The transition to college is an exciting time, but it can be accompanied by many unknowns. What do I pack? What will my classes be like? How will I find my group of friends? The first two questions can be answered fairly concretely using our “What to Pack for College” blog. However, finding your friend group can be a huge challenge for incoming freshmen.
Tarleton State’s answer to this common dilemma is Duck Camp, an introduction to Tarleton State culture and the perfect way to meet new people. Many Tarleton State students, including myself, have found their lifelong friends at Duck Camp.
Duck Camp is a three-day, two-night experience that prepares incoming freshmen and transfer students for life at Tarleton State. Freshmen will learn all the Tarleton State traditions, meet their fellow incoming classmates, and be a part of one of the best college camps in the nation!
Duck Camp begins with students meeting at Tarleton State in Stephenville. They are then sorted into groups for the weekend, get swag bags, and load buses to head to Greene Family Camp in Bruceville, Texas! Students kick off their weekend by raising the Tarleton State flag and learning the school song. Then they spend the weekend participating in VOLUNTARY activities that promote team building and strengthen their knowledge of Tarleton State. All activities at Duck Camp are challenge by choice. This means that if you do not want to participate in an event, there is no pressure to do so. I sat out of some and I still had the best time cheering on my fellow baby ducks (campers are called baby ducks and their group leaders Mama and Daddy ducks)!
Each Duck Camp group is paired with two leaders called “Mama and Daddy Ducks.” There is also a variety of staff on site that help run everything from the events to the kitchen. Campers stay in their assigned groups for most of the day and each camper wears a bandana specific to their group. The only time campers leave their groups is during free time. During this time campers can go, with at least one other person, and choose from a variety of activities incuding swimming at the pool, ziplining, or even taking a nap.
FAQs
How Much Does Duck Camp Cost?
The cost of Duck Camp includes lodging for three days and two nights at camp, meals, a swag bag, chartered bus service to and from camp, as well as special treats. The total cost is $150. However, there are scholarships available.
What Do I Pack?
In order to have a successful weekend, it is important to come prepared. Some essentials include:
- Toiletries
- Towel for the shower
- Towel for the pool
- Bedding for a twin-sized bed (campers will sleep on bunk beds and must bring their own pillow, sheets, blanket, etc.)
- Water bottle
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Swimsuit
- Close-toed shoes
- Clothes for three days (make sure the clothes can get dirty, bring an extra outfit for the Purple Out Night, and an outfit that corresponds with the first night’s theme)
For more information about what to pack and the theme nights see the video below! (video coming soon)
Where Do I Get Dropped Off For Duck Camp?
Before your Duck Camp date, you will receive an email detailing where to park if you are leaving a car on campus, where to get dropped off, when and where to meet, and an estimated arrival time for when you come back from camp.
Who are Mama/Daddy Ducks?
These are upperclassmen at Tarleton State. Their official title is Tarleton Transition Mentor and they serve many roles such as leading orientation and being Mama/Daddy Ducks at Duck Camp. These students were selected based on an extensive selection process that included an application and interview. They then go through multiple weeks of training to be prepared to best serve in this role. At Duck Camp, the Mama and Daddy Ducks serve many roles as they facilitate the weekend.
Where Can I Find More Information About Duck Camp?
To find out more about Duck Camp including the liability waiver, scholarship application, and who to contact if you have further questions visit the Duck Camp website!
Want to go to Duck Camp?
If you want to be a part of this incredible experience, pick your date and sign up below (spots are filling up fast)!
Duck Camp 4: August 7 – 9, 2024
Duck Camp 5: August 11 – 13, 2024
Duck Camp is truly a one-of-a-kind experience for incoming students and really shouldn’t be missed! Take advantage of this opportunity to make friends and memories that will last a lifetime. Duck Camp… WE LOVE IT!!