Welcome to Ponderosa Christian Camp, nestled in the serene landscapes of Ponderosa, New Mexico. Surrounded by the breathtaking views of the Jemez Mountains and enriched by the crisp, pine-scented air, their camp offers a tranquil retreat where campers can explore their faith and create lifelong memories.

Established in 1965, Ponderosa Christian Camp has a storied history of providing a nurturing environment where young people can grow both spiritually and personally. The camp was founded with a vision to create a peaceful setting that encourages campers to develop their relationship with God through nature, fellowship, and guided reflection.

Their mission at Ponderosa Christian Camp is to “foster a deep, lasting connection between youth and their faith, encouraging personal growth and a stronger sense of community in a Christ-centered environment.” They are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and spiritually enriching experience for all their campers.

They cater to boys and girls across various age groups, offering sessions for children and teenagers alike. Each program is carefully designed to meet the developmental and spiritual needs of different age groups, ensuring a meaningful and impactful camp experience.

Join us at Ponderosa Christian Camp for a journey of faith, friendship, and discovery in one of New Mexico’s most beautiful settings.

Programs Offered by Ponderosa Christian Camp

At Ponderosa Christian Camp, they offer a variety of programs designed to cater to different interests and age groups. Each program is thoughtfully structured to ensure campers have a fulfilling experience that strengthens their faith and fosters personal growth. Here’s an overview of their offerings:

General Camp Programs

Length of Sessions: They offer both one-week and two-week sessions throughout the summer. These sessions are designed to immerse campers in a comprehensive camp experience that includes a balance of spiritual teachings, recreational activities, and personal reflection time.

Typical Daily Schedule:

Morning Devotion: Start the day with prayer and meditation.
Breakfast
Activity Sessions: Campers participate in a variety of activities such as hiking, crafts, and sports.
Lunch
Bible Study: Engaging and age-appropriate discussions on biblical themes and stories.
Free Time: Campers enjoy some downtime to explore, rest, or engage in casual play.
Dinner
Evening Worship and Campfire: A time for songs, stories, and sharing under the stars.

Specialty Programs

Arts Camp
- Focus: This program emphasizes creative expression through painting, sculpture, drama, and music.
- Length: One-week sessions.
Sports Camp
- Focus: Designed for campers interested in enhancing their physical fitness and sports skills. Activities include soccer, basketball, volleyball, and team-building exercises.
- Length: Two-week sessions.
Adventure Camp
- Focus: Focuses on outdoor skills and environmental education, including hiking, orienteering, and conservation projects.
- Length: Two-week sessions.
Science Camp
- Focus: Encourages curiosity and learning about the natural world through hands-on science experiments and activities.
- Length: One-week sessions that blend scientific inquiry with faith-based reflections on the wonder of creation.

Each of these specialty programs is integrated with daily spiritual teachings and opportunities for personal growth, ensuring that campers leave with not just new skills and knowledge, but also a deeper connection to their faith and values. Whether it’s through the arts, sports, adventure, or science, Ponderosa Christian Camp provides a nurturing environment for every young explorer.

Accommodations in Ponderosa Christian Camp

Ponderosa Christian Camp offers comfortable and functional accommodations designed to enhance the camping experience while providing a safe and welcoming environment for all campers.

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers are housed in cozy, rustic cabins that blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings of Ponderosa, NM. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and can accommodate up to 12 campers, along with one or two camp counselors who provide supervision and support. The cabins are grouped into clusters, fostering a small community atmosphere where campers can forge close friendships.

For older campers and more adventurous groups, there are options to camp in tents. This allows for a more immersive experience in nature, promoting independence and teamwork as campers help set up their sleeping areas and maintain their campsite.

Dining Options

Ponderosa Christian Camp is proud of its dining services, which provide nutritious and tasty meals to keep campers energized throughout their stay. Meals are served three times a day in a communal dining hall, where campers gather to share food and stories, reinforcing the sense of community.

Meal Plans: They offer a standard meal plan that includes a variety of options to cater to the tastes and preferences of all campers.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining, they cater to special dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. They strive to ensure that all campers have delicious and safe dining options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathroom and shower facility, ensuring easy access for all campers. The facilities are divided by gender and are well-maintained, with cleanliness and hygiene as top priorities. Facilities are equipped with multiple stalls and showers, providing privacy and reducing wait times, ensuring that campers can prepare for their day’s activities or bedtime routines comfortably and efficiently.

At Ponderosa Christian Camp, they believe that a comfortable living environment is crucial to a positive camp experience. Their accommodations are designed to ensure that every camper feels at home, safe, and part of their vibrant community.

Activities in Ponderosa Christian Camp

Ponderosa Christian Camp provides a diverse array of activities designed to engage, entertain, and educate campers, allowing them to explore new interests and develop various skills. Here’s a detailed overview of what they offer:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures:
- Hiking: Explore scenic trails in the surrounding Jemez Mountains.
- Swimming: Enjoy supervised swimming sessions in their on-site pool.
- Canoeing and Kayaking: Paddle on the tranquil waters nearby.
- Archery: Learn precision and focus with their archery sessions.
Creative Arts:
- Crafts: Summer camps can create a range of art projects from pottery to beadwork.
- Drama: Participate in camp skits and performances.
- Music: Join in group sing-alongs or explore musical instruments.
Team Sports:
- Basketball, Soccer, and Volleyball: Promote teamwork and physical fitness.
- Ultimate Frisbee: A fun and engaging team sport that’s a camper favorite.
Educational Workshops:
- Nature Workshops: Learn about local flora and fauna.
- Science Experiments: Conduct fun and educational science experiments.
Spiritual Growth:
- Bible Studies: Engage in meaningful discussions and reflections.
- Prayer Sessions: Group and individual prayer times.

Special Events or Traditions

Ponderosa Christian Camp is rich in traditions that enhance the camp experience:

Opening Campfire: A welcome event where campers gather to sing, share stories, and set intentions for their time at camp.
Talent Show: Campers showcase their skills whether it be in music, dance, magic tricks, or comedy.
End-of-Camp Celebration: A festive conclusion to camp that includes awards, recognitions, and a final campfire.

Skill Development Opportunities

Their activities are not just fun; they are structured to help campers develop valuable life skills:

Leadership and Teamwork: Through sports and group activities, campers enhance their leadership abilities and learn to work effectively as part of a team.
Creative Expression: Arts and crafts provide a creative outlet for campers to express themselves and explore new mediums.
Environmental Stewardship: Nature hikes and conservation projects teach the importance of caring for the environment.
Problem Solving: Activities like orienteering and strategic games enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

At Ponderosa Christian Camp, each activity is designed to support their mission of fostering personal growth and a deeper connection with faith in a fun, supportive environment.

The staff of Ponderosa Christian Camp

At Ponderosa Christian Camp, they take great pride in their dedicated and skilled staff, who are essential to creating a safe, supportive, and enriching camp environment for all attendees. Here’s a breakdown of their staff structure and the rigorous standards they uphold:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

They maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care. Their general ratio is 1 staff member for every 5 campers. This ratio is even lower for younger age groups and specialty activities that require more intensive supervision, such as swimming or archery.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Hiring Process:

Application Review: Prospective staff members must submit a detailed application, including their previous experience, skills, and references.
Interviews: Candidates undergo thorough interviews to assess their suitability for the role, focusing on their experience with children, leadership capabilities, and commitment to Christian values.
Background Checks: They conduct comprehensive background checks, including criminal records and previous employment verification, to ensure the safety and well-being of their campers.

Staff Qualifications:

Educational and Experiential Requirements: Many of their staff are college students or graduates with backgrounds in education, youth ministry, or related fields. Experience in camp settings, teaching, or child care is highly valued.
Spiritual Commitment: As a Christian camp, they seek staff members who embody Christian principles and are committed to fostering a nurturing spiritual environment.

Training and Certifications

All staff members are required to complete a rigorous training program before the camp season begins. This training covers:

Safety Protocols: Emergency procedures, safety guidelines, and behavior management.
CPR and First Aid Certification: Every staff member is certified in CPR and First Aid to handle any potential medical situations.
Child Protection Training: They provide training on child protection laws and best practices to ensure that all interactions with campers are safe and appropriate.
Activity-Specific Training: Staff leading specific activities receive additional specialized training, such as lifeguard certification for swimming activities or specific coaching qualifications for sports.

Continuous Professional Development

They encourage ongoing professional development and provide opportunities for staff to attend workshops and seminars during and beyond the camp season. This commitment to continuous learning ensures that their staff remains knowledgeable about the latest in youth development and camp management.

The staff at Ponderosa Christian Camp are more than just employees; they are role models and mentors dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of young people. By maintaining high standards for hiring and training, they ensure that every camper has a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience.

Safety and Health in Ponderosa Christian Camp

Ensuring the safety and health of all campers and staff at Ponderosa Christian Camp is their utmost priority. They have established comprehensive safety protocols and maintain well-equipped health facilities to manage any situation that may arise during camp sessions.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Safety Drills: They conduct regular drills to prepare campers and staff for various emergencies, including fire, severe weather, and lockdown scenarios.
Activity Safety: Each activity is supervised by staff trained specifically for that activity, with strict adherence to safety guidelines. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure it is safe for use.
Secure Campground: The camp is monitored to ensure that only authorized personnel and campers are present on the premises. Staff are trained to identify and appropriately handle any unauthorized intrusions or suspicious activities.
Communication Systems: They have robust communication systems in place, including radios and emergency communication devices, to ensure swift response times in case of emergencies.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Ponderosa Christian Camp has a fully equipped health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor. The center is prepared to handle minor injuries, and illnesses, and manage routine medications.
Staff Qualifications: All healthcare staff are required to have valid and current credentials. They are experienced in pediatric and emergency care, ensuring they are well-prepared to address the specific needs of campers.
Accessibility: The health center is centrally located within the camp for easy accessibility. It operates 24 hours a day during camp sessions, ensuring that medical care is always available.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Medical Emergencies: In the event of a medical emergency, camp staff are trained to stabilize the camper and contact the health center immediately. If necessary, they have procedures in place for quick transportation to the nearest hospital.
Non-medical Emergencies: For incidents such as missing campers or natural disasters, they have a structured response plan that includes immediate area lockdown, headcounts, and communication with local authorities.
Parental Notification: Parents are notified as soon as practicable in any emergency situation. They maintain updated contact information for all families to facilitate timely communication.
Continuous Training: All staff participate in ongoing training sessions on emergency preparedness throughout the camp season to ensure they are current on the best practices for handling potential crises.

At Ponderosa Christian Camp, their proactive approach to safety and health underscores their commitment to providing a secure and nurturing environment for every camper. By integrating rigorous safety protocols, maintaining state-of-the-art health facilities, and enforcing strict policies on handling emergencies, They strive to uphold the highest standards of care and safety.

Cost and Registration in Ponderosa Christian Camp

At Ponderosa Christian Camp, They aim to provide an enriching and memorable camp experience that is accessible to as many families as possible. Here is detailed information regarding the cost of attendance, registration process, and financial support options:

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Ponderosa Christian Camp varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Typically, costs cover:

Accommodations: Comfortable sleeping quarters in cabins or tents.
Meals: Three nutritious meals per day, along with snacks.
Activities: Full access to all camp activities and materials.
Supervision and Instruction: Experienced staff to guide and supervise all activities.
Health Care: Access to on-site medical facilities and professional health care staff.

Prices generally range from $400 to $800 per week, depending on the camp session and program specifics. They strive to keep their costs reasonable while ensuring a high-quality experience for all campers.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children through their secure online portal, available on their website.
Early Registration: They encourage early registration as spots fill up quickly. Early registrants often receive a discount.
Deadlines: Registration typically closes two weeks before the start of each session, or when the maximum capacity is reached.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding that the cost of camp can be a significant expense, they offer flexible payment plans. Families can choose to pay in installments leading up to the start of the camp session.
Refunds: Full refunds are available up to one month before the session begins. After that, a partial refund is available up to two weeks before the session start date, excluding a non-refundable deposit.
Cancellation Policy: In case of cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness or family emergency, special arrangements can be discussed on a case-by-case basis.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: They offer a limited number of scholarships each year to families in need. These scholarships can cover up to 50% of the camp fees.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available based on family income, number of children attending, and availability of funds. They encourage families to apply early for financial support.
Community Sponsorships: Local businesses and community organizations often sponsor additional scholarships, which are available through separate applications.

Their goal at Ponderosa Christian Camp is to ensure that no child misses out on a camp experience due to financial constraints. They are committed to working with families to find a financial arrangement that makes participation possible.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Ponderosa Christian Camp

Preparing for a stay at Ponderosa Christian Camp is an exciting experience for both campers and their parents. To help ensure everyone is ready for the adventure, they provide a comprehensive guide that includes a packing list, outlines of camp rules and policies, and useful tips for first-time campers and their families.

Packing List

To make sure campers have everything they need, they recommend including the following items:

Clothing: Pack enough for the session duration, including layers for cooler evenings. Include t-shirts, shorts, pants, a jacket, and a raincoat.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals for casual wear, and closed-toe shoes for activities.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Swimwear: Bring at least one swimsuit and a towel for water activities.
Water Bottle: A durable water bottle for hydration throughout the day.
Flashlight: For evening activities and navigating the cabin area at night.
Hat and Sunglasses: Protection from the sun is crucial.
Medications: Clearly labeled and with instructions for camp health staff.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, the use of personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and gaming devices is restricted. Devices may be used at certain times and places specified by the camp.
Visitation: Parents are welcome to visit on designated days which will be communicated ahead of time. For the safety and security of all campers, all visitors must check in at the administration office upon arrival.
Behavioral Expectations: They emphasize respect, inclusivity, and cooperation. Bullying, aggressive behavior, and disrespect towards staff or fellow campers are not tolerated.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Emotional Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the fun and new experiences to look forward to. Address any anxieties and reassure your child that it’s normal to feel a bit nervous.
Practice Independence: Encourage your child to take on responsibilities at home, like packing their own bag or managing their hygiene routine, to build confidence.
Communication: Explain how you will communicate during their time at camp (e.g., letters, emails) and reassure them that they can talk to camp staff about any worries.
Set Goals: Help your child set personal goals for camp, whether it’s trying a new activity, making new friends, or learning a new skill.

By following these guidelines and preparations, campers and their parents can ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and enriching experience at Ponderosa Christian Camp.

Ponderosa Christian Camp offers a unique blend of spiritual growth, fun activities, and community building, all set in the stunning natural backdrop of Ponderosa, New Mexico. Their camp is dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing environment where children and teenagers can explore their faith, develop new skills, and make lifelong friendships. With its diverse programs, caring staff, and commitment to each camper’s well-being, Ponderosa Christian Camp is an ideal place for young people to grow both personally and spiritually.

They understand the importance of preparing both campers and their parents for the camp experience, which is why they provide detailed guidance on packing, rules, and tips for first-timers. By fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity and respect, and equipping their camp with the necessary safety and health facilities, they ensure a positive and enriching camp experience for all.