Camper FAQs

You’ll need clothes for a full week on a college campus, bedding for the dorms, toiletries, and a few other basics. Some activities are outside, but much of our programming is indoors.
We’ve got you covered — just head to our Preparing for Camp page for the full packing list and tips.

Maybe! But many campers come not knowing anyone, and that’s part of the magic. You’ll meet new people right away in your small group (we call them Families), and by the end of the week, you’ll have made friendships that often last long after camp ends.

Totally okay. You don’t need any previous experience, just a willingness to show up and try new things.

RYLA is about discovering your own style of leadership and learning how to grow from wherever you’re starting.

It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous — especially if this is your first time away from home or trying something new. Many campers feel this way at the beginning of the week. You’re not alone, and we take those feelings seriously.

RYLA is built to be a supportive, welcoming place. Our volunteer staff are kind, approachable, and trained to help campers through tough moments — because we’ve all been there.

Most campers find that once they settle in, they start building friendships and memories faster than they expected.

RYLA isn’t just about leadership — it’s about connection, belonging, and discovering you’re stronger than you think.

Meals are served in the university’s Brown Dining Hall, where campers enjoy a wide variety of options throughout the week. There’s always something to keep you fueled and ready for the next activity.

We work closely with the UMN Crookston dining staff to accommodate dietary needs and restrictions. If you have allergies, food sensitivities, or other dietary requirements, be sure to include them in your application. We’ll make sure you’re taken care of.

Campers stay in suite-style dorms at the University of Minnesota Crookston — consistently ranked the #1 Best College Dorms in Minnesota (and it shows!).

In past years, we’ve used Evergreen Hall and Heritage Hall, both of which feature apartment-style layouts:

• Two bedrooms per suite
• A private bathroom
• A shared living space to hang out with your suitemates

Bring bedding for a Twin XL bed — sheets and blanket or a sleeping bag, plus a pillow.

Every day includes a mix of leadership workshops, group challenges, inspiring speakers, meals, movement, free time, and evening activities.

You’ll be busy — in a good way — from breakfast to lights out.

Check out our Camp Overview page for a sample schedule!

No problem! Much of our programming is indoors, and for any outdoor activities, we adapt as needed. (But pack a rain jacket just in case!)

Campers are grouped by gender identity, and we try and mix people from different towns to encourage new connections.

If you have a specific housing concern or need, contact the RYLA team.

RYLA is a fully immersive, weeklong experience. We know summers are full of sports, vacations, and family plans — but we hope you’ll prioritize being at camp for the entire week. Every day builds on the one before it, and we want you to get the most out of the leadership journey, the community connections, and the moments that make RYLA unforgettable.

We ask all campers to arrive on time and stay through the end of camp so you don’t miss out on key moments, group bonding, or important activities.

If you anticipate a scheduling conflict, reach out to your RYLA team early in the process. We’ll do our best to work with you — but full-week attendance is always the goal.