Camp Tyler Information

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 Camp Tyler is a TISD school campus which primarily works with 5th grade students from all 17 Tyler elementary schools .  Camp Tyler Outdoor School creates innovative educational programs and implements them in a setting where children become engaged with the natural world and discover the joy of learning.  Very little time is spent in a lecture mode of instruction.  Instead, campers are immersed in authentic real world hands-on activities that stimulate the imagination, develop a curiosity about life, and create an environment to share discoveries. 

            Founded in 1949, the Camp Tyler Outdoor School is one of the oldest and most recognized programs in the world.

Camp Tyler Outdoor School is staffed by Interim Director, Jeff Gage. All programs and instruction are taught by nine certified elementary teachers who work closely with your child’s classroom teacher in providing the best instruction and care necessary during your child's stay.  Other personnel include a secretary, a camp ranger, a farmer, one custodian, and 2 cooks who are known for making school food taste like five star gourmet! 

During your child's week at Camp Tyler they will be immersed in educational activities that are aligned with their 5th grade state mandated TEKS.  All lessons are hands-on based and facilitated by a Camp Tyler certified classroom teacher.  Science, social studies, and math are the main areas addressed but Camp Tyler believes strongly in developing the WHOLE child, therefore character education and team-building are intricate parts of  the instruction. Tyler ISD believes so strongly in Camp that they have incorporated Camp Tyler as a part of the 5th grade TISD curriculum. Students from Tyler ISD have been coming to Camp Tyler since 1949 and therefore, when your child attends they not only learn academics, but they also become part of a legacy.    

Camp Tyler Outdoor School is not to be mistaken for summer camp; it is a true learning environment.

Each classrom will stay for 4 days and 3 nights.  Camp Tyler teachers will pick students up at their home campus on Tuesday morning around 8:00 AM and will return them back to their home school on Friday around 2:30 PM.  Students will be housed in air conditioned/heated cabins and will be supervised by a Camp Tyler teacher. 

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The cost is $50.00 for the entire week This fee includes three hot meals a day, snacks, and housing.  It is hoped that every child who comes to the Outdoor School will have an opportunity to earn and save all or part of the camp fee.  Earning and saving can be a valuable part of the experience.

Parents, please send no cash to the Outdoor School with your student.

Will my child be safe and well supervised?

YES! The number one priority at Camp Tyler is safety and, therefore your child will be closely supervised at all times.  Camp Tyler facilities provide heating and cooling for comfort.  Nutritious meals are served three times a day in a family style manner. The teachers will assure that children get rest and have a clean environment. 

If your child has any special health problem such as allergies, diet, medicine, bed-wetting, or sleepwalking, please send a note to the Outdoor School staff by way of the classroom teacher.  We will do our best to treat the problem as you would at home. 

The matter will be kept confidential.

How can I communicate with my child at camp?

You may communicate with your child via e-mail or US postal mail during their stay at camp.

Mail is a real thrill at camp.  Mail early!  Mail cards and letters the weekend before your student departs. Please address the envelope in the manner below.

Child’s Name		
            Child's school & Teacher's name
            TISD Outdoor School at Camp Tyler 
            15143 Camp Tyler Road
            Whitehouse, TX  75791

May parents visit Camp Tyler?

Camp Tyler would be glad to schedule a PTA parents trip to the Outdoor School prior to your child's visit.

What clothing and equipment will be needed?

Students will be outdoors most of the time so legs must be covered.  Clothing for the Outdoor School should be rugged and informal.  There are no dress-up events in camp.

What to Bring:

[ ]     Clothes for 3 days (extra socks; shorts are not allowed except at bedtime)

[ ]     Closed toe shoes (extra pair, if available)

[ ]     Sleepwear (pajamas, sweats, or shorts)

[ ]     Pillow & bedding (sleeping bag or sheet & blanket) Bring them in a  plastic bag so they stay clean and dry.

[ ]     Toilet articles (deodorant, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, shower cap (girls), comb/hair brush, anything else needed for personal hygiene)

[ ]     Rain gear

[ ]     Washcloth and towel

[ ]     Seasonal items (coat, gloves, hat, long underwear)  Students need to be prepared for rapid weather changes.

Do NOT bring:

·     Anything electrical (hair dryers, etc.)

·     Electronic items (Gameboy, CD players, Cell phones are not permitted, etc.)

·     Food (including candy and gum)

·     Pocket knives

·     Money (there is not a store for purchases)

·     Make-up, nail polish, perfume, cologne, razors, hair spray, and styling gels