Welcome to River Pointe Christian Camp, a serene getaway nestled in the lush landscapes of Steelville, Missouri. Situated in the heart of the Midwest, this camp is surrounded by the natural beauty of Missouri’s rolling hills and vibrant forests, providing a perfect backdrop for adventure and growth.

River Pointe Christian Camp was established with a vision to offer a nurturing environment where young individuals could explore their potential, build lasting friendships, and strengthen their spiritual faith. Their camp has been a beacon of joy and development for youth since its inception, guided by a mission to foster a deeper connection with nature, self, and spirituality.

At River Pointe Christian Camp, they cater to boys and girls across various age groups, creating inclusive programs that accommodate children and teenagers alike. Each session is designed to provide campers with enriching experiences that promote personal development, teamwork, and respect for the natural world.

Whether it’s through hiking the scenic trails, participating in water activities by the nearby Meramec River, or engaging in thoughtful reflection and prayer, their campers enjoy a diverse array of activities that embody their philosophy: “Empowering youth, embracing nature, enriching the spirit.” Join us at River Pointe Christian Camp for a summer filled with adventure, learning, and spiritual growth.

Programs Offered by River Pointe Christian Camp

River Pointe Christian Camp offers a variety of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental needs of children and teenagers. Each program is thoughtfully structured to provide a fulfilling and enriching experience that supports personal growth and community building. Here’s an overview of the programs offered:

1. General Camp Sessions

Description: These sessions encompass a broad range of activities including team sports, water activities, hiking, crafts, and spiritual enrichment.
Length: Offered in one-week and two-week durations, these sessions are perfect for first-time campers or those looking to enjoy a traditional camp experience.

2. Adventure Camp

Description: Focused on outdoor skills and exploration, this program includes activities like rock climbing, river rafting, and wilderness survival skills.
Length: Typically lasts two weeks, providing campers with an immersive adventure experience.

3. Arts Camp

Description: Tailored for creative young minds, this camp focuses on visual and performing arts, offering workshops in painting, sculpture, drama, and music.
Length: One-week sessions that culminate in a showcase of the campers’ artistic projects.

4. Sports Camp

Description: Geared towards athletic development and enjoyment, this camp includes coaching in various sports such as soccer, basketball, and volleyball, along with friendly competitions.
Length: Available in one-week sessions, ideal for sports enthusiasts looking to improve their skills.

5. Science Camp

Description: This camp encourages curiosity and scientific thinking through hands-on experiments and activities in areas like biology, astronomy, and physics.
Length: One-week sessions that provide a fun and educational experience for budding scientists.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:00 AM: Wake-Up Call
7:30 AM: Morning Devotion and Reflection
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning Activity Block (rotates daily between program-specific activities)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest Time/Free Time
2:00 PM: Afternoon Activity Block
5:00 PM: Free Time/Special Workshops
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening Activities (campfires, group games, talent shows)
9:00 PM: Evening Devotion
9:30 PM: Lights Out

Each program at River Pointe Christian Camp is crafted to not only entertain but also to instill a sense of responsibility, cooperation, and respect for nature and each other. This holistic approach ensures a memorable and impactful camp experience for all attendees.

Accommodations in River Pointe Christian Camp

At River Pointe Christian Camp, they ensure that the accommodations are comfortable and suitable for all campers, providing a safe and inviting environment. Here’s a detailed look at the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities available at the camp:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their primary accommodations are cozy, rustic cabins designed to blend in with the natural surroundings. Each cabin houses 8 to 12 campers, along with 1 or 2 counselors to ensure safety and supervision. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings. They are grouped by age and gender to provide a comfortable environment for all campers.
Tents: For specific adventure programs, campers may have the opportunity to spend part of their session in tents. This allows them to fully experience the beauty and tranquility of nature. Tents are set up in secure areas supervised by experienced staff members.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: The camp offers full meal plans that include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, prepared daily by their skilled kitchen staff. Meals are served in the communal dining hall, which also serves as a gathering space for many camp activities.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of nutrition and inclusive dietary practices, River Pointe Christian Camp is committed to accommodating special dietary needs. Options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive meals are available upon request. They work closely with parents and guardians to ensure that all dietary requirements are met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities, which are strategically located near the cabins and common areas for easy access. Separate facilities for boys and girls are maintained to high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
Privacy and Safety: Privacy and safety are paramount. Shower areas are individual stalls with changing areas to ensure privacy. Regular cleaning schedules are strictly adhered to, and maintenance checks are performed to keep all facilities in excellent condition.

River Pointe Christian Camp strives to make every camper’s stay comfortable and enjoyable, ensuring that all physical aspects of the camp contribute positively to the overall experience. This commitment to quality accommodations allows campers to focus on enjoying their activities and developing new friendships in a carefree and supportive environment.

Activities in River Pointe Christian Camp

River Pointe Christian Camp offers a diverse array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and ages, helping them to explore new skills, foster friendships, and build lasting memories. Here’s a detailed overview of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps can enjoy classic outdoor activities such as hiking through scenic trails, swimming in natural waters, and canoeing along the peaceful river.
Sports: A variety of sports are available, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
Crafts: Creative skills are nurtured through sessions in arts and crafts where campers can engage in painting, pottery, and woodworking.
Nature Exploration: Activities like bird watching, insect collecting, and nature walks encourage campers to learn about the environment and the ecosystem.
Spiritual Enrichment: Daily devotionals and reflection sessions help campers explore their spiritual lives in a supportive community setting.
Performing Arts: Those interested in drama and music can participate in camp skits, talent shows, and choir performances.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Campfire: The first night at camp features an opening campfire where campers gather to learn about the week’s activities, participate in ice-breaking games, and set the tone for their camp experience.
Color Wars: A camp-wide competition that splits campers into teams for various friendly contests, ranging from sports to trivia, fostering spirit and camaraderie.
Campout Night: Campers have the opportunity to experience an overnight campout, learning how to set up tents, build campfires, and cook outdoors.
End-of-Session Gala: On the last evening, a gala is held where campers can showcase their talents, display their crafts, and celebrate the friendships and memories made.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs that teach skills such as team management, conflict resolution, and effective communication.
Environmental Stewardship: Through hands-on activities, campers learn about conservation, sustainability, and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
Artistic Expression: Guided by experienced instructors, campers can explore various forms of art, enhancing their creativity and self-expression.
Athletic Skills: Sports activities are designed not only for fun but also to improve physical skills, such as coordination, balance, and strategic thinking.

At River Pointe Christian Camp, the activities are structured to ensure that every camper can find something that excites them while providing opportunities to grow personally and spiritually. The blend of fun, learning, and adventure makes for an unforgettable summer experience.

The staff of River Pointe Christian Camp

At River Pointe Christian Camp, the quality and dedication of their staff are central to providing a safe, enjoyable, and enriching camp experience for all attendees. Here’s a detailed look at the staff-to-camper ratio, the hiring process, staff qualifications, and the training and certifications required:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Staffing: The camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care. Typically, the ratio is 1 staff member to every 6-8 campers, which allows for close supervision and a more impactful camp experience.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Staff are carefully selected based on their expertise, character, and passion for working with children and youth. Recruitment involves a rigorous selection process, including comprehensive background checks and multiple interviews.
Qualifications: They seek individuals who have experience in child care, education, recreation, or related fields. Many of their staff members are college students or graduates from related disciplines, such as education, psychology, or sports science. A strong affinity for outdoor activities and a deep commitment to youth development are crucial.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Prior to the start of camp, all staff undergo an intensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, activity planning, and child psychology. This training ensures that all staff are prepared to handle a variety of situations that may arise at camp.
Certifications: All staff members are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additional training for specific activities is also mandatory, such as lifeguard certification for swimming activities, and specific training for high adventure activities like rock climbing or canoeing.
Continuous Education: Throughout the camping season, staff receive ongoing training and feedback to continuously improve their skills and adapt to the dynamic camp environment.

Specialized Roles and Continuing Development

Specialists and Counselors: Apart from general counselors, the camp employs specialists for certain activities such as arts and crafts, sports, and outdoor education. These specialists have additional expertise and often hold certifications or degrees in their activity area.
Leadership Development: For senior staff and returning staff, there are leadership development opportunities that help them grow into roles of greater responsibility, such as head counselor or program director.

River Pointe Christian Camp is committed to maintaining a staff body that is not only highly qualified but also deeply dedicated to creating a supportive and enriching environment for every camper. This commitment to excellence in staffing helps ensure that their camp remains a safe, fun, and rewarding place for campers to grow and explore.

Safety and Health in River Pointe Christian Camp

River Pointe Christian Camp prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing rigorous protocols and maintaining excellent facilities to handle any situation that might arise. Here’s an overview of their safety protocols, on-site health facilities, and emergency handling policies:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Routine Safety Drills: Regularly scheduled safety drills ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with emergency procedures, including fire safety, weather-related emergencies, and evacuation protocols.
Activity Safety: Each activity offered at camp is guided by strict safety standards, which include the use of appropriate safety gear, adherence to safe practices, and constant supervision by trained staff.
Nighttime Security: The camp implements strict security measures at night, including curfews and staff patrols to ensure all campers are safe and accounted for.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: River Pointe Christian Camp has a well-equipped health center that is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor. The health center is accessible 24/7 and equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses.
Medication Management: Their health center staff manage and distribute medications as prescribed for campers, ensuring adherence to medical guidelines and safety.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Immediate Response: In the event of an emergency, camp staff are trained to respond promptly and effectively, ensuring the safety of all campers and staff. This includes the ability to perform first aid, CPR, and other critical interventions as needed.
Communication with Parents: Parents are immediately notified in the event of any serious incident involving their child. The camp maintains up-to-date contact information for this purpose.
Emergency Services Coordination: River Pointe Christian Camp has established protocols for working with local emergency services, including hospitals, fire departments, and law enforcement. This ensures a rapid response for any situation that requires external assistance.
Continual Review and Improvement: Safety protocols and emergency procedures are continually reviewed and updated based on new safety information and past camp experiences to improve their response and care.

Through these comprehensive measures, River Pointe Christian Camp ensures a safe environment where campers can enjoy their activities without undue risk, and where parents can feel confident about the safety and care of their children.

Cost and Registration in River Pointe Christian Camp

River Pointe Christian Camp strives to provide a memorable and enriching summer experience for campers, with transparent and straightforward cost, registration, and financial assistance information. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of attendance, registration details, payment plans, and scholarship opportunities:

Cost of Attendance

Cost Inclusions: The cost of attending River Pointe Christian Camp covers all lodging, meals, activities, and access to camp facilities. The fee also includes any special events or equipment needed for various activities. Transportation to and from the camp is typically not included unless specifically stated.
Varied Pricing: Prices may vary depending on the length of the session and the specific program selected. For example, specialty camps like Science Camp or Arts Camps may have a different fee structure due to specialized equipment and staffing.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Registration can be completed online through the camp’s website, where parents and guardians can fill out necessary forms, select session dates, and choose specific programs.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged as spots fill up quickly. Specific registration deadlines for each session are posted well in advance on the camp website and promotional materials.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Flexible payment plans are available to help families manage the cost of camp. Plans typically allow for monthly installments leading up to the start of the session.
Refunds: Full refunds are available up to a certain date, which is usually several weeks before the session begins. After this date, partial refunds may be available depending on the circumstances of cancellation.
Cancellation Policy: In the event of cancellation by the camp due to unforeseen circumstances such as extreme weather or other disruptions, full refunds or options to transfer registration to another session are offered.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: River Pointe Christian Camp offers scholarships based on need, merit, or both. These scholarships are intended to make camp more accessible to all children and can cover a portion or the entirety of the camp fees.
Application for Financial Aid: Families seeking financial aid can apply through the camp’s website, where they will need to submit information regarding their financial situation. Decisions about scholarships are made by a committee and are typically communicated well in advance of the camp session.

By offering flexible payment options and financial aid, River Pointe Christian Camp aims to ensure that no child misses out on a summer camp experience due to financial constraints. The camp is committed to providing an inclusive, supportive environment where every camper can thrive.

Cost:

Elementary Summer Camp: This program costs $499.
Serve Camp: This program has a fee of $250 with a $125 non-refundable deposit.

Parent and Camper Preparation in River Pointe Christian Camp

Preparing for a stay at River Pointe Christian Camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, it’s important to be well-prepared. Here’s a comprehensive guide including a packing list, camp rules and policies, and some useful tips for first-time campers and their parents:

Packing List

To make the most of their camp experience, campers should pack the following items:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing (e.g., shorts, t-shirts, long pants, sweatshirts), swimwear, a rain jacket, and a sturdy pair of hiking boots or walking shoes.
Bedding and Towels: Sleeping bag or bedding for a twin bed, pillow, bath, and beach towels.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary personal hygiene items.
Reusable Water Bottle: To stay hydrated throughout the day.
Flashlight or Headlamp: For evening activities and any nighttime needs.
Special Gear: Depending on the activities chosen, such as sports gear or musical instruments.
Medications: Clearly labeled and with instructions for use.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: River Pointe Christian Camp encourages campers to disconnect from digital devices to fully engage with the camp experience. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are typically not allowed or their use is restricted to certain times and places.
Visitation: To ensure the safety and structure of the camp program, visitation is generally limited to designated visiting days. Parents are encouraged to respect these guidelines to help maintain the integrity of the camp experience.
Behavior Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is expected at all times. Policies regarding behavior are clearly outlined in the camp’s guidelines provided to parents and campers before arrival.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities to make new friends. Address any anxieties by talking through the camp’s daily schedule and what a typical day will look like.
Communication: Explain how and when campers can communicate with their parents. Many camps offer mail and scheduled phone call times.
Independence: Encourage independence at home with tasks like packing their own suitcase and making decisions about what to bring. This builds confidence and eases the transition to camp life.
Emotional Preparation: It’s normal for first-time campers (and their parents) to feel homesick or anxious. Discuss these feelings openly and consider strategies like sending a familiar item from home.

By following these guidelines and preparing adequately, first-time campers and their parents can set the stage for a successful and memorable summer at River Pointe Christian Camp. This preparation not only helps in adjusting to the camp environment but also maximizes the enjoyment and growth that the camp offers.

River Pointe Christian Camp in Steelville, Missouri, offers a unique blend of adventure, spirituality, and growth, set against the backdrop of the picturesque Missouri landscape. With a variety of programs tailored to different interests and age groups, the camp provides an enriching environment where campers can explore their potential, develop new skills, and make lifelong friendships. Supported by a dedicated staff committed to safety and personal attention, River Pointe Christian Camp ensures a nurturing and enjoyable experience that balances fun with meaningful development.

From the wide range of activities and specialized programs to the carefully structured safety protocols and inclusive community spirit, this camp embodies a commitment to fostering a supportive environment where every camper feels valued and engaged. Whether it’s through sports, arts, science, or outdoor adventures, River Pointe Christian Camp delivers an unforgettable summer experience that enriches young lives.