Nestled in the heart of Sulphur, Oklahoma, near the stunning Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Goddard Youth Camp offers a unique blend of education, adventure, and personal growth. This scenic camp, surrounded by natural beauty and notable landmarks like the Lake of the Arbuckles, provides an ideal backdrop for children and teens to explore the great outdoors.

Founded with a vision to enrich young lives, Goddard Youth Camp has a rich history of fostering environmental stewardship and a love for learning through hands-on experiences. The camp’s mission is to empower youth by providing exceptional outdoor educational experiences that instill a deeper understanding of the natural world and inspire a lifelong commitment to conservation.

Goddard Youth Camp is designed to cater to boys and girls across various age groups. Through a carefully structured program that includes both educational and recreational activities, the camp aims to nurture each camper’s individual strengths and potential, ensuring a balanced development in a fun, safe, and supportive environment.

Join us at Goddard Youth Camp for an unforgettable experience where education meets adventure, and lifelong memories are made amidst Oklahoma’s breathtaking landscapes.

Programs Offered by Goddard Youth Camp

Goddard Youth Camp provides a variety of programs designed to engage and educate young campers through immersive experiences. Here’s an overview of the programs available:

General Outdoor Education Program:
- Duration: Sessions vary from one to two weeks.
- Activities: This program covers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, wildlife watching, and environmental education. It’s designed to give campers a comprehensive experience of nature and outdoor skills.
Specialty Programs:
- Arts: This program focuses on creative expressions such as painting, photography, and crafts, using nature as both the medium and the inspiration. Sessions typically last one week.
- Sports: Tailored for the active and adventurous, this program includes activities like archery, canoeing, and team sports. It aims to build physical fitness and team cooperation over one to two-week sessions.
- Science Exploration: Dive into the wonders of science with this specialty program. Campers can engage in hands-on experiments and learn about local ecosystems, astronomy, and more. These sessions are usually structured around specific scientific themes and last for two weeks.
Leadership Development Program:
- Duration: This intensive program runs for up to three weeks, aiming to develop leadership skills through advanced camp activities and responsibilities.
- Focus: Older campers are prepared for leadership roles both within and outside the camp setting, focusing on teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making.

Typical Daily Schedule:

Morning:
- 7:00 AM – Wake up and personal time
- 8:00 AM – Breakfast
- 9:00 AM – Morning activity session (rotates between educational workshops, hiking, or specialty program activities)
Afternoon:
- 12:00 PM – Lunch
- 1:00 PM – Rest period
- 2:00 PM – Afternoon activity session (continuation of morning programs or switch to a different specialty)
- 5:00 PM – Free time and informal play
Evening:
- 6:00 PM – Dinner
- 7:00 PM – Evening group activity (campfires, storytelling, star gazing)
- 9:00 PM – Cabin time, where campers can reflect on the day, bond with peers, and prepare for bed
Night:
- 10:00 PM – Lights out

Each day is structured to balance educational content, physical activity, and free time, ensuring that campers remain engaged and energized throughout their stay.

Accommodations in Goddard Youth Camp

Sleeping Arrangements At Goddard Youth Camp, the primary accommodation for campers is rustic cabins designed to blend into the surrounding natural environment. These cabins provide a comfortable and safe living space, allowing campers to experience the outdoors while enjoying the comforts of home. Each cabin houses between 8 to 12 campers, along with one or two counselors who ensure safety and provide guidance. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and electricity.

For those seeking a more traditional camping experience, there are also designated areas for tent camping. This option is typically available for special programs and older age groups, offering a perfect opportunity for campers to learn fundamental camping skills like tent setup and outdoor cooking.

Dining Options Goddard Youth Camp is committed to providing nutritious and enjoyable meals to keep campers energized throughout their busy days. The camp offers a full meal plan that includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, served in a communal dining hall. Meals are prepared by experienced staff, focusing on healthy and balanced options.

Meal Variety: The menu varies daily, incorporating a range of foods to cater to different tastes and ensure nutritional balance. Common meals include pancakes or eggs for breakfast, sandwiches or wraps for lunch, and pasta or grilled chicken for dinner.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of accommodating all campers, Goddard Youth Camp is happy to provide options for those with dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive meals. Parents can discuss their child’s dietary needs during registration to ensure these are met throughout their stay.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities, strategically located near the cabins and common areas for easy access. These facilities are separated by gender and are maintained multiple times a day to ensure cleanliness and hygiene. Each bathroom unit includes multiple stalls and sinks to accommodate several campers at once, reducing wait times during peak periods. Shower areas provide private stalls, with hot and cold water available, ensuring that campers can comfortably maintain their personal hygiene.

Goddard Youth Camp strives to make the stay as comfortable and accommodating as possible, ensuring that all campers have a memorable and enjoyable outdoor experience.

Activities in Goddard Youth Camp

Goddard Youth Camp offers a diverse range of activities designed to engage campers in both fun and educational ways. Here’s a detailed look at what campers can expect:

List of Activities Offered:

Swimming: The camp features a lake where campers can enjoy supervised swimming sessions, learning basic swimming skills and safety measures.
Hiking: With trails that run through the nearby Chickasaw National Recreation Area, hiking is a major activity. These trails offer varying levels of difficulty and provide great opportunities for wildlife observation and nature photography.
Crafts: Arts and crafts sessions are held regularly, allowing campers to express their creativity using natural materials found around the camp.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water sports are a highlight at the camp, with canoeing and kayaking on the lake teaching campers paddling techniques and water safety.
Archery: Summer camps can teach archery under the guidance of certified instructors, focusing on technique, safety, and precision.
Environmental Education: Special workshops and activities are dedicated to learning about local flora and fauna, conservation efforts, and the impact of humans on nature.
Team Sports: Facilities are available for soccer, basketball, and volleyball, encouraging teamwork and healthy competition.

Special Events or Traditions:

Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings include storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and tradition.
End-of-Camp Gala: On the last night of each session, a gala is held where campers can showcase their talents, share their experiences, and celebrate their achievements.
Nature Scavenger Hunts: These are organized to explore the campgrounds and learn about the ecosystem in a fun, interactive way.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Skills: Older campers can participate in leadership programs that involve planning activities, mentoring younger campers, and leading small groups.
Survival Skills Workshops: These workshops teach basic survival skills such as building a fire, finding safe drinking water, and constructing shelters.
Creative Workshops: Beyond traditional crafts, these workshops might include activities like creative writing, theater, or digital photography, encouraging campers to explore and develop new skills.

At Goddard Youth Camp, activities are designed not just for fun, but also to instill a deeper appreciation for nature, develop personal and social skills, and encourage a healthy lifestyle. Each activity is tailored to be age-appropriate and is conducted under the supervision of trained staff to ensure safety and a positive experience for all campers.

The staff of Goddard Youth Camp

The staff at Goddard Youth Camp are crucial to providing a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers. Here’s an overview of the staff structure, hiring standards, and training:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio: Goddard Youth Camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and support. Typically, the camp operates with a ratio of one staff member to every six campers. This ratio allows staff to effectively monitor and engage with campers, ensuring a safe environment and allowing for personalized interaction and guidance.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Recruitment: The camp recruits staff from a variety of sources, including local universities, teaching colleges, and outdoor recreation programs. Many staff members are often returning individuals who have previously excelled in their roles.
Qualifications: Candidates must have a strong background in education, child development, or a related field, as well as experience in camping and outdoor activities. Preference is given to applicants who have prior experience working with children in similar settings.
Background Checks: All potential hires undergo thorough background checks, including criminal records and previous employment verifications, to ensure the safety and well-being of campers.

Training and Certifications:

Orientation and Training: Before the commencement of camp, all staff undergo a comprehensive training program. This includes orientation on camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and activity-specific training.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Regular refresher courses are also mandated to keep these certifications current.
Specialized Certifications: Depending on their roles, some staff may also hold additional certifications such as lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, or specific activity instructor certifications (e.g., archery, boating).

Continued Education and Development: To maintain a high standard of care and expertise, Goddard Youth Camp encourages and often sponsors further education and professional development for its staff. This could include advanced safety courses, child psychology seminars, and leadership training.

By ensuring that the camp staff are well-qualified, properly trained, and dedicated to the camp’s mission, Goddard Youth Camp fosters a nurturing and stimulating environment where children can safely enjoy their camp experience.

Safety and Health in Goddard Youth Camp

At Goddard Youth Camp, the safety and well-being of all campers and staff are paramount. The camp has established comprehensive safety protocols and health policies to ensure a secure environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Activity Safety: Each activity at the camp is guided by strict safety protocols, which include proper gear, expert supervision, and safety briefings before any activity begins. For example, all water activities are supervised by lifeguards, and equipment used for sports and adventure activities meets all safety standards.
Emergency Drills: Regularly scheduled drills ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures in the event of fire, severe weather, or other emergencies. This preparation helps everyone respond calmly and efficiently in case of a real emergency.
Secure Environment: The campgrounds are monitored to ensure that only authorized persons are present on-site. The entrance is staffed, and there are periodic checks around the camp’s perimeter.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Goddard Youth Camp has an on-site health center staffed by qualified health care providers, including nurses and a visiting physician. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is prepared to stabilize more serious conditions before transferring to a hospital.
Medication Management: The health center staff manage and administer medications as prescribed to campers, ensuring that health records are kept confidential and secure.
Health Screenings: Upon arrival, all campers undergo a basic health screening to identify any potential health issues that could impact their camp experience.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Immediate Response: In case of an emergency, camp staff are trained to respond immediately. The camp has protocols in place for rapid assessment and intervention.
Communication: Parents are informed of any emergencies or incidents involving their children as soon as possible. The camp maintains updated contact information for this purpose.
Transportation: For emergencies requiring hospital care, the camp has vehicles ready to transport individuals quickly to the nearest medical facility. Agreements are in place with local emergency services to ensure prompt assistance.
Evacuation Plan: The camp has a well-defined evacuation plan for scenarios that might require it, such as natural disasters or threats to safety. This plan includes safe routes and gathering points, and is regularly reviewed and practiced.

Goddard Youth Camp takes a proactive approach to safety and health, constantly updating and refining its policies and procedures based on best practices and feedback from health and safety experts. This commitment ensures a safe, healthy, and enjoyable environment for all campers and staff.

Cost and Registration in Goddard Youth Camp

Understanding the cost and registration details is essential for families considering Goddard Youth Camp. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements:

Cost of Attendance: The cost of attending Goddard Youth Camp varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Generally, costs cover:

All meals and accommodations
Full access to camp facilities and activities
Supervision and educational programming by trained staff
Basic medical care at the on-site health center

Typically, the cost for a one-week session ranges from $600 to $800, while two-week sessions may cost between $1,100 and $1,500. Specialty programs or sessions with unique activities may have additional fees.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Online Registration: Parents can register their children through the camp’s. The registration process includes filling out camper details, health information, and emergency contact forms.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months before the start of the summer season, with deadlines set around one month before each session begins. Early registration is encouraged as spaces are limited and tend to fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: The camp offers flexible payment plans that allow families to pay in installments leading up to the camp session. Details and schedules for these plans can be negotiated during the registration process.
Refunds and Cancellation: If a cancellation is made before a specific cutoff date (usually one month before the session starts), a full or partial refund may be offered. Refunds generally exclude a non-refundable deposit. Post-cutoff date cancellations might not be eligible for refunds, depending on the camp’s policies.
Insurance: Families are encouraged to purchase cancellation insurance to cover unexpected circumstances that prevent attendance after the refund cutoff date.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Goddard Youth Camp offers a limited number of scholarships each year to families needing financial assistance. These scholarships can cover part or all of the camp fees.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available based on a family’s financial situation. Applications for financial aid require documentation of income and a written statement of need.

Goddard Youth Camp strives to make its programs accessible to as many young people as possible through transparent costs, straightforward registration, and support for families needing financial assistance. This approach ensures a diverse group of campers can benefit from the enriching camp experience.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Goddard Youth Camp

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To help ensure that everyone is ready for a fantastic camp experience, here’s a guide on what to pack, understand the rules and policies, and some tips for first-timers.

Packing List:

Clothing: Pack enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for the session duration, including t-shirts, shorts, long pants, and layers for cooler evenings. Include a rain jacket, swimwear, and a sturdy pair of hiking boots or shoes.
Bedding and Towels: Bring a sleeping bag or bedding suitable for a twin bed, a pillow, and towels for both swimming and showering.
Toiletries: Essential toiletries include toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Miscellaneous Gear: A flashlight or headlamp, a water bottle, hats for sun protection, and sunglasses.
Optional Items: Books, journals, or any small personal items that will help the camper feel more at home.
Medications: Any necessary medications must be clearly labeled and information provided during registration for proper administration.

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and connection with the environment and each other, personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are typically not allowed. Cameras for photography may be permitted.
Visitation: Parents and family members are generally discouraged from visiting during camp sessions to help campers gain independence and fully engage in the camp experience. Special family days might be organized to visit and participate in activities.
Behavior: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules, respect fellow campers, staff, and the environment. Failure to adhere to these rules can result in disciplinary actions or, in severe cases, dismissal from camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

Preparation: Discuss what the camp will be like, focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities to make new friends. This can help alleviate any anxiety.
Communication: Understand the camp’s communication policy, including how often and through what means you can expect updates about your child.
Homesickness: Prepare your child for potential homesickness by encouraging them to bring a personal item from home and discussing strategies to manage their feelings, such as staying active and talking to camp staff.
Independence: Encourage your child’s independence at home by practicing self-care skills, such as packing their own bag and managing their daily hygiene.

By adequately preparing and understanding the expectations of Goddard Youth Camp, parents can help ensure their child has a rewarding and memorable experience.

Goddard Youth Camp in Sulphur, Oklahoma, is more than just a summer destination; it’s a place where adventure, learning, and personal growth come together to create lifelong memories. With a backdrop of natural beauty, a diverse array of programs, and comprehensive safety and health protocols, the camp provides a nurturing environment where children can explore their interests, develop new skills, and build confidence.

The camp’s commitment to maintaining a low staff-to-camper ratio ensures personalized attention, while its robust selection of activities—from swimming and hiking to crafts and science workshops—caters to a wide range of interests and talents. The staff, carefully chosen for their expertise and dedication, are trained to provide not only fun and education but also emotional support and guidance.