Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center is proud to announce its recent accreditation by the American Camp Association (ACA), a testament to the center’s dedication to providing safe, high-quality experiences for campers of all ages.
The ACA is a community of camp professionals who have collaborated for over a century to promote best practices in camp programs for children, youth, and adults. Through its rigorous accreditation process, the ACA upholds nearly 300 health, safety, and operational standards, from staff training and qualifications to emergency preparedness, ensuring a safe and enriching camp environment.
The ACA’s standards are developed in partnership with experts from organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Red Cross, reflecting the latest research in child development, health, and safety. By meeting these standards, Cuscowilla demonstrates its commitment to upholding the highest level of care and quality for campers.
"ACA Accreditation reassures families that Cuscowilla is committed to a safe, transparent, and high-quality camp experience," said Camp Manager Jamie Bass. "This achievement reflects the dedication of our team across various departments who worked tirelessly to meet these rigorous standards. Our entire staff played an integral role in this accomplishment, and we’re incredibly grateful for their hard work and commitment."
The ACA's mandatory standards include comprehensive staff screening, emergency protocols, certified aquatic personnel, age-appropriate staff-to-camper ratios and developmentally based camp programming.
Cuscowilla is open for year-round reservations and rentals. Each summer, the center hosts a seven-week day camp for children ages 7 to 14. The next summer camp registration opens on March 1, 2025.
For more information about ACA accreditation or to make a reservation, please contact Jamie Bass at jbass@alachuacounty.us or visit the American Camp Association website at www.ACACamps.org.
