Welcome to Camp Laney, nestled in the serene wilderness of Mentone, Alabama. Their camp is situated near the picturesque Lake Guntersville, providing a breathtaking backdrop for unforgettable outdoor experiences.

Established in 1959, Camp Laney has a rich history of providing transformative summer adventures for boys aged 7-15. For decades, They have been dedicated to fostering personal growth, building character, and creating lifelong memories in a nurturing and adventurous environment.

At Camp Laney, their mission is simple yet profound: to empower young boys to discover their potential, cultivate friendships, and develop essential life skills through outdoor exploration, teamwork, and mentorship. They believe in the power of nature to inspire, challenge, and shape young minds, and they are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive community where every camper can thrive.

As a traditional boys’ camp, they offer a wide range of activities and programs designed to engage campers physically, mentally, and emotionally. From classic campfire sing-alongs to thrilling outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and rock climbing, there’s something for every camper to enjoy and explore.

Join us at Camp Laney, where lifelong memories are made, friendships are forged, and boys become the best versions of themselves amidst the beauty of Alabama’s wilderness.

Programs Offered by Camp Laney

Camp Laney offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental needs of young boys. Their programs are carefully crafted to provide a balance of adventure, skill-building, and fun, ensuring that every camper has a memorable and enriching experience.

Traditional Camp Experience: Campers immerse themselves in classic camp activities such as swimming, archery, canoeing, and arts and crafts. Through group games, campfires, and outdoor exploration, they develop teamwork, resilience, and a love for the great outdoors. Sessions typically last for one week, but longer options are available for those seeking a more extended adventure.
Adventure Camp: For the more adventurous souls, their Adventure Camp program offers thrilling outdoor experiences such as rock climbing, rappelling, and wilderness survival skills. Led by experienced guides and instructors, campers learn to conquer challenges, overcome fears, and push their limits in a supportive and empowering environment. Sessions range from one to two weeks in length.
Sports Camp: Designed for young athletes eager to hone their skills and sportsmanship, their Sports Camp program focuses on a variety of sports including soccer, basketball, baseball, and more. Campers receive expert coaching, engage in friendly competition, and learn valuable lessons in teamwork, discipline, and leadership. Sessions typically run for one week, with opportunities for specialization in specific sports.
Arts and Crafts: Creativity takes center stage in their Arts and Crafts program, where campers explore various artistic mediums such as painting, pottery, woodworking, and theater. Guided by skilled instructors, they unleash their imagination, express themselves through art, and gain confidence in their creative abilities. Sessions are typically one week long and may include opportunities for showcasing their creations.
Nature and Science: Camp Laney’s Nature and Science program offers hands-on exploration of the natural world, from identifying plants and wildlife to conducting fascinating experiments and outdoor science projects. Campers develop an appreciation for nature, curiosity about the world around them, and a sense of environmental stewardship. Sessions range from one to two weeks, allowing ample time for in-depth learning and discovery.

Typical Daily Schedule:

7:00 AM: Wake-up and morning exercises
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (e.g., outdoor games, arts and crafts, sports)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest period/free time
2:30 PM: Afternoon activities (e.g., swimming, canoeing, nature hikes)
5:00 PM: Shower time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening program (e.g., campfire, talent show, themed nights)
9:00 PM: Cabin time and lights out

Camp Laney’s programs offer a perfect blend of adventure, skill-building, and camaraderie, ensuring that every camper leaves with cherished memories and newfound skills to last a lifetime.

Accommodations in Camp Laney

At Camp Laney, they prioritize the comfort and well-being of their campers, providing accommodations that allow them to fully immerse themselves in the camp experience while feeling safe and supported.

Sleeping Arrangements: Campers stay in rustic yet cozy cabins nestled amidst the trees, fostering a sense of connection to nature and camaraderie among cabin mates. Each cabin typically accommodates a small group of campers along with a counselor who oversees their well-being and fosters a supportive and inclusive environment.

Dining Options: They believe that nutritious and delicious meals are essential for fueling campers’ adventures and ensuring their overall health and happiness. Their dining hall serves three hearty meals a day, featuring a variety of options to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. They offer meal plans that provide balanced nutrition while accommodating common dietary restrictions and allergies. Their kitchen staff is trained to provide alternatives and substitutions to ensure that every camper can enjoy their meals safely and comfortably.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities: Camp Laney’s bathroom and shower facilities are well-maintained and conveniently located throughout the campgrounds, ensuring easy access for all campers. These facilities are equipped with modern amenities to provide comfort and convenience while maintaining a rustic camp atmosphere. Their staff ensures cleanliness and hygiene standards are upheld, providing a safe and comfortable environment for campers to freshen up after a day of outdoor adventures.

Whether it’s bonding with cabin mates, savoring delicious meals, or refreshing after a day of exploration, Camp Laney’s accommodations are designed to enhance the overall camp experience, providing a home away from home where lifelong memories are made.

Activities in Camp Laney

Camp Laney offers a diverse range of activities designed to engage campers physically, mentally, and creatively, fostering personal growth, teamwork, and a love for the outdoors. Here’s a glimpse of the exciting activities and opportunities awaiting their campers:

Activities Offered:

Swimming: Campers can enjoy refreshing dips in their swimming pool or take part in water games and aquatics instruction under the supervision of certified lifeguards.
Hiking: Guided hikes through the scenic trails surrounding Camp Laney offer campers the chance to explore the beauty of nature, learn about local flora and fauna, and develop outdoor navigation skills.
Sports: From friendly games of basketball and soccer to more specialized activities like archery and ultimate frisbee, their sports program provides opportunities for campers to develop athletic skills, sportsmanship, and teamwork.
Arts and Crafts: Summer Camps unleash your creativity in their arts and crafts sessions, where campers can unleash their imagination through painting, pottery, woodworking, and other hands-on artistic endeavors.
Outdoor Adventure: Thrilling activities such as rock climbing, rappelling, zip-lining, and high ropes courses challenge campers to step out of their comfort zones, build confidence, and conquer new heights.
Campfires and Sing-Alongs: Gathered around the campfire, campers bond over classic campfire songs, stories, and skits, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences.
Nature Exploration: Guided nature walks, wildlife observation, and environmental education activities inspire campers to appreciate and protect the natural world while learning about ecosystems and conservation.

Special Events and Traditions:

Laney Olympics: An annual highlight, Laney Olympics brings together campers in friendly competition across a variety of sports and team challenges, promoting sportsmanship, camaraderie, and school spirit.
Theme Nights: Throughout the summer, campers participate in themed events such as Western Night, Hawaiian Luau, and Superhero Night, adding excitement and creativity to the camp experience.
Campfire Tales: Campers gather around the campfire for storytelling sessions, where they share ghost stories, legends, and personal anecdotes, deepening friendships and creating lasting memories.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Training: Camp Laney offers leadership development programs for older campers, providing opportunities to cultivate communication skills, decision-making abilities, and effective teamwork.
Outdoor Skills: From fire building and wilderness survival techniques to map reading and orienteering, campers have the chance to learn essential outdoor skills that foster self-reliance and confidence in the wilderness.
Creative Expression: Their arts and crafts program encourages campers to explore different mediums and techniques, nurturing their creativity, problem-solving abilities, and self-expression.

At Camp Laney, every activity and event is designed to inspire, challenge, and empower campers, creating a dynamic and enriching summer experience filled with adventure, friendship, and personal growth.

Staff of Camp Laney

Camp Laney takes great pride in its dedicated and highly qualified staff members who are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for campers. Here’s an overview of their staffing policies and qualifications:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio: They maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention, guidance, and supervision throughout their camp experience. Their ratio typically adheres to industry standards, allowing for individualized support and fostering strong mentorship relationships between campers and staff.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications: The hiring process at Camp Laney is rigorous and selective, with an emphasis on recruiting individuals who are passionate about working with children, dedicated to fostering personal growth, and committed to upholding the camp’s values and mission. Prospective staff members undergo thorough background checks, interviews, and reference checks to ensure suitability for working with young campers.

Staff qualifications vary depending on the position, but common requirements include:

Previous experience working with children, preferably in a camp or recreational setting
Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to work effectively as part of a team
Strong communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution skills
Positive attitude, enthusiasm, and energy
Relevant certifications or training in areas such as lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, CPR, and specific activity instruction (e.g., archery, rock climbing)

Training and Certifications: Prior to the start of the camp season, all staff members participate in comprehensive training programs designed to prepare them for their roles and responsibilities, ensure the safety and well-being of campers, and promote a positive camp culture. Training topics may include:

Child development and behavior management
Emergency procedures and crisis management
Health and safety protocols, including CPR and first aid certification
Activity instruction and risk management
Team building and communication skills
Diversity, equity, and inclusion awareness

Staff members are also required to maintain current certifications in CPR, first aid, and any other relevant areas throughout their employment at Camp Laney. Ongoing professional development opportunities and regular performance evaluations further support staff growth and excellence in their roles.

By prioritizing the recruitment, training, and support of qualified and passionate staff members, Camp Laney ensures that campers receive the highest quality care, guidance, and mentorship throughout their summer adventures.

Safety and Health in Camp Laney

At Camp Laney, the safety and well-being of their campers are paramount priorities. They maintain comprehensive safety protocols, well-equipped health facilities, and trained staff to ensure a secure and nurturing environment for all campers. Here’s an overview of their safety and health practices:

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Facility Maintenance: Their camp facilities undergo regular maintenance and inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations. This includes routine checks of cabins, activity areas, equipment, and infrastructure.
Activity Risk Management: Trained staff to assess and mitigate risks associated with camp activities, implementing safety guidelines and protocols to minimize hazards and ensure safe participation.
Supervision: Campers are under constant supervision by trained staff members who monitor their activities, address safety concerns, and provide guidance and support as needed.
Emergency Drills: Regular emergency drills are conducted to familiarize campers and staff with procedures for various scenarios, including fire evacuations, severe weather, and medical emergencies.
Water Safety: Lifeguards supervise swimming activities, and water safety protocols are strictly enforced to prevent accidents and promote safe enjoyment of aquatic activities.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Camp Laney is equipped with a fully staffed health center staffed by qualified medical professionals, including nurses or other healthcare providers. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries, illnesses, and medication administration.
Health Staff: Trained medical personnel are available on-site to provide first aid, assess medical needs, and coordinate care as necessary. Staff members are knowledgeable in CPR, first aid, and emergency response procedures.
Medication Management: Their health staff oversees the administration of medications and ensures campers’ medical needs are met in accordance with individual care plans and parental instructions.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Communication: Camp Laney has established protocols for communicating with campers, staff, and families in the event of an emergency. This may include phone calls, text messages, or other forms of communication to provide updates and instructions.
Emergency Response Team: Trained staff members are designated to respond to emergencies and coordinate with local emergency services as needed. This team is equipped to handle a variety of situations, from medical emergencies to natural disasters.
Parental Notification: In the event of a significant emergency or incident involving a camper, parents or guardians are promptly notified and provided with relevant information and updates regarding their child’s well-being.

Camp Laney is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment where campers can thrive, explore, and create lifelong memories with confidence and peace of mind. Their proactive approach to safety, well-equipped health facilities, and trained staff ensure that campers receive the care and support they need to enjoy a rewarding and memorable camp experience.

Cost and Registration in Camp Laney

At Camp Laney, they strive to provide a rewarding and memorable summer experience for all campers, regardless of financial circumstances. Here’s an overview of their cost, registration process, and policies:

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes:

The cost of attending Camp Laney varies depending on the length of the session and any additional optional activities or services.
Typically, the cost includes accommodations, meals, supervised activities, and access to facilities and amenities.
Additional expenses may include optional trips, equipment rentals, and camp merchandise.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Camp Laney offers flexible payment plans to accommodate families’ financial needs. Payment options may include full payment upfront or installment payments leading up to the start of the session.
Refund policies vary depending on the timing of cancellation:
- Cancellations made within a certain timeframe before the start of the session may be eligible for a partial or full refund, minus any non-refundable deposit or administrative fees.
- Late cancellations or no-shows may result in forfeiture of all or a portion of the registration fee.
Camp Laney understands that unforeseen circumstances may arise, and they strive to work with families to address individual situations with empathy and flexibility.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid:

Camp Laney is committed to making the camp experience accessible to all children, regardless of financial barriers.
Limited scholarships or financial aid may be available for families who demonstrate financial need. Eligibility criteria and application processes vary, and interested families are encouraged to inquire about scholarship opportunities during the registration process.

At Camp Laney, they believe that every child deserves the opportunity to experience the joys of summer camp, build lifelong friendships, and create cherished memories. Their transparent registration process, flexible payment options, and commitment to financial accessibility reflect their dedication to making the camp experience inclusive and enriching for all campers.

Camp Laney offers a traditional summer camp experience for boys aged 7-15, focusing on character development, faith, and outdoor activities.

Cost:

Camp Laney’s cost structure involves a registration fee and a tuition fee:

Registration Fee: $700, which is due upon enrollment and deducted from the total tuition.
Tuition Fee: Varies depending on the chosen program:
- Junior Sessions (5 nights): $2300
- Two-week Sessions: $3800
- Multi-child Discounts: 10% off for each additional child registered.

Additional Notes:

Camp tuition covers meals, lodging, activities, and basic camp equipment.
Some additional expenses may be incurred, such as transportation and optional spending money.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Laney

Preparing for Camp Laney is an exciting process for both campers and parents. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, here are some helpful guidelines and tips:

Packing List:

Clothing: Comfortable, weather-appropriate attire for outdoor activities, including shorts, t-shirts, swimwear, socks, and underwear. Don’t forget pajamas and a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
Footwear: Sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking, hiking, and participating in sports activities. Flip-flops or sandals for shower use.
Personal Items: Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, insect repellent), towel, bedding (sleeping bag or sheets, pillow), flashlight, reusable water bottle, and any required medications with clear instructions.
Optional Items: Hat, sunglasses, camera, journal, stationery, and stamps for writing letters home.

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: Camp Laney encourages campers to disconnect from electronic devices and immerse themselves in the camp experience. Therefore, personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles are generally not allowed. Exceptions may be made for specific purposes or medical reasons.
Visitation: To maintain a cohesive camp community and allow campers to fully engage in activities, visitation by parents or guardians during camp sessions may be limited or discouraged. However, Camp Laney may offer designated visitation days or times for families to connect with their campers.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

Communicate Openly: Encourage your child to express any concerns or questions they may have about camp. Reassure them that it’s normal to feel nervous or excited, and emphasize the positive aspects of the camp experience.
Practice Independence: Help your child prepare for the camp environment by encouraging independence in daily tasks such as dressing, showering, and managing personal belongings.
Familiarize with Camp Policies: Review camp rules and policies together with your child to ensure they understand expectations regarding behavior, safety, and participation in activities.
Pack Thoughtfully: Involve your child in the packing process and prioritize essentials while keeping in mind space limitations. Label clothing and personal items with your child’s name to prevent mix-ups.
Stay Positive: Maintain a positive attitude and express confidence in your child’s ability to adapt and thrive at camp. Remind them that camp is an opportunity for growth, friendship, and fun experiences.

By following these guidelines and tips, both campers and parents can feel prepared and confident as they embark on the adventure of Camp Laney. Trust in the camp’s experienced staff, embrace the spirit of adventure and cherish the memories that will last a lifetime.

Camp Laney stands as a beacon of adventure, friendship, and personal growth nestled in the heart of Mentone, Alabama. With a rich history of providing transformative experiences for boys, their camp remains dedicated to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment where campers can thrive, explore, and create lifelong memories.

From thrilling outdoor adventures to creative arts and crafts, Camp Laney offers a diverse array of activities designed to engage campers physically, mentally, and emotionally. Under the guidance of their dedicated staff, campers develop essential life skills, build lasting friendships, and discover their true potential amidst the beauty of nature.