Jack Camp is a unique opportunity for new Lumberjacks to meet fellow students, have fun and learn about life at SFA. Held in Trinity, Texas, Jack Camp is a three-day extended orientation program designed to welcome incoming first-time and transfer students to the university each summer and help them find their place within our Lumberjack family.

Jack Camp participants are split between two large groups that engage in friendly competition with each other throughout the three-day experience. Students also become part of smaller groups that enjoy team-building exercises, group discussions and social activities. There is also plenty of free time built in for pool lounging, enjoying the outdoors and hanging out with new friends. It all happens at one of the best camp facilities in the state, featuring air-conditioned cabins, an on-site cafeteria, athletic fields, a swimming pool and much more.

Registration

Availability is limited, so early registration is recommended. The cost of Jack Camp is $160 and will be added to your fall SFA eBill. The price covers meals, lodging, camp materials and a Jack Camp Tshirt. Click on your preferred session date below, and log in using your mySFA credentials to get registered today! July 31st is the last day to cancel and receive a full refund. Use this link to change or cancel your Jack Camp registration: Change in Registration Request.

2024 Jack Camp Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I contact Jack Camp representatives?

The quickest way to reach representatives is by emailing jackcamp@sfasu.edu or calling Camp Director Lacey Folsom at 936.468.1367. Remember, cell phone service may be spotty at Jack Camp.

Why should I attend Jack Camp?

Benefits of attendance include connecting with fellow Lumberjacks, student leaders, and faculty and staff members before the fall semester begins; discovering SFA’s unique history and traditions; and participating in fun activities such as cheers, team games, skits and more! You will also have participate in small group discussions about life at SFA, what to expect as a new student, any worries or concerns you may have about beginning your SFA journey.

Where is Jack Camp, and how do I get there?

Jack Camp happens at Camp Olympia in East Texas, about a 90-minute drive from SFA. The physical address is 723 Olympia Drive in Trinity, Texas. Visitors using GPS programs sometimes have difficulty finding the camp, so refer to our driving directions for specific routes to take. You may drive yourself to Jack Camp or have someone drop you off and pick you up.

How much does Jack Camp cost?

The cost is $160 and covers meals, lodging, camp materials and a T-shirt. The charge will be added to your fall SFA ebill.

What time is check-in?

Check-in is from noon to 2 p.m. The first scheduled Jack Camp activity begins at 2:15 p.m., so students are encouraged to arrive early to allow a little time to get settled before then. Our first Jack Camp meal is at 5 p.m., so be sure to eat lunch before you arrive!

What time does Jack Camp end?

Activities wrap up around noon on the last day. All campers must be picked up by 1 p.m.

What kind of bedding should I bring?

The beds are standard twin sized. You may bring a sheet set and blanket or a sleeping bag, whichever you prefer. Don’t forget your pillow!

Will I be able to call home?

Students may use their phones during Jack Camp, but we encourage you to limit phone use to scheduled free time. Cell service is not very strong at the campground, so be prepared to have spotty service or no service at all sometimes. Students may access camp phones for emergency calls.

Do I need to bring money?

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided. Additional snacks or gear may be purchased at the camp store during free time. You must pay with cash; credit cards cannot be accepted, and there is no ATM on site.

How do I dress for the camp dance?

We encourage Jack Campers to “dress up” for our camp dance each summer! It is casual, but you can wear a costume or keep it simple with a themed T-shirt or outfit. We will share the dance theme ahead of time.

Where can I see pictures and receive updates during Jack Camp?

Follow Jack Camp on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

When do we eat?

Meals are served at approximately 8 a.m., noon and 5 p.m. The first meal provided will be at 5 p.m. the day of check-in, so be sure to eat lunch before you arrive. Snacks are available for purchase during free time at the camp store. Snack items are $1. Cash only! If you have specific dietary needs, email jackcamp@sfasu.edu as soon as possible.

Where do we sleep?

Campers sleep in air-conditioned cabins with twin bunks. You will need to provide your own toiletries and linens for a standard twin-sized bed, including a pillow.

What do I wear?

Most activities take place outside, so you will need to dress appropriately for the summer heat. We strongly encourage campers to wear tennis shoes. Jack Camp involves physical activities designed to promote team building and Lumberjack family unity. All campers receive a Jack Camp T-shirt upon arrival. Other T-shirts may be purchased for $10 at the camp store. Cash only!

What if I need accommodation?

If you will need accommodation to participate in Jack Camp, email jackcamp@sfasu.edu as soon as possible so that arrangements can be made. You may also contact SFA Disability Services at 936.468.6401 or TDD: 936.468.1004 for assistance.

What if I need to switch Jack Camp sessions or cancel my registration?

As soon as you learn your plans have changed, email jackcamp@sfasu.edu. Include in your message:

  • which session you are currently registered to attend
  • and whether you are canceling or requesting to switch to the other session.

The last day to cancel and receive a full refund is July 31.

Students with Disabilities

The Department of Student Life is committed to providing support for students with disabilities. If you are a student who needs accommodation to attend or participate in one of our events or student organizations, you are encouraged to stop by Room 325 in the Human Services Building to make your request. You may also call us at (936) 468-3004.

If you have an accommodation request, please see us as soon as possible, so we can make any arrangements necessary. Accommodations can only be arranged once a request has been submitted in writing to Disability Services. To the greatest extent possible, the Department of Student Life shall observe confidentiality with respect to any request for accommodation. Students who feel they have not been accommodated appropriately can appeal that decision utilizing the university appeals process.