Camp Traditions

SUMMARY: “Camp Traditions” is self-explanatory – it is about the traditions at Camp Coleman. The Flag Ceremony is held before breakfast and supper, and the campers are not allowed to talk until the ceremony is over. Fairy Rock is a short way away from camp and legend holds that the rock is home to tiny fairies. Suicide Slide is a trail that, according to camp legend, was created by the last bear in Camp Coleman as he was being chased away by the scouts. His name was Old Scar, and he leapt off the edge of a steep hill at the top of Camp Coleman – his plight created a trail that campers love to hike. The Docks is actually an old water pumping station, but it makes the campers wondered about “the reasons for a dock on the tiny Cahaba River.” These are just a few of the many camp traditions listed.

RESPONSE: This source talks about the hike to the caves, which are just off of camp property. It says, “The entrance is small and located at the bottom of the cave. Once inside, the cave is large enough to hold and entire troop and a crack in the ceiling permits light to enter.” They should probably note that the guide needs to enter the cave first and check for snakes, mountain lions, and other wildlife. I personally have a friend who tried to enter the cave a few years ago and was about to put her hand on a ledge when she heard a hissing sound. It may have been a mountain lion or a rattlesnake, but she didn't stick around to find out (and I can't say I blame her).

"Camp Traditions." Camp Coleman Seasonal Camp Staff Training Manual. 1995.