Bearkat Transfer Camp

  • Camp Field
  • Transfer Back
  • Camp jump
  • Transfer Counselors

Welcome to Bearkat Transfer Camp

Bearkat Transfer Camp is a two day, one night experience for incoming SHSU transfer students.


COVID-19 Update: The current plan is for modified Bearkat Camp sessions to take place as scheduled. If circumstances prove that it is in the best interest of all parties to postpone Bearkat Camp, registration fees will be refunded.

Currently, we are receiving guidance from the CDC, the Texas Governor, Open Texas, the Texas Department of State Health Services, and the American Camp Association (ACA). The ACA has also partnered with the CDC to create an expert-backed game plan by engaging an independent team of public health experts, pediatricians, epidemiologists, and camp health experts to develop educational and operational resources for camps to assist them with adhering to CDC COVID-19 guidance. We are updating our local operating procedures based on this information. As guidelines develop and change daily, we are continually evaluating the ways camp can operate safely, and what modifications are needed to ensure the health and wellbeing of our students and staff. Please be aware that this information is subject to change, and updates are added to the Bearkat Camp website as information becomes available.


Current changes to camp are as follows:

  • On-Site registration to eliminate common carrier transportation to and from main campus
  • Reduction of camp session capacity by 50%
  • Reduction of cabin capacity by more than 50%
  • Split meal times to reduce density
  • Adaptation of camp activities to promote reasonable distancing and limiting touch points between campers
  • Registration & Forms

    August 15-16, 2020

    Register Online - Females Register Online - Males Program Release and Permission to Treat Form

    Bearkat Transfer Camp is $50. Bearkat Transfer Camp registration fee includes all meals, lodging, camp t-shirt and programming.

    Cancellations made after July 15 will be non-refundable.

  • Frequently Asked Questions

    • When is Bearkat Transfer Camp?

      Bearkat Transfer Camp is August 15-16.

    • Are there other programs that conflict with Bearkat Transfer Camp?

      Please check directly with your organizations.

    • Where is Bearkat Transfer Camp and how do I get there?

      Bearkat Transfer Camp will be held at the SHSU University Camp. Check-in directions and instructions will be sent prior to camp.

    • Who goes to Bearkat Transfer Camp?

      Bearkat Transfer Camp is open to all incoming transfer students who are enrolled in the Fall semester at SHSU and did not graduate high school this year. (If you did graduate high school this year, please click here for our Freshman-oriented Bearkat Camp.) There will also be current SHSU students serving as counselors

    • How much does it cost?

      The cost of camp is $50. Payment is collected as part of the online registration process. This price includes your lodging, programming, meals, and a camp T-shirt.

    • How do I register?

      You can register online or in person during Orientation. Call 936-294-2267 to register. See the registration page for more details.

    • Does registration fill up?

      Yes! We have limited space at Bearkat Transfer Camp, and traditionally camp space fills up completely

    • When is the last day I can get a refund for camp?

      The last day to receive a refund for camp if you decide to not attend is July 15. After this date, no refunds will be given.

    • How do I notify you about any special needs, dietary needs, food restrictions, etc.?

      Please contact the camp director to discuss any special needs or accommodations. (936) 294-CAMP (2267). The director will be in contact with you to gather the details. You can also email the camp director at cmahlen@shsu.edu.

    • What if I am having trouble with online registration?

      If you are having problems with registering online, please contact us at (936) 294-CAMP.

    • Where do I park when I come to camp?

      Check-in directions and instructions will be sent prior to camp.

    • What if I'm not a camp or outdoors person?

      Camp is active; however, there are a variety of optional activities, some of which will be indoors. This is not a camping trip! You will be staying in air conditioned cabins with modern restrooms. The dining hall and meeting rooms are air conditioned as well. You can also beat the Texas heat in the camp swimming pool.

    • What do I need to bring to camp?

      What to bring to Bearkat Transfer Camp:

      • Linens for a twin/ twin XL bed (sleeping bag, sheets, pillow)
      • Towels for shower and pool
      • Shower shoes
      • Comfortable and modest clothes for recreation and activities such as shorts and T-shirts are appropriate for all activities and you may want more than one set per day.
      • Protective Face Covering: One mask will be provided by BKC. It is suggested to be bring a personal backup mask. Please make sure the mask is appropriate and cannot be deemed offensive in any way.
      • Bring a sweatshirt for the cabins, it can get cold at night
      • Toiletries
      • Closed-toed shoes for recreation and optional activities
      • Protection from the sun, such as hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
      • Swimwear
      • Women: One or two-piece swimsuit as per camp policy. No thong bottoms allowed.
      • Men: No Speedos
      • Swim Cover Ups: No cotton cover ups/shirts allowed in the pool. Dri-Fit shirts are acceptable and available if you do not have one.

    • What should I not bring to camp?

      Valuable items that could easily be misplaced such as jewelry, credit cards, or more than $20 cash. Any drugs, alcohol, weapons of any kind, including pocket knives, are not allowed at camp. This is a sanctioned SHSU event and any violations will be handled in cooperation with the university police and/or university disciplinary council (see Student Handbook.) Students who violate these policies will be asked to leave camp without a refund.

    • Will I have cell phone service at camp?

      Cell phone service is not very reliable at camp and we offer no secure personal storage. We strongly urge you to not bring/use your phone at camp, you will be too busy making new friends to need it anyways! In case of an emergency where someone needs to get a hold of you while you are at camp, they can call University Camp at (936) 294-CAMP.

    • Do people really dress up for the social events?

      There will not be any theme nights this year but we will still have many of the theme night activities. You do not need to have an expensive costume to participate. The cheesier, the better!!

    • Who do I contact for more information?

      For more information, you can call (936) 294-CAMP or email us at bearkatcamp@shsu.edu.

  • Schedule

    SCHEDULE TBD

This is the place to get answers about what life at Sam Houston might be like. Experience the spirit, pride and tradition that have been part of Sam Houston students since 1879. Incoming transfer students will be engaged in learning activities that are interactive and student led. Camp will keep you moving with a variety of group activities like pride groups, socials and optional activities like sand volleyball, basketball, ropes course, and waterfront activities. The facility features air conditioned cabins with modern conveniences, great food, and opportunities to beat the Texas heat at the pool. Amidst the great activities planned for camp are the opportunities for students to build lasting friendships with many other new students--friendships that allow students to feel comfortable and at home as they become part of the Sam Houston community.

Camp Dates: August 15-16, 2020

For more information, call (936) 294-CAMP (2267).

Don't Just Go To School... Be a Bearkat!

Contact Rec Sports

936.294.1985 | recsports@shsu.edu

Download a map of the Rec Sports Facility

Fitness Classes | Intramural Sports | Facility Availability Calendar | Reservation Form