Y of the North wilderness camps have a strong commitment to risk management. We apply this same commitment to developing protocols that minimize exposure of COVID-19 and to detect signs of illness. We continue to collaborate with the Center for Disease Control (CDC), American Camp Association (ACA), departments of health and camp experts for guidance.

Below you will find COVID-19 related protocols as of April 2022. These protocols may change depending on the current level of community spread and changing guidance.

Effective May 2022

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CAMPER PRE ARRIVAL
  • Y of the North strongly recommends that all eligible campers be vaccinated for COVID-19 prior to the start of their camp session. Vaccinated campers will be asked to upload their vaccine card to CampDoc in response to the pre-screening question.
  • For any camper who is unable to be fully vaccinated, we require proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 3 days of the start of their session. Results must be uploaded to CampDoc prior to the start of the session. Molecular PCR tests are preferred.  
  • For wilderness trips traveling to Canada, campers must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19. 
STAFF

Y of the North staff are expected to be fully vaccinated, prior to the start of summer. For staff who are not fully vaccinated, weekly COVID-19 testing will be required.

TRANSPORTATION
  • Campers and staff will be required to wear masks on the bus.
  • Campers and staff will eat lunch outdoors when weather permits.
  • Fresh air will be circulated on the bus.
  • Any camper who travels by airplane needs to wear a mask regardless of CDC guidelines.
RESPONSE TO SYMPTOMATIC INDIVIDUALS
  • Testing for COVID-19 will be considered if a camper develops serious and sustained COVID-like symptoms. 
  • All decisions related to responding to individuals with COVID-like symptoms will be made in consultation with our administrative team, advising physician and on-site health professional.
  • Evacuation will be considered based on severity of symptoms, type of trip and current location.
  • In the event of an evacuation, a family member should plan to take over the care of an evacuated camper as soon as possible. 
  • Families will be responsible for their evacuated camper’s travel home from their trip location. We will work with families to coordinate this transition as smoothly and quickly as possible. 
GENERAL HEALTH & SAFETY
  • As a general practice, campers and staff will follow the swiss cheese model of layered prevention practices by recommending vaccines, wearing masks, social distancing, avoiding crowds, and washing hands often.
  • Campers will be monitored for illness throughout their camp session.
  • Trail groups are small by design and much of the experience takes place outdoors.
  • Campers and staff will wear masks indoors and when social distancing isn’t possible outdoors.
  • Our general trail standards have been developed to minimize risks including the spread of infectious diseases. 
Minnesota Testing and Vaccination Resources

Minnesota Department of Health COVID 19 Homepage 
https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/ 

Testing 
https://mn.gov/covid19/get-tested/testing-locations/index.jsp

Vaccinations
https://vaccineconnector.mn.gov/en-US/