Nestled in the serene hills of Logan, Ohio, Camp Akita stands as a beacon of adventure and growth in the Hocking Hills region, near well-known natural landmarks like Old Man’s Cave and Cedar Falls. This camp, with its rich heritage, has been offering transformative experiences to young people for generations. Established with a vision to nurture and develop the potential of every camper, Camp Akita proudly upholds its mission to create a supportive community where children and teenagers can safely explore their interests and challenges.

Camp Akita is a facility that welcomes boys and girls across various age groups, typically from ages 8 to 18. Each program is thoughtfully designed to cater to the developmental needs and interests of different age groups, ensuring that every camper receives the right mix of fun, learning, and personal growth. Through their diverse range of activities and experienced staff, they commit to fostering an environment where campers can thrive both personally and socially, guided by their core philosophy of building character through adventure, reflection, and friendship.

Join us at Camp Akita, where every summer unfolds new stories, lifelong friendships are born, and the spirit of discovery is ignited in the heart of Ohio’s beautiful landscapes.

Programs Offered by Camp Akita

Camp Akita offers a variety of programs tailored to meet the diverse interests and developmental stages of its campers. Each program is designed to ensure that every camper enjoys a fulfilling and memorable experience.

Standard Camp Sessions

Length of Sessions: Camp Akita offers flexible session lengths, including one-week, two-week, and full summer options. This allows families to choose the duration that best fits their schedule and the camper’s comfort level.
Activities: The standard sessions encompass a broad range of activities from outdoor adventures like hiking and kayaking to creative arts and crafts. These sessions are structured to provide a balanced mix of physical activity, creativity, teamwork, and personal development.

Specialty Programs

Arts: For campers interested in the arts, Camp Akita provides specialized programs that focus on music, theater, and visual arts. These sessions are designed to nurture creativity and artistic skills through workshops and performances.
Sports: Sports enthusiasts can participate in specialized sports camps focusing on specific sports like soccer, basketball, or swimming. These programs emphasize skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Science: Camp Akita also offers science-oriented programs where campers can engage in hands-on activities related to environmental science, astronomy, and more. These sessions are designed to spark curiosity and a love for learning about the natural world.

Typical Daily Schedule

Morning: The day at Camp Akita starts with a morning assembly followed by group activities such as team sports or nature hikes. This is a time for energizing and setting the tone for the day.
Midday: After a nourishing lunch, campers often participate in educational workshops or specialty program activities, depending on their chosen track.
Afternoon: The afternoon might include free time where campers can choose from various activities, followed by more structured sessions like arts and crafts or science experiments.
Evening: Dinner in the communal dining hall is followed by evening activities such as campfires, storytelling, or talent shows. The day concludes with a reflective closing circle, where campers can share their experiences and learnings of the day.

Camp Akita’s programs are carefully crafted to promote a well-rounded experience, ensuring that every camper not only has fun but also learns and grows in a supportive community environment.

Accommodations in Camp Akita

Camp Akita ensures a comfortable and safe stay for all its campers through thoughtfully designed accommodations and facilities. Their aim is to create a home away from home where every camper can relax and recharge after a day full of activities.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers stay in cozy, well-maintained cabins that are nestled throughout the camp’s wooded landscape. Each cabin houses a small group of campers, typically 8-10, along with one or two counselors who ensure safety and provide guidance. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings, providing a rustic yet comfortable living experience.
Alternative Options: For specific programs or older age groups, there may be options to camp out in tents for part of the session, giving campers a chance to experience a more traditional form of outdoor living under the stars.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Akita offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three balanced meals per day, served in their communal dining hall. Meals are designed to be nutritious and energizing, catering to the needs of active children and teenagers.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining options, Camp Akita is committed to accommodating dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle special dietary requirements with the utmost care, ensuring that every camper enjoys safe and delicious meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathroom and shower facility, which is shared among the cabins in that cluster. These facilities are gender-separated and regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Accessibility: Facilities are designed to be accessible to all campers, including those with disabilities. Features like ramps and support bars are present where necessary to provide easy access and use.

At Camp Akita, the comfort and well-being of their campers are top priorities. They strive to provide a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment where every camper can thrive and focus on enjoying their summer experience.

Activities in Camp Akita

Camp Akita offers a rich and varied array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels. These activities are crafted to encourage personal growth, teamwork, and exploration in a fun and supportive environment.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps can participate in hiking, canoeing, zip-lining, and archery. These activities are guided by trained staff to ensure safety and to provide instruction in the fundamental skills required for each activity.
Water Sports: The camp features swimming, water polo, and kayaking in the camp’s private lake. Swimming lessons are also offered for all skill levels, ensuring every camper can enjoy water activities safely.
Creative Arts: Camp Akita encourages creativity with activities like pottery, painting, and crafting. Special workshops in photography and theater also allow campers to explore different forms of artistic expression.
Team Sports: Facilities are available for soccer, basketball, volleyball, and softball, promoting teamwork and healthy competition among campers.
Nature and Science: Programs include nature walks, stargazing, and environmental education, aiming to foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of the natural world.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend the camp sessions, fostering a sense of community and celebration.
Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings include storytelling, songs, and marshmallow roasting, creating lasting memories and a sense of camaraderie.
Theme Days: Special theme days, like Superhero Day or Backwards Day, add a fun and whimsical twist to the camp routine.
End-of-Session Talent Show: Campers have the opportunity to showcase their talents and new skills learned during their time at camp, celebrating everyone’s achievements.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs designed to develop skills in team management, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
Specialty Clinics: For those interested in honing specific skills, clinics in areas like advanced swimming techniques or wilderness survival are offered.
Personal Development Workshops: Workshops that focus on building confidence, resilience, and effective communication are part of the camp’s offerings, helping campers develop valuable life skills.

Camp Akita is dedicated to providing a diverse range of activities that not only entertain but also empower campers to develop new skills, make new friends, and return home with enriched experiences and personal growth.

The staff of Camp Akita

At Camp Akita, they pride themselves on having a dedicated, skilled, and caring staff team that is essential to creating a safe and enriching camp environment. They maintain high standards in hiring and training to ensure that every camper has a positive and supportive experience.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Akita adheres to a favorable staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that every camper receives ample attention and care. The typical ratio is one staff member for every five campers for younger groups and one staff member for every eight campers for older groups. This ratio helps maintain safety, provides personal guidance, and fosters a nurturing camp environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: They recruit staff from a variety of sources, including top universities, teacher recommendations, and through networks of former campers who return as staff. Potential staff members undergo a rigorous selection process.
Background Checks: Every staff member is required to pass comprehensive background checks, including criminal records and previous employment verifications.
Qualifications: Staff members typically have experience in education, child development, or a specific activity offered at the camp. Many are pursuing or have completed degrees in related fields, bringing a depth of knowledge and passion to their roles.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo an extensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and activity-specific skills.
Certifications: All staff members are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Instructors for specific activities, such as swimming or archery, hold additional certifications relevant to their areas of expertise (e.g., lifeguard certification, archery instructor certification).
Ongoing Development: Throughout the camp season, they also provide ongoing training and professional development opportunities to ensure that their staff remains at the forefront of best practices in camp education and safety.

The team at Camp Akita is deeply committed to providing a safe, fun, and educational environment where campers can learn and grow. They believe that their staff’s expertise and dedication are key to making their campers’ experience truly memorable.

Safety and Health in Camp Akita

Ensuring the safety and well-being of every camper is paramount at Camp Akita. They adhere to stringent safety protocols and maintain comprehensive health facilities to manage any situation that may arise during camp sessions.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Routine Practices: Camp Akita implements rigorous safety checks and balances, including daily safety briefings for staff and campers, regular equipment inspections, and enforced safety guidelines during all activities.
Activity-Specific Safety: Each activity offered at the camp comes with its own set of tailored safety protocols, which are strictly followed. For example, all water activities are supervised by certified lifeguards, and appropriate safety gear is mandatory for activities like archery and zip-lining.
Secure Campus: The camp maintains a secure environment with controlled access to ensure that only authorized personnel and campers are on the premises. All visitors are required to check in and are escorted while on the property.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Akita is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by licensed medical professionals, including nurses and a part-time doctor. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with necessary medical supplies.
Availability: The health center is open 24/7 during camp sessions, ensuring that medical care is available at all times. In addition, all camp staff are trained to recognize health issues and are instructed on how to get quick medical attention for campers.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Akita has a well-defined emergency response plan that includes protocols for various potential emergencies, such as severe weather, health emergencies, and fire. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated.
Training: All staff undergo emergency response training, including evacuation drills, handling of fire safety equipment, and first responder actions in medical emergencies.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, Camp Akita has protocols in place to ensure timely communication with local emergency services and parents. They maintain updated contact information for all campers’ families and have a clear chain of command for decision-making and outreach.

Camp Akita’s commitment to safety and health is designed to ensure that parents feel confident about the care and supervision their children receive while at camp. Their goal is to create a safe haven where campers can enjoy their activities and experiences worry-free.

Cost and Registration in Camp Akita

Camp Akita aims to provide an accessible, enriching summer experience for children and teenagers. Understanding the financial aspect of this experience is crucial for families planning their summer activities.

Cost of Attendance

Fees: The cost of attending Camp Akita varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Generally, fees range from $500 for one-week sessions to $1,500 for two-week sessions, with full summer options available at a higher rate.
What’s Included: Fees cover all aspects of the camp experience, including lodging, all meals, activities, equipment use, and supervision by trained staff. Additional costs might include optional spending money for snacks and camp merchandise, or special outing fees.

Registration Process and Deadlines

How to Register: Registration can be completed online through the Camp Akita. The process includes filling out camper information, selecting session dates and programs, and submitting medical forms.
Deadlines: Early registration typically opens in January and runs through March, offering a discount for early commitments. Regular registration extends until sessions are full, with final deadlines usually set for one month before the start of each session.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Recognizing the financial burden that summer camps can represent, Camp Akita offers flexible payment plans that allow families to spread the cost over several months.
Refunds: Full refunds are available until a month before the session start date, minus a non-refundable deposit. Partial refunds may be considered on a case-by-case basis after this date in the event of extenuating circumstances, such as medical issues.
Cancellation Policy: In case of cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances like extreme weather, families are typically offered either a full refund or the option to transfer registration to a later session or the following summer.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Akita provides a number of need-based scholarships each year to help cover the costs for families in financial need. These scholarships can cover partial or full fees depending on the family’s situation.
Financial Aid Application: Families interested in applying for financial aid can do so through a separate application process, which requires documentation of financial need. The camp encourages early application to increase the chances of receiving aid, as funds are limited.

Camp Akita is committed to making its programs accessible to as many children as possible, believing that every child deserves the joy and learning that a summer camp experience can bring.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Akita

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. Camp Akita offers guidelines to ensure that every camper is well-prepared and that parents feel secure about their child’s upcoming camp experience.

Packing List

To help campers have a comfortable and enjoyable time at Camp Akita, They recommend packing the following items:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing including t-shirts, shorts, long pants, and a jacket. Don’t forget swimwear, a hat, and sturdy footwear for hiking.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Personal Items: Towels, sunscreen, insect repellent, toiletries.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a small backpack for day trips.
Special Gear: Any specific items required for specialty camps, such as musical instruments or sports equipment.

All items should be clearly labeled with the camper’s name to prevent loss.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, Camp Akita has a no-technology policy for campers, which includes cell phones, tablets, and laptops. This helps campers to disconnect from screens and enjoy a full, immersive camp experience.
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 without disruptions.
General Conduct: Camp Akita promotes a respectful and inclusive environment. Bullying, discriminatory behavior, and non-consensual physical contact are strictly prohibited.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Be open to making new friends and trying new activities.
- Remember that it’s okay to feel homesick; it’s normal and part of the experience for many.
- Participate fully and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.
For Parents:
- Discuss what to expect at camp with your child to help ease any anxieties.
- Write letters or prepare pre-written notes for your child to read while at camp.
- Trust the camp staff and resist the urge to check in frequently, which can inhibit your child’s adjustment and independence.

Preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable camp experience for both first-time and returning campers. Camp Akita’s staff are also always available to answer any questions or concerns that parents or campers may have before their arrival.

Camp Akita stands out as a place where fun meets learning and adventure intersects with personal growth. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Logan, Ohio, the camp offers a unique environment where children and teenagers can thrive under the guidance of dedicated staff, engage in a plethora of activities tailored to various interests and abilities, and forge lasting friendships.

At Camp Akita, the emphasis on safety, comprehensive preparation, and a nurturing community ensures that every camper’s experience is not just enjoyable but also enriching. The camp’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive atmosphere allows each camper to explore their potential, develop new skills, and build confidence in a safe and encouraging setting.