Research possible western topics using the Internet or reading books about the American West, and list high-interest themes with potential for lesson plans with physical activity. Possible themes include the rush for gold, riding horses, ranch life, western wear dress-up, occupations of the Old West, western meals and dining, and Native American cultures.
Define the camp space and the number of students and adult aides, teachers or parent volunteers attending the camp. Divide the camp program into activity centers based on the number of teachers and adults present for the day to provide supervision and assistance.
Make a budget for the camp and determine the number of activities for each center based on the cash available and the number of students attending the camp during the day. Prepare a materials list, lesson plans and the materials for the learning stations, and determine the necessity to prepare or partially assemble manipulatives for the activities to facilitate younger campers with limited craft skills or special needs.
Design and make western-themed costumes for the day camp and name tags for each child, parent and extra volunteer helping out for the camp activities. Neckerchiefs, bandanas and various types of hats provide quick costuming choices.
Set up the physical requirements for each camp activity center. Allow adequate space for both children and adults to move freely during the activity, and set up trash receptacles for stations to keep cleaning to a minimum at the end of the day. Use the materials list to ensure each learning station has the required equipment to complete the activity.
Make an assignment sheet and copy the activity and materials list for each center. Tape these papers to the station desk or equipment. The list and activity sheets help adult supervisors and teachers identify the requirements for the activity center during the day.