or 3 people, it makes economic sense to split a hired vehicle or even rent a car. Gig Harbor Taxi will arrange pickups in advance. If you are arriving alone, then we recommend taking the Bremerton-Kitsap Airporter to the Purdy stop, which is about 30 minutes away from camp. From there, you can call a cab or ask a friend for a pickup.

Is the camp religious-affiliated?

No. Caz Northwest’s leadership and programming are secular.

Our event happens at Sound View Camp, as do the events of other non-profit organizations in arts, education, environment, and religion. The camp property is owned by the Presbytery of Olympia. During the week of camp, the Caz community and the campground’s staff are the only people on site.

Are you hiring?

Yes. Every year we contract with professional artist-educators to teach classes full-time during the week of camp.

As an alternative, professional artist-educators who want to enjoy the week as a camper can, depending on the needs of our class schedule, teach a single class as an artist in residence in exchange for a $500 discount on the camper fee.

Openings for other support roles, if any, are posted here.

Are pets allowed?

No, but we do allow Service Animals.

What about my less-frequently-asked questions?

Email us at info@caznw.org