Family Camping 2023
Will I need my own camping gear?
Yes. We know that families who choose camping adventures will have their own preferred brands and items (we sure do!), so we'll leave it to you to decide on your preferred gear. However, here's our list of recommended items to be sure to bring.
IS it safe to camp in the Blue Mountains?
The Holywell Recreation area is a mountain retreat operated by the Jamaica Conservation and Development Trust. The camp grounds include a ranger. For added peace of mind, we provide our own security as well. In addition, the training grounds for the Jamaica Defense Force and the island's police officers, is located less than 15 minutes away.
Which Airport should we fly into?
The Norman Manley International in Kingston will be the closest airport to our camping grounds.
Other FAQs
WHERE is the camp located?
St. Hilda’s Diocesan High School, Brown's Town, St. Ann
Where is the Nearest Airport?
Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay is closer than the Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) in Kingston. Map directions to the camp is available on our Logistics page.
HOW WILL MY CHILD GET TO CAMP?
Transportation from the MBJ airport can be arranged. For resident campers registering for an accompanied flight, transportation to and from the airport is included.
Transportation for day campers is not included, however, we can make arrangements to provide transportation to and from a set location in Ocho Rios and Kingston. Ask us about that option.
Transportation for day campers is not included, however, we can make arrangements to provide transportation to and from a set location in Ocho Rios and Kingston. Ask us about that option.
HOW ARE "CABINS" ASSIGNED?
The St. Hilda's Diocesan High boarding facilities accommodate the setup of gender-differentiated residences, with dormitory assignments based on the age ranges of the campers. (There will be some variability in the exact makeup of each group, depending on the diversity of the registrants.)
Campers can request one "cabin-mate." If the requested cabin-mate also asks for that camper, the request will likely be granted. General cabin placements or cabin request info will not be shared prior to your child's arrival at camp. They will find out their cabin placement during check-in on Sunday.
Every attempt will be made to ensure that each camper will know at least one other camper before arriving for their session. After registering for camp, parents will have the opportunity to enroll their camper in our Irie Pen Pal program. We encourage campers to take advantage of this opportunity.
Campers can request one "cabin-mate." If the requested cabin-mate also asks for that camper, the request will likely be granted. General cabin placements or cabin request info will not be shared prior to your child's arrival at camp. They will find out their cabin placement during check-in on Sunday.
Every attempt will be made to ensure that each camper will know at least one other camper before arriving for their session. After registering for camp, parents will have the opportunity to enroll their camper in our Irie Pen Pal program. We encourage campers to take advantage of this opportunity.
WHAT IF MY CAMPER HAS DIETARY RESTRICTIONS?
A menu will be e-mailed two weeks before your camper’s arrival/start date. However, if your camper has special dietary concerns, please contact us at admin@iriecampjamaica.com as soon as possible.
WHAT IS THE REFUND POLICY?
Cancellations made prior to June 1 will have all funds returned, less the deposit. With the exception of serious injury or illness, refunds will not be issued after June 1. Campers arriving to their session late/leaving early will not receive a prorated fee.
WILL MY CHILD NEED A PASSPORT?
According to the US State Department, the Jamaica High Commission in the UK, and the Consulate General of Jamaica, all visitors traveling by air to Jamaica are required to have a valid passport reflecting their nationality. This is important asre-entry into the home country will likely require the type pf proof-of-citizenship that a passport provides. No tourist visa is needed for US and UK citizens entering Jamaica.
If your child needs to obtain a passport. Be sure to allow enough time (6-8 weeks should be adequate) to get the passport through the US State Department or the Gov.UK online portal. Many US and UK Post Offices will also accept your application. For more information, visit the Passport Office Online.
If your child needs to obtain a passport. Be sure to allow enough time (6-8 weeks should be adequate) to get the passport through the US State Department or the Gov.UK online portal. Many US and UK Post Offices will also accept your application. For more information, visit the Passport Office Online.
WHAT WILL MY CHILD NEED?
A detailed list will be included during the registration process, but see our Packing List page to get you started.
DOES MY CHILD NEED SHOTS TO VISIT JAMAICA?
Yes. Be sure that your child is current on their vaccinations, especially for
- Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
- Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Polio
- Flu
ARE ELECTRONIC DEVICES ALLOWED?
We understand parents' wish to have communication with their child. However, we discourage campers from bringing phones and other technology into camp as they distract from the experiences and will not be permitted during scheduled activity blocks. For resident campers, we do allow the use of their personal devices during the rest hour. Generally, if there is a need to contact a parent, the camp will ensure that the child is able to do so.
CAN THE PARENTS VISIT THE CAMP?
Rest assured that your kids will be taken care of. We want you to enjoy yourselves as much as our campers will. While parental visits will be limited to emergencies while camp is in session, we will have weekly exhibits on Friday afternoons and families are more than welcome to come share in all their camper's have experienced and learned.
WHAT SECURITY ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE?
The St. Hilda's campus is enclosed by fence. During the camp's operational sessions, additional security will be provided by contracted off-duty police officers and security personnel.
Photo identification and verification of an individual's permission to pick-up a child will be strictly enforced as well.
Photo identification and verification of an individual's permission to pick-up a child will be strictly enforced as well.
CAN MY CHILD STAY FOR MULTIPLE WEEKS?
Absolutely! We even offer a multi-week discount and can make arrangements for a Saturday excursion if your camper is coming from overseas and would need to be accommodated for the day between sessions.
