Camp NASW-MN FAQs
Get answers to your questions about lodging, the camp venue, meals and more!
About the Venue
What is the Camp NASW-MN venue?
Camp NASW-MN will be held at Northern Pines Camp in Park Rapids, MN. It is situated on a 82 acre site on the east shore of Fish Hook Lake in the heart of Northern Minnesota. The Mississippi Headwaters and Itasca State Park are a short drive away. You can learn more about the venue on their website https://www.northernpinescamp.org/ and Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/NorthernPinesCampRetreatCenter/.
What is the Camp venue address and how do I get there?
The address for Northern Pines Camp is 20033 County Road 1, Park Rapids, MN 56470. It is about 3.5 hours northwest of the Twin Cities, 3 hours west of Duluth, and less than an hour south of Bemidji. We recommend using Google Maps to get directions from your location to the Camp - but make sure you put the full street address into your navigation so you don't end up at another location!
Where can I park?
There is free parking space onsite at Northern Pines Camp for Camp NASW-MN attendees. Please be advised that parking is outside and uncovered. We encourage carpooling!
Is there electricity and running water at the Camp venue?
Yes. There are standard electrical outlets, running water, flush toilets, and mattresses for sleeping.
What do the cabins where we’ll be sleeping and doing activities look like?
You can learn more about Northern Pines Camp cabins and view photos on their website https://www.northernpinescamp.org/ and Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/NorthernPinesCampRetreatCenter/.
Is this a Christian venue? What if I’m not Christian?
The Northern Pines Camp venue is connected to the United Methodist Church; however, NASW-MN does not advocate for any religion. There is some Christian imagery at the Camp, but our event will not contain religious undertones. This venue was chosen for its commitment to accessibility and to keep costs low for attendees.
Lodging
What are the sleeping arrangements?
Attendees at Camp NASW-MN will sleep in cabins. Each cabin has bedrooms with bunk beds that sleep anywhere between 3-10 people per room; some rooms/cabins may have single, double and/or queen beds. Beds only have a mattress, so you will need to bring your own bed linens or sleeping bag. You can view the lodging accommodations on the Northern Pines Camp website: https://www.northernpinescamp.org/lodging.
Are bathrooms shared?
Yes, each cabin or group bedroom has a bathroom for use by those in that cabin or room.
What do the room preferences mean?
“Female only” rooms are for attendees who identify as female. “Male only” rooms are for attendees who identify as male. “Nonbinary” rooms are for attendees who identify as nonbinary, genderqueer, or another gender identity.
With whom will I be sharing a room?
All rooms will be shared with 3 to 10 other Camp NASW-MN attendees. We will have rooms for females only, males only, and nonbinary rooms. You will be assigned to a room based on the room preference you select during registration, and will do our best to meet your bed preferences.
What if I want to share a room with my friend(s)?
If there’s someone attending Camp NASW-MN with whom you want to share a room, please make sure that you identify each other’s names in your registrations so that we can match you up. We will only put you in the same room as your friend(s) if you name each other in your registrations; we may not put you in the same room if only one of you does. You may also be sharing your room with other attendees.
Can I have my own room?
Because of the venue’s accommodations, we cannot provide individual rooms for attendees. If you want to have your own room, we encourage you to reserve a room at a local hotel and join us at the camp for daily activities and meals. If you do this, be sure to select the “Day Camper” option in your registration.
Can I stay offsite?
Yes, however the cost of staying at a hotel is at your own expense. You can also choose to make your own lodging arrangements through Airbnb https://www.airbnb.com/ or Vrbo https://www.vrbo.com/. Here are some nearby hotels:
Is lodging included in the price of registration?
Those that select the “Overnight Camper” option in registration have their lodging at the Camp venue included in the price of registration. If you are staying offsite (“Day Camper” option), lodging is not included in your registration price and you must make your own lodging arrangements.
Preparing for the "Camp" Experience
What is “camp” exactly?
"Camp" is all about retreating into nature and being in community with others. Time is spent enjoying the outdoors, doing fun activities and creating memories. Camp NASW-MN is meant to provide a relaxing and fun retreat away from the hustle and bustle of work and everyday life, and create a space for social workers to engage in self-care and connection.
I’ve never been to camp or gone camping before. Is that a problem?
Not at all! If this is your first “camp” experience, we guarantee you won’t be the only one. You’ll have a ton of options for how to spend your time; there are no forced activities at Camp NASW-MN. We won’t be sleeping in tents! There will be beds, electricity and running water onsite - like a little hotel in the woods. :)
What do I need to bring with me to Camp NASW-MN?
Bring shampoo, soap, a towel, pillow, and bed linens or a sleeping bag. You’ll also want to bring comfortable shoes (e.g. running shoes, hiking boots) and layered clothing, including a warm jacket. You may also wish to bring a hat, scarf, light gloves, and sunglasses. You may also wish to bring insect repellent, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors. Bring a reusable water bottle, and any needed electronics (e.g. phone and charger) and medications (there is fridge storage, if needed). We’d also suggest bringing whatever items will help you to relax and enjoy your weekend, such as a book, drawing or craft materials, a journal, or a game.
I require accommodations to attend Camp NASW-MN. Can you accommodate me?
The camp venue has wheelchair-accessible cabins, is a sober, smoke-free and drug-free environment, and will account for most dietary accommodations in the meals. If you are concerned about a needed accommodation, please include it in the Accommodations section of your registration form, or contact admin.naswmn@socialworkers.org.
Can I drink the tap water?
Yes, the tap water is safe to drink.
What will the weather be like?
Average high temperature for Park Rapids in October is 54 F, and average low is 33 F. It’s fall time in Minnesota, so the temperature can vary and may get below freezing at night. Also, the Camp is by a lake, so even with warmer temperatures, the breeze from the lake can have a chill to it. We suggest checking the expected forecast closer to the event dates.
Meals
What meals are included with my registration?
Both registration options include meals. The meals provided will be dinner on Friday; breakfast lunch and dinner on Saturday; and breakfast on Sunday. Meals are included in registration, even if you do not plan to attend the full event or eat all meals at the camp.
How will meals be served and eaten?
All meals will be served buffet-style and eaten in a communal space (tables with seating for several people in one large room).
What is the menu for Camp NASW-MN?
We will share the meal plan once it’s confirmed.
I have some dietary restrictions. Will the meals provided accommodate me?
All meals will have vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, and will be served buffet style so you can make decisions that align with your needs. Please include your dietary restrictions in the Accommodations section of your registration form. There will also be fridge space available if you wish to bring your own food or snacks. Some cabins may have a small kitchenette or fridge.
Will there be coffee provided?
Yes, coffee will be included as part of breakfast. There are also coffee makers and filters in cabins for use if you bring your own coffee
Can I drink the tap water?
Yes, the tap water is safe to drink. We recommend bringing a reusable water bottle.
Activities
What group activities will there be at Camp NASW-MN?
Specific group activities and schedule will be announced a couple of weeks before the event.
What types of activities can I enjoy on my own at Camp NASW-MN?
Camp NASW-MN will provide space and materials for you to engage in a number of activities on your own. This includes (but is not limited to) painting, drawing, hiking, biking, bird-watching, yoga, and reading. We encourage you to bring a book, journal, sketchbook, or whatever else you would like to have on hand to help you make the most of your time alone.
Do I have to take part in all group activities?
Absolutely not! We encourage you to engage in activities in ways that will make your Camp NASW-MN experience meaningful and enjoyable. If that means taking part in all group activities, great! If that means taking part in no group activities and spending the weekend enjoying time on your own, great!
Are CEUs offered for all activities?
Not all activities will come with CEUs. We will share an activities schedule with all registrants no less than two weeks before the event, which will indicate what activities will include a few CEUs (amount to be determined). At least 10 CEUs will be offered - attend as much or as little as you'd like!
Safety & Accessibility
Is the Camp wheelchair accessible?
Yes. You will need to drive around the lodge to access the wheelchair ramp into the dining hall. Otherwise, there’s modified accessibility with 6 steps to the ramp.
Are there all gender bathrooms at the camp?
Yes, there are single-stall and all gender bathrooms at the Camp.
I have some dietary restrictions. Will the meals provided accommodate me?
All meals will have vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, and will be served buffet style. Please include your dietary restrictions in the Accommodations section of your registration form. There will also be fridge space available if you wish to bring your own food or snacks.
I need a space for prayer or meditation. Will such a space be provided?
Yes, we will provide designated space for prayer, meditation, and other self-care or spiritual needs. Please let us know that you are requesting this by indicating it in the Accommodations Request section of your registration form.
I have severe allergies or a medical condition. How can I plan for this?
You know yourself best! Bring whatever medication and/or equipment you would normally bring with you on a weekend away. Please note that the camp is dense with trees, grass, flowers, and other potential outdoor allergens. There is fridge space available at the camp in case you need to store epipens or medications. We will also have a scent-free environment. Please also include this information in the Safety & Accessibility section of your registration form so that we can support your health and safety in our planning.
How will the photos taken by NASW-MN at this event be used?
Photos will only be taken of those who have consented; there is a release in your registration form, and you can opt-out upon check-in at the event. Photos taken during the event will be used only by NASW-MN for promoting future chapter events, and sharing reports about Camp NASW-MN through the chapter website, social media channels, email communications, and/or flyers.
I do not want my photo taken at the event. Is that possible?
We respect your choice to not have your photo taken! When you check in at the event, you can opt out of having your photo taken. We also ask that all attendees get consent from others before posting photos or videos to their personal social media accounts.
Why do I need to agree to a Code of Conduct?
We believe in creating safe, welcoming, accessible, and inclusive experiences that align with the NASW Code of Ethics, social work’s professional standards, and NASW-MN’s organizational values. By agreeing to a written Code of Conduct, we can set a baseline expectation of all Camp NASW-MN attendees in helping us realize a positive event experience for everyone.
Are alcohol or drugs permitted at the Camp?
No - absolutely no alcohol or drugs are permitted during this event or on the Northern Pines Camp property for any reason.
Is smoking allowed at the Camp?
Smoking is only permitted in outdoor spaces and cigarettes must be disposed of in a proper manner.
What other safety and accessibility policies should I know about?
Camp NASW-MN will be a sober, drug-free, fragrance/scent-free event. Please refrain from bringing alcohol or drugs, and bringing or wearing scented products during the event. No pets, children, partners/spouses or friends allowed.
Registration & Pricing
How can I register for Camp NASW-MN?
You can register for Camp NASW-MN by completing the online registration form. You must complete all required fields, agree to the required consent items, and make payment using a credit or debit card; we do not accept American Express.
Can I register by mail?
Mail registrations will not be accepted. If you cannot make an online payment, please email admin.naswmn@socialworkers.org or call 651-293-1935 to register by phone and receive payment instructions.
What is included in the price of registration?
There are two registration options: the “Overnight Camper” option includes lodging and meals from Friday night to Sunday morning - and the “Day Camper” registration option only includes all meals from Friday night to Sunday morning (no lodging).
Which registration option should I choose?
If you are planning to sleep onsite at the camp for at least one night, please choose “Overnight Camper”. If you are not planning to sleep onsite at the camp at all, please choose “Day Camper”.
Do I need to attend all days of Camp NASW-MN?
You can attend as many days as you’d like! Your registration books you space for the whole event, but you’re free to come to as much or as little of the days and activities as you wish.
Can I get a reduced price if I’m not staying for the whole weekend?
No, there are no reduced prices. There is one price for the whole event, regardless of how many days or meals you attend.
Is there a group registration rate?
No, there is no group registration rate. We have made our prices as low as possible to make this event accessible to all while covering our costs.
Can I bring my pets, partner, child, or friend to Camp NASW-MN?
Camp NASW-MN is for social workers only. No pets, children, partners/spouses or non social work friends allowed.
Are you offering financial assistance for the cost of registration or mileage?
We are not offering any financial assistance for the cost of registration or mileage. We have made our prices as low as possible to make this event accessible to all while covering our costs. We encourage you to carpool to reduce our collective environmental impact and to save money on transportation costs. If you have a financial barrier that is preventing you from registering, please contact admin.naswmn@socialworkers.org.
What is the cancellation and refund policy for Camp NASW-MN?
Cancel
by end of day on September 1st to receive a full refund. Cancellations received
between September 2nd and end of day September 15th will receive a 50% refund. No
refunds or credits for any reason after September 15th.