Welcome to Camp Chickagami, nestled in the serene surroundings of Presque Isle, Michigan. Situated in the heart of Michigan’s northern landscape, near the picturesque shores of Lake Huron and surrounded by lush forests, Camp Chickagami offers a stunning backdrop for an unforgettable camping experience.

Founded in the early 1920s, Camp Chickagami has a rich history of providing a nurturing environment where young people can explore nature, develop new skills, and form lasting friendships. The camp was initially established as a retreat for spiritual growth and personal development, and over the years, it has evolved to include a wide range of recreational and educational activities.

At Camp Chickagami, their mission is to foster a community of respect, responsibility, and reverence in a natural setting. They believe in nurturing the physical, emotional, and spiritual growth of all their campers through outdoor activities that challenge and inspire.

Camp Chickagami is a camp that welcomes boys and girls between the ages of 7 and 16. Each session is designed to cater to specific age groups, ensuring that all activities are age-appropriate and enjoyable for every camper. Whether it’s hiking through the woods, learning to kayak, or sitting around a campfire under the stars, Camp Chickagami provides a safe, supportive, and fun environment where every child can thrive. Join us for a summer of adventure and discovery in Michigan’s beautiful northern wilderness!

Programs Offered by Camp Chickagami

Camp Chickagami offers a diverse array of programs designed to engage campers in a variety of outdoor and educational activities. Each program is carefully crafted to ensure that every camper has an enriching and enjoyable experience, fostering both personal growth and a deepened appreciation for nature.

Programs Offered

General Camp Programs: These are traditional camp sessions that last one or two weeks. Campers participate in a wide range of activities including swimming, kayaking, archery, crafts, and environmental education. Each session includes special evenings with campfires, storytelling, and group games.
Specialty Programs:
- Arts Camp: Focused on creativity and expression, this one-week session includes workshops in painting, sculpture, photography, and performance arts.
- Sports Camp: This session emphasizes physical activity and sportsmanship with activities like soccer, basketball, volleyball, and water sports. It typically runs for two weeks and is perfect for campers looking to improve their athletic skills.
- Science Camp: Aimed at stimulating curiosity and scientific knowledge, this two-week program features activities related to biology, astronomy, and environmental science. Campers get hands-on experience through experiments, field trips, and nature walks.

Length of Sessions

General camp sessions are available in one-week or two-week formats.
Specialty programs such as Arts, Sports, and Science Camps are typically one or two weeks long, depending on the focus and depth of the curriculum.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Chickagami is structured to balance activity with downtime, ensuring campers stay engaged and energized throughout their stay:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercises
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Morning activities (varies by day and program)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Rest hour
2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Afternoon activities (focus on specialty programs or free choice activities)
5:30 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Evening activities (campfires, night hikes, talent shows)
9:30 PM: Lights out for younger campers
10:00 PM: Lights out for older campers

Each day is designed to offer a mix of programmed and free choice periods, allowing campers to explore their interests while providing sufficient structure to keep them safe and involved. The blend of recreational, creative, and educational opportunities ensures that every camper leaves Camp Chickagami with cherished memories and new skills.

Accommodations in Camp Chickagami

Camp Chickagami offers comfortable and rustic accommodations designed to enhance the camping experience while providing all the necessary conveniences.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodation at Camp Chickagami consists of wooden cabins that blend into the natural surroundings. Each cabin can house 8 to 12 campers along with at least two counselors, ensuring supervision and safety. Cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal belongings. They are grouped in clusters with easy access to central bathroom and shower facilities, fostering a sense of community among campers.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Chickagami provides three well-balanced meals per day, served in the communal dining hall. The meal plan is designed to accommodate the high-energy needs of active campers and includes a variety of healthy options. Breakfast typically includes cereals, fruits, and hot items; lunch and dinner offer a mix of proteins, vegetables, and starches, with different themes or cuisines featured throughout the week.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to all dietary needs, the camp’s kitchen staff is equipped to handle special dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-specific meals. Parents are encouraged to communicate any special dietary needs during the registration process to ensure appropriate meals are provided for their children.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Central bathroom and shower facilities are conveniently located near each cabin cluster. These facilities are divided by gender and are well-maintained with multiple stalls, sinks, and private shower cubicles. The design ensures privacy and accessibility, with hot water available throughout the day.
Hygiene Standards: Camp Chickagami prioritizes cleanliness and hygiene. The bathroom and shower facilities are cleaned multiple times a day, and there are strict protocols in place to maintain the highest standards of hygiene. Additionally, campers are educated on personal hygiene best practices to promote a healthy camping environment.

These accommodations at Camp Chickagami are designed to ensure that campers can enjoy their stay in comfort while focusing on the enriching experiences that the camp offers. The combination of rustic living with modern conveniences helps to create a memorable and enjoyable outdoor adventure.

Activities in Camp Chickagami

Camp Chickagami offers a broad array of activities designed to cater to a variety of interests and skill levels, ensuring that every camper finds something they enjoy. Here’s a detailed look at the offerings:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Activities include swimming in Lake Huron, hiking through scenic trails, canoeing, and kayaking, providing ample opportunities for campers to connect with nature.
Sports: There are facilities for soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery, promoting physical fitness and teamwork among campers.
Creative Arts: Summer camps can explore their artistic sides with activities like crafts, painting, pottery, and drama workshops, encouraging creativity and self-expression.
Environmental Education: Programs designed to teach campers about local flora and fauna, sustainability practices, and nature conservation.
Skill Workshops: Offered in areas such as first aid, survival skills, and orienteering, helping campers develop practical skills that are useful both in and outside of camp.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Bonfire: A tradition where campers gather around a bonfire on the first night of camp to learn about the camp’s history, sing songs, and set intentions for their time at camp.
Camp Olympics: A multi-day event held once each session where cabins compete in various athletic, creative, and problem-solving challenges.
Talent Show: At the end of each session, campers can showcase their talents to their peers, whether it’s through music, dance, magic tricks, or comedy.
Closing Ceremony: A reflective event where campers share their experiences and achievements, and participate in a candlelight ceremony that signifies the bond formed during their stay.

Skill Development Opportunities

Camp Chickagami places a strong emphasis on both personal and group skill development, fostering growth in areas such as:

Leadership: Through leading group activities and participating in camp governance sessions.
Teamwork: Encouraged through sports and group challenges that require collaboration and strategic thinking.
Independence: Promoted through opportunities that allow campers to make choices about their daily activities and manage their personal responsibilities.
Confidence: Built through performances, presentations, and mastering new skills in a supportive environment.

The activities and opportunities at Camp Chickagami are designed to ensure that campers not only have a fun and engaging experience but also leave camp with new skills, friendships, and wonderful memories that last a lifetime.

The staff of Camp Chickagami

At Camp Chickagami, they prioritize safety, quality instruction, and a supportive environment, which all begin with their dedicated staff. Here’s an overview of their staffing structure, hiring process, and the training their team undergoes to ensure the best experience for every camper.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Chickagami maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care. Their ratio is approximately 1 staff member to every 6 campers. This allows staff to monitor and engage effectively with all campers, ensuring safety and fostering a nurturing camp environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: They recruit staff from a variety of sources including colleges, teacher recommendations, and through their alumni networks. Potential candidates are carefully selected for their skills, experience, and enthusiasm for working with children in an outdoor setting.
Qualifications: All staff members are required to have previous experience working with children, and many are pursuing or have completed degrees in education, recreation, or related fields. Specialty instructors for activities like swimming or archery are required to have additional qualifications or certifications pertinent to their area of expertise.
Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks including criminal history and previous employment verifications are mandatory for all staff to ensure the safety and security of their campers.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo extensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, activity planning, and child psychology. This training is designed to prepare them for the various situations they might encounter during camp.
CPR and First Aid Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Many staff also hold additional certifications in areas such as lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, and water safety instruction.
Ongoing Education: Throughout the camp season, they offer ongoing training sessions and professional development opportunities to ensure staff skills remain sharp and current.

The combination of rigorous hiring standards, comprehensive training, and a commitment to a supportive camper experience ensures that Camp Chickagami’s staff are well-equipped to provide a safe, educational, and enjoyable environment. This approach helps campers learn and grow in a setting where their well-being is the top priority.

Safety and Health in Camp Chickagami

Camp Chickagami is committed to ensuring the safety and health of all campers and staff, with comprehensive protocols and facilities in place to manage any situation that may arise during camp sessions.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Preventative Measures: Safety begins with prevention at Camp Chickagami. They conduct regular safety drills, including fire and weather emergency drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with evacuation procedures. Additionally, all activities are supervised by trained staff members who enforce strict safety guidelines and equipment use.
Activity-Specific Safety: Each activity offered at Camp Chickagami is governed by specific safety protocols. For instance, water activities require life jackets and are supervised by certified lifeguards. Equipment used in sports and creative arts is regularly inspected and maintained.
Security Measures: The camp is equipped with a controlled access gate, and all visitors are required to check in at the administration office. Staff are trained to monitor for and address unauthorized persons on campgrounds.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Chickagami houses a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and on-call physicians. The health center is prepared to handle routine health issues such as minor injuries, allergies, and common illnesses.
Staff Qualifications: All health staff are required to have valid and relevant qualifications, including registered nurses (RNs) and emergency medical technicians (EMTs). These professionals are trained to provide care in a camp setting and are capable of handling a range of medical situations.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan that includes procedures for handling severe injuries, sudden illnesses, natural disasters, and other critical incidents. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated to align with the best practices and local regulations.
Communication Protocol: In the event of an emergency, there is a clear communication protocol to inform all necessary parties, including staff, local emergency services, and parents. The camp maintains updated contact information for all campers and staff to ensure swift communication.
Evacuation Procedures: Camp Chickagami has established evacuation routes and safe zones designed for different types of emergencies. Staff are trained to lead evacuations swiftly and safely, ensuring that all campers reach safety in an organized manner.
Parental Notification: Parents are immediately notified in the event of an emergency involving their child. The camp prioritizes clear and prompt communication to keep parents informed and involved as necessary.

Through these comprehensive safety measures, health facilities, and emergency policies, Camp Chickagami aims to provide a secure 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 Chickagami

Camp Chickagami strives to offer an enriching summer experience that is accessible to as many families as possible. Here are the details regarding the cost of attendance, registration procedures, and financial options:

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Camp Chickagami varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Typically, costs cover:

All Activities: This includes participation in all scheduled camp activities, such as sports, arts, and environmental education.
Accommodations: The fee includes lodging in one of the camp’s cabins.
Meals: Three balanced meals per day, along with snacks.
Equipment: Use of all necessary equipment for activities such as sports gear, art supplies, and safety apparatus.

For example, a one-week session generally costs around $750, whereas a two-week session is approximately $1,450.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Families can register their children through the Camp Chickagami website. The registration process involves filling out the camper’s information, selecting the desired session, and submitting health and dietary information.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January and it is recommended to register early as sessions fill up quickly. Deadlines for each session are usually set for about one month prior to the start of the session, but late registrations may be accepted if space allows.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Camp Chickagami offers flexible payment plans that allow families to pay the camp fee in installments. Details can be arranged during the registration process.
Refunds and Cancellations: If you need to cancel a registration, a full refund minus a registration fee is available until a month before the session starts. Cancellations made less than a month before the start date may receive a 50% refund. No refunds are typically offered once the session has begun, unless under exceptional circumstances.
Insurance: Families are encouraged to purchase camp insurance to cover unexpected cancellations.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Chickagami offers scholarships to help reduce the cost for families in need. These scholarships are awarded based on financial need and availability.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available through various programs intended to support families. Families are encouraged to inquire about these options when they register.

Camp Chickagami is dedicated to making its camp experience available to all children and families, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder a child’s ability to participate in a rewarding summer camp experience.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Chickagami

Preparing for a stay at Camp Chickagami is an exciting process for both campers and their parents. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable camp experience, here are some guidelines on what to pack, camp rules and policies, and helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

To make sure campers have everything they need for their adventure, here’s a recommended packing list:

Clothing: Pack enough for 7-14 days, depending on the session length. Include weather-appropriate clothing such as t-shirts, shorts, jeans, swimwear, rain gear, and a jacket.
Footwear: Bring sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals for showers, and athletic shoes.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small towel.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, water bottle, hat, sunglasses.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a disposable camera (if desired).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, Camp Chickagami has a no-electronics policy for campers. This includes smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices. Cameras for photography are allowed.
Visitation: Parents and family are welcome to visit on designated days which are usually set towards the end of the camp session. Outside these times, visits are discouraged to maintain the camp schedule and dynamics.
Behavior: Campers are expected to adhere to behavior guidelines that promote safety, respect, and cooperation. This includes following the instructions of camp leaders, respecting other campers, and taking care of the camp environment.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Be open to making new friends and trying new activities. Camp is a great place to learn and grow!
- Remember that it’s okay to feel homesick. Most campers feel this at some point, and it usually passes quickly.
- Participate actively and ask for help if you need it. The camp staff are there to make your experience great!
For Parents:
- Discuss what to expect at camp with your child, focusing on the positive aspects and the exciting activities they will participate in.
- Pack together with your child to ensure they know what they are bringing and can manage their belongings at camp.
- Write letters or send care packages to your child during their stay to encourage them and keep them connected to home.

By preparing adequately and understanding the camp’s rules and what to expect, both parents and campers can look forward to a memorable and enriching experience at Camp Chickagami.

Camp Chickagami provides a vibrant and enriching experience that combines adventure, creativity, and learning in the picturesque setting of Presque Isle, Michigan. With a wide array of activities, dedicated staff, and a commitment to safety, Camp Chickagami is an ideal place for children to grow and thrive during the summer months. The camp’s structured programs encourage personal development, while its traditions and communal spirit foster lifelong friendships and cherished memories.

Whether it’s through exploring the great outdoors, engaging in sports and arts, or participating in special camp events, campers are guaranteed an unforgettable experience that nurtures both body and mind. The inclusive environment and attention to individual needs ensure that every camper feels welcomed and valued. For parents seeking a safe and rewarding summer experience for their children, Camp Chickagami stands out as a premier choice.