Nestled in the serene woodlands of Lake Nebagamon, Wisconsin, Camp Nebagamon stands as a beacon of tradition and excellence in youth development. Founded with a rich history that dates back to its inception, the camp has been a summer retreat offering transformative experiences to young people since its establishment. Positioned in the heart of the Midwest, near notable landmarks such as the Chequamegon National Forest, Camp Nebagamon offers a picturesque setting that combines natural beauty with a rich historical backdrop.

Camp Nebagamon operates on a mission to foster personal growth and character development through guided adventure, community living, and the beauty of the natural environment. Embracing a philosophy centered on “Live Third,” which means to put God first, others second, and self third, the camp promotes a culture of selflessness and community service.

This boys-only camp caters to youths primarily aged 7 to 17, providing them with a range of activities tailored to develop skills, confidence, and lifelong friendships. Through a carefully curated program that balances individual challenge and team participation, Camp Nebagamon nurtures not only physical prowess but also emotional and social growth, making it a cherished summer destination for boys across various age groups.

Programs Offered by Camp Nebagamon

Camp Nebagamon offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to various interests and skills, providing an enriching summer experience for boys aged 7 to 17. The camp sessions vary in length, allowing families to choose from one-week introductions to full summer immersions, ensuring that each camper can find a program that suits his availability and interests.

Program Description

The core programs at Camp Nebagamon focus on traditional camp activities that encourage outdoor adventure, personal growth, and skill development. These include canoeing, archery, rock climbing, and wilderness trips, which are complemented by environmental education to foster a deep appreciation for nature.

Specialty Programs

In addition to traditional camp activities, Camp Nebagamon offers specialty programs in various domains:

Arts: The arts program includes activities such as woodworking, pottery, and painting, providing campers with the opportunity to explore their creativity and develop artistic skills.
Sports: Sports enthusiasts can engage in soccer, basketball, baseball, and swimming, designed to improve physical fitness and promote teamwork.
Science: The science program encourages curiosity and learning, with hands-on activities that make learning both fun and engaging, including experiments and exploration of the surrounding natural habitats.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Camp Nebagamon is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, meals, and free time, ensuring that campers remain engaged and energized throughout the day. Here’s a general outline of a typical day:

Morning: After waking up, campers participate in a flag-raising ceremony followed by a hearty breakfast. The morning activities usually begin with skill-building sessions in chosen areas such as sports, arts, or outdoor adventures.
Afternoon: Post lunch, there is a rest period, followed by afternoon activities which might include free swim or special group activities. This is also the time for special workshops or guest sessions.
Evening: Dinner is followed by an evening program that varies daily, potentially including campfires, talent shows, or night hikes.
Night: The day concludes with a cabin chat, a time for reflection and bonding with cabin mates before lights out.

Each day is carefully planned to ensure that campers experience personal growth, learning, and plenty of fun, all within the framework of Camp Nebagamon’s mission and values.

Accommodations in Camp Nebagamon

Camp Nebagamon provides a classic camp experience with accommodations that blend comfort with the rustic charm of outdoor living. The camp is designed to ensure that all campers feel safe, comfortable, and part of the community.

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers at Camp Nebagamon stay in cabins that are designed to foster camaraderie and team spirit. Each cabin houses a specific age group, allowing campers to form close bonds with peers in their own age range. The cabins are well-constructed with sturdy wooden bunks and adequate storage space for personal belongings, ensuring a cozy and functional living space. Screened windows provide natural ventilation, and each cabin is equipped with electricity and basic lighting.

Dining Options

Meals at Camp Nebagamon are communal and served in the camp’s dining hall, creating a family-style dining experience that is both nourishing and social. The camp offers a variety of meal plans that cater to the energy needs of active campers, with a focus on healthy, balanced, and kid-friendly menus.

Meal Plans: Camp Nebagamon provides three well-balanced meals per day, supplemented by healthy snacks. The kitchen staff prepares a range of dishes to ensure variety and cater to the preferences of a diverse group of campers.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining, Camp Nebagamon is committed to accommodating special dietary needs, including allergies, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Parents are encouraged to communicate any specific dietary requirements prior to the camp session to ensure that all needs are met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

The camp maintains modern bathroom and shower facilities that are strategically located near the cabins. Separate facilities for boys and staff ensure privacy and convenience. The bathrooms are equipped with flush toilets, and the showers offer hot water, with facilities cleaned and maintained multiple times daily to uphold hygiene and comfort standards.

Overall, Camp Nebagamon’s accommodations are thoughtfully designed to enhance the camping experience, ensuring that all campers can enjoy their summer adventure in a safe and supportive environment.

Activities in Camp Nebagamon

Camp Nebagamon offers a rich and diverse array of activities designed to engage campers in fun, learning, and personal growth. The camp’s program ensures a balance between physical activity, creative expression, and skill development, catering to a wide range of interests.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Activities like hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and rock climbing allow campers to explore the natural landscape around Lake Nebagamon.
Water Sports: The camp includes swimming, fishing, and boating, with safety always being a priority, facilitated by trained lifeguards and instructors.
Sports: A variety of sports are available, including soccer, basketball, baseball, and archery, promoting physical fitness and teamwork.
Creative Arts: Summer camps can engage in crafts, pottery, woodworking, and drama, encouraging creativity and self-expression.
Environmental Education: Programs designed to teach campers about local ecology and conservation practices, fostering a deeper appreciation for nature.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Nebagamon is rich in traditions that build community and create lasting memories:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend the camp season, fostering a sense of unity and celebration.
Campfires: Regular campfire gatherings feature songs, skits, and storytelling, enhancing the camp spirit.
Color Wars: This camp-wide competition splits campers into teams for various fun and competitive activities, promoting spirit and camaraderie.
Special Theme Days: These might include backward day, superhero day, or international day, adding a fun twist to the routine.

Skill Development Opportunities

Skill development is a core focus at Camp Nebagamon, with structured programs designed to help campers progress in various disciplines:

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to take on leadership roles, guiding younger campers and managing activities.
Specialty Clinics: For those interested in deepening their skills in specific areas like advanced sports techniques, wilderness survival skills, or advanced arts and crafts.
Merit Badge Programs: Especially for campers involved in Scouting, offering a chance to earn badges in various skills throughout the summer.

Each activity at Camp Nebagamon is designed to ensure that campers not only have fun but also build confidence, develop skills, and make friendships that last a lifetime. The camp’s diverse offerings cater to all interests and abilities, ensuring every camper can find something they love.

The staff of Camp Nebagamon

Camp Nebagamon takes great pride in its dedicated and qualified staff, who play a pivotal role in providing a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers. The camp is committed to maintaining high standards in staff selection, training, and performance to ensure the best possible environment for its participants.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Nebagamon maintains a favorable staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care. Typically, the camp strives for a ratio of one staff member for every four to six campers. This ratio allows staff to effectively oversee and engage with campers, ensuring safety and fostering a supportive community.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

The hiring process at Camp Nebagamon is thorough, with several steps designed to select the best candidates:

Application and Screening: Candidates must complete a detailed application form, followed by a screening process that includes background checks and reference checks.
Interviews: Qualified candidates undergo interviews to assess their suitability, including their experience with children, leadership abilities, and specific skills relevant to the camp’s activities.
Background Checks: Extensive background checks are conducted to ensure the safety and security of all campers, including criminal record checks and verification of previous employment.

Staff qualifications include:

Experience: Preference is given to applicants with experience in child care, education, or specific activity areas (like sports or arts).
Education: Many staff members are pursuing or have completed degrees in education, psychology, recreation, or related fields.
Personality Traits: Key qualities sought include responsibility, enthusiasm, patience, and strong communication skills.

Training and Certifications

All staff at Camp Nebagamon undergo comprehensive pre-camp training, which covers:

Safety Protocols: Training in emergency procedures, safety guidelines, and risk management to ensure all activities are conducted safely.
CPR and First Aid: All staff are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training in wilderness first aid is provided for those leading outdoor expeditions.
Child Development: Training on the developmental stages of children and best practices in educational and recreational settings.
Specific Skill Training: Staff responsible for specialized activities receive specific training, such as lifeguard certification for swimming instructors or archery certification for archery coaches.

The training program is designed to equip staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to create a positive, safe, and enriching camp environment for all campers. Through this rigorous selection and training process, Camp Nebagamon ensures that its staff are not only qualified but also committed to the camp’s values and mission, contributing significantly to the overall success of the camp experience.

Safety and Health in Camp Nebagamon

Camp Nebagamon places the highest priority on the safety and health of its campers and staff, implementing rigorous protocols and maintaining comprehensive facilities to ensure a secure environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

The camp’s safety protocols are designed to prevent accidents and effectively manage any situations that may arise:

Regular Drills: Camp Nebagamon conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuation drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are prepared for any emergency.
Activity-Specific Safety Rules: Each activity offered at the camp has its own set of specific safety guidelines, which are strictly enforced by trained staff. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure it meets safety standards.
Supervision: Campers are under constant supervision by trained staff members, ensuring that all activities are conducted safely and that campers adhere to the camp’s safety rules.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

To manage health-related issues effectively:

Health Center: Camp Nebagamon is equipped with a well-staffed and equipped health center. This facility is prepared to handle routine health care needs and minor emergencies.
Medical Staff: The health center is staffed by licensed professionals, typically including a registered nurse (RN) and additional medical personnel during peak times. These professionals are available 24/7 to attend to health needs.
Relationships with Local Hospitals: For more serious issues, Camp Nebagamon has established protocols and relationships with local hospitals and emergency services to ensure quick and efficient medical response and transport.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Camp Nebagamon’s policies for handling emergencies are meticulously crafted to cover a range of potential scenarios:

Immediate Response: In the event of an emergency, camp staff are trained to respond immediately, providing necessary first aid and stabilizing the situation while the camp’s emergency protocols are activated.
Communication: The camp ensures that all communication lines within the camp and with external emergency services are open and functional. Parents are promptly notified in the event of an emergency involving their child.
Evacuation Plans: The camp has well-defined evacuation routes and meeting points, which are communicated to all staff and campers. Regular training and drills help ensure that everyone knows how to safely evacuate the campgrounds if necessary.

Through comprehensive training, established safety protocols, and dedicated medical staff, Camp Nebagamon strives to create a safe and healthy environment where campers can enjoy their activities with peace of mind. These efforts are central to the camp’s philosophy of providing a nurturing and secure setting for personal growth and fun.

Cost and Registration in Camp Nebagamon

Camp Nebagamon is committed to offering a rich and rewarding camping experience, with a clear and straightforward registration and payment process. Here’s an overview of the cost, registration, and financial support options available.

Cost of Attendance: The full season (8 weeks) at Camp Nebagamon costs $13,500. This includes:

All regular camp activities and programs
Lodging and meals
Basic health care at the camp infirmary
Laundry service

Additional costs may apply for specialty programs, trip fees, or personal expenses.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Prospective campers can register through the camp where they fill out necessary forms and choose their preferred session.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged as spaces fill up quickly. Specific deadlines for each session are listed online.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Camp Nebagamon offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of camp. These plans typically allow parents to pay in installments leading up to the start of the camp session.
Refunds: The camp has a refund policy which generally allows for a full or partial refund up until a certain date before the session begins, barring a non-refundable deposit.
Cancellation Policy: In case of cancellation, fees may be partially refunded depending on the timing of the cancellation. Details are usually outlined in the registration materials.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Nebagamon is dedicated to making camp accessible to as many children as possible. Scholarships are available based on financial need, merit, or both.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available to families who demonstrate substantial need. The camp encourages families to apply early for financial aid as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Camp Nebagamon’s administration is committed to transparency in all costs and fees and strives to assist families in making camp an affordable and valuable experience for their children. They encourage prospective campers and their families to reach out directly with any questions about cost, registration, or financial aid.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Nebagamon

Ensuring that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the camp experience is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable summer at Camp Nebagamon. Here’s a guide to help with packing, understanding camp rules, and settling in, especially for first-timers.

Packing List

To make the most out of their Camp Nebagamon experience, campers should pack:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing including t-shirts, shorts, pants, sweatshirts, a rain jacket, and a warm jacket for cooler evenings. Include a swimsuit, hat, and sturdy footwear (sneakers and hiking boots).
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow, and mattress pad if desired.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a towel.
Equipment: Any specific gear related to their chosen activities if they prefer their own, such as a baseball glove or fishing rod.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, batteries, water bottle, and books or small games for downtime.

It’s also important to label all personal items with the camper’s name to prevent losses.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Nebagamon encourages campers to disconnect from digital devices to engage fully with the camp experience. Therefore, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is typically restricted or prohibited.
Visitation: Parents are welcome on specific visitation days, which are communicated ahead of the camp session. Outside of these days, visits may disrupt the camp program and are generally discouraged.
Other Policies: Camp Nebagamon maintains strict policies regarding behavior, including no tolerance for bullying, adherence to safety rules, and respect for peers and staff.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Stay Positive: Embrace new experiences and activities. It’s normal to feel homesick, but staying busy helps minimize those feelings.
- Be Open to Making New Friends: Camp is a great place to meet new people from different backgrounds. Be open and respectful to everyone.
- Participate Fully: Get involved in as many activities as possible to make the most out of the camp experience.
For Parents:
- Communicate Expectations: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting opportunities and the fun they’ll have.
- Packing Together: Help your camper pack so that they know where everything is and discuss what each item will be used for.
- Stay in Touch: Use the allowed communication methods (like letters or emails) to stay in touch without infringing on the camp’s digital policy.

By preparing adequately, adhering to the camp’s policies, and approaching the experience with an open and positive attitude, both campers and parents can ensure a rewarding and memorable summer at Camp Nebagamon.

Camp Nebagamon in Lake Nebagamon, Wisconsin, stands out as more than just a summer destination; it’s a vibrant community where boys are nurtured to grow, learn, and explore in a safe and supportive environment. With its rich array of activities ranging from outdoor adventures to creative arts, and its commitment to fostering personal growth through its “Live Third” philosophy, Camp Nebagamon offers a unique setting where campers forge lifelong friendships and develop skills that extend well beyond the summer months.

The camp’s attentive staff, comprehensive safety protocols, and robust facilities ensure that every camper’s experience is not only fun but also enriching and secure. The focus on character building, leadership, and community service prepares young individuals to face life’s challenges with confidence and consideration for others.