Welcome to Camp Bighorn Plains, your gateway to adventure and self-discovery nestled in the heart of Montana’s stunning landscapes. Located in the Plains region, near the iconic Bighorn River, their camp offers an ideal backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities that engage and inspire youth.

Founded in 1998, Camp Bighorn Plains has evolved from a small summer program into a thriving community that fosters leadership, teamwork, and personal growth. Their mission is to empower young individuals to build character and skills through unique outdoor experiences and meaningful challenges.

Camp Bighorn Plains is a facility that welcomes boys and girls aged 8 to 16. Each session is carefully crafted to meet the developmental needs of each age group, ensuring that every camper leaves with lasting memories and new friendships. Join us at Camp Bighorn Plains, where adventure begins and learning never ends!

Programs Offered by Camp Bighorn

Camp Bighorn Plains offers an array of exciting programs designed to cater to a wide range of interests and age groups. Here’s a look at what campers can expect:

Description of Programs

Their programs are designed to immerse campers in the natural world while fostering personal growth and skill development. Activities range from classic camp experiences like hiking and canoeing to specialized programs that focus on arts, sports, and science.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: Ideal for younger campers or first-timers, these sessions introduce camp life and provide a taste of all the activities they offer.
Two-Week Sessions: These allow for deeper exploration of skills and interests, with more time for personal development and bonding with peers.
Full Summer Options: For the ultimate camp experience, campers can spend the entire summer at Bighorn Plains, engaging in a progressive program that builds skills over several weeks.

Specialty Programs

Arts: Their arts track includes workshops in painting, sculpture, and performance arts, all set against the camp’s inspiring natural backdrop.
Sports: Focused on physical education and teamwork, their sports program includes archery, swimming, rock climbing, and team sports like soccer and basketball.
Science: Campers curious about the world around them can dive into environmental science, astronomy, and biology, participating in experiments and field trips.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Camp Bighorn Plains is structured to provide a balance of activities, learning, and free time:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning Activity Block (e.g., canoeing, hiking)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest period/Free time
2:00 PM: Afternoon Activity Block (specialty program)
5:00 PM: Free time and optional activities
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening program (campfire, talent show, group games)
9:00 PM: Lights out for younger campers
10:00 PM: Lights out for older campers

Each day is carefully planned to ensure that every camper has the opportunity to explore their interests, develop new skills, and make lifelong friendships. Join us at Camp Bighorn Plains for a summer full of adventure and discovery!

Accommodations in Camp Bighorn

Camp Bighorn Plains is designed to provide comfortable and functional accommodations that enhance the camp experience while ensuring safety and convenience for all campers. Here’s an overview of their facilities:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their primary accommodation consists of rustic yet comfortable cabins that blend into the natural surroundings. Each cabin accommodates 8-12 campers and is sorted by age group and gender. They are equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal belongings, and electrical outlets for essential needs.
Tents: For specific programs focused on wilderness skills, they offer camping experiences where older campers can sleep in tents. This allows them to fully engage with the natural environment under safe and supervised conditions.
Dorms: For special events or larger group accommodations, they have dormitory-style facilities that can house larger groups, often used for retreats or during off-season educational programs.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Bighorn Plains offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, along with nutritious snacks. Their dining hall serves as a communal space where campers can enjoy meals together, fostering a sense of community.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to all dietary needs, they provide options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and kosher diets. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle allergies and specific dietary restrictions with the utmost care to ensure that all campers have healthy and enjoyable meal options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities in Cabins: Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathroom and shower facility, ensuring easy access for all campers. 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.
Cleanliness and Safety: Hygiene and cleanliness are top priorities at their camp. Bathrooms and showers are cleaned and sanitized multiple times a day by their dedicated facilities staff. They also educate their campers on personal hygiene practices to promote health and wellness during their stay.

At Camp Bighorn Plains, they strive to make every aspect of their accommodations welcoming and appropriate for the needs of all their campers, creating a comfortable environment that allows them to focus on enjoying their camp experience to the fullest.

Activities in Camp Bighorn

Camp Bighorn Plains offers a wide array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels. Here’s a comprehensive look at the activities and special opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, and fishing.
Water Sports: Summer camps, swimming, water polo, and boating.
Arts and Crafts: Pottery, painting, jewelry making, and woodworking.
Team Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery.
Nature Exploration: Wildlife watching, star gazing, and environmental education.
Survival Skills: Orienteering, campfire cooking, and shelter building.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Ceremony: A camp-wide gathering to kick off the session, introducing campers to the staff and setting the tone for the adventures ahead.
Campfire Nights: Regular evenings spent around the campfire, featuring storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting.
Color Wars: An all-camp competition that spans several days, involving various physical and creative challenges, promoting team spirit and camaraderie.
Talent Shows: An opportunity for campers to showcase their talents, whether in music, dance, magic, or comedy.
End-of-Session Banquet: A festive celebration of the session’s achievements with awards, recognitions, and a slideshow of memorable moments.

Skill Development Opportunities

Camp Bighorn Plains emphasizes personal growth and skill enhancement through structured skill tracks and informal learning opportunities. Campers can progress in areas such as:

Leadership Training: Programs designed for older campers to develop leadership skills, including counselor-in-training (CIT) options.
Advanced Sports Training: Specialized coaching in sports like soccer, basketball, and swimming for campers looking to improve specific athletic skills.
Artistic Mastery: Advanced workshops in arts and crafts for campers interested in deepening their artistic abilities.
Environmental Stewardship: Activities and lessons focused on conservation and sustainable living practices.

At Camp Bighorn Plains, every day is an opportunity for fun, learning, and growth in a supportive and dynamic environment. Whether a camper is looking to hone a specific skill, make new friends, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, their camp offers something for everyone.

The staff of Camp Bighorn

At Camp Bighorn Plains, they take pride in their dedicated and highly qualified staff, who are essential to providing a safe and enriching camp experience. Here’s an overview of their staff structure, the hiring process, and the training they undergo:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Staffing: They maintain a staff-to-camper ratio of 1:5, ensuring that every camper receives personalized attention and supervision.
Specialized Activities: For activities requiring specific skills or safety measures, such as swimming and rock climbing, the ratio is even lower to ensure maximum safety and support.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: They recruit staff from top universities, teacher preparation programs, and professional outdoor and educational organizations.
Qualifications: All staff members are required to have previous experience in child care, education, or a related field. Specific roles, such as activity specialists or lifeguards, require relevant certifications and proven competency.
Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks, including criminal records and reference checks, are mandatory for all staff members to ensure camper safety.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Before the beginning of each camp season, all staff undergo a rigorous training program that includes:
- Safety Protocols: Emergency procedures, safety guidelines, and accident prevention.
- CPR and First Aid: All staff members must be certified in CPR and First Aid. Certifications are regularly updated.
- Activity-Specific Training: Staff responsible for specialized activities receive specific training related to their area (e.g., rock climbing safety, swimming supervision).
- Child Development: Understanding the developmental stages of children and adolescents to tailor approaches and interactions effectively.
Ongoing Education: Throughout the camp season, they conduct regular training sessions to refine skills, update knowledge, and review safety protocols.

At Camp Bighorn Plains, the safety and well-being of their campers are their top priorities. Their staff are not only qualified and skilled in their respective roles but are also passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of young people. By fostering a nurturing and safe environment, their team ensures that every camper has a memorable and transformative experience at camp.

Safety and Health in Camp Bighorn

Camp Bighorn Plains prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff. They have comprehensive protocols and facilities in place to ensure that everyone enjoys a secure and supportive environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: They conduct regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuation drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with safety procedures.
Activity Safety: Each activity is overseen by staff trained in that specific area, with strict adherence to safety protocols, including the use of appropriate safety gear and the enforcement of safety rules.
Secure Campus: The camp is secured and monitored to ensure only authorized personnel and campers are on site. Check-ins and check-outs are strictly managed.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: The camp features a well-equipped health center that is staffed 24/7 by licensed nurses and a visiting doctor. The health center is prepared to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with necessary medical supplies.
Partnerships with Local Hospitals: For more severe medical issues, they have arrangements with local hospitals to provide quick and comprehensive care. Transportation to these facilities is always ready if needed.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Bighorn Plains has a detailed emergency response plan that includes procedures for natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other urgent situations. This plan is reviewed and updated annually.
Communication Protocol: In the event of an emergency, they have a clear communication protocol to notify families. This includes immediate notifications through phone, email, and their camp management system.
Training in Emergency Management: All staff undergo specific training in emergency management, including how to handle injuries, lost campers, and severe weather conditions. This ensures a swift and effective response to any crisis.

The health and safety measures at Camp Bighorn Plains are designed to address all aspects of camper welfare. From preventative measures and routine training to emergency response capabilities, they are committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment where campers can enjoy all the activities and opportunities their camp offers.

Cost and Registration in Camp Bighorn

Understanding the cost and registration process is crucial for planning your child’s summer camp experience at Camp Bighorn Plains. Here are the details regarding costs, registration, and financial options available:

Cost of Attendance

Standard Fees: The cost for one week at Camp Bighorn Plains typically ranges from $700 to $900, depending on the session and the specific activities involved. The cost for a two-week session ranges from $1,400 to $1,800. These fees cover all lodging, meals, activities, equipment, and program materials.
What’s Included: Fees include full accommodation, three meals per day plus snacks, all scheduled activities, 24/7 supervision, and basic medical care. Additional costs might be associated with certain optional activities or specialty programs.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Registration can be completed through their secure online portal. New families will need to create an account while returning families can log in with their existing credentials.
Deadlines: Early registration typically opens in January and offers a discounted rate. Standard registration runs through March or until sessions are full. Late registration may be available with an additional fee if spaces are still open.
Required Documentation: Upon registering, parents must complete health and consent forms and provide any necessary medical information about the camper.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: They offer flexible payment plans that allow families to spread the cost over several months. These plans can be arranged monthly or quarterly.
Refunds: Full refunds are available until a month before the session begins. After this, refunds may be partial or unavailable, depending on the timing of the cancellation.
Cancellation Policy: In the event of a cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances, such as illness, they try to be as accommodating as possible and may offer camp credit for future sessions.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Bighorn Plains offers a limited number of scholarships each year to families in need. These scholarships can cover up to 50% of camp fees.
Financial Aid: They also provide financial aid based on family income and circumstances. Applications for financial aid are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and all inquiries are kept confidential.

At Camp Bighorn Plains, they strive to make their camp experiences accessible and affordable for all families. They encourage those in need of financial assistance to apply early for scholarships and financial aid to ensure the best chance of receiving support.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Bighorn

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both parents and campers, especially those attending for the first time. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get ready for a fantastic summer at Camp Bighorn Plains.

Packing List

Essentials:

Clothing for all weather conditions (t-shirts, shorts, jeans, sweaters)
Waterproof jacket and rain gear
Swimwear and beach towel
Comfortable footwear (hiking boots, sneakers, sandals)
Hat and sunglasses
Sleeping bag and pillow
Toiletries and personal items
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Water bottle
Flashlight or headlamp

Optional:

Camera (non-smartphone)
Books or magazines
Personal sports equipment (e.g., tennis racket)
Writing materials for letters home

Please do not bring:

Electronic devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops)
Expensive jewelry or watches
Knives or other weapons
Candy or food items

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To ensure campers fully engage with the experience and each other, personal electronic devices are not allowed. Emergency contact with parents is facilitated through camp phones.
Visitation: Parents are welcome on visiting days, which are usually scheduled midway through longer sessions. Outside of these days, visits can disrupt the camp program and are generally discouraged.
Behavior: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is mandatory. Bullying, violence, or any form of disrespect can result in immediate dismissal from camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Get involved in every activity to make the most of your camp experience.
- Be open to making new friends. Remember, everyone is in the same situation and likely as nervous as you are.
- Speak up if you’re uncomfortable or need anything. The camp staff is there to help you have a great time.
For Parents:
- Discuss what to expect at camp with your child, emphasizing the exciting activities and opportunities to make new friends.
- Label all belongings with your child’s name to avoid mix-ups.
- Send a piece of home, like a favorite stuffed animal or a family photo, especially for younger children.
- Trust the process. It’s normal to feel a bit anxious about sending your child to camp, especially for the first time, but remember that camp is a great place for them to grow and become more independent.

With these preparations in place, both parents and campers can feel more comfortable and excited about the adventure that awaits at Camp Bighorn Plains. It’s all about creating lifelong memories and building skills that extend beyond the campgrounds!

As they wrap up their exploration of Camp Bighorn Plains, it’s clear that this unique camp offers more than just a break from the daily routine; it provides a comprehensive experience that fosters growth, builds character, and creates lifelong memories. With its diverse range of programs, dedicated staff, and a strong emphasis on safety and inclusion, Camp Bighorn Plains stands out as a premier destination for young adventurers.

Whether a camper is interested in honing a specific skill, exploring the great outdoors, or simply enjoying a summer filled with fun and friendship, Camp Bighorn Plains is equipped to offer an enriching experience. The camp’s commitment to each child’s personal development, coupled with the stunning natural beauty of Montana, makes it an ideal place for youth to learn, play, and grow.