CBS FAMILY CAMP FAQ

Below are frequently asked questions about our Family Camp program. If you have additional questions, you may email the CBS office at office@campusbythesea.org or call (310) 510-0015.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

Things to know before you arrive:

  1. What are your beliefs? Read our Statement of Beliefs page.

  2. How do I contact camp? We would love for you to contact us.

  3. What are the expected boat times? All participants of a session will come to camp together on a pre-arranged, chartered ferry, scheduled for Monday afternoon. The departure time and location from the San Pedro Catalina Express terminal is typically 3:15 p.m. Plan to depart camp on Saturday at 12:45 p.m., returning to San Pedro about 2 p.m. Any alternate transportation plans will not be compensated. Parking fees (about $23/night) at the ferry terminal are not included in camper fees.

  4. How do I get there? We provide directions that will help you find the boat that will take you to CBS.

  5. What type of housing will I be in? Through our registration system, you will indicate your first, second, and third housing choice. Types of structures include Enclosed Cabins, Open Air Cabins, and Canvas Cottages. We do our best to accommodate your housing preference; however, this is not always possible.

  6. Can I request specific needs for my cabin? If you have specific needs (i.e., Pack ‘n Play, power for a CPAP machine, or mobility issues), please let us know on the housing form within the Campwise registration system.

  7. What else do I need to know about CBS housing? You will be assigned a cabin upon arrival at camp. Because the cabins do not have electricity, you may want to bring a battery-operated lantern. Make sure to bring sleeping bags and pillows or sheets and light blankets. CBS does not provide bedding. Please, no food in cabins!

  8. What do I need to pack? Here's what to bring when you visit Campus by the Sea.

  9. What if I forget something like toiletries? The Boat House Store sells everyday travel toiletries such as toothpaste and soap.

  10. What important miscellaneous Items should I bring? A flashlight, sunscreen, and water shoes (we have a rocky beach) are essential!! If you plan to fish, please bring a valid California fishing license if you are age 16 or older. CBS provides bait and has drop lines available to loan out.

  11. When is the final payment due? Final payment is due 4 weeks from the start of your session. You can pay the final payment via credit card or an e-check in Campwise, or by mailing a physical check to Campus by the Sea, PO Box 466, Avalon, CA 90704.

  12. Can I give to your important ministry? We welcome your donations.

Things to know during your stay -

  1. Do you accommodate my food allergy and/or dietary restriction? Our food service team is ready to serve those with special dietary needs or food allergies. We can easily accommodate those with allergies to nuts, gluten, dairy, and other common dietary restrictions. Please insert your family's dietary restrictions and food allergies in the medical form on Campwise when registering, and we will assist you in any way we can. Those with complex dietary issues may want to bring extra foods to supplement. A camper fridge and microwave are available for those who have particular needs.

  2. What type of water recreation is offered? Waterfront recreation includes kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, water mat, swim float, fishing, and swimming. We also have large inflatables in our swim area during the summer. We will conduct a swim test at the beginning of the first waterfront session for campers aged 17 and under. If your child does not pass or chooses not to participate in the swim test, they must wear a life jacket during any water activities. Life jackets are required for all campers on any water recreation equipment, kayaks, and paddleboards.

  3. What type of land recreation is offered? We offer basketball, volleyball, ping-pong, gaga ball, pickleball, hiking, and campfires. Skateboards, roller-blades, and mountain bikes are not permitted at CBS or on trails. Please do not bring these items.

  4. Is there cell service and/or WIFI offered at CBS? There is no cell service or WIFI at camp. A courtesy phone is located near the lighthouse seminar room for campers to make a short complimentary call. Please inform emergency contacts to call the CBS office (310) 510-0015 if something arises at home that requires attention.

  5. What is Opportunity To Serve (OTS) ? At CBS, we serve meals cafeteria style. Your household will be assigned to a meal to help wash dishes and reset tables. OTS provides an atmosphere of service and family teamwork.

  6. Does CBS have a camp store? Yes, the Boat House Camp Store is open in the afternoons and sells apparel, gifts,, sundries, toiletries, plus a selection of drinks and snacks. The Boat House accepts cash, credit cards, and Apple Pay.

  7. Where is the bathroom located at camp? The bath pavilion is centrally located at camp and has hot showers, sinks, toilets, and electricity. The bath pavilion is divided into fully separate men’s and women’s sections. Please bring your own towels. CBS is located on a desert island where water is considered a precious resource; all campers are asked to conserve water as much as possible.