Oredigger Camp

Get Off to a Great Start!

The start of your first year of college can be daunting- it’s a new environment full of new experiences, expectations, people, and for most, a new bed. Get off to a great start by making friends and building community at Oredigger Camp!

As part of Helluva Welcome, new first-year and transfer students will get to spend 2 1/2 days deep in the Rocky Mountains having fun, making friends, and learning what it means to be an Oredigger! Encouraging vertical connections between current and incoming Mines students is at the heart of Oredigger Camp’s design. Upper-class student Camp Counselors lead nearly every activity at camp, and President Johnson gives some opening remarks and then steps back to join students for meals, impromptu conversations, and an occasional pickup game!

Learn What to Expect

Oredigger Camp takes place at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado! Students are transported up to the mountains for their camp session and stay in the lodge buildings on site.

Check out this video to learn more about what to expect during your Oredigger Camp experience!

If you have questions or concerns about your ability to participate in Oredigger Camp, please contact us at nest@mines.edu.

 

Oredigger Camp FAQs

What is Oredigger Camp?

Oredigger Camp is a 2 ½ day orientation program that all new first-year undergraduate students attend as part of Helluva Welcome orientation program. Incoming undergraduate transfer students can opt into Oredigger Camp if they would like. During Oredigger Camp, students will be transported to Estes Park, CO to stay at the YMCA of the Rockies, where they will have opportunities to meet their peers, upper-class student leaders, Mines faculty and staff, and Alumni! Oredigger Camp focuses on helping students build connections through engineering and reflection challenges, group time, and a wide range of activities.

What will I do at Oredigger Camp?

You can expect a variety of activities during Oredigger Camp. You will spend time with your small group and rotate through a variety of engineering challenges, reflection activities, games, and outdoor adventures. There will also be time spent with the entire camp in larger group activities, and you will have some free time too! A quiet space is also available daily throughout camp for students who need an occasional break.

Is Oredigger Camp mandatory?

Yes, Oredigger Camp is required for all incoming first-year students. Incoming transfer students can opt in to attending Oredigger Camp. If you have a specific extenuating circumstance that would prevent you from attending Oredigger Camp, please email nest@mines.edu.

Is there a fee associated with Oredigger Camp?

Each new student pays a one-time new student orientation fee as part of their required student fees. This fee includes all orientation programming, including Oredigger Camp. There is no additional cost to attending Oredigger Camp.

Do you actually camp at "Oredigger Camp?" What are the accommodations like?

Oredigger Camp is simply the name of this amazing program. Students will not be camping outside during Oredigger Camp and instead will stay indoors with other students in lodge-style rooms. Linens (sheets, pillows, towels, and blankets) are provided but you are welcome to bring your own pillow if you prefer. Small refrigerators can be requested for students with extenuating circumstances such as medicines that need to be kept cool. Please indicate this need on your Helluva Welcome form or email nest@mines.edu if you need to request a refrigerator in your lodge room.

What meals are provided at Oredigger Camp?

All meals while attending Oredigger Camp are provided. The YMCA offers a variety of cafeteria-style options at each meal. Please make sure to indicate any dietary needs you have as you complete your Helluva Welcome form on your admissions portal checklist and our office will communicate with the YMCA directly. Students are also welcome to bring their own snacks to supplement the provided meals.

Can I drive myself to Oredigger Camp?

Unfortunately, no. Each student must take the transportation provided by Colorado School of Mines to and from Oredigger Camp.

Is there a packing list for Oredigger Camp?

Yes! A packing list will be available on our website and emailed to each student’s Mines email in early August.

What is the weather like in August in Estes Park, CO?

Usually, late summers are warm in the day and cooler in the evenings/nights. We suggest bringing lots of sunscreen, sunglasses, and layering your clothing.

Will I see wildlife while at Oredigger Camp?

You might! YMCA of the Rockies is in the mountains, and it is possible that you will see wildlife such as deer, elk, ground squirrels, foxes, and even bears during your visit. Students are encouraged to not approach wildlife and to properly store their personal food and belongings while at camp.