Nestled in the serene landscapes of Brussels, Wisconsin, Camp Wabans stands as a beacon of adventure and learning for youth. Located in the heart of the Midwest, this camp is surrounded by the natural beauty of Wisconsin’s lush forests and lakes, offering a picturesque setting that enhances the camping experience.

Camp Wabans was established with a vision to provide a transformative environment where young people can explore nature, develop new skills, and forge lasting friendships. The camp’s mission revolves around fostering a sense of community, resilience, and personal growth among campers through engaging activities and meaningful interactions.

This camp welcomes boys and girls across various age groups, typically ranging from 7 to 16 years old. Camp Wabans is dedicated to creating an inclusive atmosphere where each camper feels valued and encouraged to achieve their personal best. Whether it’s through team sports, creative arts, or outdoor adventures, Camp Wabans is committed to delivering an enriching experience that caters to the diverse interests and abilities of all its participants.

Programs Offered by Camp Wabans

Camp Wabans offers a diverse array of programs designed to engage campers in a variety of activities that promote skill development, teamwork, and personal growth. Each program is structured to cater to different interests and age groups, ensuring a comprehensive and fulfilling camp experience.

Program Description:

Camp Wabans provides a mix of traditional and specialty camp programs. Traditional programs include a range of activities such as swimming, hiking, canoeing, and campfires, which aim to develop core outdoor skills and foster a connection with nature. Specialty programs focus on specific interests such as arts, sports, and science, allowing campers to delve deeper into their passions or explore new areas of interest.

Length of Sessions:

The camp offers flexibility in session lengths to accommodate different family schedules and goals. Options typically include:

One-week sessions are ideal for younger campers or first-timers.
Two-week sessions, which allow for a deeper immersion into camp life and more extensive participation in activities.
Full summer options, where campers can experience the full breadth of what Camp Wabans has to offer over several weeks.

Specialty Programs:

Arts: Includes workshops in painting, pottery, and performance arts, encouraging creativity and self-expression.
Sports: Focuses on developing skills in various sports, including soccer, basketball, and archery, promoting physical fitness and teamwork.
Science: Offers fun and educational experiences in fields such as environmental science and robotics, designed to stimulate curiosity and critical thinking.

Typical Daily Schedule:

Morning: After breakfast, campers engage in a rotation of their chosen activities, which might include arts and crafts, team sports, or nature walks.
Afternoon: Post-lunch, the focus shifts to skill-building sessions or specialty workshops, followed by free time for swimming or socializing.
Evening: Dinners are followed by camp-wide games or special events such as talent shows or guest speakers. The day typically concludes with a campfire gathering where stories are shared, and camp songs are sung.

Camp Wabans is dedicated to providing a nurturing environment where campers can learn, play, and grow during their summer away from home. With its wide range of programs and flexible scheduling, Camp Wabans is an ideal place for young adventurers to explore their potential and make lasting memories.

Accommodations in Camp Wabans

Camp Wabans is well-equipped to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all campers, offering a variety of accommodations and amenities designed to meet the needs of its diverse group of participants.

Sleeping Arrangements:

Campers at Camp Wabans typically stay in well-maintained cabins that are designed to blend with the natural surroundings. Each cabin houses between 8 to 12 campers and is supervised by experienced counselors to ensure safety and foster a sense of community. The cabins are strategically placed to offer beautiful views of the campgrounds and easy access to the main activity areas.

For older or more adventurous campers, there are options to participate in supervised camping excursions where they sleep in tents. This allows for a more immersive outdoor experience, helping campers connect with nature and learn essential camping skills.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: Camp Wabans offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, prepared by a skilled culinary team. The dining hall is a communal space where campers gather to eat and share their daily experiences.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to all dietary needs, Camp Wabans provides options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-free meals. Parents are encouraged to discuss their child’s dietary requirements with the camp staff before arrival to ensure all needs are met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities that are conveniently located near the cabins and main activity areas. These facilities are gender-segregated and regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort. Hot water is available, and there are ample facilities to prevent long waits.

Each aspect of Camp Wabans’ accommodations has been thoughtfully designed to provide a safe, comfortable, and enriching environment for every camper. Whether resting in a cozy cabin, enjoying nutritious meals, or utilizing the clean and accessible bathroom facilities, campers are well taken care of during their stay at Camp Wabans.

Activities in Camp Wabans

Camp Wabans offers a rich array of activities designed to cater to diverse interests and promote personal growth. The camp’s environment and facilities are perfect for both high-energy activities and more relaxed, creative pursuits.

List of Activities Offered:

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps, swimming, hiking, canoeing, and fishing are staples, taking full advantage of the camp’s natural lake and forest surroundings.
Sports: Campers can participate in organized sports such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery, which are great for building teamwork and physical fitness.
Arts and Crafts: For those interested in creative expression, there are activities like pottery, painting, and crafting, which allow campers to explore their artistic talents.
Performing Arts: Drama and dance workshops, as well as music sessions, provide opportunities for campers to perform and learn new skills in the arts.
Nature and Science Programs: These programs might include astronomy nights, wildlife biology, and environmental conservation projects, enriching campers’ understanding of the world around them.

Special Events or Traditions:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend each camp session, fostering a sense of community and celebration.
Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings where stories are told, songs are sung, and marshmallows are roasted, creating lasting memories.
Theme Days: Special days such as “Pirate Day” or “Olympics Day,” where activities are centered around a fun theme, bringing an extra layer of excitement to the camp experience.
End-of-Session Banquet: A formal dinner where achievements are celebrated, and campers can reflect on their experiences.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Camp Wabans is dedicated to not only providing fun but also fostering skills that campers can carry into their everyday lives. Leadership training programs are available for older campers, while younger ones can benefit from structured skill progression in their chosen activities, whether they’re improving their swimming strokes or mastering a new craft technique. Environmental stewardship is also a key component, with various activities designed to teach campers about sustainable practices and the importance of caring for nature.

Overall, Camp Wabans provides a balanced program that ensures every camper can find something they love, challenge themselves, and gain new competencies during their summer stay.

The staff of Camp Wabans

At Camp Wabans, the staff is carefully selected and trained to provide a safe, educational, and fun environment for all campers. The camp prioritizes maintaining a high standard of care and professionalism among its team members.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

Camp Wabans is committed to providing personalized attention and supervision. The camp maintains a staff-to-camper ratio of approximately 1:6, ensuring that each camper receives adequate supervision and support. This ratio is designed to foster strong relationships between staff and campers and to provide a responsive and nurturing environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Recruitment: Camp Wabans recruits staff from a variety of sources, including college campuses, job fairs, and referrals from educational professionals. This broad approach helps in finding diverse and passionate individuals who are dedicated to youth development.
Qualifications: All potential staff members must have prior experience in child care or a related field. A background in education, psychology, or recreation is highly regarded. Additionally, all staff must pass a comprehensive background check as part of the hiring process.
Interview Process: Candidates go through a rigorous interview process that assesses their experience, skills, and suitability for working in a dynamic camp environment. This process helps ensure that only the most qualified and dedicated individuals are selected.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo extensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and activity leadership. This training ensures that staff are well-prepared to handle a variety of situations that may arise during camp.
Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional certifications, such as lifeguarding or wilderness first aid, are required for staff involved in specific activities like swimming or hiking.
Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, staff participate in ongoing training sessions and meetings to refine their skills and address any emerging issues. This commitment to continuous improvement helps maintain high standards of safety and quality in the camp’s operations.

The dedication and expertise of the staff at Camp Wabans play a crucial role in creating an enriching camp experience that supports the growth and development of all campers.

Safety and Health in Camp Wabans

Camp Wabans prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing rigorous protocols and maintaining comprehensive facilities to ensure a secure environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Regular Drills: Camp Wabans conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuation drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures in various emergency situations.
Activity-Specific Safety Measures: Each activity offered at the camp is guided by specific safety protocols. For instance, all water activities are supervised by certified lifeguards, and equipment used in sports and adventure activities is regularly inspected for safety.
Supervision: Continuous supervision is provided during all activities, with staff ensuring that campers adhere to safety guidelines tailored to each specific activity.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Camp Wabans is equipped with a well-staffed health center that is open 24/7 during the camp season. The center is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and on-call physicians, who are trained to handle a variety of medical situations.
Medical Equipment and Supplies: The health center is stocked with necessary medical supplies and equipment, including medications, first aid kits, and emergency response tools. This ensures that most medical needs can be promptly and effectively addressed on-site.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Wabans has a detailed emergency response plan in place, which is regularly reviewed and updated. This plan outlines the steps to be taken in case of different types of emergencies, such as severe weather, health crises, or security threats.
Communication: In case of an emergency, the camp has protocols for communicating quickly and effectively with all camp personnel, campers, and parents. This includes the use of alarms, intercoms, and, if necessary, mobile communications.
Coordination with Local Authorities: Camp Wabans works closely with local emergency services and hospitals to ensure a coordinated response to any significant incident. Regular meetings and joint drills with these entities ensure that both camp staff and local services are prepared to act together in emergency situations.

The comprehensive safety and health measures at Camp Wabans reflect its commitment to creating a secure and nurturing environment where campers can enjoy their activities with peace of mind, knowing that their well-being is a top priority.

Cost and Registration in Camp Wabans

Camp Wabans ensures that its programs are accessible and manageable for families by providing detailed information about costs, registration procedures, and financial support options.

Cost of Attendance: The standard rate for Camp Wabans is $1,200 per week. This cost includes:

Lodging in rustic cabins
Three nutritious meals per day plus snacks
All regular camp activities and programs
Basic health care from our on-site nurse
Camp t-shirt and water bottle

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Online Registration: Families can register their children online. The online registration portal opens several months before the camp season starts, allowing parents to secure a spot well in advance.
Deadlines: It is advisable to register early as some sessions and specialty programs fill up quickly. Specific registration deadlines are clearly communicated online and through promotional materials.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: Camp Wabans offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of the camp. These plans allow parents to make installment payments leading up to the camp session.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp provides a detailed refund policy, which typically includes a full or partial refund if cancellation is made before a specified date. After this date, refunds may be reduced or unavailable, depending on the proximity to the start of the session.
Insurance: Families are encouraged to consider purchasing camp insurance to cover unexpected cancellations or medical withdrawals.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Camp Wabans is committed to making camp accessible to all children and offers scholarships based on need. These scholarships can cover a portion or the entirety of the camp fees.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, the camp may have other financial aid options available. Families in need are encouraged to contact the camp administration to discuss their situation and explore all available support.

Camp Wabans’ inclusive approach to cost and registration ensures that families have all the information and support they need to plan for a rewarding summer camp experience for their children.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Wabans

Proper preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable camp experience for both first-time and returning campers at Camp Wabans. The camp provides detailed guidelines to help families get ready for the adventure.

Packing List:

To ensure campers have everything they need, Camp Wabans recommends packing the following items:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing including swimwear, rain gear, and sturdy footwear for hiking and sports.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or blankets and a pillow (unless provided by the camp).
Toiletries: Personal hygiene products, including sunscreen and insect repellent.
Equipment: All necessary gear for specialized activities (if not provided by the camp), such as musical instruments or sports equipment.
Personal Items: Books, writing materials, and small games or toys for leisure time.

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: Camp Wabans encourages a technology-free environment to help campers fully engage with their surroundings and peers. Personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are generally discouraged or only allowed at certain times under supervision.
Visitation: Parents are usually welcome to visit the camp on designated visiting days, which are communicated at the start of each session. Outside of these times, visits may be restricted to minimize disruptions to the camp schedule and environment.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to adhere to a code of conduct that promotes respect, safety, and inclusivity. Rules regarding behavior, bullying, and respect for both peers and staff are strictly enforced.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

For Campers: Engage in activities that interest you and be open to trying new things. Remember, it’s a great opportunity to make new friends and learn new skills.
For Parents: Prepare your child by discussing what the camp experience will be like, including the fun aspects and the rules. Ensure your child understands the importance of participation and following camp guidelines.
Communication: Discuss how you will communicate with your child during their time at camp. Knowing they can reach out to you on visiting days or through letters can help ease any anxieties.
Emotional Preparation: Especially for first-time campers, it’s important to talk about homesickness and strategies for coping. Encouraging independence at home can also help prepare them for the camp experience.

By following these guidelines and preparing adequately, parents and campers can ensure that their time at Camp Wabans will be a memorable and transformative experience.

Camp Wabans stands out as an exceptional destination for children and teenagers seeking a summer filled with adventure, friendship, and personal growth. Nestled in the beautiful setting of Brussels, Wisconsin, the camp offers a diverse range of activities and programs tailored to various interests and age groups. From arts and crafts to sports and outdoor exploration, Camp Wabans provides a comprehensive environment where every camper can thrive.

The dedicated staff, rigorous safety protocols, and a commitment to each camper’s well-being ensure a supportive and enriching experience. Furthermore, the flexible payment options, scholarships, and attentive preparation guidance make Camp Wabans accessible and manageable for families considering a summer camp experience for their children.