Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Camp of the Good Shepherd proudly stands as a beacon of joy and learning in Louisville, Nebraska. Situated in a serene region known for its breathtaking natural beauty, their camp is conveniently located near local landmarks, offering a perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility.

Since their founding, Camp of the Good Shepherd has been dedicated to creating an enriching environment for young minds to grow and flourish. With a rich history rooted in community and development, they have consistently provided memorable and transformative experiences for their campers.

Their mission is clear: “To nurture young individuals in a safe, engaging, and supportive environment, fostering growth, friendship, and a deep appreciation for nature and community.” This philosophy is woven into every aspect of their camp programs, ensuring that each camper leaves with not only cherished memories but also valuable life skills.

Camp of the Good Shepherd is a facility that welcomes boys and girls across various age groups. They specialize in crafting age-appropriate activities and experiences that cater to the developmental needs of each group, ensuring that every camper finds something to love and learn from during their stay.

Join us at Camp of the Good Shepherd for an unforgettable summer of adventure, learning, and fun in the heart of Nebraska!

Programs Offered by Camp of the Good Shepherd

At Camp of the Good Shepherd, they offer a diverse range of programs designed to cater to the interests and growth of every camper. Their sessions vary in length, ensuring flexibility and the opportunity for each child to experience camp at their own pace.

Session Lengths:

One-Week Sessions: Ideal for first-time campers or those looking for a brief, immersive experience.
Two-Week Sessions: Perfect for those who wish to delve deeper into camp life and engage more thoroughly with their programs.
Full Summer Options: A comprehensive, all-encompassing experience that allows campers to fully integrate into the camp community and explore all aspects of camp life over several weeks.

Specialty Programs:

Arts: Their arts program encourages creativity through painting, sculpture, drama, and music workshops, helping campers express themselves artistically in a supportive environment.
Sports: They offer a variety of sports programs, including soccer, basketball, swimming, and archery, focusing on skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Science: Designed for the curious and inquisitive, their science program includes activities like environmental studies, basic astronomy, and wildlife biology, fostering a love for learning and exploration.

Typical Daily Schedule:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning stretch
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (campers rotate through their chosen program)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time/rest period
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (specialty program continuation)
5:00 PM: Free time for socializing, games, and individual interests
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfires, storytelling, group games)
9:00 PM: Bedtime preparation
10:00 PM: Lights out

This structured schedule ensures that each day is packed with fun, learning, and adventure, balanced with enough downtime for rest and reflection. At Camp of the Good Shepherd, they strive to make every day an opportunity for growth, friendship, and discovery. Join us and create lasting memories and skills that go beyond the summer!

Accommodations in Camp of the Good Shepherd

Ensuring a comfortable and safe stay is a priority at Camp of the Good Shepherd. Their accommodations and facilities are designed to provide a home away from home where campers can relax, recharge, and prepare for each day’s adventures.

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: Their primary accommodation, the cabins, are spacious and well-ventilated, housing small groups of campers. Each cabin is supervised by experienced counselors, ensuring safety and a family-like atmosphere. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, storage areas for personal items, and ample lighting.
Tents: For older campers or those enrolled in specific adventure programs, they offer the option to sleep in tents. This provides a more immersive nature experience, teaching campers fundamental outdoor skills under the careful guidance of their staff.
Dorms: Available primarily for larger groups or special events, their dorm-style accommodations are comfortable and convenient, providing a communal living experience that fosters camaraderie and friendship.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: They provide three well-balanced meals per day, crafted by their culinary team to fuel the energetic demands of camp life. their dining hall is a communal space where campers gather to eat and share experiences.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to all dietary needs, their kitchen is equipped to handle a variety of dietary restrictions including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-specific requirements. They ensure every camper receives nutritious and satisfying meals according to their dietary preferences.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Bathrooms: Located strategically throughout the camp, their bathroom facilities are easily accessible from all sleeping and activity areas. They are maintained multiple times a day to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
Showers: Separate shower facilities for boys and girls are available, providing privacy and convenience. Hot and cold water is available, and the shower areas are designed to accommodate multiple campers while ensuring privacy and minimal wait times.

At Camp of the Good Shepherd, they strive to provide a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable environment that allows campers to focus on fun, learning, and personal growth. Their facilities are designed with the well-being of each camper in mind, ensuring that every aspect of their stay is as enjoyable as the activities and programs they offer.

Activities in Camp of the Good Shepherd

At Camp of the Good Shepherd, they believe in providing a wide array of activities that cater to all interests and encourage well-rounded development. From physical challenges to creative expression and skill development, their camp is a hub of engaging and enriching experiences.

List of Activities Offered:

Swimming: Their camp features a large pool supervised by certified lifeguards, where campers can enjoy swimming lessons, free swim times, and water games.
Hiking: With access to beautiful trails, their hiking activities range from gentle walks suitable for younger campers to more challenging hikes for the adventurous.
Crafts: They offer a variety of crafting activities including pottery, jewelry making, and woodworking, allowing campers to express their creativity and bring home personal souvenirs.
Sports: Basketball, soccer, volleyball, and archery are just a few of the sports activities designed to promote teamwork and physical fitness.
Nature Exploration: Summer camps can engage in bird watching, learn about local flora and fauna, and participate in environmental conservation projects.
Performing Arts: Drama and dance workshops, along with music sessions, provide an outlet for those interested in the performing arts.
Campfires: Regular campfire evenings include storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Special Events or Traditions:

Opening Ceremony: A fun and welcoming start to the camp session where campers and staff are introduced, and the camp’s values and expectations are shared.
Color Wars: A camp-wide team competition that spans several days and includes various physical and creative challenges.
Talent Shows: Campers get a chance to showcase their talents in front of their peers, whether it’s playing an instrument, dancing, or performing a skit.
End-of-Session Banquet: A formal dinner where achievements are celebrated, and campers can reflect on their experiences and the friendships they’ve made.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs that prepare them to be group leaders and role models.
Outdoor Skills: Through activities like camping and orienteering, campers learn practical skills such as tent pitching, fire building, and map reading.
Artistic Skills: Their arts and crafts programs are not only fun but also help develop fine motor skills and artistic techniques in various mediums.

At Camp of the Good Shepherd, each day is filled with opportunities to explore, learn, and grow. Their activities are thoughtfully designed to nurture both the body and the mind, ensuring that every camper departs with new skills, stronger friendships, and wonderful memories.

The staff of Camp of the Good Shepherd

At Camp of the Good Shepherd, they pride themselves on maintaining a highly qualified, enthusiastic, and caring staff team. Their staff members are chosen not only for their skills and experiences but also for their dedication to creating a supportive and enriching environment for their campers.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

They adhere to a strict staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that every camper receives personalized attention and care. Their ratio is typically one staff member for every six campers, which allows us to maintain safety, provide adequate supervision, and cater to the individual needs of each camper.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Hiring Process: Their staff are selected through a rigorous hiring process that includes thorough background checks, multiple interviews, and reference checks to ensure that they are not only qualified but also share their camp’s values and mission.
Staff Qualifications: They seek individuals who have experience in child care, education, or specific activity expertise. Many of their staff members are pursuing or have completed degrees in education, psychology, or related fields. They also look for staff with previous camp experience or a strong background in leadership roles in similar settings.

Training and Certifications:

General Training: All staff undergo comprehensive pre-camp training that covers their camp policies, child development, emergency procedures, and effective communication skills. This training ensures that every staff member is prepared to create a safe, positive, and productive environment for all campers.
Certifications: It is mandatory for all staff to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additionally, staff members leading specific activities such as swimming or archery are required to have appropriate certifications and training specific to those activities (e.g., lifeguard certification for swimming instructors).
Ongoing Education: They encourage and often sponsor further training and certification for their staff throughout their tenure at the camp, which includes advanced safety courses, leadership development programs, and specific skill training relevant to their roles.

The combination of a rigorous hiring process, comprehensive training, and a commitment to a low staff-to-camper ratio ensures that Camp of the Good Shepherd maintains a safe, enjoyable, and educational environment for every camper. Their staff are passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of young people and work diligently to provide an unforgettable camp experience.

Safety and Health in Camp of the Good Shepherd

The safety and well-being of their campers and staff are of paramount importance at Camp of the Good Shepherd. They have comprehensive safety protocols and health facilities in place to ensure a secure and supportive environment throughout the camping season.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Training: All staff members undergo detailed safety training, which includes emergency response drills, behavior management techniques, and specific protocols for various activities and facilities.
Supervision: Campers are supervised at all times, with staff present during all activities, meals, and rest periods. They enforce strict guidelines on camper-to-staff ratios to ensure close and attentive supervision.
Equipment and Facilities: Regular checks and maintenance of all equipment and facilities are conducted to ensure they meet safety standards. This includes sporting equipment, playground structures, and transportation vehicles.
Emergency Preparedness: They have a well-defined emergency response plan, which includes evacuation procedures, weather-related protocols, and strategies for handling medical emergencies. Regular drills are conducted to ensure staff and campers are familiar with these procedures.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Their on-site health center is staffed with licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and/or a part-time doctor, who are available 24/7 to handle health-related issues. The center is equipped to deal with minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with necessary medical supplies.
Health Checks: Upon arrival at camp, each camper undergoes a health check to identify any existing medical conditions or requirements. This helps their medical staff to monitor and manage individual health needs effectively.
Medication Management: Their healthcare staff are responsible for the storage and administration of any medications campers may need during their stay, ensuring they are given accurately and on time.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Immediate Response: In case of an emergency, their staff are trained to respond swiftly and efficiently, whether it involves a medical issue, a missing camper, or a natural disaster.
Communication: They have clear protocols for communicating with local emergency services and for notifying parents and guardians in the event of a significant incident. Their goal is to keep lines of communication open and transparent during any emergency.
Post-Emergency Evaluation: After any emergency, a thorough evaluation is conducted to assess the effectiveness of the response and to improve future protocols. This continuous improvement ensures their safety measures are always up to date and effective.

At Camp of the Good Shepherd, they are committed to maintaining a safe, healthy, and fun camping environment. Their proactive approach to safety and health, combined with their diligent and caring staff, ensures that every camper can enjoy their summer experience with peace of mind.

Cost and Registration in Camp of the Good Shepherd

Understanding the financial aspects of the camp is essential for parents and guardians. At Camp of the Good Shepherd, they strive to make their programs accessible and affordable, with clear information on costs, registration procedures, and financial support options.

Cost of Attendance:

The cost of attending Camp of the Good Shepherd varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Generally, costs cover all aspects of the camp experience including lodging, meals, all scheduled activities, supervision, and any equipment needed for specialized activities.
For a one-week session, prices might range from $400 to $600, whereas two-week sessions could be priced between $800 to $1,200.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Online Registration: Parents can register their children through their secure online platform. The process includes filling out the camper’s personal information, medical history, and preferred sessions and activities.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged as spots in popular sessions fill up quickly. They typically set a registration deadline about two months before the start of each session to allow for adequate planning and preparation.
Documentation: After registration, parents will receive a confirmation email along with a checklist of documents that need to be submitted, such as health forms and waivers.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: Understanding that the cost of camp can be a significant expense, they offer structured payment plans allowing parents to pay in installments leading up to the camp session.
Refunds: Full refunds are available up to a month before the session begins, minus a non-refundable deposit. Partial refunds may be available up to two weeks before the session starts.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances like illness or family emergencies are handled on a case-by-case basis, with the possibility of transferring registration to a future session if a full refund isn’t feasible.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

They believe every child should have the opportunity to experience camp, regardless of financial background. Scholarships and financial aid are available based on need and availability.
Application for Aid: Families seeking financial assistance must fill out a financial aid application form and provide the necessary documentation to demonstrate financial need. Awards vary in size and are distributed based on the total funding available for the season.

At Camp of the Good Shepherd, they are committed to transparency in all aspects of their operations, including the costs and financial options available to families. They aim to provide every camper with the opportunity to enjoy a fun, enriching, and memorable summer experience.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp of the Good Shepherd

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure everyone is well-prepared and informed, they provide detailed guidelines on what to bring, their camp rules and policies, and tips for first-time campers and their families.

Packing List:

Clothing: Pack enough comfortable clothing for the duration of the stay, including t-shirts, shorts, long pants, and sweaters for cooler evenings. Include swimwear, a hat, and sturdy shoes for hiking, as well as sandals or flip-flops.
Bedding: Campers should bring their own sleeping bag or bedding suitable for a twin-size bed, along with a pillow.
Toiletries: Essential toiletries include toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, and sunscreen. Insect repellent is also recommended.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, water bottle, and any necessary medications (with clear instructions).
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a disposable camera or an inexpensive digital camera (if parents permit).

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: To maximize the camp experience and encourage social interaction and engagement with nature, the use of personal electronic devices (like smartphones, tablets, and laptops) is restricted. Devices may be used at designated times and places, if at all.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days, typically mid-session, to help campers adjust to and immerse in the camp environment.
Behavior: They have a strict code of conduct promoting respect, inclusivity, and cooperation. Any form of bullying or disrespectful behavior is not tolerated and may lead to dismissal from camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

Emotional Preparation: Discuss what the camp experience will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships to be made. Address any anxieties your child may have about being away from home.
Practice Runs: Consider having a few overnight stays at friends’ or relatives’ homes to help first-time campers get used to being away from home.
Communication: Explain how letters, emails, or calls will be handled. Set expectations about the frequency and method of communication during their time at camp.
Involvement: Involve your child in the packing process to give them a sense of control and responsibility. It’s also a good way to ensure nothing important is forgotten.

Preparing for camp is not just about packing the right items, but also preparing mentally and emotionally for a new adventure. At Camp of the Good Shepherd, they strive to make this preparation process as smooth and comprehensive as possible, ensuring that both campers and parents are ready for the exciting experience ahead.

Camp of the Good Shepherd in Louisville, Nebraska, is more than just a summer camp—it’s a community and an unforgettable experience that fosters growth, learning, and fun. With a variety of programs tailored to different interests and ages, and an emphasis on safety, inclusivity, and personal development, the camp offers a unique environment where children can thrive.

Their dedicated staff, comprehensive safety protocols, and robust health facilities ensure that every camper enjoys their time safely and to the fullest. From the adventurous outdoor activities to the creative arts and crafts, Camp of the Good Shepherd provides a well-rounded experience that enriches young lives.