Camp Tomah Shinga, nestled in the serene landscapes near Junction City, Kansas, stands as a beacon of outdoor adventure and learning. Located within the heart of the United States, in a region rich with natural beauty and notable landmarks such as the sprawling Flint Hills, this camp offers a unique backdrop for all who visit. With its roots stretching back over decades, Camp Tomah Shinga has a storied history of providing a safe, nurturing environment where young minds and bodies can grow.

The camp’s mission revolves around fostering a sense of community, resilience, and personal growth through outdoor experiences. It aims to instill in its campers a deep appreciation for the natural world, alongside the values of teamwork, leadership, and respect for diversity. This philosophy is embedded in every activity, ensuring that each camper leaves with not only fond memories but also valuable life lessons.

Catering to a wide age range, Camp Tomah Shinga offers programs for both boys and girls. The camp is designed to accommodate different age groups, ensuring that activities are age-appropriate and engaging for everyone from young children to teenagers. Whether through group games, hiking, or educational programs, campers are encouraged to explore, learn, and grow in a supportive community setting. Camp Tomah Shinga represents not just a place to spend a part of the summer, but a pivotal experience that shapes the character and future of every young person who passes through its gates.

Programs Offered by Camp Tomah Shinga

Camp Tomah Shinga offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental needs of children and teenagers. Each program is thoughtfully crafted to ensure that campers not only enjoy their time but also learn new skills, make friends, and develop a deeper appreciation for nature and community.

Description of the Programs

The camp’s programs range from traditional camp activities, focusing on outdoor adventures and skills, to specialty programs that cater to specific interests like arts, sports, and science. Common activities include hiking, canoeing, campfires, team-building exercises, and environmental education, providing a well-rounded experience that appeals to a wide range of interests.

Length of Sessions

Sessions at Camp Tomah Shinga vary in length to accommodate different age groups and preferences:

One-Week Sessions: Designed for younger campers or those new to the camp experience, these sessions offer a brief but intense immersion into camp life.
Two-Week Sessions: Ideal for more seasoned campers or those looking to dive deeper into the camp experience, these sessions allow for a more extensive exploration of activities and personal development.
Full Summer Programs: For a select group of campers, full summer options are available, offering a comprehensive experience that spans multiple aspects of the camp’s offerings.

Specialty Programs

Camp Tomah Shinga is proud to offer several specialty programs that cater to specific interests:

Arts: For campers interested in exploring their creative side, the arts program includes activities such as painting, sculpture, and performance arts.
Sports: Focused on physical activity and teamwork, the sports program covers a variety of sports, encouraging campers to learn new skills and sportsmanship.
Science: Designed for curious minds, the science program offers hands-on experiments, environmental education, and exploration of the natural world.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Tomah Shinga is structured to provide a balance of activities, meals, free time, and rest. While schedules can vary based on the specific program, a typical day might look like this:

7:30 AM: Wake Up and Morning Exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning Activity Block (e.g., Hiking, Arts and Crafts)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet Time/Rest
2:00 PM: Afternoon Activity Block (e.g., Canoeing, Science Program)
5:00 PM: Free Time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening Program (e.g., Campfire, Talent Show)
9:00 PM: Bedtime for younger campers
10:00 PM: Bedtime for older campers

Camp Tomah Shinga’s programs are designed to foster independence, community living skills, and a love for the outdoors. By engaging in a mix of structured activities and free time, campers have the opportunity to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships.

Accommodations in Camp Tomah Shinga

Camp Tomah Shinga is committed to providing a comfortable, safe, and memorable stay for all campers. The accommodations have been thoughtfully designed to ensure that everyone can fully immerse themselves in the camp experience while enjoying a level of comfort that feels like a home away from home.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodation for campers, these rustic yet cozy cabins are nestled throughout the campsite, offering a true outdoor experience. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and windows for natural ventilation. Cabins are grouped by age and program to ensure a cohesive living experience, with counselors staying in or adjacent to the cabins for supervision and support.
Tents: For certain programs or activities, campers might have the opportunity to spend a night or two in tents. This allows for a more immersive outdoor experience, learning how to set up tents and live more directly with nature.
Dorms: Available for specific programs or larger groups, dormitory-style accommodations offer a more traditional, communal living experience, with multiple beds in a large room, shared living spaces, and common areas for activities and relaxation.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Tomah Shinga provides three nutritious meals a day, included in the camp fee. The dining hall is a communal space where campers gather to eat, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company. Menus are carefully planned to be kid-friendly, balanced, and energizing, catering to the needs of active campers.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining options, the camp is committed to accommodating special dietary needs, including allergies, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. Parents are encouraged to communicate any specific dietary requirements in advance so that the camp can ensure the well-being and comfort of all campers.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Camp Tomah Shinga is equipped with modern, clean bathroom and shower facilities. These facilities are strategically located near sleeping quarters for easy access. Separate facilities are provided for boys and girls, and efforts are made to ensure privacy and comfort for all campers.
Hygiene: Emphasizing the importance of cleanliness, the camp staff ensures that bathroom and shower facilities are cleaned and sanitized regularly. Additionally, campers are encouraged to maintain personal hygiene, with scheduled times for showers and bathroom breaks throughout the day.

Camp Tomah Shinga’s accommodations are designed to enhance the camping experience, ensuring that all campers have a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable stay. From the rustic charm of cabins to the communal spirit of the dining hall, every aspect of camp life is an opportunity for growth, learning, and making memories that last a lifetime.

Activities in Camp Tomah Shinga

Camp Tomah Shinga is a vibrant hub of activity, where every day is an opportunity for adventure, creativity, and personal growth. The camp offers a wide range of activities designed to engage campers of all ages, interests, and abilities. Here’s an overview of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities that make Camp Tomah Shinga a unique and enriching experience for its campers.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Summer camps feature a swimming area, supervised by certified lifeguards, where campers can cool off, learn to swim, or improve their swimming skills.
Hiking: With access to beautiful trails, campers can explore the natural surroundings, learn about local flora and fauna, and enjoy the great outdoors.
Crafts: A wide range of crafting activities allows campers to express their creativity, from painting and pottery to woodworking and weaving.
Archery: Under the guidance of trained instructors, campers can learn the basics of archery or hone their skills.
Canoeing and Kayaking: On the camp’s waterways, campers learn paddling techniques and water safety, fostering teamwork and independence.
Outdoor Survival Skills: Lessons in building shelters, reading maps, and other survival skills offer campers practical knowledge and confidence in their abilities to navigate the outdoors.
Team Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, and other team sports encourage campers to stay active, learn the value of teamwork, and develop sportsmanship.
Nature Study: Guided by knowledgeable staff, campers can engage in bird watching, study ecosystems, and participate in environmental conservation projects.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Campfire: A tradition that marks the beginning of each session, bringing everyone together for introductions, and songs, and setting the tone for the camp experience.
Talent Show: An opportunity for campers to showcase their talents, whether in music, dance, comedy, or other creative expressions, fostering a supportive and appreciative community atmosphere.
Camp Olympics: A day of friendly competition where campers participate in a variety of sports and challenges, emphasizing teamwork and spirited participation.
Closing Ceremony: A reflective and celebratory event that concludes the camp session, allowing campers and staff to share memories, and achievements, and say their goodbyes.

Skill Development Opportunities

Camp Tomah Shinga is dedicated to more than just fun; it aims to facilitate personal growth and skill development in several key areas:

Leadership: Through group activities and specific leadership programs, campers can develop leadership skills, learning to lead by example, make decisions, and collaborate effectively.
Environmental Stewardship: Activities and programs that focus on environmental education encourage campers to develop a sense of responsibility for the natural world.
Social Skills: The camp setting naturally fosters social skills development, as campers interact with peers and staff, build friendships, and learn to navigate social situations.
Independence and Resilience: Living away from home and trying new activities help campers become more independent and resilient, ready to face new challenges with confidence.

At Camp Tomah Shinga, every activity, event, and tradition is thoughtfully designed to contribute to the campers’ overall growth, leaving them with skills, memories, and friendships that last a lifetime.

The staff of Camp Tomah Shinga

The staff at Camp Tomah Shinga plays a pivotal role in creating a safe, educational, and enjoyable environment for campers. Understanding the importance of high-quality staff, the camp maintains strict standards for hiring, training, and ongoing development. Here’s how Camp Tomah Shinga ensures that its staff is well-equipped to provide the best possible experience for campers:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

To ensure personalized attention and a high level of care, Camp Tomah Shinga maintains an excellent staff-to-camper ratio. Typically, the camp strives for a ratio that allows for close supervision, interaction, and support. This ratio varies depending on the age of the campers and the nature of the activities but generally adheres to best practices recommended by leading camping organizations.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

The hiring process at Camp Tomah Shinga is thorough, with multiple steps designed to select individuals who are not only qualified but also passionate about working with children in an outdoor setting.

Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks are a fundamental part of the hiring process, ensuring the safety and well-being of campers.
Interviews: Candidates undergo rigorous interviews to assess their experience, qualifications, and fit for the camp’s culture and values.
References: Applicants must provide professional references, which are thoroughly checked to confirm their suitability for the role.

Staff qualifications vary by position but generally include:

Experience: Prior experience working with children, especially in an educational or outdoor setting, is highly valued.
Skills and Expertise: For specialized activities (e.g., swimming, archery), staff must demonstrate proficiency and prior experience in teaching or leading these activities.
Educational Background: Many staff members have backgrounds in education, environmental science, recreation management, or related fields, providing a strong foundation for their roles at camp.

Training and Certifications

Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo extensive training that covers a range of topics essential for creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging camp environment.

CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid, ensuring they are prepared to respond to health emergencies.
Water Safety: For activities involving swimming or boating, staff members carry additional certifications, such as lifeguarding or water safety instruction.
Child Development: Training includes components on understanding the developmental stages of children and adolescents, enabling staff to tailor their approach to suit the age group they’re working with.
Emergency Procedures: Staff are trained in emergency response procedures, including evacuation protocols, to ensure the safety of all campers and staff in any situation.
Inclusivity Training: Recognizing the importance of a supportive and inclusive environment, staff receive training on diversity and inclusion practices to foster a welcoming atmosphere for all campers.

Camp Tomah Shinga’s commitment to a highly qualified and well-trained staff ensures that campers have a safe, enriching, and fun experience. The dedication and expertise of the staff are central to the camp’s mission, creating an environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.

Safety and Health in Camp Tomah Shinga

Camp Tomah Shinga places the highest priority on the safety and health of all campers and staff. Recognizing the inherent challenges of outdoor activities and the responsibility of caring for children, the camp has established comprehensive safety protocols and procedures, robust health facilities, and clear policies for handling emergencies. These measures ensure a secure environment where parents can feel confident about their children’s well-being, and campers can focus on enjoying their camp experience.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Activity-Specific Safety: Each activity offered at the camp, from swimming to archery, follows strict safety guidelines. Equipment is regularly inspected, and activities are supervised by staff with specialized training in that area.
Weather-Related Procedures: The camp monitors weather conditions closely and has protocols in place for severe weather, including safe locations for shelter and procedures for outdoor activities.
Nighttime Security: To ensure camper safety at all times, the camp enforces a curfew and has staff members, including security personnel, monitoring the campgrounds throughout the night.
Training Drills: Campers and staff participate in safety drills (e.g., fire drills, emergency evacuation) at the beginning of each session to ensure everyone is familiar with emergency procedures.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Tomah Shinga is equipped with an on-site health center, staffed by qualified healthcare professionals such as nurses or paramedics. This facility is prepared to handle minor injuries or illnesses and is stocked with necessary medical supplies.
Health Checks: Upon arrival, campers undergo a health check to identify any existing conditions or medications, ensuring that the camp’s health staff is aware and prepared to provide appropriate care.
Medication Management: The health center manages and dispenses all camper medications according to physician instructions, maintaining strict protocols for storage and privacy.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan that includes procedures for various scenarios, including medical emergencies, lost campers, and natural disasters. This plan is reviewed and updated regularly.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, the camp has protocols for communicating with local authorities, healthcare facilities, and parents. Contact information for all campers and staff is kept readily accessible.
Transportation: For emergencies requiring hospital care, the camp has arrangements for prompt transportation to the nearest healthcare facility. Staff members are trained in emergency preparedness and accompany campers to ensure they receive immediate care.
Staff Training: All staff members receive training in first aid, CPR, and emergency response procedures, ensuring they are prepared to act swiftly and appropriately in any situation.

Camp Tomah Shinga’s comprehensive approach to safety and health underscores its commitment to providing a secure and nurturing environment. Through meticulous planning, rigorous training, and a culture of vigilance, the camp ensures that safety and health are paramount, enabling campers to explore, learn, and grow with peace of mind.

Cost and Registration in Camp Tomah Shinga

Camp Tomah Shinga is dedicated to providing an enriching camp experience that is accessible to families with different financial capabilities. Understanding the importance of transparency and flexibility, the camp outlines clear guidelines regarding the cost of attendance, registration processes, and financial assistance options. Below are the details regarding these aspects, ensuring families can plan and make informed decisions about their camp participation.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Camp Tomah Shinga varies depending on the program, session length, and any specialty activities chosen. Typically, the cost will include:

Lodging: Accommodations in cabins, tents, or dorms, depending on the session.
Meals: Three nutritious meals a day, plus snacks.
Activities: All scheduled camp activities, including specialized programs like arts, sports, and science.
Supplies: Any equipment or materials needed for camp activities.

Additional costs may apply for optional extras, such as camp merchandise, special outings, or premium activities not included in the standard camp program.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Families can register campers through the camp’s website, where they’ll find a registration form and detailed instructions.
Early Registration: Early registration is encouraged, as spaces in popular sessions can fill up quickly. Early registrants often benefit from a discounted rate.
Deadlines: Specific registration deadlines are set for each camp session, typically a few weeks to months before the session begins. These deadlines are clearly communicated on the camp’s website and promotional materials.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding that the cost of the camp can be significant, Camp Tomah Shinga offers flexible payment plans. Families can spread the cost over several months, making it more manageable.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp provides a clear refund and cancellation policy, which includes full or partial refunds up to a certain date before the session begins. After this date, refunds may not be available, except in cases of medical or family emergencies.
Insurance: Families are encouraged to consider camp insurance, which can cover the cost of attendance in case of unexpected cancellations.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Tomah Shinga offers scholarships to families in need, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent a child from attending camp. These scholarships are awarded based on financial need and availability.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, the camp may have other financial aid options available, such as discounts for siblings, military families, or early registration.
Application Process: Families interested in scholarships or financial aid should apply early, as funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. The application process typically requires submitting financial information and a brief statement of need.

Camp Tomah Shinga strives to make its transformative camp experiences accessible to as many children as possible. Through a transparent cost structure, flexible registration and payment options, and generous financial assistance programs, the camp works to ensure that every child has the opportunity to enjoy a summer filled with growth, adventure, and lasting memories.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Tomah Shinga

Preparing for a stay at Camp Tomah Shinga involves both practical preparations and setting expectations for a positive and enriching camp experience. To help parents and campers get ready, the camp provides a comprehensive packing list, outlines clear rules and policies, and offers tips for those new to the camp environment. These guidelines ensure that everyone is well-prepared and understands what to expect, making the transition to camp life smooth and enjoyable.

Packing List

Camp Tomah Shinga recommends packing items that are comfortable, durable, and suitable for a variety of outdoor activities. While specific needs may vary depending on the session and activities chosen, a general packing list includes:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate attire, including T-shirts, shorts, long pants, and layers for cooler evenings. Include a rain jacket, swimsuit, sturdy shoes for hiking, and sandals or flip-flops for showers.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent.
Gear: Flashlight or headlamp, water bottle, backpack for day trips.
Optional Items: Camera (non-smartphone), books, writing materials.

Campers are advised to leave valuables and unnecessary electronics at home to fully embrace the camp experience.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To encourage engagement with the camp experience and the natural environment, the use of personal electronic devices (smartphones, tablets, etc.) is restricted. Campers may use these devices during designated times and in specified areas, if at all.
Visitation: For the safety and security of campers and staff, visitation by family members is typically limited to designated visiting days or special events. Details and schedules are provided before the camp session.
Behavior Expectations: Camp Tomah Shinga promotes respect, inclusivity, and positive behavior. Rules regarding conduct are clearly communicated to campers and parents, emphasizing the importance of cooperation, respect for others, and responsibility for personal actions.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:

Embrace New Experiences: Be open to trying new activities and making new friends. Camp is a great place to discover new interests and learn more about yourself.
Stay Positive: Homesickness is normal. Focus on the fun aspects of camp, and remember that it’s an opportunity to grow and become more independent.

For Parents:

Communicate Confidence: Your confidence in your child’s ability to have a positive camp experience is crucial. Discuss what they’re looking forward to and any concerns, but reinforce your belief in their resilience and independence.
Stay Connected Appropriately: Use the camp’s designated communication channels (letters, emails, or calls, as permitted) to stay in touch without infringing on your child’s camp experience.
Trust the Camp Staff: Remember that camp staff are experienced and trained to ensure your child’s safety and well-being. Trust them to take good care of your child.

By following these preparations and tips, both first-time and returning campers, along with their parents, can look forward to a successful and memorable stay at Camp Tomah Shinga.

Camp Tomah Shinga represents more than just a summer destination; it’s a vibrant community where young minds are nurtured, adventures are embarked upon, and lifelong memories are created. Nestled in the beautiful landscapes near Junction City, Kansas, this camp offers a diverse range of programs and activities designed to challenge, inspire, and develop campers of all ages. From the serene mornings filled with the sounds of nature to the starlit evenings around the campfire, every moment at Camp Tomah Shinga is an opportunity for growth, discovery, and fun.

With a strong emphasis on safety, inclusion, and personal development, Camp Tomah Shinga goes beyond the traditional camp experience. It fosters an environment where campers can safely explore their interests, develop new skills, and forge friendships that last a lifetime. The camp’s dedicated staff, comprehensive preparation guides for campers and parents, and a commitment to accessibility through financial aid and scholarships further highlight its dedication to providing a meaningful and enriching camp experience for every child.