Welcome to Camp Asbury, a nurturing retreat located in the serene surroundings of Hiram, Ohio. Nestled in the lush landscape of this peaceful region, the camp is conveniently situated near prominent landmarks such as Hiram College and the scenic Cuyahoga River, providing an idyllic setting for campers to explore and grow.

Since its inception, Camp Asbury has been dedicated to offering transformative experiences that foster personal growth and community building. With a rich history of bringing young people together in a supportive environment, the camp continues to uphold its mission: to cultivate skills, promote understanding among diverse groups, and nurture leaders who are prepared to make positive contributions to the world.

Camp Asbury is a facility that welcomes boys and girls across various age groups. Designed to cater to different developmental stages, the programs are tailored to meet the needs and interests of each age group, ensuring a supportive, fun, and enriching experience for all campers.

Whether through team-building activities, outdoor adventures, or creative arts, Camp Asbury encourages each camper to discover their potential, embrace challenges, and build lasting friendships. Here, every camper finds a place to belong, learn, and thrive amidst the natural beauty of Hiram, Ohio.

Programs Offered by Camp Asbury

Camp Asbury offers a variety of engaging programs designed to enrich the lives of its campers through immersive and diverse experiences. These programs range in length from one-week sessions to full summer engagements, allowing families to choose the best fit for their schedules and the interests of their children.

Programs Offered:

Adventure Camps: These camps are perfect for those who love the outdoors and seek adventure. Activities include hiking, canoeing, and wilderness survival skills. Sessions typically last one to two weeks, immersing campers in nature and outdoor challenges.
Arts Camps: For the creatively inclined, art camps foster skills in painting, sculpting, and performance arts. These one-week sessions encourage artistic expression and creativity through guided projects and workshops.
Sports Camps: Focused on physical health and teamwork, sports camps offer a range of activities from soccer and basketball to swimming and archery. These camps are great for building physical fitness and sportsmanship over one or two-week sessions.
Science and Nature Camps: These educational camps are designed to engage curious minds through experiments, nature walks, and hands-on environmental studies. Lasting from one to two weeks, they provide a deep dive into various scientific topics.

Specialty Programs:

Leadership Development: Aimed at older campers, these programs focus on developing leadership skills through team-leading activities, problem-solving sessions, and group projects.
Music and Theater: These specialty camps nurture performing arts talents in a supportive environment where campers can act, sing, and play instruments.
Equestrian Program: For those interested in horseback riding, this program offers both riding lessons and horse care education.

Typical Daily Schedule:

7:30 AM – Wake up and morning exercises
8:00 AM – Breakfast
9:00 AM – Morning session (activity specific to camp type)
12:00 PM – Lunch
1:00 PM – Rest hour/free time
2:00 PM – Afternoon session (continuation of morning activities or new activities)
5:00 PM – Free time or optional activities
6:00 PM – Dinner
7:00 PM – Evening activities (campfires, night hikes, talent shows)
9:00 PM – Campers begin to get ready for bed
10:00 PM – Lights out

Each day at Camp Asbury is structured to balance active engagement with ample time for rest and socialization, ensuring that campers enjoy a holistic and enriching summer experience.

Accommodations in Camp Asbury

At Camp Asbury, the accommodations are thoughtfully designed to ensure that campers feel comfortable and safe during their stay, promoting an environment where they can thrive and focus on their growth and enjoyment.

Sleeping Arrangements:

Camp Asbury offers various types of sleeping accommodations, primarily focusing on cabin living to enhance the communal and team-building experiences:

Cabins: The camp features rustic yet comfortable cabins that house 8-12 campers each, along with 1-2 counselors. These cabins are grouped by age and gender to foster a supportive community. They are equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal items, providing a cozy living arrangement for the duration of the camp.
Tents: For specific adventure programs, there may be opportunities to sleep in tents. This is typically part of the wilderness or adventure sessions, giving campers a true outdoor experience under the stars.

Dining Options:

Nutrition is a priority at Camp Asbury, with a dining hall that serves a variety of healthy and tasty meals to accommodate the energy needs of active campers.

Meal Plans: Campers enjoy three well-balanced meals per day, along with snacks. The menu is designed to be kid-friendly and nutritious, providing the fuel needed for a busy day of activities.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of dietary needs, Camp Asbury offers options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific dietary restrictions such as gluten-free or lactose-free diets. Parents can discuss their child’s dietary needs prior to arrival to ensure that appropriate accommodations are made.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Proper sanitation facilities are essential for a comfortable camp experience.

Shared Facilities: Each cabin group has access to modern bathroom and shower facilities located conveniently near their cabins. These facilities are separated by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Privacy and Safety: Privacy is a priority in the design of these facilities, with individual stalls and showers that ensure campers feel secure and respected.

Overall, Camp Asbury strives to provide a home away from home where campers can relax, refresh, and recharge after a day full of activities. The accommodations and facilities are all part of the camp’s commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for all campers.

Activities in Camp Asbury

Camp Asbury is rich in activities and experiences, designed to cater to a wide range of interests and skills. This diversity ensures that every camper finds something that excites and challenges them, fostering personal growth and a love for the outdoors and creativity.

List of Activities Offered:

Swimming: Summer camps can enjoy both instructional swimming and free swim periods in the camp’s pool, supervised by certified lifeguards.
Hiking: Exploring the natural trails around the camp, campers learn about local flora and fauna and develop an appreciation for nature.
Crafts: A variety of arts and crafts activities are available, allowing campers to express themselves creatively through painting, beadwork, pottery, and more.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water sports on the camp’s lake teach basic paddling techniques and water safety.
Archery: Campers can learn archery skills under the guidance of experienced instructors, focusing on safety and technique.
Team Sports: Sports like soccer, basketball, and volleyball are popular, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
Ropes Course: This includes both low and high elements, building confidence and problem-solving skills through challenging but fun activities.
Drama and Music: These programs encourage campers to perform and explore different aspects of the performing arts.

Special Events or Traditions:

Camp Asbury hosts several special events and traditions that become highlights of the camp experience, such as:

Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings include singing, storytelling, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.
End-of-Summer Carnival: A festive event with games, prizes, and food, celebrating the achievements of campers throughout the summer.
Talent Shows: Campers get a chance to showcase their talents to their peers, whether it’s playing a musical instrument, dancing, or performing a skit.

Skill Development Opportunities:

The activities at Camp Asbury are not only fun but also designed to help campers develop various skills:

Leadership Skills: Through team sports and group activities, campers learn about leadership and teamwork.
Creative Skills: Arts and crafts, drama, and music programs help campers explore and enhance their creative talents.
Environmental Awareness: Activities like hiking and nature walks are accompanied by education on environmental conservation and sustainability.
Physical Fitness: With a wide range of physical activities, campers improve their physical health and learn about the importance of staying active.

Through these activities, special events, and skill development opportunities, Camp Asbury provides a comprehensive and enriching environment that encourages children to learn, grow, and most importantly, have fun.

The staff of Camp Asbury

Camp Asbury is committed to providing a safe, educational, and fun environment for all campers, and this commitment is reflected in the meticulous attention to the recruitment, training, and management of its staff.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

Camp Asbury maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and supervision. The ratio is typically around 1:8, allowing staff to effectively oversee and engage with campers in both small group activities and larger camp gatherings. This ratio ensures that each camper receives the guidance and support they need to thrive at camp.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

The hiring process at Camp Asbury is rigorous and designed to select individuals who are not only skilled but also passionate about working with children and youth. Here are the key aspects of the hiring process:

Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks are conducted to ensure the safety of all campers. This includes checks for criminal records and any history of misconduct.
Interviews: Potential staff members undergo multiple rounds of interviews to assess their experience, skills, and suitability for the camp environment.
References: References are checked to confirm candidates’ past work experience, especially in roles involving children.

Training and Certifications:

Once hired, staff members at Camp Asbury are required to undergo extensive training before the camp season begins. This training covers a range of topics and skills:

CPR and First Aid: All staff members must be certified in CPR and First Aid to respond effectively to any health emergencies that may arise.
Child Safety: Training on child safety protocols is mandatory, ensuring all staff are equipped to maintain a safe environment.
Activity-Specific Training: Depending on their roles, staff receive specific training in areas such as swimming, archery, and ropes courses to ensure they can properly instruct and safeguard campers.
Behavior Management: Staff are trained in managing a variety of behavioral issues and in fostering a positive and inclusive camp culture.

Ongoing Professional Development:

Camp Asbury also provides ongoing training and professional development throughout the camp season to ensure staff skills and knowledge are up-to-date. This includes regular reviews and feedback sessions, opportunities for additional certifications, and updates on child development and group dynamics.

By investing heavily in the quality and preparation of its staff, Camp Asbury ensures that every camper enjoys a supportive, enriching, and safe experience under the supervision of highly qualified and dedicated professionals.

Safety and Health in Camp Asbury

Camp Asbury is deeply committed to the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing robust protocols and maintaining comprehensive facilities to ensure a secure and supportive environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Safety at Camp Asbury is prioritized with detailed protocols and procedures designed to prevent incidents and respond effectively if they occur. Here are some of the key safety measures in place:

Regular Safety Drills: Campers and staff participate in regular drills, including fire drills and emergency evacuation procedures, to ensure everyone knows how to respond in different emergency situations.
Activity-Specific Safety Rules: Each activity offered at the camp, especially those involving physical exertion or specialized equipment like swimming, archery, or climbing, has its own set of strict safety guidelines which are rigorously enforced.
Secure Campgrounds: The campgrounds are secured and monitored to ensure only authorized personnel and campers are on-site. Checkpoints and staff monitoring help maintain a secure perimeter.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff:

To address health care needs swiftly and effectively, Camp Asbury maintains well-equipped on-site health facilities:

Health Center: The camp has a dedicated health center staffed by qualified medical personnel, including nurses and, at times, a visiting doctor. The center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with the necessary medications and first aid supplies.
24/7 Availability: Medical staff are available around the clock to ensure that health care is accessible at all times, whether for emergencies or routine care.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Camp Asbury has a comprehensive emergency response plan that outlines the procedures for various potential scenarios, including health emergencies, natural disasters, and other urgent situations:

Immediate Response: In the event of an emergency, trained staff are prepared to respond immediately. This includes administering first aid, contacting emergency services, and executing evacuation protocols if necessary.
Communication with Families: The camp has a policy to promptly communicate with the families of campers involved in any emergency situations. A clear chain of command and communication ensures that information is relayed accurately and swiftly.
Coordination with Local Authorities: Camp Asbury maintains strong relationships with local emergency services, including hospitals, fire departments, and police. These relationships ensure a quick response and additional support during major emergencies.

Camp Asbury’s approach to safety and health is comprehensive and proactive, aiming not just to respond to potential issues but to prevent them wherever possible. This commitment helps create a safe, healthy, and enjoyable camping experience for every participant.

Cost and Registration in Camp Asbury

Camp Asbury strives to make its enriching camp experience accessible and affordable, providing detailed information on costs, registration processes, and financial assistance options.

Cost of Attendance:

The cost of attending Camp Asbury varies depending on the length and type of camp session chosen. Typically, fees cover:

Accommodations: Lodging in cabins or tents, depending on the program.
Meals: Three meals per day, plus snacks.
Activities: Access to all camp activities and equipment.
Supervision and Care: Comprehensive care from trained staff members.
Health Services: Basic medical services at the on-site health center.

Prices typically range from $494 for a 6-day session.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Registration for Camp Asbury is conducted online through the camp’s official website. The process typically involves:

Filling out Registration Forms: Parents or guardians need to complete detailed forms providing camper information, health data, and emergency contact details.
Selecting Sessions: Families can choose from available sessions based on the camper’s age and interest.
Submitting a Deposit: A deposit is usually required to secure a spot, with the remainder of the fee due by a specified deadline before the camp session begins.

Deadlines for registration are set for each camp season, and early registration is encouraged as spots fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

To accommodate different family needs, Camp Asbury offers several payment options:

Payment Plans: Families can opt for installment payments to spread the cost of camp over several months.
Refunds: The camp has a structured refund policy which typically allows for full or partial refunds up to a certain date, beyond which refunds may not be available or may be reduced by the amount of the deposit.
Cancellation Policy: In case of cancellation, families are advised to notify the camp as soon as possible. Refunds or credits for future camp sessions may be available depending on the timing of the cancellation.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Understanding that the cost of camp can be a burden for some families, Camp Asbury offers scholarships and financial aid options:

Needs-Based Scholarships: These are available to families who demonstrate financial need. Applications require documentation of income and a written statement.
Special Grants: Occasionally, grants for specific groups of campers, such as those from military families or those with special needs, are available.
Payment Assistance: In some cases, the camp may work with families to create customized payment arrangements to make attendance possible.

Camp Asbury is committed to inclusivity and works hard to ensure that no camper is turned away due to financial constraints, promoting a diverse and dynamic camp community.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Asbury

Camp Asbury aims to ensure that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the camp experience, providing detailed guidelines on packing, rules, and helpful tips for first-time participants.

Packing List:

To help campers have a comfortable and enjoyable time, Camp Asbury recommends the following essential items for packing:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing, including t-shirts, shorts, pants, and sweatshirts. It’s wise to pack for both warm days and cooler evenings.
Footwear: Durable sneakers, hiking boots, and sandals (preferably with a back strap).
Rain Gear: A waterproof jacket and rain boots to stay dry during wet weather.
Swimwear: At least two swimsuits for aquatic activities.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Flashlight: With extra batteries.
Water Bottle: Durable and refillable to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Hats and Sunglasses: For sun protection.

Rules and Policies:

Camp Asbury has established a set of rules and policies to maintain a safe and respectful environment:

Technology Use: To encourage engagement and interaction, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is restricted. Devices may be used during designated times and areas if permitted by the camp directors.
Visitation: Parents are generally encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to help maintain the camp schedule and dynamics.
Behavior: Respectful behavior is expected at all times, with strict policies against bullying and discrimination.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

For those new to the camp experience, here are some tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable transition:

Familiarize with the Camp: Review the camp’s website and materials together to familiarize both the camper and parents with the camp’s layout, activities, and schedule.
Discuss Expectations: Talk about what to expect at camp, including the fun activities and the potential for homesickness, and discuss ways to cope.
Pack Together: Involve campers in the packing process to ensure they know what they’re bringing and to make them feel more prepared and confident.
Set Communication Guidelines: Understand the camp’s communication policies and discuss how often and by what means you will communicate.

By providing clear guidelines and supportive tips, Camp Asbury helps ensure that both parents and campers are well-prepared for an exciting and rewarding summer camp experience.

Camp Asbury in Hiram, Ohio, offers a vibrant and nurturing environment where campers can explore a wide range of activities, develop new skills, and form lasting friendships. With a focus on safety, personal growth, and community, Camp Asbury is dedicated to providing a memorable summer experience that fosters independence and character development in a fun and supportive setting.

The camp’s commitment to quality, inclusivity, and accessibility is evident in its comprehensive programs, skilled staff, and robust facilities, making it a premier destination for young adventurers. Whether a first-timer or a seasoned camper, each child leaves Camp Asbury with enriched memories, enhanced skills, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the diverse people in it.