Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Transformative Summer Camp Experience in Washington State
Founded in 1927, Four Winds Westward Ho has dedicated nearly a century to fostering personal growth and community connection through immersive summer camp experiences. Our mission centers on creating an environment where young people disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature, tradition, and authentic human relationships. Accredited by the American Camp Association since our inception, we maintain rigorous safety standards while preserving the timeless charm of our Orcas Island campus. Our programs emphasize leadership development, environmental stewardship, and creative expression through sailing, arts, and outdoor adventures. With a 20% commitment to financial aid, we ensure accessibility while maintaining generational traditions like evening campfires and vintage uniforms.Our staff combines decades of experience with specialized training to create small-group settings that nurture meaningful relationships. The camp's physical spaces, designed by architect Harlan Pedersen, blend historic craftsmanship with modern functionality to enhance the camper experience. We measure success through the lasting impact on participants' self-confidence and social awareness, as evidenced by decades of alumni testimonials. Our nonprofit status allows mission-driven decision-making that prioritizes community needs over commercial interests.
Services
Sailing Programs
Leadership Training
Financial Aid
Outdoor Adventures
Arts & Crafts
Details
- Year established: 1927
Highlights and features
- We maintain American Camp Association accreditation with 200+ safety standards
- Our 20% financial aid commitment ensures diverse camper access
- Leadership training program for ages 16-18 develops counseling skills
- Small groups of 4-7 campers foster meaningful relationships
- 100-year-old traditions combine with modern environmental education
Associations and certifications
- American Camp Association
What people say
Boundless energy of joy
Life changing experience
Greater comfort with self
Increased self-confidence
Authentic connections
Services
Summer Camp Programs
Our immersive summer programs combine outdoor adventures with personal growth opportunities. Campers engage in sailing, hiking, and creative arts while developing social skills through technology-free living. Small group settings with experienced counselors foster meaningful connections and lifelong friendships in a natural island environment.
Leadership Training
Designed for 16-18 year olds, this program develops counseling and teaching skills through hands-on experience. Participants receive formal training in leadership principles while mentoring younger campers. The curriculum emphasizes responsibility, communication, and environmental stewardship in a supportive community setting.
Financial Aid Program
We reserve 20% of camper spots for families needing financial assistance. This initiative ensures diverse access to our programs while maintaining our commitment to inclusivity. The aid process prioritizes demonstrated need without compromising program quality or safety standards.
Sailing Adventures
Our waterfront activities feature sailing instruction on traditional vessels like the 61' yawl Carlyn. Campers learn navigation, seamanship, and teamwork while exploring the San Juan Islands. The program emphasizes water safety and environmental awareness through hands-on maritime experiences.
Outdoor Activities
From hilltop hikes to beach explorations, our programs connect campers with Orcas Island's ecosystems. Activities include gardening, wildlife observation, and environmental education. The curriculum teaches ecological responsibility while fostering appreciation for natural beauty through structured outdoor experiences.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve campers aged 9-15 (grades 4-10) and offer leadership programs for ages 16-18.
Are scholarships available?
Yes, we reserve 20% of spots for families needing financial assistance through our aid program.
What activities are offered?
Programs include sailing, hiking, arts, gardening, leadership training, and traditional camp activities.
Where is the camp located?
Our 100-acre campus sits on Orcas Island in Washington State's San Juan Islands.
How long are sessions?
We offer two 4-week sessions: June 21-July 18 and July 22-August 18.
Is the camp accredited?
Yes, we maintain American Camp Association accreditation with 200+ safety standards.
