Ready to Go to 4-H Camp Ocala?

Every summer 4-H members from Pinellas, Pasco, Polk and Hillsborough counties travel to the Ocala National Forest for a camping adventure at 4-H Camp Ocala. Camp Ocala is located on beautiful Sellers Lake and surrounded by the pine forest. Each day is filled with fun, educational activities. Every camper selects which classes he or she would like to take. The list of classes includes rocketry, kayaking, self improvement, outdoor skills, ballroom dancing, entomology, archery, multimedia, science experiments, orienteering, and the list goes on. Classes are taught by Extension faculty, camp staff, 4-H volunteers, and senior counselors. All adults at camp have passed a background screening.


In the evening there are campfires and other group activities, including a flag retirement. Everyone has a chance to swim, canoe, or kayak during Free Time. Thursday night, the last night at camp, is very special with the rocket launching, a dance, and the traditional 4-H candle lighting ceremony.

The cabins, dining room, and classrooms are all air-conditioned.

Most of the campers are 4-H members; however, registration is open to families interested in joining the 4-H program. The cost is $200.00 for the week. This year we are camping July 22-26. Non-4-H members are required to fill out 4-H enrollment forms before they are permitted to attend 4-H camp. Campers must have turned 8 by September 1, 2012 and not be older than 18. If you are interested in sending your child to Camp Ocala and/or have questions, please contact Jean Rogalsky at jrogalsk@pinellascounty.org .

What do the campers think of Camp Ocala? Here are some comments made by  4-H teen camp counselors:

• I like the variety of classes. There is something there for many different interests and every personality type.

• Camp is a bonding experience. Lifelong friendships are made here.

• If you are going to a camp you might as well go to 4-H camp. Everyone is so friendly.

Camp registration closes July 8, so don’t delay!



For more information on the camp itself, go to: http://florida4h.org/camps/ocala.shtml