Nestled in the lush landscapes of Lebanon, Oregon, Camp Tadmor is not just a location, but a landmark in the hearts of many who have passed through its gates. Positioned within the serene Willamette Valley and surrounded by the majestic beauty of native forests, this camp serves as a beacon of adventure and spiritual growth.
Established with a vision to create a transformative environment, Camp Tadmor has been a home away from home for countless campers since its inception. With a rich history rooted in community and faith, the camp has grown to become a cherished site where memories are made and life lessons are learned.
At the heart of Camp Tadmor’s philosophy lies its mission: to provide a nurturing setting that fosters personal growth and spiritual development. Their commitment is to offer an experience that enriches lives, instills values, and builds character, all within a safe and welcoming environment.
Camp Tadmor is a dynamic camp catering to boys and girls across various age groups. Each session is designed to meet the needs of different age brackets, ensuring a tailored and impactful experience for everyone from young children to teenagers.
Join us at Camp Tadmor, where every campfire lights the path to discovery and every trail leads to new horizons.
Programs Offered by Camp Tadmor
At Camp Tadmor, their programs are designed to provide enriching experiences that cater to a wide range of interests and ages, fostering personal growth, skill development, and community building. Here’s a look at what they offer:
1. Session Lengths:
- Explorer Camps: These are one-week sessions tailored for younger campers, introducing them to the joys of camp life through guided activities and supervised exploration.
- Adventure Camps: Designed for older children and teens, these two-week sessions delve deeper into skill development and personal challenges, offering more intensive community-building experiences.
- Leadership Development: For those interested in extending their stay, they offer a full summer program focused on leadership training and personal development.
2. Specialty Programs:
- Arts: Their arts program includes workshops in visual arts, music, and drama, encouraging campers to explore their creativity and express themselves in a supportive environment.
- Sports: Camp Tadmor offers a variety of sports programs, from traditional team sports like soccer and basketball to individual activities such as archery and rock climbing.
- Science and Nature: They provide hands-on science and nature programs that encourage curiosity and learning about the environment through activities like forest hikes, wildlife studies, and ecological conservation projects.
3. Typical Daily Schedule:
- Morning:
- Wake-up and morning reflections
- Breakfast
- Activity Session 1 (e.g., arts and crafts or sports)
- Midday:
- Lunch
- Quiet time/Rest
- Activity Session 2 (e.g., nature hike or science workshop)
- Afternoon:
- Free time (camper’s choice of activity)
- Afternoon snack
- Activity Session 3 (e.g., swimming or team-building games)
- Evening:
- Dinner
- Evening program (campfire, storytelling, talent show)
- Reflections and night-time activities
Each day at Camp Tadmor is structured to balance fun with educational experiences, physical activity with rest, and individual exploration with community interaction, ensuring that every camper has a memorable and transformative summer.
Accommodations in Camp Tadmor
Camp Tadmor offers a variety of accommodations designed to enhance the camping experience while providing comfort and safety. Here’s what you can expect during your stay:
1. Sleeping Arrangements:
- Cabins: Their cabins are the primary accommodation option, perfect for younger and first-time campers. Each cabin houses 8-12 campers and is equipped with bunk beds and storage space. They are strategically placed to offer both privacy and easy access to the camp’s main facilities.
- Tents: For a more adventurous experience, older campers have the option to stay in tents. This allows for a more immersive nature experience. Tents are set up in designated areas that are secure and monitored.
- Dormitories: Available primarily for larger groups or special events, their dorm-style accommodations provide a communal living experience with shared sleeping quarters and ample communal spaces for activities and relaxation.
2. Dining Options:
- Meal Plans: Camp Tadmor offers full meal plans that include breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Meals are served in the communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and share their day’s experiences.
- Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining, they cater to various dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle these requirements with the utmost care, ensuring all campers have healthy and satisfying meal options.
3. Bathroom and Shower Facilities:
- Facilities: Separate bathroom and shower facilities for males and females are centrally located near all accommodations. These facilities are well-maintained and equipped with multiple stalls and showers to prevent waiting times.
- Cleanliness and Safety: Hygiene and cleanliness are top priorities at Camp Tadmor. Facilities are cleaned and sanitized multiple times a day, and there are strict protocols in place to ensure the health and safety of all campers and staff.
At Camp Tadmor, they strive to make sure that every aspect of their campers’ stay is comfortable, safe, and enjoyable, from the moment they wake up to the time they head to bed.
Activities in Camp Tadmor
Camp Tadmor offers a diverse array of activities that cater to various interests and skill levels, ensuring that every camper finds something enjoyable and enriching to participate in. Here’s an overview of the activities and special events you can look forward to:
1. List of Activities Offered:
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy the great outdoors with activities like swimming in their natural lake, hiking through scenic trails, and canoeing. For the thrill-seekers, there are rock climbing opportunities and zip-lining.
- Creative Arts: Dive into your creative side with arts and crafts workshops, pottery, and woodworking. Campers can also participate in drama and music sessions, which often culminate in performances at the end of the session.
- Sports: They offer a range of sports activities including archery, basketball, soccer, and volleyball. These activities are great for building teamwork and leadership skills.
- Nature and Science: Engage in environmental education through gardening, animal care programs, and nature scavenger hunts. Science enthusiasts can enjoy experiments and STEM activities that make learning fun and interactive.
2. Special Events or Traditions:
- Campfires: Evening campfires are a staple at Camp Tadmor, featuring storytelling, sing-alongs, and marshmallow roasting. They serve as a perfect time for campers to bond and share their experiences.
- Color Wars: A camp-wide competition where campers are divided into teams to compete in various challenges, fostering spirit, camaraderie, and friendly competition.
- End-of-Camp Gala: At the end of each session, a gala is held where campers can showcase the skills and talents they have developed. This event includes performances, exhibitions, and a camp awards ceremony.
3. Skill Development Opportunities:
- Leadership Training: Summer camps can participate in leadership programs designed to enhance skills such as team management, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
- First Aid and Survival Skills: Practical sessions on first aid, survival skills, and safety in the outdoors are offered, empowering campers with knowledge and confidence to handle various situations.
- Workshops and Seminars: Specialized workshops and seminars are conducted by guest speakers and experts in fields such as wildlife, astronomy, and more, providing deep dives into subjects of interest.
At Camp Tadmor, activities and events are thoughtfully planned to promote a balanced development of physical, creative, and intellectual skills, ensuring that campers leave with not just memories, but also new skills and a greater understanding of the world and themselves.
The staff of Camp Tadmor
At Camp Tadmor, they take pride in their dedicated and skilled staff who play a critical role in creating a safe, educational, and enjoyable environment for all campers. Here’s an overview of their staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, qualifications, and training protocols:
1. Staff-to-Camper Ratio:
- Camp Tadmor maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and care for each camper. Generally, they aim for a ratio of 1 staff member for every 5 to 8 campers. This ratio allows us to maintain a high level of supervision and interaction, ensuring that every camper’s needs are met efficiently and effectively.
2. Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:
- Hiring Process: The process begins with a thorough application and interview that assesses not only the candidate’s qualifications but also their passion for youth development and their ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment. Background checks and references are meticulously reviewed to ensure the safety and integrity of their camp environment.
- Qualifications: They seek staff members who have prior experience in camping, education, recreation, or child care. Qualifications include a blend of educational background, practical experience, and a genuine love for working with children. Special consideration is given to those with additional skills in first aid, sports, arts, or science.
3. Training and Certifications:
- Mandatory Training: Before the start of camp, all staff undergo extensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child behavior management, and specific training related to their assigned roles. This training ensures that all staff are well-prepared to provide a safe and positive camp experience.
- Certifications: All staff are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additional training such as lifeguard certification, wilderness first responder, and specific activity training (e.g., archery, rock climbing) are required for staff involved in particular activities that require specialized skills.
Their commitment to maintaining a competent and responsive staff ensures that Camp Tadmor is not only fun and engaging but also a safe place for campers to explore, learn, and grow. They believe that their staff are the backbone of the camp, and their expertise and dedication are key to their success and the positive experiences of their campers.
Safety and Health in Camp Tadmor
Ensuring the safety and health of all campers and staff is their top priority at Camp Tadmor. They implement rigorous protocols and procedures, maintain well-equipped health facilities, and enforce strict policies to handle emergencies effectively. Here’s a detailed overview:
1. Safety Protocols and Procedures:
- Comprehensive Training: All staff undergo comprehensive safety training, including emergency response, fire safety, and evacuation procedures.
- Regular Drills: They conduct regular safety drills with campers and staff to ensure everyone is familiar with emergency procedures, including fire drills, weather-related emergencies, and lockdown practices.
- Activity Safety: Specific safety protocols are in place for each activity offered at the camp. These include gear checks for activities like rock climbing and canoeing, as well as safety briefings before each session.
- Supervision: Continuous supervision is maintained in all camp areas, with staff members strategically placed to monitor and assist campers during activities and in residential areas.
2. On-site Health Facilities and Staff:
- Health Center: Camp Tadmor is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses and, during peak times, a visiting doctor. The health center is stocked with necessary medical supplies and equipment to handle routine health care needs and initial emergency care.
- Medications: A system for managing and administering camper medications is strictly adhered to, ensuring that all medications are safely stored and dispensed according to prescribed guidelines.
3. Policies on Handling Emergencies:
- Emergency Contact System: An effective communication system is in place to quickly alert staff and emergency services if necessary. This system includes mobile radios and other communication tools to ensure swift response times.
- Local Collaboration: They maintain strong relationships with local emergency services, including the fire department, police, and hospitals, ensuring a quick response in the event of an emergency.
- Parental Notification: A clear policy for notifying parents in the event of an emergency is strictly followed. Parents are immediately contacted in the case of any serious incident involving their child.
- Continuous Training and Evaluation: Emergency plans and health policies are regularly reviewed and updated based on new guidelines and feedback from staff training exercises. This continuous improvement helps ensure their readiness to handle any situation.
At Camp Tadmor, their comprehensive approach to safety and health is designed to provide a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities with peace of mind, knowing they are well cared for and protected.
Cost and Registration in Camp Tadmor
Camp Tadmor aims to provide a valuable and accessible camping experience for all children and families. Below are the details concerning the cost of attendance, registration process, and financial accommodations:
1. Cost of Attendance:
- Fees: The cost to attend Camp Tadmor varies depending on the program and session length. Generally, one-week sessions cost around $300-$400, while two-week sessions range from $600-$800. The fees include all meals, accommodations, activities, and program materials.
- What It Includes: The attendance fee covers lodging in cabins, tents, or dormitories, all meals from arrival to departure, scheduled program activities, access to all camp facilities, and 24-hour supervision by their trained staff.
2. Registration Process and Deadlines:
- Online Registration: Parents can register their children via their user-friendly online platform. This process includes filling out necessary medical and consent forms, choosing sessions, and specifying any special accommodations needed.
- Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months before the start of the summer season, with deadlines set about a month prior to each session start date. Early registration is encouraged as spots fill up quickly, and early registrants often enjoy discounted rates.
3. Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:
- Payment Plans: To accommodate families’ financial needs, Camp Tadmor offers flexible payment plans that allow for incremental payments leading up to the camp session.
- Refunds: A full refund is available up to a month before the session start date, minus a non-refundable deposit (usually about 10% of the total cost). After this period, refunds are offered on a decreasing scale or can be converted into camp credit for future sessions.
- Cancellation Policy: In the event of a cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances (like severe weather or health issues), the camp provides options for rescheduling or refunds as detailed in the registration agreement.
4. Scholarships and Financial Aid:
- Scholarships: Camp Tadmor offers a scholarship program to help families who need financial assistance. These scholarships are need-based and can cover a portion of the camp fees.
- Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available through fundraising events and donations. Information about applying for scholarships and financial aid, and they encourage families to apply early as funds are limited.
They strive to make Camp Tadmor accessible to all children, believing that every child deserves the chance to experience the joys and benefits of summer camp.
Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Tadmor
Preparing for summer camp can be exciting and a bit daunting, especially for first-time campers and their parents. Here’s a guide to help ensure that both campers and parents are well-prepared for the upcoming camp experience at Camp Tadmor:
1. Packing List:
- Clothing: Pack enough comfortable and durable clothes for the session, including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, and sweatshirts. Include swimwear, a hat, and sturdy footwear (sneakers and hiking boots). Don’t forget pajamas and plenty of socks and underwear!
- Bedding: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (check the size of the camp beds), a pillow, and a sleeping pad if staying in a tent.
- Toiletries: Include a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, bug repellent, and a towel. A small first aid kit with personal medications is also essential.
- Miscellaneous: Flashlight or headlamp, water bottle, sunglasses, and a backpack for day trips. Include writing materials or a journal to record camp memories.
2. Rules and Policies:
- Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, the use of cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices is typically restricted at Camp Tadmor. These items may be allowed at certain times and places, such as during travel to and from camp or in designated areas.
- Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to minimize disruptions and to help campers adjust to camp life. All visitors must check in at the camp office upon arrival.
- Behavioral Expectations: Camp Tadmor promotes a respectful and inclusive environment. Campers are expected to follow camp rules, respect fellow campers and staff, and participate in scheduled activities.
3. Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:
- Camper Tips:
- Be open to making new friends and trying new activities.
- Remember that it’s okay to feel homesick; it’s a normal feeling, and the staff are there to help.
- Keep a positive attitude and communicate openly with camp staff about any worries or issues.
- Parent Tips:
- Discuss what camp will be like well before your child leaves, focusing on the fun and growth opportunities.
- Pack together with your child to ensure they feel prepared and involved in the process.
- Write letters or send care packages to provide comfort and a connection from home.
By following these guidelines and preparations, both parents and campers can feel more at ease and ready to enjoy the enriching experience that Camp Tadmor offers.
Camp Tadmor stands as a beacon of adventure, personal growth, and unforgettable memories in the heart of Lebanon, Oregon. With its diverse range of programs, commitment to safety, and nurturing environment, the camp promises more than just fun summer activities—it offers a transformative experience that shapes young lives. Through engaging in outdoor adventures, creative arts, and various skill-building activities, campers leave with enhanced self-confidence, lifelong friendships, and a deeper appreciation for nature and community.
Parents can rest assured that their children are in capable hands, with dedicated staff, robust safety protocols, and comprehensive preparation processes ensuring a secure and enriching environment. Whether a first-timer or a returning camper, each child at Camp Tadmor is treated to an experience filled with learning, laughter, and the kind of joy that only summer camp can provide.