Summer Camp FAQs

Answers for parents before camp starts.

Find quick answers on grouping friends, what to bring, drop-off, collection, locations, age fit and what to expect across Ballyhass summer camps in Mallow and Coachford.

Most asked question

Will friends be kept together?

Yes — friends will not be separated where possible (to maximum group sizes of 12). On the morning of camp, please tell the Ballyhass team who your child would like to be with before groups are formed. Our team will always do their best to keep friends together while also balancing ages, activity groups and safe supervision ratios.

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Will friends be kept together?

Yes — friends will not be separated where possible. Please tell the Ballyhass team on the morning of camp who your child wants to be grouped with before groups are formed. We will do our best to keep friends together while also balancing ages, activity groups and safe supervision ratios.

How do I know which camp is the right fit?

The best place to start is by checking age range, camp format, location and activity style. Some camps are broad adventure camps, while others are more focused on specific activity types or age groups. If you are unsure, choose the camp that best matches your child’s age and confidence level rather than just the most adventurous-looking option.

What age groups are the camps designed for?

Camps are grouped by the age range shown on each camp page. Please book the camp that matches your child’s age at the time of attendance. Age bands help Ballyhass keep activities, pace and supervision suitable for the group.

Can siblings or cousins be in the same group?

In many cases, yes — especially if they are within the same camp age range. Let the team know at check-in and we will do our best to place them together where it works for the camp structure and supervision ratios.

Can I book more than one week?

Yes — many families book multiple dates across the summer. Availability can vary by camp and week, so earlier booking is recommended for the most popular options.

What if my child is between two age groups?

If your child sits right on the edge of an age bracket, contact Ballyhass before booking. In some cases there may be flexibility, but the team will always guide you toward the camp that is safest and most enjoyable for your child.

What should my child bring each day?

Bring weather-appropriate clothes, swimwear if relevant to the camp, a towel, runners or suitable footwear, a change of clothes, sunscreen, a refillable water bottle and lunch if this is not included. It is always best to send children with clothes they can move in comfortably and do not mind getting wet or messy.

What should my child wear?

Comfortable active clothes are best. Dress for outdoor adventure and changing Irish weather. For water-based camps or sessions, pack swimwear, a towel and a full change of dry clothes.

Should belongings be labelled?

Yes — please label towels, lunch bags, bottles, jumpers and any other personal items. It makes lost property much easier to sort during busy camp weeks.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Ballyhass camps are built around outdoor adventure, so camps still run in typical Irish weather. Activity plans may be adjusted where needed for safety and experience, so children should arrive prepared for wet, dry, warm and cooler conditions.

Do children need to be confident swimmers?

Not every camp requires the same water confidence. Some camps are broad adventure camps and others are more water-focused. Always check the individual camp description and choose the option that matches your child’s confidence and experience.

Can beginners attend?

Yes — many Ballyhass camps welcome beginners. The important thing is to choose the right age group and the right camp type. If your child is new to certain activities, that is completely normal.

Can Ballyhass support children with additional needs?

Ballyhass will always try to guide families toward the most suitable option. If your child has additional support needs, please contact the team in advance with as much detail as possible so the right advice can be given before booking.

What medical or allergy information should I share?

Please share any important medical conditions, allergies, behavioural supports or medication requirements during booking and again with the team on arrival if needed. Clear information helps Ballyhass support your child properly.

What time is drop-off and collection?

Exact times can vary by camp. Please follow the timings shown on your booking confirmation or camp page. Arriving on time helps the Ballyhass team organise groups and start activities smoothly.

Where do I check in on the morning of camp?

Follow the arrival instructions on your booking confirmation and any pre-camp email. If you are unsure, arrive a little earlier and a Ballyhass team member will direct you to the correct check-in point.

Do I need to sign a waiver or complete forms in advance?

If waivers or pre-arrival forms are required for your child’s camp, Ballyhass will advise this during the booking process or in your confirmation email. Completing any required forms in advance helps speed up arrival on the first day.

Is food included?

Food arrangements vary by camp. Some camps may require children to bring their own lunch and snacks, while others may include part of the catering. Check the individual camp details before arrival and always send enough water for the day.

Can my child bring snacks?

Yes — sensible snacks are usually a good idea unless your camp instructions say otherwise. Please avoid anything that could create allergy issues for other children if you have been asked to do so.

How do I know whether I should book Mallow or Coachford?

Start with the camp type, age fit and experience style first, then choose the location that suits your family logistically. Ballyhass camps are structured so parents can choose by format as well as location.

Are the same camps available at both locations?

No — some camps are location-specific and some are activity-specific. Always check the individual camp page for the exact location before booking.

What is included in residential camp?

Residential camp includes accommodation and a more immersive multi-day camp experience. The exact inclusions can vary, so families should check the residential camp page carefully for activity mix, meals, overnight details and what to pack.

What should children bring for residential camp?

Bring the camp-specific kit list provided by Ballyhass. In general, children should have enough clothes for the stay, toiletries, nightwear, towels, suitable footwear and any required overnight items listed in the booking information.

Can I contact my child during residential camp?

Residential camp communication arrangements should be checked in the pre-arrival information. If there is anything important Ballyhass needs to share during the stay, the team will guide families through the correct contact process.

What happens if I need to change or cancel a booking?

Changes and cancellations are subject to Ballyhass booking terms. If you need to make a change, contact the team as early as possible so they can advise on the options available.

What if my child is nervous on the first morning?

That is very common. Let the Ballyhass team know at check-in so they can keep an extra eye on your child as groups are formed and the day gets started. It often helps to point out a friend they are with and reassure them that the team is used to first-day nerves.

What if my child misses a day or arrives late?

Contact Ballyhass as early as possible if your child will be absent or late. Because camps are group-based and activity-led, late arrival can affect how the day starts, so advance notice is always helpful.

Who should I contact if I still have a question?

If your question is not covered here, contact the Ballyhass team before camp starts. It is always better to ask in advance if you are unsure about age fit, packing, timings, confidence level or location.