Camp Lutherhaven, nestled in the scenic beauty of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, offers a unique retreat and adventure space within the Pacific Northwest region. Surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of Idaho, including lush forests, serene lakes, and majestic mountains, the camp is a stone’s throw from the iconic Coeur d’Alene Lake, making it a picturesque destination for campers and visitors alike.

Founded with a rich heritage of community and faith, Camp Lutherhaven has a longstanding tradition of providing an enriching environment for spiritual growth, personal development, and fun. Its mission is deeply rooted in creating a welcoming, nurturing space where individuals can explore their faith, connect with nature, and develop meaningful relationships. The camp’s philosophy emphasizes inclusivity, personal growth, and the fostering of a strong sense of community among campers.

Catering to a wide range of age groups, Camp Lutherhaven offers programs for both boys and girls, including specific camps tailored to different age ranges. This diversity ensures that every camper finds a place where they can thrive, learn new skills, and make lasting friendships. The camp’s diverse offerings include outdoor adventures, educational workshops, and spiritual activities, all designed to cater to the holistic development of young people in a safe and supportive environment.

At its core, Camp Lutherhaven is more than just a summer camp; it is a community where every individual is valued and where the beauty of the Idaho wilderness meets the warmth of human connection.

Programs Offered by Camp Lutherhaven

Camp Lutherhaven offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to various interests, ages, and durations, making it a vibrant place for campers to explore, learn, and grow. Each program is thoughtfully crafted to provide an enriching experience that combines fun, education, and personal development within the camp’s scenic natural setting.

Description of the Programs

Adventure Camps: These camps are designed for those who love the outdoors and adventure. Activities include hiking, canoeing, rock climbing, and wilderness survival skills. The focus is on building confidence, teamwork, and a deep appreciation for nature.

Arts and Creativity Camps: For campers interested in exploring their creative side, these sessions offer arts and crafts, music, drama, and dance. The aim is to foster creativity, self-expression, and artistic skills in a supportive and fun environment.

Sports and Recreation Camps: These camps are perfect for active campers who enjoy sports and physical activities. From traditional sports like soccer and basketball to water sports and outdoor games, the emphasis is on physical health, sportsmanship, and teamwork.

Science and Exploration Camps: Designed for curious minds, these camps include hands-on science experiments, environmental education, and exploration of the surrounding natural world. Campers learn about ecology, astronomy, and more, fostering a love for science and discovery.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: Most camps are structured as one-week sessions, providing a compact yet immersive experience. This duration is perfect for trying out different activities and making new friends.
Two-Week Sessions: For a deeper dive, some programs offer two-week sessions. These allow for more intensive exploration of camp themes and activities, and deeper connections among campers.
Full Summer Options: A select few programs might offer the opportunity to engage with the camp community for the entire summer, offering a comprehensive and varied experience.

Specialty Programs

Leadership Development: For older campers, leadership programs focus on developing skills necessary for teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership. These might include counselor-in-training (CIT) programs.
Environmental Stewardship: Specialty camps focused on environmental education encourage campers to learn about conservation, sustainable living, and the importance of protecting natural habitats.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Lutherhaven is structured to balance activities, learning, play, and rest, ensuring that campers stay engaged and energized throughout their stay.

Morning: After breakfast, the day starts with a group assembly or a moment of reflection. Morning activities often include sessions related to the camp’s theme, such as arts and crafts, sports, or science workshops.
Afternoon: After lunch, campers typically engage in outdoor activities, like hiking, swimming, or team sports. There are also opportunities for free play and exploration.
Evening: Dinners are followed by camp-wide games, evening programs, or campfires. This is a time for storytelling, singing, and sharing the day’s experiences.
Night: The day concludes with a quiet reflection or group discussion before heading to bed, ready for another day of adventure and learning.

Camp Lutherhaven’s programs are thoughtfully designed to ensure that every camper has an unforgettable experience, filled with fun, learning, and personal growth, all within the beautiful natural setting of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Accommodations in Camp Lutherhaven

Camp Lutherhaven offers a variety of accommodations designed to enhance the camping experience while providing comfort and convenience to its campers. The camp’s facilities are nestled within the serene and picturesque landscape of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, ensuring a close connection with nature throughout the stay.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodation for campers, cabins are cozy, rustic, and designed to blend with the natural surroundings. They typically house a set number of campers and a counselor, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. Cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal items, providing a comfortable and communal living space.
Tents: For certain adventure programs or older age groups seeking a more authentic outdoor experience, tent camping may be offered. This allows campers to learn about and practice outdoor living skills, including tent setup, outdoor cooking, and minimal-impact camping.
Dormitory-Style Lodging: Some programs, particularly those designed for larger groups or specific events, might utilize dormitory-style accommodations. These facilities offer a more structured environment with multiple beds in a large room, separate sleeping quarters for male and female campers, and communal living spaces.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Lutherhaven provides a comprehensive meal plan for all campers, included in the camp fee. Meals are served in a communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat together, promoting a sense of community. The dining hall serves as a hub of camp life, where campers can share meals, stories, and laughter.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, Camp Lutherhaven offers dietary accommodations upon request. Whether it’s allergies, vegetarian, vegan, or other specific dietary requirements, the camp aims to ensure that all campers have healthy and satisfying meal options. Parents and campers are encouraged to communicate any dietary needs during the registration process.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathroom Facilities: Camp Lutherhaven is equipped with modern bathroom facilities that are centrally located and easily accessible from all sleeping and activity areas. These facilities are maintained regularly to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
Shower Facilities: Shower facilities are also provided for campers, offering privacy and convenience. The camp ensures that there are ample shower facilities to accommodate the needs of all campers, with separate facilities for male and female campers.

Camp Lutherhaven is committed to making the camping experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Through its accommodations, dining options, and facilities, the camp ensures that every camper’s needs are met, allowing them to focus on the fun, learning, and growth that the camp experience is all about.

Activities in Camp Lutherhaven

Camp Lutherhaven provides a wide range of activities designed to engage campers in fun, learning, and personal growth, all within the stunning backdrop of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. The camp’s activities are thoughtfully crafted to cater to various interests, ensuring that every camper finds something they love.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: With access to the beautiful waters around Coeur d’Alene, swimming is a favorite among campers. Safety is a top priority, with lifeguards and swim instructors ensuring a fun and secure environment.
Hiking: The camp’s proximity to forests and mountain trails makes hiking a popular activity. These excursions range from light walks to more challenging hikes, offering breathtaking views and the chance to explore the natural beauty of Idaho.
Crafts: Summer camps can unleash their creativity through various arts and crafts activities. Projects are designed to be both fun and educational, allowing campers to create keepsakes to remember their camp experience.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water activities like canoeing and kayaking are integral to the camp experience, providing campers with lessons on water safety and paddling techniques while exploring the scenic lakes.
Archery: This activity offers campers the chance to learn archery skills under the guidance of experienced instructors, focusing on safety, technique, and sportsmanship.
Outdoor Survival Skills: Campers have the opportunity to learn valuable outdoor survival skills, including fire building, navigation, and shelter construction.
Rock Climbing: For those seeking adventure, rock climbing sessions offer a safe and controlled environment to learn climbing techniques and enjoy the thrill of reaching new heights.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings are a staple, featuring songs, storytelling, and marshmallow roasting. These nights foster a sense of community and belonging among campers.
Talent Shows: Camp Lutherhaven encourages campers to showcase their talents, whether in music, dance, comedy, or other creative expressions, in a supportive and fun atmosphere.
Theme Days: Special theme days add a fun twist to camp life, with activities and dress-ups based on various themes, enhancing the camp experience with a sense of whimsy and play.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership training programs, designed to develop skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership, preparing them for roles as future camp leaders or counselors.
Environmental Education: Through various nature-based activities and educational sessions, campers learn about environmental conservation, wildlife, and the importance of sustainability.
Personal Growth Workshops: Workshops focusing on personal development, communication skills, and self-esteem are offered, providing campers with tools for personal growth and social interaction.

Camp Lutherhaven is dedicated to offering a diverse and enriching camp experience, where campers can learn new skills, make lasting friendships, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Through its activities, special events, and skill development opportunities, the camp embodies a spirit of adventure, creativity, and growth.

The staff of Camp Lutherhaven

Camp Lutherhaven places a high priority on ensuring a safe, nurturing, and high-quality camp experience for all its attendees. This commitment is reflected in its meticulous approach to staffing, staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, and the training and certifications required for all staff members.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Lutherhaven adheres to a stringent staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention, supervision, and support. While the exact ratio may vary depending on the age group and specific activities, the camp typically maintains a ratio that meets or exceeds industry standards and best practices for summer camps. This ensures a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience for all campers.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Selection Process: The hiring process at Camp Lutherhaven is rigorous and thorough, involving multiple steps to ensure that only the most qualified and dedicated individuals join the camp team. This process includes detailed application forms, interviews, and background checks to assess each candidate’s suitability, experience, and character.
Staff Qualifications: The camp seeks individuals who are not only skilled in various camp activities but who also possess strong leadership qualities, a passion for working with children, and a commitment to the camp’s values. Many staff members are education professionals, college students pursuing related degrees, or individuals with significant experience in child development and outdoor education.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo extensive pre-camp training. This training covers a wide range of topics, including camp policies and procedures, emergency protocols, child psychology, activity planning, and effective communication with children.
CPR and First Aid: All camp staff are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid as part of their qualifications. This ensures that they are prepared to respond effectively to any health or safety issues that may arise.
Specialized Certifications: For staff involved in specific activities, such as swimming, rock climbing, or wilderness expeditions, additional specialized certifications may be required. For example, lifeguards must have lifeguard certification, and instructors for certain high-adventure activities might need specific training and certification relevant to their area of expertise.

Camp Lutherhaven’s commitment to a highly qualified and well-trained staff ensures a safe, positive, and enriching camp environment. By maintaining high standards for staff recruitment, training, and certification, the camp fosters a supportive atmosphere where campers can thrive, learn, and have fun.

Safety and Health in Camp Lutherhaven

Camp Lutherhaven prioritizes the safety and health of its campers and staff, implementing comprehensive protocols and maintaining facilities to address any health or safety concerns. The camp’s approach is proactive, focusing on prevention, preparedness, and swift response to ensure a safe environment for everyone involved.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Risk Assessment: Regular risk assessments are conducted to identify potential hazards related to camp activities, facilities, and natural surroundings. These assessments guide the development and implementation of safety protocols.
Activity Safety: For each camp activity, specific safety guidelines are established and followed. This includes equipment checks, safety briefings for campers, and ensuring activities are age-appropriate and conducted under close supervision by qualified staff.
Emergency Drills: Campers and staff participate in emergency drills, including fire, severe weather, and lockdown procedures, to ensure everyone knows how to respond in various emergency situations.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Lutherhaven maintains an on-site health center, staffed by qualified health care professionals such as nurses or paramedics. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is prepared to stabilize more serious conditions until emergency medical services arrive.
Health Screening: Upon arrival at camp, all campers undergo health screenings to identify any pre-existing conditions, allergies, or other health concerns that the camp staff should be aware of. This helps in tailoring care and ensuring the well-being of each camper.
Medication Management: The camp’s health staff is responsible for managing and administering medications for campers, according to the guidelines provided by parents and healthcare providers. This ensures that all campers receive their medications correctly and on schedule.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Lutherhaven has a comprehensive emergency response plan in place, detailing the steps to be taken in the event of various emergencies, including natural disasters, health emergencies, and accidents. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, the camp has protocols for communicating with local emergency services, parents, and guardians. The camp ensures that parents are promptly informed of any issues affecting their children.
Training: All camp staff receive training on emergency response procedures, ensuring they are prepared to act quickly and effectively. This training includes first aid, CPR, and specific emergency response protocols related to the camp’s activities and facilities.

Safety and health are integral to the Camp Lutherhaven experience, with protocols and facilities designed to protect and promote the well-being of every camper and staff member. Through diligent preparation, ongoing training, and a commitment to best practices, Camp Lutherhaven strives to maintain a secure and healthy environment for all.

Cost and Registration in Camp Lutherhaven

Camp Lutherhaven is committed to providing an enriching camp experience that is accessible and affordable to families. Understanding the financial considerations of sending a child to camp, Lutherhaven has structured its cost, registration, and financial aid policies to accommodate a range of circumstances, ensuring that as many children as possible have the opportunity to enjoy and benefit from their programs.

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes

The cost of attending Camp Lutherhaven varies depending on the program, length of stay, and type of activities involved. Generally, the fee covers all aspects of the camp experience, including lodging, meals, activities, supervision, and any special equipment needed for camp activities. Parents can expect no additional required costs beyond the initial fee, ensuring a comprehensive camp experience without unexpected expenses.
The cost of camp is around $570 per camper
There are also some Mini/Short Week Camps with a base price of $25, and they offer financial aid of $25 or $50 for these programs

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration Process: Registration for camp typically opens several months in advance of the summer season. Families can register online through the camp’s website, where they will find forms and instructions. Early registration is encouraged as some programs fill up quickly.
Deadlines: There are specific deadlines for registration, often with early registration benefits such as discounted rates. The camp clearly communicates these deadlines, along with any necessary documentation required for the registration process.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding the financial burden that camp fees can represent for some families, Camp Lutherhaven often offers flexible payment plans. These plans allow families to spread out the cost of camp over several months, making it more manageable.
Refunds and Cancellation: The camp typically has a refund and cancellation policy in place, detailing the conditions under which refunds are available. While each camp’s policy may vary, most include provisions for cancellations due to illness or family emergencies. Specific details, including any non-refundable deposits or administrative fees, are provided at the time of registration.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid

Scholarships and Financial Aid: Camp Lutherhaven believes that financial constraints should not prevent any child from experiencing camp. As such, scholarships and financial aid are available for families in need. These funds are often made possible through donations, fundraising events, and grants.
Application Process: Families seeking financial assistance are encouraged to apply early, as funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. The application process typically involves completing a form and providing documentation of financial need.

Camp Lutherhaven’s approach to cost, registration, and financial aid reflects its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. By offering detailed information on fees, flexible payment options, and support for those in need of financial assistance, the camp strives to ensure that every child has the opportunity to benefit from the transformative experience of summer camp.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Lutherhaven

Preparing for a stay at Camp Lutherhaven is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure that everyone is ready for the adventure ahead, the camp provides detailed information on what to pack, camp rules and policies, and tips for making the most of the camp experience. This guidance is designed to help campers feel prepared and confident as they embark on their camp journey and to reassure parents that their children will be in a safe, nurturing environment.

Packing List

Camp Lutherhaven recommends packing items that are practical, comfortable, and suitable for a variety of outdoor activities and weather conditions. A typical packing list includes:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate attire, including T-shirts, shorts, long pants, sweatshirts, and a jacket. Remember to pack enough underwear and socks for the duration of the stay. Sturdy shoes for hiking and sandals for shower use are also essential.
Bedding and Towels: A sleeping bag or sheets and blankets for the bed, along with bath towels and a beach towel for swimming activities.
Toiletries: Basic toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and sunscreen. Insect repellent is also a good idea.
Water Bottle: A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Swimwear and Sun Protection: Swimwear and items for sun protection, including sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Rain Gear: A raincoat or poncho to stay dry during wet weather.
Flashlight or Headlamp: For evening activities and navigating the campsite at night.

Campers are advised to label all personal items with their name to prevent loss or confusion.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize the camp experience and encourage social interaction and connection with nature, Camp Lutherhaven often has policies limiting the use of personal electronic devices, including smartphones, tablets, and video games. Specific guidelines will be provided, and it’s important for campers and parents to understand and respect these rules.
Visitation: Policies on visitation are designed to ensure the safety and security of campers. Parents are typically welcome to visit on designated days, and all visitors must check in with camp staff upon arrival.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Communication: Discuss what the camp experience will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities for making new friends. Establish a plan for staying in touch, if permitted, such as writing letters.
Practice Independence: Encourage your child to practice skills they’ll use at camp, like making their bed, organizing their belongings, and following a schedule.
Positive Mindset: Encourage a positive mindset by focusing on the fun aspects of camp and the growth opportunities it presents. It’s normal to feel nervous, but excitement and adventure await!
Trust the Camp Staff: Remember that camp staff are experienced professionals trained to ensure your child has a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience.

Preparing for camp is about more than just packing; it’s about setting the stage for an incredible adventure of growth, learning, and fun. By following Camp Lutherhaven’s guidance on packing, rules, and tips for first-timers, campers, and parents can feel confident and ready for the camp experience ahead.

Camp Lutherhaven stands as a beacon of adventure, growth, and community in the beautiful setting of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, engaging programs, and a commitment to fostering personal development and spiritual growth. Through a wide array of activities, from outdoor adventures to creative arts and leadership training, campers are encouraged to explore their interests, challenge themselves, and build lasting friendships. The camp’s dedication to safety, health, and well-being ensures a supportive environment where campers can thrive.

With a thoughtful approach to preparation and a welcoming community spirit, Camp Lutherhaven extends beyond just a summer experience—it becomes a cherished memory in the hearts of those who attend. The camp’s focus on inclusivity, learning, and personal growth mirrors its mission to provide a transformative experience for every camper. Whether it’s through swimming in the lake, hiking through forests, or sitting around a campfire under the stars, the magic of Camp Lutherhaven is found in both its grand adventures and its quiet moments.