COVID-19 Pre-Camp Test (Updated 8/1/21)

As of August 1, 2021, we are requiring all incoming campers (both vaccinated and unvaccinated) to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of the day of arrival at camp.  This requirement will begin with our Session 4 and Session 6 campers, who arrive on August 8, 2021, and continue for our campers arriving on August 22, 2021.

Two Testing Options
You have two options for your test selection: 1) Ordering a PCR test kit from our testing partner, Total Swab, which is administered at home and sent via courier to a lab (see timing below), or 2) getting a COVID-19 PCR (not antigen) test at your local lab.

Complete The Selection Form
If your child is vaccinated and this testing requirement is new or if your child is unvaccinated and you have not already let us know your testing preference, please complete our updated COVID-19 Pre-Camp Testing Selection Form here.

Option #1: Total Swab COVID-19 PCR Test
If you want to purchase the Total Swab PCR test kit to be sent to your home, you should do so no later than the Monday (6 days) before your child goes to camp.  The cost of the at-home PCR test is $125.

The PCR test is minimally invasive and consists of a swab being placed into only the front part of each nostril and rotated around.  The test kit comes with easy-to-read instructions.

Step 1: Order Test Kit
Order your test at-home PCR kit from Total Swab ($125 + tax & shipping) at least six days (Monday) prior to your child’s session start date.

Step 2: Collect The Sample and Send
Administer the test on the Thursday morning prior to your camper’s arrival at camp.  Pack the sample as directed, using the prepaid shipping label, and take it to a FedEx drop off location no later than 2:00 PM on Thursday.  

The lab will receive the test kit on Friday and email the results to you later that evening.  The camp will receive a copy of the results, so there is no need for you to forward or send us a copy.  

Please contact Total Swab at 619-320-5006 or info@totalswab.com if you need assistance or have questions regarding your child’s pre-camp COVID-19 test.

Option #2: Using A Local Lab For Testing
You have the option to find your own local lab that will administer a PCR (not rapid antigen) test and provide GAC with the results via email (mail@goldarrowcamp.com) before Saturday at 3:00 PM (the day before your child’s camp session).  If you would like to change your testing option at any time, please call (800-554-2267 x0) or email (
mail@goldarrowcamp.com) the camp office. 

A Note About the Original Test Offer
If you ordered a Lucira LAMP test from Total Swab before July 1, please click here for information on how to submit your results.  Because of supply issues, this Lucira test originally offered by Total Swab is not available currently.