Welcome to Camp Oak Hills, a picturesque retreat nestled in the stunning natural surroundings of Bemidji, Minnesota. Located in the heart of the Northwoods, this camp is enveloped by lush forests and sits near the shores of Lake Bemidji, providing a serene backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities and adventures.

Camp Oak Hills has a rich history of fostering growth and adventure in young minds since its inception. Founded with the vision of creating a safe, engaging, and educational environment for youth, the camp has grown into a beloved summer destination where lifelong memories and friendships are formed.

At the core of Camp Oak Hills is its mission to provide a nurturing environment that promotes personal growth, teamwork, and respect for nature. They believe in the power of outdoor experiences to develop strong character and leadership skills in young people.

Their camp offers programs specifically designed for boys and girls across various age groups. Whether it’s learning new skills, engaging in exciting outdoor activities, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, Camp Oak Hills provides a structured yet fun-filled setting that enriches the camping experience for each and every camper. Join us to discover, learn, and explore the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Minnesota!

Programs Offered by Camp Oak Hills

Camp Oak Hills offers a diverse range of programs designed to cater to various interests and age groups, ensuring that every camper has an enriching and enjoyable experience. Here’s an overview of their program offerings:

Program Descriptions

1. Adventure Camp: This program focuses on outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing, and orienteering. It’s perfect for campers who love to explore and connect with nature.

2. Arts and Crafts Camp: Tailored for creative minds, this camp includes activities like painting, sculpture, and crafts, encouraging artistic expression and creativity.

3. Sports Camp: Ideal for athletes, this program offers a variety of sports, including soccer, basketball, and swimming, promoting physical fitness and teamwork.

4. Science Camp: Designed for curious minds, this camp allows campers to engage in experiments and projects in areas like biology, chemistry, and environmental science.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: Perfect for younger campers or first-timers who are getting accustomed to the camp experience.
Two-Week Sessions: Offers a more immersive experience, allowing for deeper engagement in chosen activities.
Full Summer: An extensive program for campers who wish to enjoy a comprehensive summer filled with learning and fun.

Specialty Programs

Leadership Training: For older campers, focusing on developing leadership skills through workshops and practical team-leading opportunities.
Wilderness Survival: Teaches campers essential survival skills and responsible environmental practices.
Performing Arts: Includes drama, dance, and music, culminating in a camp-wide performance at the end of the session.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning program session (e.g., Arts and Crafts, Science)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time/rest
2:00 PM: Afternoon program session (e.g., Sports, Adventure)
5:00 PM: Free time/activity choice
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfire, games, talent shows)
9:00 PM: Lights out for younger campers
10:00 PM: Lights out for older campers

Each day at Camp Oak Hills is structured to balance activity with ample rest, ensuring that campers remain energized and engaged throughout their stay. Whether it’s learning a new skill, making friends, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Camp Oak Hills strives to deliver a memorable and impactful camp experience.

Accommodations in Camp Oak Hills

Camp Oak Hills is designed to provide a comfortable and engaging environment for all campers, ensuring their stay is both enjoyable and safe. Here’s what they offer in terms of accommodations:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their primary accommodation, these cabins house campers in small groups, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and storage for personal items, ensuring a cozy and organized space.
Tents: For specific programs like the Wilderness Survival camp, campers have the opportunity to sleep in tents. This allows for a more immersive outdoor experience.
Dormitories: Available for larger groups or special events, dormitory-style sleeping provides a comfortable indoor option with common areas for socializing.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Oak Hills offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three balanced meals per day, crafted by their on-site culinary team. Meals are served in the communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and share their day’s experiences.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to all dietary needs, they provide options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive diets. They aim to ensure that every camper has nutritious and satisfying meal options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Centralized Facilities: Each cabin group has access to modern, well-maintained bathroom and shower facilities located a short walk from their cabins. These facilities are separated by gender and are equipped with multiple stalls and showers to accommodate several campers at once, ensuring privacy and minimal wait times.
In-Cabin Bathrooms: Some of their newer cabins include en-suite bathrooms, providing convenience and comfort for their campers. These are typically reserved for younger campers or those with special needs.
Cleanliness and Hygiene: Camp Oak Hills prioritizes cleanliness and hygiene, with facilities cleaned multiple times a day by their dedicated staff. Additionally, hygiene education is a part of their camp orientation, encouraging campers to maintain personal cleanliness throughout their stay.

At Camp Oak Hills, they strive to create a home away from home where every camper feels safe, comfortable, and excited to engage in their vibrant camp community. Whether resting in a cabin after a day full of activities, enjoying a meal with friends, or freshening up in their clean facilities, campers are well-cared for at every step of their journey.

Activities in Camp Oak Hills

Camp Oak Hills offers a wide range of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels. Their programs encourage physical activity, creativity, exploration, and personal growth. Here’s a detailed look at the activities and special events they offer:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Activities like swimming, canoeing, archery, and fishing allow campers to enjoy and learn from the natural environment around Lake Bemidji.
Hiking and Exploration: Guided hikes through local trails and wilderness areas offer campers the chance to learn about local flora and fauna and develop orienteering skills.
Arts and Crafts: A variety of creative pursuits such as painting, pottery, and woodworking are available, encouraging campers to express themselves artistically.
Sports: Summer camps can participate in team sports like soccer, basketball, and volleyball, as well as individual sports like tennis and track.
Science and Learning: They offer science labs and nature studies, where campers can engage in hands-on learning experiences that cover topics from astronomy to zoology.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Weekly campfire gatherings where stories are told, songs are sung, and marshmallows are roasted, fostering a sense of community and tradition.
Color Wars: An annual multi-day event featuring team competitions in sports, arts, and problem-solving challenges, promoting teamwork and spirit.
End-of-Summer Gala: A celebratory event where campers can showcase their talents and achievements from their time at camp, including performances, exhibits, and sports demonstrations.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Programs: Older campers have the opportunity to participate in leadership training sessions, where they learn valuable skills such as conflict resolution, team management, and event planning.
Environmental Stewardship: Through activities like recycling projects, wildlife conservation efforts, and sustainable living workshops, campers learn the importance of caring for their environment.
Personal Growth Workshops: Sessions that focus on building self-esteem, managing stress, and fostering independence are available to help campers develop into confident and resilient individuals.

At Camp Oak Hills, they ensure that every camper not only has fun but also takes away new skills, friendships, and wonderful memories. Their diverse array of activities and special events are designed to provide every camper with a rich, fulfilling summer experience that promotes a lifelong love for learning, exploration, and personal growth.

The staff of Camp Oak Hills

At Camp Oak Hills, they pride themselves on having a dedicated, experienced, and well-trained staff committed to ensuring a safe, educational, and enjoyable environment for all campers. Here’s an overview of their staff structure, qualifications, and training processes:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

They maintain a high staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and supervision. For younger campers (ages 6-12), they aim for a ratio of 1 staff member for every 6 campers. For older campers (ages 13-17), the ratio is 1 staff member for every 8 campers. This ratio helps in providing a safe and supportive environment for all participants.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Selection Process: Candidates undergo a rigorous selection process that includes background checks, reference checks, and personal interviews to assess their suitability for the role.
Qualifications: Their staff members typically have backgrounds in education, child development, or specific program areas such as sports, arts, or science. Many are also returning staff who have grown up attending the camp themselves, adding a personal commitment and understanding of their camp’s culture and values.
Diversity and Inclusion: They strive to hire staff from diverse backgrounds to foster an inclusive environment where all campers can see themselves represented and valued.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional certifications, such as lifeguarding or wilderness first aid, are required for staff involved in specific activities like swimming or hiking.
Pre-Camp Training: Before campers arrive, all staff undergo extensive training that covers their camp’s philosophy, emergency procedures, behavior management techniques, and activity-specific safety protocols.
Ongoing Development: Throughout the summer, they provide ongoing training and professional development opportunities to ensure that their staff can continue to grow in their roles and provide the best possible experience for campers.

Their commitment to maintaining a highly qualified and well-trained staff ensures that Camp Oak Hills is a safe and nurturing environment where campers can thrive. They understand the importance of each staff member’s role in creating a positive and impactful camp experience, and they invest in their training and development to uphold the highest standards of care and supervision.

Safety and Health in Camp Oak Hills

The safety and well-being of their campers and staff are their highest priorities at Camp Oak Hills. They have established comprehensive safety protocols and health facilities to ensure a secure and supportive environment for everyone. Here’s an overview of their approach to safety and health:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Training: All staff undergo regular safety protocol training, including emergency response drills and situation management to ensure they are prepared to handle any situation that might arise.
Activity-Specific Safety Measures: Each activity offered at the camp comes with its specific safety protocols, which are rigorously followed. For example, water activities require life jackets, and archery is conducted in a controlled environment with strict supervision.
Equipment and Facility Inspections: All equipment used in activities is regularly inspected and maintained, and their facilities undergo routine safety checks to ensure they meet all safety standards.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Oak Hills is equipped with a well-staffed health center that operates 24/7. It is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and, during peak times, a visiting doctor.
Medical Preparedness: Their health center is equipped to handle a range of medical needs, from minor injuries and illnesses to more urgent medical conditions. They have the necessary equipment and supplies, such as first aid kits, asthma inhalers, epinephrine auto-injectors, and basic medication.
Accessibility: The health center is centrally located to ensure it is easily accessible to all camp areas.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: They have a detailed emergency response plan that covers a variety of scenarios, including severe weather, fire, injuries, and other potential emergencies. This plan is reviewed and updated annually to adapt to new challenges and improvements in safety management.
Communication with Parents: In the event of an emergency, their protocol includes immediate steps for ensuring the safety of all campers and staff, followed by timely communication with parents and guardians. They have systems in place to quickly contact families and keep them informed.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: Camp Oak Hills maintains a strong relationship with local emergency services and law enforcement agencies. This collaboration ensures a quick response time and coordinated efforts in case of any significant emergency.

These comprehensive measures demonstrate their commitment to creating a safe and healthy environment at Camp Oak Hills. By prioritizing the well-being of their campers and staff, they ensure that the camp experience is not only fun and enriching but also safe for everyone involved.

Cost and Registration in Camp Oak Hills

Understanding the logistics of cost, registration, and financial support is crucial for families planning their camp experience. Here’s a detailed overview of what to expect when registering for Camp Oak Hills:

Cost of Attendance

Fees: The cost of attending Camp Oak Hills varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Typically, one-week sessions range from $400 to $600, while two-week sessions can cost between $800 and $1,200. Full summer options are available and typically cost significantly more due to the extended duration and additional activities.
What’s Included: The fees cover all lodging, meals, activities, and program materials. Additional costs might apply for special outings or optional extras like branded camp merchandise.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Families can register their campers through their secure online platform, which allows them to select sessions, fill out necessary medical forms, and submit payment.
Deadlines: Early registration typically opens in January and runs through March, offering a reduced rate. Standard registration continues until a month before the camp session begins, or until all spots are filled.
Documentation: During registration, parents will need to provide medical information, including vaccination records and any specific dietary or health needs, to ensure the safety and well-being of their child.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: To accommodate different family needs, Camp Oak Hills offers structured payment plans that allow families to pay the camp fees over several months.
Refunds: Full refunds are available until a month before the session begins. After this period, partial refunds may be offered depending on the circumstances of cancellation. No refunds are typically provided once the session has started, unless for medical reasons.
Cancellation Policy: If a camp session must be canceled due to unforeseen circumstances, such as extreme weather events or other significant disruptions, families are offered either a full refund or an option to apply their payment to a future session.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: They offer a range of scholarship opportunities to help make camp more accessible. These scholarships are need-based and can cover a portion or all of the camp fees.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available through community partnerships and donor-supported funds. Families are encouraged to apply early, as these funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Oak Hills

Preparing for camp, especially for first-time campers and their parents, can be both exciting and a bit daunting. Here’s a helpful guide to ensure you’re ready for the Camp Oak Hills experience:

Packing List

To ensure campers are fully prepared for their stay, they recommend including the following items:

Clothing: Pack weather-appropriate clothing, including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, sweatshirts, and a waterproof jacket. Include a swimsuit, hat, and sturdy footwear (sneakers and hiking boots).
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (depending on the accommodation), and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a towel.
Other Essentials: Flashlight, water bottle, and any necessary medications (with clear instructions).
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a camera (disposable or digital, if allowed).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, they encourage limiting the use of personal electronic devices. Devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are typically not allowed during activities. They provide specific times and locations for limited device use.
Visitation: Parents and guardians are welcome to visit on designated days, typically at the beginning or end of a session. This policy helps ensure the safety and structure of the camp environment.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is a cornerstone of their camp philosophy. They maintain strict policies against bullying and any form of discrimination.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Stay Positive: Embrace new experiences and opportunities. It’s a chance to make new friends, learn new skills, and enjoy adventures.
- Be Open to New Activities: Try everything that’s available, even if it seems challenging or outside of your comfort zone.
For Parents:
- Communicate: Talk to your child about what to expect at camp, focusing on the positive aspects and the fun they will have.
- Pack Together: Involve your child

Camp Oak Hills offers a unique and enriching experience for campers of all ages in the beautiful setting of Bemidji, Minnesota. With a wide range of activities, comprehensive safety protocols, and dedicated staff, they ensure that every camper has a memorable summer filled with adventure, learning, and personal growth. Their commitment to inclusivity, safety, and fun makes us a premier choice for parents and children alike.

Whether you’re a first-time camper or a seasoned veteran, Camp Oak Hills is dedicated to providing an exceptional camping experience that promotes respect for nature, fosters lifelong friendships, and develops future leaders. They invite you to join their community this summer and experience the magic of Camp Oak Hills for yourself!