Duck Camp

Traditions

Established in 1899 by John Tarleton, an old Erath County pioneer, Tarleton State University has evolved from a private college to an accredited four-year University that is currently building highly successful undergraduate and graduate studies programs.

The spirit behind Tarleton is derived from its students, traditions, diversity, and student organizations. Spirit organizations such as the "Purple Poo" exemplify this every day. Tarleton has many organizations and clubs that fit your needs. Regardless of your intended major or the organization you plan to join, Duck Camp has something for YOU!

Duck Camp began in 1995 as a part of the Division of Student Services with a goal of helping first semester freshman establish friendships, develop leadership skills, and learn about student opportunities and activities while adjusting to life at Tarleton State University. You will be exposed to college life sessions, guest speakers, leadership opportunities, and many other great activities. In addition, you will be gaining knowledge on the Tarleton traditions and heritage that Duck Camp provides. But what you don't know is that you will secretly become smarter. That's right, first semester retention rates in freshmen are greater for those who attended Duck Camp than for those who did not! So parents, if that doesn't get you quacking to send your student to Duck Camp, we don't know what will.

Duck Camp offers so much for the freshmen student. It provides them with that needed closure to high school, and helps the campers with that first step into college life. Duck Camp is a Tarleton student's first taste of the Tarleton family.