Welcome to Camp Sancta Maria, located in the picturesque settings of Gaylord, Michigan. Nestled in the heart of Michigan’s northern region, the camp is surrounded by the natural beauty of lush forests and near the clear waters of Otsego Lake, making it an ideal setting for adventurous and transformative experiences.

Founded on a rich tradition of fostering growth and character development, Camp Sancta Maria has been a home away from home for campers since its inception. The camp’s mission is deeply rooted in providing a safe, fun, and spiritual environment where young people can grow in character, virtue, and community. Camp Sancta Maria prides itself on offering programs that nurture both the mind and spirit, embodying a philosophy that balances physical activity with ethical and spiritual growth.

This camp is specifically designed for boys and serves various age groups, offering tailored programs that cater to the unique developmental needs of each age group. Through a variety of activities, boys are encouraged to challenge themselves, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships in a supportive and caring environment. At Camp Sancta Maria, every camper is given the opportunity to explore, learn, and grow in an atmosphere that reinforces positive values and virtues.

Programs Offered by Camp Sancta Maria

Camp Sancta Maria offers a wide array of programs designed to cater to different interests and age groups, ensuring a rich and varied camping experience for all attendees. Each program is crafted to promote personal growth, teamwork, and the development of new skills.

Description of the Programs

The camp provides several session options that vary in length and focus, from one week to two weeks, allowing families to choose the best fit for their schedule and their child’s needs. While the camp does not typically run for the full summer, the multiple-session options can be combined for an extended experience.

Specialty Programs

Camp Sancta Maria is well-known for its diverse specialty programs which include:

Arts: Campers engage in creative activities such as painting, drawing, and crafts, which are designed to foster creativity and artistic skills.
Sports: The camp offers a variety of sports programs including soccer, basketball, baseball, and archery, encouraging physical fitness and teamwork.
Science: For those interested in exploration and learning, the science programs offer hands-on activities that make learning fun and engaging. These include nature walks, astronomy nights, and basic environmental science projects.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Camp Sancta Maria is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, meals, free time, and rest, ensuring that campers remain engaged and energized throughout their stay. The schedule usually looks something like this:

7:30 AM – Wake Up: Start the day with morning activities.
8:00 AM – Breakfast: A nutritious start to fuel the day’s adventures.
9:00 AM – Morning Activities: Campers split into their specialty program areas.
12:00 PM – Lunch: Time to refuel and relax.
1:00 PM – Quiet Time: Campers enjoy some downtime which can be used for napping, reading, or writing letters.
2:00 PM – Afternoon Activities: Continue with specialty programs or start new activities.
5:00 PM – Free Time: Campers have free time to explore, play, and socialize.
6:00 PM – Dinner: A hearty meal to end the day’s activities.
7:00 PM – Evening Program: Special events, games, or campfires.
9:00 PM – Lights Out: Time to rest up for another fun-filled day.

Through these structured yet diverse programs and schedules, Camp Sancta Maria ensures that each camper not only has fun but also takes away valuable life lessons, new friendships, and wonderful memories.

Accommodations in Camp Sancta Maria

Camp Sancta Maria provides accommodations that are designed to be comfortable and conducive to the full camping experience, ensuring that all campers have a memorable and enjoyable stay.

Sleeping Arrangements

The camp primarily uses cabin-style accommodations. These cabins are rustic yet cozy, offering campers a classic camping experience. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds, and campers are grouped by age and program to ensure a supportive and friendly environment. The cabins are well-maintained and situated in scenic locations around the camp, providing beautiful views of the surrounding natural landscapes.

Dining Options

Camp Sancta Maria is proud of its dining services, which focus on healthy, balanced, and delicious meals to keep campers energized throughout their stay. The camp offers a variety of meal plans to accommodate the needs of all campers, including those with specific dietary restrictions or allergies. Meals are served in a communal dining hall, which helps to foster a sense of community and belonging among campers. The kitchen staff is experienced in preparing meals that are not only nutritious but also adhere to dietary needs such as gluten-free, vegetarian, or lactose-free options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

The bathroom and shower facilities at Camp Sancta Maria are centrally located for convenient access from the cabins. The facilities are divided by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort. Each bathroom facility includes multiple showers, sinks, and toilets to accommodate the number of campers, minimizing wait times and ensuring privacy.

Overall, Camp Sancta Maria’s accommodations are thoughtfully arranged to provide a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable environment that enhances the overall camping experience, allowing campers to focus on growth, learning, and fun.

Activities in Camp Sancta Maria

Camp Sancta Maria offers a vibrant array of activities designed to engage campers in both fun and educational experiences, enhancing their physical, social, and personal skills. Here’s an overview of the diverse activities and special events that shape the camp’s unique atmosphere.

List of Activities Offered

Campers at Camp Sancta Maria can participate in a wide range of activities that cater to various interests and abilities:

Swimming: Supervised swimming sessions in the camp’s pool or nearby lake, teaching both basic and advanced swimming skills.
Hiking: Guided hikes through the surrounding forests provide an opportunity to learn about local flora and fauna and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Crafts: A variety of crafting sessions where campers can create everything from friendship bracelets to custom camp mementos.
Sports: Organized sports include soccer, basketball, baseball, and archery, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water-based activities that teach paddling skills and safety on the water.
Fishing: Summer camps teaching the basics of fishing techniques and the joy of catch-and-release.
Campfires: Evening gatherings that include storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Sancta Maria is rich in traditions and special events that highlight the camping season:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend each session, fostering a sense of community and achievement.
Color Wars: A camp-wide team competition that involves various sports and challenges, culminating in a spirited display of teamwork and camp spirit.
Talent Shows: An opportunity for campers to showcase their talents, whether in music, drama, dance, or comedy.
Themed Dinners: Special meal nights that might include costume themes or cultural celebrations, adding an element of fun and education about different traditions.
Nature Nights: Special sessions focusing on astronomy or nocturnal wildlife, providing educational and awe-inspiring experiences under the stars.

Skill Development Opportunities

Beyond just fun, the activities at Camp Sancta Maria are structured to provide significant skill development opportunities:

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to lead groups or assist in activity planning, enhancing their leadership and organizational skills.
Environmental Education: Activities such as nature hikes and science experiments increase environmental awareness and respect.
Creative Expression: Arts and crafts, music, and theater programs encourage creativity and self-expression.
Physical Health: Regular physical activities promote lifelong health and fitness habits.

With such a comprehensive program of activities, special events, and skill development opportunities, Camp Sancta Maria ensures that every camper not only enjoys their time but also leaves with enhanced skills, new friends, and cherished memories.

The staff of Camp Sancta Maria

At Camp Sancta Maria, ensuring a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers is a top priority, and this is reflected in the careful attention given to staffing, training, and maintaining optimal staff-to-camper ratios.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Sancta Maria maintains a favorable staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and supervision. The ratio typically stands at about one staff member for every eight campers. This ratio allows staff to effectively monitor and engage with campers, providing a supportive and secure environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

The hiring process at Camp Sancta Maria is thorough to ensure that all staff members are well-qualified and capable of providing a high level of care and education. Potential staff members undergo a rigorous selection process that includes:

Background Checks: Comprehensive checks to ensure the safety and security of all campers.
Interviews: In-depth interviews to assess candidates’ experience, aptitude for working with children, and their ability to handle various camping situations.
References: Verification of professional and personal references to confirm the candidates’ qualifications and suitability for the role.

Staff typically include a mix of returning staff who are familiar with the camp’s operations and new hires who bring fresh perspectives and ideas. Qualifications for key positions often include previous experience in child care or education, specialized skills relevant to the camp’s programs (such as sports or arts), and a genuine passion for working with children.

Training and Certifications

All staff members at Camp Sancta Maria are required to undergo specific training and obtain certifications that are crucial for maintaining a safe and responsive camp environment. These include:

CPR and First Aid Certification: All staff must be certified in CPR and First Aid to ensure they can respond effectively to any medical emergencies.
Lifeguard Certification: Staff involved in water activities are certified lifeguards, ensuring water safety for all swimming and boating activities.
Specialized Training: Depending on their roles, staff may also receive training in areas such as wilderness first aid, child psychology, educational program delivery, and conflict resolution.

Further, before the start of each camp session, all staff participate in a comprehensive orientation that covers camp rules, safety protocols, emergency procedures, and the camp’s philosophy and mission. This training ensures that every staff member is prepared to create a positive and safe environment where campers can thrive.

Through this structured approach to staffing and training, Camp Sancta Maria ensures that every camper is in capable hands, fostering an environment that is both fun and conducive to personal growth and learning.

Safety and Health in Camp Sancta Maria

Camp Sancta Maria places a high priority on the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing rigorous protocols and maintaining well-equipped facilities to ensure a secure environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

The camp has developed comprehensive safety protocols to address a wide range of potential scenarios, including:

Regular Safety Drills: Campers and staff participate in regular safety drills, including fire drills and severe weather procedures, to ensure everyone knows how to respond in an emergency.
Activity-Specific Safety Rules: Each activity offered at the camp has specific safety rules designed to prevent accidents. These rules are clearly communicated to campers and strictly enforced by staff.
Supervised Activities: All activities are closely supervised by qualified staff members who are trained to prioritize safety and respond to any issues that may arise.
Security Measures: The camp is equipped with security measures that include controlled access to the campgrounds, ensuring that only authorized personnel and campers are on-site.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Camp Sancta Maria is equipped with an on-site health clinic staffed by qualified health professionals who are available 24/7 during camp sessions. The health clinic includes:

Professional Health Care Providers: Typically staffed by a licensed nurse or a paramedic who can administer first aid, manage routine health care, dispense medications, and respond to medical emergencies.
Basic Medical Supplies and Equipment: The clinic is stocked with the necessary medical supplies and equipment to handle common health issues, including injuries and routine illnesses.
Isolation Areas: For cases of contagious illnesses, there are designated isolation areas to prevent the spread of infection among campers and staff.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

The camp has a clear set of policies in place to handle emergencies effectively:

Immediate Response: Staff are trained to assess situations quickly and provide immediate care or intervention as needed.
Emergency Contact Protocol: In the event of a serious incident, the camp has a protocol for contacting local emergency services and the camper’s emergency contacts promptly.
Evacuation Plan: The camp has a detailed evacuation plan for scenarios that may require it, such as wildfires or severe weather. This plan includes designated safe zones and procedures for quickly and safely evacuating campers and staff.
Communication with Parents: Parents are informed of any emergencies or significant health issues affecting their children as quickly as possible. The camp maintains open lines of communication to update parents on their child’s status and any measures being taken.

By adhering to these thorough safety and health protocols, Camp Sancta Maria ensures that all campers can enjoy a fun and enriching experience with peace of mind for both them and their parents. The camp’s commitment to safety helps in fostering an environment where campers feel secure to explore, learn, and grow.

Cost and Registration in Camp Sancta Maria

Attending Camp Sancta Maria is an investment in a child’s summer experience, packed with growth, learning, and fun. The camp is committed to making this valuable experience accessible and manageable for families through transparent pricing, a straightforward registration process, and financial support options.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Camp Sancta Maria varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs chosen. Typically, the cost includes:

Accommodation: Staying in well-maintained cabins.
Meals and Snacks: Nutritious meals and snacks provided throughout the day.
All Programs and Activities: Access to all scheduled activities, including specialized programs like arts, sports, and science workshops.
Supervision and Care: Continuous supervision by trained and experienced staff.
Basic Medical Care: Access to on-site health professionals and facilities.

The camp aims to provide a comprehensive package so that there are no hidden costs, ensuring families can budget effectively.

Registration Process and Deadlines

The registration process for Camp Sancta Maria is designed to be user-friendly:

Online Registration: Families can register their children through an online portal available on the camp’s website.
Early Registration Incentives: Discounts may be available for early registration, encouraging families to sign up ahead of time.
Deadlines: Specific registration deadlines are set for each session, and these are communicated well in advance through the camp’s website and promotional materials.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Understanding that flexibility is key for many families, Camp Sancta Maria offers:

Payment Plans: Options to break down the total cost into manageable installments.
Refunds: A structured refund policy is in place, which typically allows families to receive a full or partial refund if they need to cancel by a certain date.
Cancellation Policies: Detailed policies are available to outline the terms under which cancellations are handled, including conditions like medical issues or family emergencies.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid

Camp Sancta Maria believes in making camp accessible to all children and offers:

Scholarships: Need-based scholarships are available to help cover a portion of the camp fees for families in need.
Financial Aid: Various forms of financial aid may be offered, including discounts for siblings, military families, or multi-session enrollments.

The camp actively seeks to assist families in providing their children with an enriching summer experience, regardless of financial constraints. By offering these various financial options, Camp Sancta Maria ensures that more children can enjoy the benefits of its enriching programs.

Camp Sancta Maria offers different fees depending on the program and duration of your child’s stay. Here’s a breakdown of their summer camp fees:

Boys’ Programs:
- 2-Week Camps (Ages 8-16): $799
- 1-Week Camps (Ages 8-13): $499
- Horse Camp (Ages 11-16): $599
- Ropes Adventure Camp (Ages 11-16): $599
Sibling Discount: They offer a discount of $40-50 for each additional sibling attending camp.
- 1-Week Session: $40 off per sibling
- 2-Week Session: $50 off per sibling
Multiple Session Discount: An additional discount of $40-60 is available for campers attending multiple sessions.
- 1-Week Session: $40 off per additional session
- 2-Week Session: $60 off per additional session

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Sancta Maria

Preparing for a stay at Camp Sancta Maria is an exciting time for both campers and their parents, especially for those who are new to the camp experience. Here’s a guide on what to pack, understand the camp’s rules and policies, and some tips for first-time campers and their parents to ensure a smooth and enjoyable camp experience.

Packing List

To help campers have a comfortable and enjoyable time, here’s a recommended packing list:

Clothing: Pack enough for the session duration, including comfortable clothes for activities, warmer layers for cooler evenings, and a rain jacket.
Footwear: Include sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals for showers, and water shoes if participating in aquatic activities.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, depending on personal preference, and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Swimwear and Towels: At least two swimsuits and multiple towels for swimming and showering.
Flashlight or Headlamp: Important for evening activities and moving around the cabin at night.
Water Bottle: A durable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Medications: Clearly labeled, with instructions and necessary doctor’s notes.

Rules and Policies

Camp Sancta Maria has established several important rules and policies to ensure a safe and respectful environment:

Technology Use: To foster engagement and interaction, personal electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and gaming devices are generally not allowed. If brought, they will be collected and safely stored until the end of the session.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only during designated visiting days to minimize disruptions and homesickness. All visitors must check in at the camp office upon arrival.
Behavioral Expectations: Respectful behavior towards peers and staff is expected at all times. Campers are to participate in all scheduled activities unless excused by a staff member.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Pre-Camp Orientation: Many camps offer pre-camp meetings or open houses. These can be valuable for setting expectations and addressing any anxieties.
Communication: Discuss how you’ll communicate during the camp, noting any mail or scheduled call times. Prepare your child for the experience of being away from home by encouraging positive thinking about the camp activities and new friendships.
Practice Runs: Consider a sleepover or a short trip away from home to help your child get used to being away from their usual environment.
Packing Together: Pack with your child to ensure they know what they have brought with them and understand the importance of keeping track of their belongings.

By carefully preparing and understanding the camp’s setup, first-time campers and their parents can ensure a more comfortable and stress-free introduction to what can be an enriching life experience at Camp Sancta Maria.

Camp Sancta Maria offers a unique and enriching experience that goes beyond the typical summer camp. Set in the beautiful natural surroundings of Gaylord, Michigan, the camp provides a safe, supportive, and fun environment where boys can explore their interests, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships. With a wide range of activities, from sports and arts to science and outdoor adventures, Camp Sancta Maria caters to diverse interests and encourages personal growth and self-discovery.

The camp’s commitment to safety, health, and well-rounded development is evident in its thoughtful staffing, comprehensive training, and well-maintained facilities. Moreover, its flexible registration options, financial aid opportunities, and detailed preparation guidance make it accessible and welcoming to families from all backgrounds.