Kid Programs FAQ | Virginia Key Outdoor Center

Camp Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a discount for registering multiple children?

A 15% Sibling Discount is available for general registration pricing.

Do I get a refund if my child is sick?

No we do not offer refunds for campers that are unable to attend camp because they are sick. If the child is hospitalized we may provide credit for future camp enrollment.

Do I get a refund if my child is asked to leave camp because of behavioral issues?

No, if your child is asked to leave camp because they are unable to cooperate with camp rules, then you will not receive a refund.

What happens if my child can't attend a day or if they will be late?

Please notify our office at 786.224.4777

What do I do if I need to pick up my child early?

Please call us if you need to collect your child early on any give day so that we can be sure your child is ready for pick-up.

Should my child bring lunch to camp?

If your child is attending full day sessions, please send your camper with lunch. Beverages and snacks are included. Lunch however is not.

How should my child dress for camp?

Camp will take place rain or shine. Florida weather changes quickly so rain in Kendall does not mean rain on Virginia Key. Our camp events revolve primarily around outside activities. Please dress your child appropriately for the weather. Please make sure your camper is wearing sunscreen or can apply it independently; our counselors are not permitted to apply sunscreen on your child. Rain gear may be needed at times.

On bicycling days campers should wear fitted pants or cycling gear. Loose fitting pants can get caught in gears and are not allowed. Sneakers or biking shoes are needed. Open toe shoes will not be allowed on the mountain bike trails. All participants must wear helmets (which are provided).

On water activity days your child should wear swim wear designed for sports. Revealing swimsuits are not allowed. Athletic quick drying gym-wear is best. Water shoes, or strapped sandals are fine. Your child should always bring a towel and dry change of clothes. Safety equipment is required and must be worn (this is provided).

What if my child has special needs?

If your child has special needs (dietary, allergy, behavioral, physical, etc.) then please notify us in advance by calling (786) 224-4777. We want your child to have the best camp experience possible and we can only do this if we know the unique needs of your child!

What if my child has behavioral problems?

We will do our best to work with your child. However, if your child presents a threat to other campers or staff, or if they are disruptive we will call you to pick them up.

Camp Rules

CAMP RULES & COMPREHENSIVE POLICIES

REGISTRATION Fees must be pre-paid to guarantee a spot for your child.
All camp Fees are nonrefundable. Unused sessions are non-refundable.
All activities are subject to weather. Camp will take place rain or shine. Final determination will be made by Program Organizers only. Keep in mind that rain in Kendall does not equal rain on Key Biscayne. Weather changes quickly in Florida. The instructor(s) will have sole discretion over rescheduled or changes activities.
Each parent or guardian is responsible for the safety of his/her child(ren). The instructor(s) or premises owners/tenants will not be held liable for any event(s) occurring before or after the class.
Your child’s safety is important. Participants must wear clothing appropriate for the events. Participants who fail to dress appropriately will not be allowed to participate. No refund will be provided for their inability to participate.
Please dress your child appropriately for the weather. Please make sure your camper is wearing sunscreen or can apply it independently; our counselors are not permitted to apply sunscreen on your child. Rain gear may be needed at times.
On bicycling days campers should wear fitted pants or cycling gear. Loose fitting pants can get caught in gears and are not allowed. Sneakers or biking shoes are needed. Open toe shoes will not be allowed on the mountain bike trails. All participants must wear helmets (which are provided).
On water activity days your child should wear swim wear designed for sports. Revealing swimsuits are not allowed. Athletic quick drying gym-wear is best. Water shoes, or strapped sandals are fine. Your child should always bring a towel and dry change of clothes. Safety equipment is required and must be worn (this is provided).
Disruptive behavior cannot be tolerated. This can ruin the experience for all other campers. Any child exhibiting a lack of self-control, violent behavior, or refusing to follow instructions or wear appropriate safety gear will be expelled from camp. A parent or listed authorized person must immediately pick-up the child. Unused session fees will not be refunded and will not be credited towards future events.
We will only release campers to individuals a parent or guardian identifies on the registration form. If your child has a car or is allowed to leave alone, or with a friend, you must provide written permission.

COVID-19 Response

How Many Children will be allowed at Camp?

Two Counselors for every 8 campers. Each camp will be capped at 8 campers.

Will Temperature Checks be Required?

Yes. Temperatures will be checked in the morning prior to drop-off. Campers with a temperature at 100.4° F or higher will be sent home with the parent.

Only one parent or guardian at a time will be permitted to check in and out their camper.

Should my child bring Hand Sanitizer and Mask?

We encourage parents to send their children with Hand Sanitizer. Please see the following question in regards to Masks.

Will Face Coverings be Mandatory?

Masks will be required inside the retail room and bathroom areas. They will be required to wear a mask when engaging in passive group activities on the deck. They will not be required in open areas such as the water, beach, and trails

We suggest sending children with a spare mask.

Will you be sanitizing equipment and common areas?

Prior to the COVID19 Pandemic VKOC initiated aggressive sanitation procedures to ensure the safety of its guests and staff. All paddles equipment, lifejackets, bikes, and high contact areas will continue to be sanitized. Hand washing and CDC approved sanitation products will be available for campers.

Children and staff will be required to wash their hands upon arrival and before/after every activity.

In the case of contamination, will I be informed?

Yes. In the case that staff member or camper tests positive or is exposed to COVID19, VKOC will contact all parents and inform them. We will also close for testing and deep cleaning.

What can I do to help?

Please explain to your child that that they must follow the guidelines imposed by VKOC, The CDC, and Miami Dade County / City of Miami. Inform them of the hazards of sharing things like water bottles and the importance of washing their hands and wearing their masks while indoors.

All water bottles MUST marked in order to avoid confusion. There will be water refill stations available for the campers. Disposable cups will be available for campers and staff.

We will not tolerate anyone who refuses to follow guidelines.

Parents will be called to pick up their camper. No refunds will be available.