Welcome to Camp Prairie Schooner, a serene getaway nestled in the lush landscapes of Kansas City, Missouri. Situated in the heart of America’s Midwest, this camp boasts a picturesque setting near the famed Missouri River, offering a perfect backdrop for adventure and exploration.

Established with a rich heritage of fostering independence and empowerment, Camp Prairie Schooner has been a cornerstone of youth development since its inception. The camp’s mission is to inspire young individuals, particularly girls, to reach their fullest potential through challenging, educational, and fun experiences in a safe and supportive environment.

As a specialized girls’ camp, Camp Prairie Schooner welcomes campers of various age groups, providing age-appropriate programs that cater to the needs and interests of girls from elementary through high school. At Camp Prairie Schooner, every day is a new adventure, filled with activities that nurture both mind and body and build skills that last a lifetime. Whether it’s hiking, swimming, or arts and crafts, Camp Prairie Schooner is dedicated to creating memorable experiences that empower young women to be leaders of tomorrow.

Programs Offered by Camp Prairie Schooner

Camp Prairie Schooner offers a diverse array of programs tailored to inspire and challenge young girls in a supportive and engaging environment. Here’s an overview of the programs available, their durations, specialties, and a glimpse into a typical day at camp:

Program Descriptions and Session Lengths

Adventure Explorers: Designed for the bold and curious, this program includes activities like zip-lining, canoeing, and rock climbing. Sessions last one week, perfect for those looking for a short, adrenaline-fueled experience.
Creative Arts Camp: Focused on arts and crafts, this program allows campers to explore their artistic side through painting, pottery, and performance arts. Campers can choose from one or two-week sessions.
STEM Stars: A two-week session that immerses girls in science, technology, engineering, and math through fun, hands-on projects and experiments designed to spark interest in these fields.
Equestrian Program: For horse enthusiasts, this specialty program teaches riding skills, horse care, and stable management. Available as two-week sessions, it’s a thorough introduction to the world of equestrianism.
Leadership Development: Aimed at older campers, this program focuses on building leadership skills through community service projects, team-building activities, and leadership workshops. This program typically runs throughout the full summer.

Specialty Programs

Arts: Includes various forms of creative expression such as drawing, sculpture, and digital arts.
Sports: Features traditional and non-traditional sports, including archery, swimming, and team sports.
Science: Engages campers in environmental science, astronomy, and robotics, fostering a love for learning and discovery.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM: Wake up and prepare for the day
8:00 AM: Breakfast in the dining hall
9:00 AM: Morning activity session (campers attend their chosen program)
12:00 PM: Lunch break
1:00 PM: Free time for rest and relaxation
2:00 PM: Afternoon activity session
5:00 PM: Free time or scheduled group activities
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfire, storytelling, night hikes)
9:00 PM: Wind down and prepare for bed
10:00 PM: Lights out

Each day is structured to provide a balanced mix of instructional time, physical activity, social interaction, and personal development, ensuring that every camper has a fulfilling and enriching experience at Camp Prairie Schooner.

Accommodations in Camp Prairie Schooner

At Camp Prairie Schooner, the comfort and safety of campers are a top priority, reflected in the thoughtfully designed accommodations and facilities that cater to the needs of all attendees. Here’s a detailed look at the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities at the camp:

Sleeping Arrangements

Camp Prairie Schooner offers a variety of sleeping options to ensure a comfortable stay for every camper:

Cabins: The primary accommodation, these cabins are cozy and well-ventilated, each housing up to 10 campers along with 2 counselors. Cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings.
Tents: For specific programs focusing on outdoor skills and wilderness experiences, campers have the option to sleep in weather-proof tents that enhance their connection with nature.
Dormitory-style Lodging: Available for larger groups or special events, these facilities provide a more communal living experience, with shared sleeping quarters and ample space for group activities.

Dining Options

Camp Prairie Schooner’s dining hall is the hub of camp life where campers enjoy nutritious and tasty meals:

Meal Plans: The camp provides three well-balanced meals per day, included in the camp fee. Menus are varied throughout the session to ensure a range of dietary options.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, the camp offers vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options. Parents are encouraged to discuss their child’s dietary requirements in advance to ensure appropriate accommodations.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

The camp is equipped with modern, centrally located bathroom and shower facilities:

Bathrooms: Separate bathroom facilities for boys and girls are available, each maintained to high standards of cleanliness and hygiene. Bathrooms are accessible from all sleeping and activity areas.
Showers: Individual shower stalls provide privacy and convenience, with hot and cold water available. Shower areas are gender-separated and are located near the cabins and dormitory facilities.

Through these accommodations, Camp Prairie Schooner ensures that every aspect of a camper’s stay is comfortable, safe, and conducive to an enjoyable camp experience. The camp’s infrastructure supports its mission of providing a nurturing environment that allows every participant to thrive.

Activities in Camp Prairie Schooner

Camp Prairie Schooner offers a vibrant range of activities designed to engage, educate, and entertain campers of all interests and ages. Here’s an overview of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available at the camp:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Includes hiking, canoeing, zip-lining, and rock climbing.
Water Sports: Features swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Creative Arts: Summer camps can participate in crafts, painting, pottery, and performing arts like dance and theater.
Sports and Games: Options include archery, soccer, volleyball, and basketball.
Nature Exploration: Activities like bird watching, nature walks, and environmental education.
Equestrian Skills: Horseback riding, along with comprehensive care and stable management courses.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Prairie Schooner is rich in traditions and special events that enhance the camp experience:

Opening Ceremony: A welcoming event that introduces campers to staff and fellow campers, setting the tone for the session.
Campfire Nights: Regular evenings spent around the campfire, where campers share stories, sing songs, and participate in talent shows.
End-of-Camp Gala: A celebratory event showcasing the skills and projects campers have developed over their session, including performances and exhibitions.
Themed Days: Fun and engaging themed activities that break the routine, such as Pirate Day, Superhero Day, or Science Fiction Day.

Skill Development Opportunities

Camp Prairie Schooner is committed to providing meaningful skill development in various domains:

Leadership Skills: Through activities designed to enhance communication, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities.
Artistic Skills: Programs in the arts not only foster creativity but also improve fine motor skills and visual-spatial coordination.
Scientific Curiosity: STEM activities encourage analytical thinking and curiosity about the natural world.
Physical Fitness: Sports and outdoor activities promote physical health and teach the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle.
Environmental Awareness: Through interactive nature programs, campers learn about conservation and the importance of protecting our environment.

By blending fun with educational content, Camp Prairie Schooner ensures that each camper not only enjoys their time but also leaves with new skills, experiences, and memories that will last a lifetime.

The staff of Camp Prairie Schooner

The staff at Camp Prairie Schooner is carefully selected and trained to ensure a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers. Here’s a detailed look at the staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, staff qualifications, and the training and certifications required:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Prairie Schooner maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and supervision. Typically, the ratio is 1 staff member to every 8 campers. This ratio allows staff to effectively monitor and engage with each camper, ensuring safety and a quality camp experience.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Staff are recruited from a variety of sources, including local universities, teacher recommendations, and through networks of former campers who aspire to give back.
Qualifications: Applicants must have prior experience in child care or education, a clean background check, and a genuine interest in youth development.
Interviews: Candidates go through a rigorous interview process that assesses their experience, skills, and suitability for the camp environment.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: All staff undergo comprehensive pre-camp training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, activity planning, and child psychology.
Certifications: Staff are required to hold current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Those involved in specific activities like swimming or horseback riding may also need relevant certifications such as Lifeguarding or Equine Management.
Ongoing Education: Throughout the camp season, staff participates in ongoing training sessions to refine their skills and update their knowledge on safety and childcare practices.

Specialized Staff

In addition to general counselors, Camp Prairie Schooner employs specialists for particular activities (e.g., arts instructors, sports coaches, science educators) who bring expert knowledge and enthusiasm to their sessions. These specialists are often professionals in their fields and hold additional certifications pertinent to their activities.

This structured approach to staffing ensures that Camp Prairie Schooner provides a supportive, educational, and fun environment for all campers, upheld by a team of dedicated and skilled professionals.

Safety and Health in Camp Prairie Schooner

Camp Prairie Schooner prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing stringent safety protocols and maintaining excellent on-site health facilities. Here’s an overview of the camp’s approach to safety, health care, and emergency management:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Activity Safety: Each activity is guided by strict safety protocols, including the use of appropriate gear and equipment, and adherence to safety rules specific to each activity, such as wearing helmets for biking and harnesses for climbing.
Regular Drills: The camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with emergency procedures.
Supervision: Continuous supervision is maintained by camp staff, with extra vigilance during high-risk activities and free time to prevent accidents and ensure all campers’ safety.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Prairie Schooner has a dedicated health center staffed by qualified health professionals, including nurses and/or a visiting doctor. The health center is equipped to handle routine medical issues and is stocked with essential medications and first aid supplies.
Health Checks: Upon arrival, campers undergo health screenings to identify any existing health issues or special medical needs. This information helps the medical staff provide personalized care throughout the camper’s stay.
Accessibility: The health center is easily accessible from all parts of the camp, ensuring quick medical response times in case of an emergency.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Action Plans: The camp has detailed action plans for various emergencies, including medical emergencies, natural disasters, and other urgent situations that may arise.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, the camp maintains clear lines of communication with parents and guardians. The camp is equipped with the necessary technology to communicate effectively under all circumstances.
Evacuation Plans: Clear evacuation routes and procedures are established and communicated to all staff and campers. Regular drills ensure that everyone knows how to act quickly and safely exit the premises if necessary.
Coordination with Local Authorities: Camp Prairie Schooner coordinates closely with local emergency services, such as fire departments, hospitals, and police, to ensure a rapid response to any serious incident.

These comprehensive safety and health measures underscore Camp Prairie Schooner’s commitment to creating a secure and caring environment, allowing campers to enjoy their activities with peace of mind while ensuring that staff are prepared to handle any situation that may arise.

Cost and Registration in Camp Prairie Schooner

Camp Prairie Schooner is committed to providing a memorable and enriching camp experience and strives to make it accessible to as many young girls as possible. Below is an overview of the cost, registration process, and financial options available:

Cost of Attendance

Fees: The cost of attending Camp Prairie Schooner varies depending on the program and length of the session. Generally, fees range from $300 to $800 per week. This cost includes all meals, lodging, activities, and any necessary equipment.
What’s Included: The fee covers full participation in the chosen camp program, including all activities, 24-hour supervision, three daily meals, snacks, and any special events or excursions included in the program.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children through the camp’s website, where they can fill out necessary forms, choose a session, and select a program.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months in advance of the summer season, with early registration discounts available. Deadlines for registration are usually set for one month before the start of each session to allow for proper planning and staffing.
Documentation: During registration, parents will need to provide medical information, dietary restrictions, and emergency contact details.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: The camp offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of attendance. Payments can be spread out over several months leading up to the camp session.
Refunds: Refunds are available up to a certain date before the camp session begins, typically allowing cancellations up to four weeks prior with a full or partial refund, minus a registration fee.
Cancellation Policy: For cancellations made after the refund deadline, no refunds may be available unless due to medical or family emergencies, in which cases documentation might be required.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Prairie Schooner offers scholarships based on need, merit, or both. These scholarships can cover a portion or the full cost of camp fees.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available for families demonstrating significant need. The camp works to ensure that no camper is turned away due to financial constraints.
Sponsorships: The camp also occasionally partners with local businesses and organizations to provide sponsored camp slots for participants from low-income families or underserved communities.

The goal of Camp Prairie Schooner is to make the camp experience as inclusive and accessible as possible, ensuring that financial limitations do not prevent any interested and qualified young girl from attending.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Prairie Schooner

Preparing for a session at Camp Prairie Schooner is an exciting process for both campers and their parents. To ensure everyone is ready for a fantastic camp experience, here are the essential preparations, including what to pack, important rules and policies, and some helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents:

Packing List

For a comfortable stay at Camp Prairie Schooner, campers should pack the following items:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate attire, including T-shirts, shorts, jeans, and layers for cooler evenings. Don’t forget a rain jacket and a swimsuit.
Footwear: Comfortable shoes for activities (sneakers), sandals for casual wear, and hiking boots if applicable.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, and any other personal hygiene items.
Insect Protection: Bug spray and a small first aid kit with personal medications (to be checked in with the camp health center).
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and a hat.
Flashlight or Headlamp: Essential for evening activities and moving around camp after dark.
Reusable Water Bottle: To stay hydrated throughout the day.
Special Items: Any specific gear related to specialized activities (if not provided by the camp).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Prairie Schooner aims to provide a tech-free environment. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are generally discouraged or not allowed, promoting engagement with nature and face-to-face social interaction.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to minimize disruptions and homesickness. All visitors must check in at the camp office.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is paramount. The camp maintains a strict policy against bullying and promotes positive behavior through its programming.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Pre-Camp Communication: Discuss what the camp experience will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities to make new friends. Address any anxieties about being away from home.
Practice Overnights: If possible, arrange a few overnight stays at friends’ or relatives’ homes to ease the transition of staying away from home.
Packing Together: Involve your child in the packing process to give them a sense of control and to ensure they understand what they are bringing.
Setting Expectations: Explain the importance of following rules and how they contribute to everyone’s safety and enjoyment.
Communication Plans: Discuss how you will communicate, whether through letters, emails, or scheduled calls and reassure your child of your continuous support.

By thoroughly preparing and understanding what to expect, both parents and first-time campers can feel more confident and excited about their upcoming adventure at Camp Prairie Schooner.

Camp Prairie Schooner stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and growth, nestled in the scenic landscapes of Kansas City, Missouri. With its diverse range of programs, dedicated staff, and commitment to safety and inclusion, the camp offers a unique environment where young girls can explore their interests, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships. The meticulously planned activities, comfortable accommodations, and robust support systems ensure that every camper has a memorable and enriching experience.

Whether it’s through engaging in exciting outdoor adventures, expressing creativity, or leading community projects, Camp Prairie Schooner empowers campers to become confident, capable, and caring individuals. It’s more than just a summer camp—it’s a place where young girls transform into tomorrow’s leaders, all while having the time of their lives.