Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Mancelona, Michigan, Mancelona Camp stands as a beacon of adventure and personal growth. Located in the heart of Michigan’s northern region, their camp is surrounded by the natural beauty of lush forests and clear lakes, making it an ideal setting for a memorable camping experience. Notable landmarks nearby include the majestic Chain of Lakes and the sprawling Shanty Creek Resorts, offering a scenic backdrop and additional recreational opportunities for their campers.

Mancelona Camp has a rich history that dates back to its founding in the early 20th century. Initially established as a retreat for young adventurers, the camp has evolved over the years while maintaining its core values of fostering independence and resilience in youth. Throughout its existence, Mancelona Camp has been a place where children can explore the outdoors, develop new skills, and forge lasting friendships.

Their mission at Mancelona Camp is to provide a safe, engaging, and enriching environment where young people can thrive. They believe in the power of outdoor experiences to shape character, instill self-confidence, and promote a sense of community among campers. Their programs are designed to challenge and inspire, encouraging every camper to reach their full potential.

Mancelona Camp is a facility that welcomes boys and girls aged 6 to 16. They offer a variety of programs tailored to different age groups, ensuring that every camper receives age-appropriate challenges and support. Whether it’s hiking, swimming, canoeing, or arts and crafts, their activities are designed to accommodate and stimulate young minds at every stage of their development.

Join us at Mancelona Camp for an unforgettable summer of growth, learning, and fun in the great outdoors!

Programs Offered by Mancelona Camp

At Mancelona Camp, they pride themselves on offering a diverse range of programs that cater to the interests and development needs of all our campers. Their sessions and specialty programs are designed to nurture skills, foster creativity, and promote physical activity in a fun and supportive environment.

Description of Programs

1. Explorer Programs (Ages 6-10): Tailored for their younger campers, these programs focus on introductory outdoor activities, basic arts and crafts, and team-building games. These activities are designed to spark curiosity and encourage exploration.

2. Adventure Programs (Ages 11-13): As campers grow, so does their appetite for adventure. This program introduces more challenging activities such as intermediate hiking, canoeing, and an introduction to wilderness survival skills.

3. Leadership Programs (Ages 14-16): Designed for their oldest campers, this program focuses on developing leadership skills through advanced outdoor challenges, peer mentorship, and community service projects.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: These short sessions are perfect for first-time campers or those looking to get a taste of the Mancelona Camp experience. Campers can choose from any of their specialty programs during these sessions.
Two-Week Sessions: Offering a more immersive experience, these sessions allow for deeper exploration of activities and stronger bond formation among campers.
Full Summer Program: Spanning several weeks, the full summer program is an all-encompassing experience where campers engage in a progressive series of activities and personal development exercises.

Specialty Programs

Arts: Their arts program includes workshops in painting, sculpture, and performance arts, helping campers express their creativity and learn new artistic skills.
Sports: Focused on both team sports and individual physical challenges, their sports program includes soccer, basketball, swimming, and archery.
Science: For budding scientists, this program offers fun and educational activities like astronomy nights, wildlife biology, and basic robotics.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Mancelona Camp is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, learning, and free time, ensuring that campers are engaged and entertained from morning until night.

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercises
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (session-specific programs)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time/Rest
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (elective activities, free play)
5:00 PM: Dinner
6:00 PM: Evening program (campfires, night hikes, talent shows)
8:00 PM: Prepare for bed
9:00 PM: Lights out

Each day at Mancelona Camp is carefully structured to maximize camper engagement and ensure a fulfilling camp experience. Whether participating in a specialized track or exploring a range of electives, campers will find themselves challenged, inspired, and eager to discover what each new day has to offer.

Accommodations in Mancelona Camp

At Mancelona Camp, they believe that comfortable and safe accommodations are crucial to a great camping experience. Their facilities are designed to ensure that every camper feels at home while they explore and learn in the great outdoors.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their primary accommodation for campers, the cabins at Mancelona Camp, are spacious and well-ventilated wooden structures nestled among the trees, providing a rustic yet cozy environment. Each cabin houses up to 12 campers and 2 counselors, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere. Cabins are equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and electricity.

Tents: For specific programs focused on more traditional camping experiences, such as their wilderness survival tracks, campers have the opportunity to sleep in tents. These sessions involve learning how to pitch tents and safely manage an outdoor living space.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Mancelona Camp offers a full meal plan that includes three balanced meals per day, prepared by their skilled kitchen staff. Their dining hall is a communal space where campers gather to eat and share the day’s experiences. They prioritize nutrition and variety, ensuring that each meal is both healthful and appealing to young appetites.

Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of accommodating various dietary needs, they offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-free options upon request. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle special dietary requirements with the utmost care to ensure that all campers have delicious and safe meal options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Their camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities that are centrally located near the cabins and common areas. Separate facilities are provided for boys and girls, each maintained with high standards of cleanliness. Showers offer hot and cold water, and there are ample sinks and toilet facilities to accommodate the needs of their campers and staff.

Additionally, for programs that involve tent camping, portable bathroom facilities are provided to ensure hygiene and convenience even in the most rustic settings.

Overall Comfort and Safety

Safety and comfort are their top priorities at Mancelona Camp. All accommodations and facilities are regularly inspected and maintained to meet safety regulations and ensure that every camper’s stay is secure and enjoyable. By providing these comfortable living conditions, they aim to create an environment where campers can focus on their growth and enjoyment without the worry of basic needs.

Activities in Mancelona Camp

Mancelona Camp offers a broad spectrum of activities designed to engage campers of all ages and interests. From outdoor adventures to creative arts and personal skill development, their camp provides a dynamic environment where every camper can find something exciting to do.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: These include swimming in their natural lakes, hiking through scenic trails, canoeing, and kayaking. Each activity is supervised by certified instructors to ensure safety and fun.
Sports: Summer camps can participate in various sports such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, archery, and frisbee golf. These activities promote physical fitness and teamwork.
Crafts: Creative outlets are a big part of the camp experience, with activities like pottery, weaving, painting, and woodworking available. These crafts help develop fine motor skills and artistic expression.
Nature Exploration: Activities such as bird watching, nature walks, and star gazing are designed to connect campers with the environment and teach them about the local flora and fauna.
Survival Skills: Older campers have the opportunity to learn essential survival skills, including fire building, orienteering (navigation with a map and compass), and shelter construction.

Special Events or Traditions

Mancelona Camp is rich in traditions and hosts several special events throughout the summer. These include:

Opening Bonfire: A welcome event where campers gather around a large bonfire to learn about camp traditions, meet staff members, and sing camp songs.
Camp Olympics: A day-long event featuring a variety of sports and games, fostering team spirit and friendly competition.
Talent Show: Campers and staff showcase their talents in a fun-filled evening of performances.
Color Wars: Campers are divided into teams to compete in various physical and creative challenges, promoting camaraderie and teamwork.
Closing Ceremony: A reflective event where achievements are celebrated, and campers can share their experiences and highlights of their time at camp.

Skill Development Opportunities

Mancelona Camp is dedicated to helping campers develop a wide range of skills:

Leadership: Through team activities and specific leadership programs, campers enhance their leadership skills, learning to organize groups, solve problems, and communicate effectively.
Social Skills: Interaction with peers from diverse backgrounds helps campers build social skills, including empathy, cooperation, and conflict resolution.
Physical Skills: Engaging in various sports and outdoor activities improves physical health and teaches campers about the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle.
Creative Skills: Arts and crafts activities offer the chance to explore creativity and innovation, encouraging campers to express themselves uniquely.

By participating in these activities and special events, campers at Mancelona Camp experience growth, discovery, and the joy of summer camp in a safe and supportive environment.

The staff of Mancelona Camp

At Mancelona Camp, they take great pride in their dedicated and highly qualified staff, who play a crucial role in making the camp experience both safe and enjoyable for all campers. Their commitment to maintaining a high standard of care and supervision is reflected in their staff selection, training, and operational practices.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

To ensure personalized attention and supervision, Mancelona Camp maintains an excellent staff-to-camper ratio of 1:5. This ratio allows its staff to effectively monitor and engage with each camper, providing a supportive and responsive environment. For activities that require more intensive supervision such as swimming or hiking, additional staff are allocated to ensure safety and quality instruction.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Hiring Process: Mancelona Camp’s hiring process is thorough and selective, ensuring that all staff members are not only qualified but also passionate about youth development and outdoor education. Candidates undergo a multi-step process that includes detailed application forms, interviews, and background checks. They prioritize applicants with previous experience in camp settings, education, or child care.

Staff Qualifications: Their staff includes a diverse group of individuals ranging from seasoned educators and sports coaches to skilled artisans and science enthusiasts. Many of their staff members are pursuing or have completed degrees in education, psychology, environmental science, or related fields. They also ensure that their staff represents a mix of new and returning individuals to blend fresh perspectives with seasoned insights.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff members participate in a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, activity planning, and child psychology. This training ensures that their staff is well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of their campers.

Certifications: All staff members are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additional training and certifications are required for staff involved in specific activities:

Water Safety: Staff supervising water-based activities are certified lifeguards with training in water safety and rescue techniques.
Outdoor Adventures: Instructors for activities such as hiking, climbing, and canoeing hold relevant certifications from recognized authorities, ensuring they are equipped to provide expert guidance and ensure safety.

Continuous Professional Development: Mancelona Camp supports ongoing professional development and provides opportunities for staff to attend workshops and courses during the off-season. This commitment to continuous learning ensures that their staff remains at the forefront of best practices in camp management and child development.

The staff at Mancelona Camp are more than just supervisors or instructors; they are role models and mentors dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of the campers they serve. With a robust framework for hiring, training, and ongoing professional development, they ensure that every camper enjoys a safe, educational, and immensely fun camping experience.

Safety and Health in Mancelona Camp

Ensuring the safety and health of all campers and staff is a top priority at Mancelona Camp. They have established comprehensive safety protocols and maintain excellent on-site health facilities to manage any situation that may arise during camp sessions. Their policies and procedures are designed to create a secure environment where parents can feel confident about their children’s well-being while they are at camp.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

General Safety Measures:

Activity Safety: Each activity offered at the camp is led by staff members who are specifically trained and certified in that area. Equipment and activity areas are regularly inspected to meet safety standards.
Weather Safety: They monitor weather conditions continuously and have protocols in place for severe weather, including safe locations for shelter and emergency communication systems.
Nighttime Security: Mancelona Camp ensures that all living and activity areas are secure, with staff members conducting regular nighttime checks and maintaining a 24-hour presence in key areas to ensure camper safety.

Emergency Drills:

Campers and staff participate in regular drills (fire, weather, and security) so that everyone knows how to respond in different types of emergencies, ensuring swift and organized reactions to any situation.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center:

Their on-site health center is staffed with qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses and paramedics, who are available 24/7. The center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with the necessary medical supplies and medications.

Relationships with Local Hospitals:

Mancelona Camp has established relationships with nearby hospitals and emergency medical services. In case of serious injury or illness, transportation arrangements are in place to ensure quick and efficient transfer to these facilities.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Immediate Response:

In the event of an emergency, the first response is handled by their on-site health staff who assess the situation and provide immediate care.
Camp leadership is notified simultaneously, and parents are informed as soon as practical in the situation.

Communication Protocol:

Mancelona Camp has a detailed communication plan that includes notifying parents, coordinating with local emergency services, and, if necessary, communicating with the broader camp community about the situation.

Continuous Training:

All camp staff participate in ongoing training regarding emergency response and first aid to refresh their skills and stay updated on best practices.

Mancelona Camp is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment through stringent adherence to its safety protocols, a well-equipped health center, and clear policies for handling emergencies. Their proactive approach ensures that both fun and safety go hand in hand, providing peace of mind for parents and a secure environment for campers.

Cost and Registration in Mancelona Camp

Mancelona Camp offers a comprehensive camp experience at a competitive price, with a straightforward registration process and flexible financial options to ensure that the camp is accessible to as many children as possible. Here’s a detailed look at the cost, registration, and financial aid opportunities available.

Cost of Attendance

What It Includes:

The cost of attending Mancelona Camp covers all camp activities, lodging in either cabins or tents (depending on the program), three meals a day plus snacks, and access to all camp facilities and equipment. The fee also includes the supervision provided by their trained and experienced staff, as well as basic medical care at the on-site health center.
Prices vary depending on the length of the session chosen. For example, one-week sessions cost approximately $750, two-week sessions are around $1,400, and full summer programs can range up to $3,500.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration Process:

Parents can register their children for Mancelona Camp via their online portal, available through their official website. The process involves filling out the camper’s profile, selecting the desired session and specialty programs, and completing the health and consent forms.
Early registration is encouraged as some sessions and programs fill up quickly.

Deadlines:

Registration typically opens in January for the upcoming summer sessions. Early registration discounts are often available until the end of March. Final deadlines for registration are usually set for the end of May, but late registrations may be accepted based on availability.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans:

Mancelona Camp offers flexible payment plans that allow families to spread the cost of camp over several months. These plans can be set up at the time of registration.

Refunds and Cancellations:

A full refund minus a small administrative fee is available up to one month before the start date of the session. After this period, refunds are only given for medical reasons, supported by a doctor’s note.
In the event that Mancelona Camp must cancel a session due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., extreme weather events), full refunds or the option to transfer registration to another session will be provided.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Mancelona Camp is committed to making camp accessible to all children and offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid options. These are based on financial need, merit, or both.
Families seeking financial assistance are encouraged to apply early, as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Detailed information on how to apply for scholarships and the types of financial aid available can be found on their website.

By providing comprehensive information on costs, a streamlined registration process, flexible payment options, and financial aid, Mancelona Camp ensures that every child has the opportunity to experience the joys and benefits of summer camp.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Mancelona Camp

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. At Mancelona Camp, they strive to ensure that every family feels ready and confident about their upcoming camp experience. Here’s a guide to help with packing, understanding camp rules and policies, and tips for first-time campers and parents.

Packing List

To make sure campers have everything they need for a fun and safe experience, they recommend packing the following items:

Clothing: Pack comfortable and durable clothing suitable for various weather conditions, including warm days and cooler evenings. Include t-shirts, shorts, jeans, sweatshirts, a rain jacket, and a swimsuit. Don’t forget pajamas, underwear, and socks.
Footwear: Bring sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals with heel straps for casual wear, and water shoes for aquatic activities.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, bug spray, and a small first aid kit.
Equipment: Flashlight or headlamp, water bottle, and a backpack for day trips.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, camera (non-smartphone), and any specific gear related to their selected specialty programs.

Note: Label all personal items with the camper’s name to prevent loss.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use:

To maximize the immersive experience of the camp and encourage social interaction, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is restricted. Devices may be used during designated times and areas but are otherwise kept and managed by camp staff.

Visitation:

Parents are welcome to visit during designated visitation days, which are usually scheduled during longer sessions. Details and schedules are provided prior to the start of each camp session. Outside of these times, visits are discouraged to maintain the camp program and schedule integrity.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:

Stay Positive: It’s normal to feel a bit nervous about new experiences. Focus on the fun activities and new friendships.
Be Open to New Experiences: Camp is a great place to try new things and learn new skills. Be open to participating in all activities.
Communicate: If you’re feeling homesick or have any concerns, talk to your counselors. They are there to help you have the best camp experience.

For Parents:

Discuss Expectations: Talk about what camp will be like focusing on the positive aspects. Discuss how to handle feelings like homesickness.
Stay Connected: Use any approved methods (like letters or emails) to communicate with your child while they are at camp. Avoid over-communicating to help them gain independence.
Trust the Process: Camp staff are trained to handle a variety of situations that might arise. Trust them to take care of your child and handle any issues professionally.

By following these guidelines and preparing accordingly, both parents and campers can look forward to a successful and enjoyable camp experience at Mancelona Camp.

Mancelona Camp, with its rich tradition and beautiful setting in Northern Michigan, offers a unique and enriching experience for children and teenagers aged 6 to 16. Through a carefully curated blend of activities, from arts and sports to science and outdoor adventures, the camp fosters a sense of discovery, friendship, and growth. With a focus on safety, skill development, and personal attention, their dedicated staff ensures that each camper receives a supportive and enjoyable experience.

At Mancelona Camp, they believe in the power of camp life to develop strong, confident young individuals who understand the value of community and the outdoors. The memories and skills gained at Mancelona Camp are not only profound but lasting, providing benefits that extend beyond the summer. Whether engaging in a spirited round of Camp Olympics, learning survival skills, or simply gazing at the stars, campers leave with a deeper appreciation for nature and new friendships that often last a lifetime.