Camp Whitewood

Columbiana, Mahoning, Portage, and Stark are partnering for a week of fun at Camp Whitewood. Campers will enjoy swimming, boating, shooting sports, arts/crafts, songs, games and SO MUCH MORE!!!!

Dates: July 5-10, 2026

Cost: $407 

Ages 8-14

Camp sign

Register Here:

Go to Camp Whitewood's website for more information on how to register:

https://www.4hcampwhitewood.com/

Campership Opportunities:

Portage County Campership Application - Due June 2

Ray and Doris Aeschliman Campership Application - Due May 15

Camp Counselors:

Counselors - Apply online by January 9, 2026 here: https://go.osu.edu/2026campcounselorapp Hard copies of application can be made available upon request to Catie at noyes-johnson.1@osu.edu. 

2026 CAMP COUNSELOR INTERVIEWS: In-person Camp Counselor interviews will be conducted on Monday, January 19, 2026. Applicants will be contacted by Wednesday, January 14, 2026 with interview details.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

The 4-H Camp Counselors are a group of 4-H teens selected to assist in being responsible for campers ages 8-14 during 4-H camp. As a result of participation, counselors will develop knowledge, skills, attitudes, and aspirations needed for adult success, and the Portage County 4-H Program will be strengthened and expanded. Roles and Responsibilities of 4-H Camp Counselors include:

  • Attend required trainings prior to camp
  • Market and promote camp
  • Serve in a leadership and teaching role to other counselors
  • Serve on committees or other groups to plan programs at camp
  • Conduct self in an appropriate manner before, during, and after camp while serving as a role model to campers and peers
  • Assist staff and other counselors with camp activities; work as a team to implement the activities
  • Know and understand all safety guidelines, including emergency procedures, associated with the camp and program areas
  • Follow and enforce camp rules
  • Assure for the safety of campers at all times including in cabins, sessions, and large group activities
  • Be aware of child protection regulations and report any child abuse, sexual abuse, or neglect in accordance with university policy
  • Identify and respond to camper behavior issues
  • Ensure campers’ health and hygiene, e.g., brushing teeth, eating meals, taking medication, etc.
  • Promote camper participation during camp
  • Lead and supervise campers in activities at camp including but not limited to songs, teambuilding challenges, group activities, challenges, etc.
  • Teach and lead campers at workshops or during other components at camp (table setting, song leading, etc.)
  • Mentor and give guidance to campers to encourage positive youth development and enhancement of life skills

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be at least 16 years old by the start of camp.
  • 15 year olds may apply to be a Counselor In Training (CIT)
  • Must be a current active 4-H member in good standing.
  • Must be able to get transportation to meetings and events as needed.
  • Must complete a minimum of 20 hours of training (6 of these hours must be on-sight at Camp Whitewood).
  • Must complete Child Abuse Awareness training.
  • Must Sign Standards of Behaviors and complete the Code of Conduct form (both are online forms).
  • First time applicants must provide contact information for two references, returning counselors must provide one.
  • If the individual is 18+ years old at least two months prior to camp, the individual must have their background check conducted. 

SELECTION PROCESS:

  • Individuals who complete the application must also attend the interview process in order to be eligible.

MEETING DATES/TIME/FREQUENCY

  • 4-H Camp Counselors must attend Counselor Zoom trainings, online course trainings, in person meetings, and one 4-H Camp Whitewood counselor weekend (dates of meetings and trainings will be provided later).
  • Counselors are expected to notify the Extension Office if an absence is unavoidable.
  • 4-H Camp Counselors will be trained on topics such as the camp counselor core competencies; risk management, including active shooter guidelines, emergency protocols, and child abuse recognition.

TO APPLY:

  • Complete the application in its entirety.
  • Provide two non-family references with contact information (returning counselors must provide one reference).
  • Read and sign the Standards of Behavior and Camp Counselor Code of Conduct forms.
  • Complete this online application, Standards of Behavior, and Code of Conduct by Friday, January 10, 2025.