Can my child stay in the park after camp?
For the safety of our campers, Busch Gardens does not allow campers to be released from our program unsupervised to play in the Park. Campers must be picked up by an adult on their pre-approved pickup list.
How can Camp participants be contacted during the program?
At the first day of camp check-in, parents/guardians will be given a cell phone number to reach the on-duty Camp Supervisor if an emergency occurs or to notify our team when you are ready and on property to pick up your child. Carrying cell phones or other electronic gear during a regular camp day by campers is discouraged, but not prohibited, because of potential disruption to programming. Campers that do have cell phones on them and that are causing a disruption with them will have their devices taken away from them by camp staff till the end of the day.
What is the procedure in a medical emergency?
For all minor injuries and illnesses that occur at any of the parks, the SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment Health Services team is available. For serious injuries and illnesses, participants will be transported to the closest hospital. A Busch Gardens representative will contact you in case of an emergency. It is required that you complete all of your child's medical consent to treat and medical history forms before registration is complete.
Who are the Busch Gardens Day Camp Team Members?
Our seasonal camp counselors are highly motivated, experienced college students and teachers that are carefully selected and background screened. Day camp counselors spend a full week training at Busch Gardens prior to campers’ arrival. Our entire camp team also trains and possesses First Aid, CPR, and AED training prior to the start of camps.
Are there health concerns for which my child may be sent home?
Some skin conditions, respiratory ailments, and other diseases are highly contagious for people and animals. If a Health Services Team Member identifies your camper as being infectious, that he/she has an elevated temperature upon arrival, or exhibits signs of head lice, it will be necessary to send him/her home. Please evaluate any skin irritations or itching, or general health problems before coming to camp in order to avoid any inconvenience, expense, or disappointment.
What are some possible health concerns of the program and how can they be prevented?
Some participants will have the opportunity to ride roller coasters and other theme park rides on which they may experience high speeds and zero gravity. Campers will also be in close proximity to many species of animals where they may encounter the animals and associated dander, feathers, or food items. It is imperative to note any health issues or known food, animal or insect, and plant allergies on the Health History Form, and to elaborate on the severity of any condition or reaction.
NOTE: Some available food products may contain or have been processed in proximity to peanut and/or other allergenic ingredients. Please specify any dietary preferences, allergies and/or restrictions on the Health History Form, and elaborate on the possible reaction if consumed or touched. While Day Camps can accommodate a simple vegetarian diet, please provide non-perishable supplements for more complex dietary needs or dietary restrictions.
Be sure to review and complete the OTC Medications Release Form. Busch Gardens staff CANNOT DISPENSE ANY MEDICATIONS WITHOUT PARENT/GUARDIAN PERMISSION.
Sun, heat, and humidity can be a dangerous mix in Virginia. Participants should wear sunscreen (not provided) and protective clothing (e.g. light, cotton clothing, a hat, and sunglasses) and drink plenty of water to prevent sunburn and overheating.
What happens during inclement weather?
Safety is a top priority at Busch Gardens. Camp leadership and counselors will balance the components of the program with the current weather conditions. Weather conditions are monitored closely by our Park Operations department and our enjoyment of the park elements is contingent upon the proximity and nature of weather factors such as lightning or high winds.
Rain and thunderstorms occur often in Virginia and may affect some camp activities. Our park observes strict weather protocols. When lightning has been spotted within 3 miles of our park, for everyone’s safety, guests and Team Members are required to seek shelter. Campers will be moved to the closest indoor location until the threat has passed.
If Park Operations has called the severe weather code before or during camp dismissal, dismissal must be temporarily halted until the weather passes. This is for everyone’s safety. We ask that should you arrive at camp dismissal during bad weather and it appears that no staff is on hand immediately; we are following our safety procedures and have everyone safely inside an indoor location. We will resume check out once we are given the “all clear” from our Park Operations team.
During more severe weather, such as a hurricane, camp management will make a decision about canceling a Day Camp on a case-by-case basis. Camps are not canceled for rain. Once a Day Camp is canceled, it cannot be rescheduled for the original date even if the weather clears or other factors change. You will NOT receive a refund for missed days due to inclement weather. Parents/guardians will be contacted in a timely manner should such an event occur.
Do campers have to participate in all activities?
We design events to be enjoyable and realize that sometimes the schedule includes something new for some participants. Everyone is encouraged to participate to the best of their ability during group activities.
Do I need to send over-the-counter medications?
Health Services keeps the most common over-the-counter (OTC) medications on-hand for all of our park guests, including campers. It is not necessary to send any of these medications to camp! Because we cannot dispense any medication without parental and/or physician authorization, please be sure to complete the Medication Release Form and note the available medications. For the safety of all campers, all medicines, OTC and/or prescription, are collected by Health Services upon arrival and dispensed as required.