Welcome to Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp, a serene and vibrant retreat nestled in the picturesque woodlands of Crystal Falls, Michigan. Located in the heart of the Upper Peninsula, this camp offers a tranquil setting by the shimmering Fortune Lake, surrounded by lush forests that serve as the backdrop for a range of exciting camp activities and spiritual enrichment.

Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp has a rich history of providing a welcoming, inclusive environment since its establishment. Rooted in the Lutheran tradition, the camp aims to foster a sense of community, faith, and personal growth among its campers through engaging programs and the nurturing guidance of dedicated staff.

The camp operates with a mission to “Create a Christ-centered community in an outdoor setting where all are welcome to explore, grow, rest, and play.” This reflects its commitment to offering a space where campers can deepen their faith, develop meaningful relationships, and build lifelong memories.

Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp is a facility that welcomes boys and girls across various age groups. The programs are thoughtfully designed to cater to different developmental stages, ensuring that each camper receives age-appropriate guidance and activities that promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Whether it’s through singing around the campfire, exploring the natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula, or participating in thoughtful worship and community service projects, Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp promises an enriching and uplifting experience for all who attend.

Programs Offered by Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp

Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental needs of children and teenagers. Each program is crafted to enrich the campers’ experience through engaging activities, learning opportunities, and spiritual growth.

Description of Programs

The camp provides a variety of session lengths and specialized focus areas:

Day Camp: Ideal for younger children, offering a gentle introduction to the camp experience with activities tailored for fun and learning.
Residential Camps: These one-week sessions are perfect for campers who are ready to stay overnight and engage in more in-depth activities, including spiritual teachings and community building.
Adventure Camps: For those seeking a challenge, these camps might last one to two weeks and include activities like hiking, canoeing, and wilderness skills.
Family Camp: Designed for entire families to enjoy time together in a camp setting, these sessions typically occur over long weekends or a full week.

Specialty Programs

Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp also provides specialty programs that focus on particular interests:

Arts Camp: Focused on creativity, offering activities in music, painting, drama, and crafts.
Sports Camp: Emphasizing teamwork and physical fitness through a variety of sports and outdoor activities.
Science Camp: Catering to curious minds with interests in nature, astronomy, biology, and environmental science.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, worship, and free time, ensuring that campers stay engaged and energized throughout their stay:

Morning:
- Wake-up and morning devotion
- Breakfast
- Activity Session 1 (e.g., arts and crafts, sports)
Midday:
- Lunch
- Rest period or free time
- Activity Session 2 (e.g., nature hikes, science projects)
Afternoon:
- Snack break
- Group games or team-building exercises
- Activity Session 3 (e.g., canoeing, archery)
Evening:
- Dinner
- Evening worship or campfire
- Night activities (e.g., storytelling, night walks)

Overall, Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp is committed to providing a safe, fun, and enriching environment where campers can explore their interests, develop new skills, and grow in their faith. The structured daily schedule, combined with the variety of programs offered, ensures that every camper has a memorable and meaningful camp experience.

Accommodations in Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp

Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp provides comfortable and accommodating facilities to ensure that all campers and their families have a pleasant stay. The camp is thoughtfully designed to blend into its natural surroundings while offering the conveniences necessary for a fulfilling camp experience.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodation at Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp is cabin-style lodging. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and sleeps between 8 to 12 campers, depending on the size. Cabins are typically divided by age group and gender to provide a comfortable and safe environment for all campers.
Family Lodging: For family camps, there are options that may include larger cabins or even separate dormitory-style accommodations that cater to family needs, providing a bit more privacy and convenience for families attending together.
Staff Accommodations: Separate accommodations are provided for staff and counselors to ensure supervision and accessibility, maintaining a safe and secure environment.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: All campers enjoy nutritious, balanced meals served in the camp’s communal dining hall. The meal plan includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and scheduled snack times, which are designed to provide energy for the day’s activities.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp offers options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly meals. Parents can specify any dietary restrictions or special needs on their child’s registration forms to ensure appropriate meals are provided.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Central Bathhouses: The camp features modern central bathhouses that serve the cabin areas. These facilities are equipped with multiple showers, toilets, and sinks, ensuring that cleanliness can be easily maintained and that campers have minimal wait times. Bathhouses are segregated by gender and are conveniently located near the cabins for easy access.
Sanitation: Regular cleaning and maintenance of these facilities are a priority to uphold health and hygiene standards. The camp ensures that sanitary supplies are well-stocked and that facilities are kept clean throughout the camp sessions.

Overall, the accommodations at Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp are designed to ensure that everyone—from young children attending their first camp to families enjoying a retreat—has a comfortable and enriching stay, contributing to a positive and memorable camping experience.

Activities in Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp

Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp offers an extensive range of activities designed to cater to various interests, promote skill development, and foster a sense of community and spirituality among campers. Here’s a detailed look at the activities and special opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Water Activities: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, and fishing in Fortune Lake.
Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, archery, and camping skills workshops.
Creative Arts: Crafts, painting, and drama workshops allow campers to express their creativity.
Sports: Volleyball, basketball, soccer, and other team sports.
Nature Exploration: Guided nature walks, environmental education, and astronomy nights.
Spiritual Growth: Daily devotions, worship services, and bible study groups.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Traditional campfire gatherings that include singing, storytelling, and marshmallow roasting.
End-of-Session Carnival: A festive event with games, face painting, and fun booths, celebrating the end of each session.
Family Day: An event where families are invited to visit and participate in activities, showcasing the campers’ experiences and achievements.
Theme Days: Special days throughout the camp session where activities are based around a specific theme, such as “Pirate Day” or “Superhero Day”.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to develop leadership skills through counselor-in-training (CIT) programs.
Environmental Stewardship: Programs focused on conservation and sustainable living practices teach campers about taking care of the environment.
Arts and Crafts: Skills in various crafts, including woodworking, pottery, and textile arts.
Team Sports: Emphasis on teamwork, strategy, and physical fitness through organized sports.
Outdoor Skills: Campers can learn orienteering, wilderness survival skills, and safe handling of archery equipment.

Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp is dedicated to providing a fun, educational, and spiritually enriching environment where campers can grow, explore, and make lasting friendships. The range of activities and special events are designed to ensure that every camper finds something they enjoy while also having the opportunity to try new things and develop valuable life skills.

The staff of Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp

Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp takes great care in maintaining a high standard for its staff to ensure that all campers receive a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience. Here’s an overview of the staff structure, hiring process, and the training they undergo:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Staffing: The camp maintains a favorable staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives adequate attention and supervision. Typically, the ratio is about one staff member for every six to eight campers, which aligns with best practices for residential camps.
Specialized Activities: For activities requiring more intensive instruction or supervision, such as swimming or archery, the ratio is often lower to ensure safety and provide more personalized instruction.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Staff recruitment is conducted with a focus on finding individuals who are not only skilled in their respective areas but who also share the camp’s values of community, spirituality, and leadership.
Background Checks: All potential staff members undergo thorough background checks, including criminal history and reference checks, to ensure the safety and well-being of campers.
Qualifications: Candidates are typically required to have prior experience in camping, education, or child care. Educational background in fields related to education, psychology, environmental science, or theology is highly regarded.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Before the commencement of camp sessions, all staff members undergo intensive training that covers camp operations, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and specific training related to their assigned activities.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training in lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, or other relevant certifications is required for staff involved in specific activities like swimming or hiking.
Continuous Education: Throughout the camp season, staff participate in ongoing training and development sessions to refine their skills and adapt to any new challenges.

This comprehensive approach to staff selection and training ensures that Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp can offer a high-quality, secure, and nurturing environment for all campers. The dedication and expertise of the staff are central to the camp’s mission of fostering a nurturing community where young people can grow in faith and character.

Safety and Health in Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp

Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp places a strong emphasis on safety and health to ensure that every camper enjoys a secure and positive experience. Here’s how the camp maintains its commitment to safety and health:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: The camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire drills and severe weather drills, to ensure that all campers and staff are familiar with emergency procedures.
Activity Safety: Specific safety protocols are in place for various activities, particularly those involving higher risks such as swimming, hiking, and archery. Equipment is regularly inspected, and safety gear must be worn as appropriate.
Supervision: Campers are supervised at all times by trained staff members, with specific attention given to maintaining visibility and accountability throughout the camp’s activities and during rest periods.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by qualified healthcare providers, such as nurses or paramedics, who are present at the camp throughout the session.
Medical Readiness: The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses, and is stocked with essential medications and first aid supplies. Camp staff are trained to assess situations and provide immediate care while deciding if further medical attention is needed.
Accessibility: For more serious medical needs, the camp maintains relationships with local hospitals and emergency services, ensuring that comprehensive care is readily accessible.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan that includes procedures for handling various types of emergencies, from injuries and sudden illnesses to natural disasters.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, the camp has protocols for communicating with parents and guardians as quickly and clearly as possible. This includes providing updates on the situation and any steps being taken regarding their child’s safety.
Training: All staff are trained in emergency preparedness, including understanding how to evacuate campers, where to take shelter, and how to use communication tools during a crisis.

By maintaining strict safety protocols, ensuring the presence of medical staff, and having a robust emergency response plan, Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp ensures that the health and safety of campers are always prioritized. This proactive approach to safety and health allows parents and campers alike to feel confident and secure throughout their camp experience.

Cost and Registration in Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp

Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp is committed to providing a meaningful and accessible camping experience for all. Here’s detailed information about the cost, registration process, and financial options available to ensure affordability and accessibility for families:

Cost of Attendance

Fees: The cost of attendance varies depending on the type of program and the length of the session. For example, one-week sessions may have a different cost compared to two-week sessions or specialty camps. Generally, fees cover all necessary aspects of the camp experience including lodging, meals, activities, and program materials.
What’s Included: The registration fee typically includes accommodation, meals, activity supplies, and access to all camp facilities and programs. Additional costs might arise for optional extras like camp merchandise or special outings.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children through the camp’s website, where they will find a registration portal. Early registration is encouraged as spaces can fill up quickly.
Deadlines: Registration deadlines are typically set a few weeks before the start of each session. The camp provides specific dates on its website and through promotional materials. Early bird discounts may be available for registrations completed well in advance of the deadline.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding that families have different financial capabilities, the camp offers payment plans to spread the cost of attendance over several months. Details can be arranged during the registration process.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp’s cancellation policy usually includes a non-refundable deposit. Refunds for the remaining balance might vary depending on how close the cancellation is to the camp start date. Specific details are outlined in the registration materials.
Insurance: Some families opt for camp insurance to cover unforeseen cancellations due to illness or injury.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp offers scholarships to assist families in need. These scholarships can cover a portion or the entirety of the camp fees.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available based on individual family circumstances. The camp encourages families to apply early for financial aid, as funds are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Summer camp fees:

Victory Camp(Adult + with disabilities) – $625
Treehouse Adventures(Grades 7- 12) – $475
High School Week – $475
Mighty Ones – $225
Mini Camp – $305

Parent and Camper Preparation in Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp

Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp aims to ensure that both campers and their parents are well-prepared for the upcoming camp experience. Here’s a guide on what to pack, key rules and policies, and some helpful tips for first-time campers and their families.

Packing List

Clothing: Pack weather-appropriate clothing including t-shirts, shorts, pants, and layers for cooler evenings. Include a rain jacket, swimsuit, and sturdy shoes for hiking as well as sandals or flip-flops.
Bedding and Towels: Bring a sleeping bag or bedding suitable for the size of the camp bed, a pillow, and towels for both swimming and showering.
Toiletries: Essential toiletries such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Flashlight or Headlamp: Useful for evening activities and nighttime trips to the bathroom.
Water Bottle: A durable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, or small games.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, the use of cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices is typically restricted or not allowed for campers. If allowed, usage times and types might be limited to certain hours.
Visitation: Parents are usually allowed to visit only on specific visiting days to minimize disruption to the camp program and to help campers adapt to the camp environment.
Behavior Expectations: Campers are expected to follow behavior guidelines that promote safety, respect, and cooperation. These include no bullying, adherence to camp schedules, and participation in planned activities.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Familiarize with the Camp: Review the camp’s website or brochures together to understand what the camp experience will be like. Discuss the types of activities that will be available.
Set Goals: Talk about what your child hopes to gain from the camp experience, such as trying a new activity, making new friends, or becoming more independent.
Communication Plans: Discuss how you’ll communicate, if at all, during their time at camp. This helps set expectations about checking in.
Practice Independence: Encourage your child to practice skills they’ll use at camp, such as making their bed, organizing their belongings, or choosing their clothes.
Pack Together: Pack together to ensure that your child knows what they have brought with them and where their belongings are in their pack.

Preparing for camp, particularly for the first time, can be an exciting opportunity for children to grow. For parents, understanding and following the camp’s guidelines helps ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience for their child. Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp strives to provide a supportive, fun, and enriching environment for every camper.

Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp stands out as a cherished destination where children and families can explore nature, engage in enriching activities, and grow both personally and spiritually. Set against the scenic backdrop of Crystal Falls, Michigan, this camp offers a unique combination of adventure, creativity, and community, all rooted in a strong Lutheran tradition. With its diverse range of programs, dedicated staff, and commitment to safety and inclusivity, Fortune Lake provides an ideal setting for campers to develop new skills, forge lasting friendships, and build memories that will last a lifetime.

Whether participating in water sports on the tranquil Fortune Lake, exploring the surrounding wilderness, or engaging in arts and crafts, campers are encouraged to challenge themselves and discover new passions in a supportive environment. The camp’s emphasis on spiritual growth and community building further enriches the experience, allowing campers to deepen their faith and learn values that extend beyond the campgrounds.