Nestled in the serene landscapes of East Jordan, Michigan, Pleasant Valley Bible Camp stands as a beacon of spiritual growth and adventure. Surrounded by the lush beauty of Northern Michigan and close to the tranquil waters of Lake Charlevoix, their camp provides a picturesque setting for transformative experiences.

Founded on a dedication to fostering a deep, personal relationship with Christ, Pleasant Valley Bible Camp has been a home away from home for countless young souls since its establishment. Their mission is simple yet profound: “To guide young hearts towards a closer walk with God through nature, fellowship, and biblical teachings.”

At Pleasant Valley Bible Camp, they cater to both boys and girls across various age groups, ensuring a nurturing environment where each camper can thrive. Their programs are tailored to meet the spiritual and recreational needs of children and teenagers, making every camp session both fun and fulfilling.

Join us at Pleasant Valley Bible Camp, where faith meets fun in the heart of Michigan’s stunning natural landscapes, and where every camper leaves with lasting memories and a renewed spirit.

Programs Offered by Pleasant Valley Bible Camp

At Pleasant Valley Bible Camp in East Jordan, Michigan, they offer a variety of engaging and spiritually enriching programs designed to cater to different ages and interests. Here’s a detailed look at the programs available:

1. Standard Camp Sessions

Description: Their standard camp sessions encompass a wide range of activities including Bible studies, prayer sessions, recreational sports, arts and crafts, and nature exploration.
Length: They offer one-week and two-week sessions throughout the summer, allowing families to choose the duration that best fits their schedules.
Specialty: While focusing on spiritual growth, these sessions also incorporate a balance of physical activities and creative arts.

2. Adventure Camp

Description: Designed for the more adventurous spirit, this program includes activities like hiking, canoeing, and outdoor survival skills, all wrapped around daily devotionals and team-building exercises.
Length: These are typically one-week sessions that delve deep into both physical challenges and spiritual reflection.
Specialty: Emphasis on outdoor activities and learning practical survival skills.

3. Creative Arts Camp

Description: This session is perfect for those who express their faith through creative means. Campers engage in activities such as painting, music, drama, and dance, each designed to explore and express their spirituality.
Length: Usually held as one-week sessions, offering an intensive artistic and spiritual journey.
Specialty: Arts-focused, with professional instructors guiding the campers in various artistic disciplines.

4. Sports Camp

Description: Focused on physical health and teamwork, this camp features a variety of sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and swimming, coupled with daily team devotionals.
Length: Sports camps are generally one-week sessions that encourage physical development alongside spiritual growth.
Specialty: Sports training and competition, emphasizing teamwork and fair play.

Typical Daily Schedule:

Morning:
- Wake-up Call
- Morning Devotion
- Breakfast
- Activity Session 1 (e.g., Bible Study, Arts and Crafts)
Midday:
- Lunch
- Quiet Time/Rest
- Activity Session 2 (e.g., Sports, Hiking)
Afternoon:
- Free Time/Optional Workshops
- Activity Session 3 (e.g., Swimming, Drama Practice)
Evening:
- Dinner
- Evening Worship Service
- Campfire Activities and Fellowship
Night:
- Cabin Devotions
- Lights Out

Each day at Pleasant Valley Bible Camp is thoughtfully structured to provide a balance of spiritual nourishment, physical activity, and personal growth, ensuring that every camper has a memorable and meaningful camp experience.

Accommodations in Pleasant Valley Bible Camp

At Pleasant Valley Bible Camp in East Jordan, Michigan, they ensure that every aspect of their campers’ stay is comfortable, safe, and conducive to both their physical and spiritual well-being. Here’s a detailed look at their accommodations:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their primary sleeping accommodations are cozy, rustic cabins designed to blend into the natural surroundings. Each cabin sleeps 8-12 campers and is equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal items. Cabins are grouped by age and gender to ensure a comfortable and safe environment for all campers.
Dormitories: For larger groups or special events, they also have dormitory-style accommodations that can house a greater number of campers. These are also segmented by age and gender.
Tents: For specific programs like the Adventure Camp, there is an option to sleep in tents. This allows for a fully immersive experience in nature, fostering independence and a deeper connection with the outdoors.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: They provide three well-balanced meals per day, served in their communal dining hall. Their meals are designed to be nutritious and energizing, catering to the needs of active campers.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining options, they cater to various dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle these needs with the utmost care and attention to avoid cross-contamination.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathrooms: Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathroom facility equipped with multiple stalls and sinks, ensuring convenience and privacy. Bathrooms are separated by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained by their facilities staff.
Showers: Separate shower facilities are available, featuring individual stalls with changing areas to ensure privacy and comfort. These facilities are also gender-segregated and are located a short walk from the cabin areas.

At Pleasant Valley Bible Camp, they strive to make every camper’s stay as comfortable as possible, with facilities that are kept clean and well-maintained. Their accommodations are designed to enhance the camping experience, providing a safe and nurturing environment that allows campers to focus on their spiritual growth and the joy of community living.

Activities in Pleasant Valley Bible Camp

Located in the scenic surroundings of East Jordan, Michigan, Pleasant Valley Bible Camp offers a plethora of activities designed to foster spiritual growth, physical fitness, and creative expression. Here’s a closer look at what campers can enjoy during their stay:

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Summer camps feature a large swimming area, supervised by certified lifeguards, ideal for both learning to swim and enjoying water games.
Hiking: With access to numerous trails, hiking is a staple activity, allowing campers to explore the beautiful landscapes of Northern Michigan.
Crafts: Arts and crafts sessions are conducted in their arts cabin, where campers can engage in a variety of projects from pottery to painting.
Sports: They offer a range of sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery, promoting teamwork and physical health.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water-based adventures are part of the experience, taking place on nearby Lake Charlevoix.
Bible Study: Daily sessions are held to delve into the teachings of the Bible and discuss their application in modern life.
Campfires: Evenings often end with a campfire, where stories are shared, songs are sung, and marshmallows are roasted.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These are pivotal events that mark the beginning and end of each camp session, featuring performances, camper awards, and staff acknowledgments.
Theme Days: Regularly scheduled theme days (e.g., Superhero Day, Backwards Day) add a fun, creative twist to the camp schedule.
Talent Shows: A camp favorite, these allow campers to showcase their talents, whether it’s music, drama, dance, or magic tricks.
Overnight Campouts: Selected sessions include an overnight campout, where campers hike to a site, set up tents, and enjoy a night under the stars.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to develop leadership skills through mentoring younger campers and leading small groups.
Outdoor Skills: Through activities like camping and orienteering, campers learn valuable survival skills and environmental stewardship.
Artistic Skills: Dedicated sessions in music, drama, and visual arts allow campers to explore and enhance their artistic abilities.
Spiritual Growth: Integral to all activities, opportunities for spiritual reflection and growth are woven into the fabric of daily camp life.

At Pleasant Valley Bible Camp, their diverse array of activities ensures that every camper has the opportunity to try new things, hone existing skills, and enjoy their summer to the fullest in a supportive, Christian environment.

The staff of Pleasant Valley Bible Camp

At Pleasant Valley Bible Camp in East Jordan, Michigan, they prioritize creating a safe, nurturing, and spiritually enriching environment for all campers. This commitment is reflected in their meticulous approach to staffing, which includes maintaining optimal staff-to-camper ratios, stringent hiring processes, and comprehensive training programs.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Staffing: They maintain a staff-to-camper ratio of 1:5 for younger campers and 1:8 for older campers. This ratio ensures that every camper receives personal attention and guidance throughout their stay at the camp.
Specialty Areas: For activities that require more supervision or specialized skills, such as swimming or adventure sports, the ratio is adjusted to ensure greater oversight, typically around 1:3 or 1:4.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: They recruit staff from a variety of sources, including local universities, seminaries, and through recommendations from trusted community members. Prospective staff members must demonstrate a strong commitment to Christian values and a passion for working with youth.
Qualifications: All potential staff members must have previous experience in camping or youth services, a clean background check, and at least two references that attest to their character and skills.
Interview Process: Candidates undergo a rigorous interview process that includes multiple stages—from initial screening calls to in-person interviews with camp directors. They assess their ability to handle the responsibilities of camp life and their aptitude for leadership and crisis management.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additionally, those involved in specific activities such as lifeguarding, canoeing, or archery must hold relevant certifications.
Orientation and Training: Before the start of each camp season, all staff undergo a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, child behavior management, emergency procedures, and activity-specific safety protocols.
Ongoing Education: They provide ongoing training and professional development opportunities throughout the camp season to ensure their staff remains knowledgeable about the latest in safety practices and child development theories.

Specialty Training

Spiritual Development: Staff members also receive training in spiritual guidance to ensure they are well-equipped to handle the faith-based aspects of camp programming.
Cultural Competency: They train their staff in cultural competency to ensure an inclusive and respectful environment for all campers, regardless of their background.

The dedication and expertise of the staff at Pleasant Valley Bible Camp are central to their mission of providing a safe, enjoyable, and enriching camping experience for every young person who joins us. They take pride in their team’s ability to foster an environment that nurtures both the spiritual and personal growth of their campers.

Safety and Health in Pleasant Valley Bible Camp

Ensuring the safety and health of every camper and staff member at Pleasant Valley Bible Camp in East Jordan, Michigan, is their utmost priority. They implement stringent safety protocols, maintain well-equipped health facilities, and have clear policies for handling emergencies. Here’s an overview of their approach:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Inspections: They conduct daily inspections of all camp facilities and equipment to ensure they are in good working order and safe for use. This includes play equipment, sleeping quarters, and dining facilities.
Activity Safety: Each activity is supervised by staff members trained specifically for that activity, with strict adherence to safety guidelines and best practices. For example, all water-based activities are supervised by certified lifeguards.
Safety Drills: Campers and staff participate in regular safety drills, including fire drills and severe weather drills, so everyone knows how to respond in an emergency.
Secure Environment: The camp is monitored for security with controlled access to ensure that only authorized personnel and campers are on the premises.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Their on-site health center is staffed by a licensed nurse available 24/7 to manage health checks, administer medications, and treat minor injuries or illnesses.
Facilities: The health center is equipped with beds for observation and rest, essential medical supplies, and equipment for treating common ailments and injuries. For more serious concerns, they have established protocols to transport individuals to the nearest hospital quickly.
Medication Management: All camper medications are stored securely in the health center and administered by qualified health staff according to prescribed schedules and dosages.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: They have a comprehensive emergency response plan tailored to a variety of potential scenarios, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical incidents. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, they have a clear communication protocol to inform all relevant parties, including staff, local authorities, and parents. They ensure that communication lines remain open and clear during any crisis.
Training: All staff are trained in emergency response and first aid to ensure a swift and effective reaction to any incident. Training includes CPR certification and specific response strategies for potential scenarios campers might encounter.
Partnerships with Local Services: They maintain strong relationships with local emergency services to ensure quick response times and support for any situation that may arise.

The health and safety measures at Pleasant Valley Bible Camp are designed to provide a secure, caring environment where campers can focus on enjoying their experience and growing both personally and spiritually without concern for their well-being. They are committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and health at all times.

Cost and Registration in Pleasant Valley Bible Camp

At Pleasant Valley Bible Camp in East Jordan, Michigan, they strive to make their camp experience accessible and affordable for families, while ensuring that their offerings are of the highest quality. Here are details regarding the cost of attendance, registration procedures, and financial support options:

Cost of Attendance

Fees: The cost of attending Pleasant Valley Bible Camp varies depending on the session length and program type. Generally, one-week sessions cost approximately $350, while two-week sessions are around $700. These fees cover all lodging, meals, activities, supplies, and program materials.
What’s Included: The fees include full room and board, 24-hour supervision, all program activities, a camp t-shirt, and any special event costs. There are no additional required fees beyond the registration cost, though campers may bring spending money for snacks or optional camp merchandise.

Registration Process and Deadlines

How to Register: Registration can be completed online through the camp’s website. The process involves filling out the camper’s personal information, selecting the desired session, and submitting health and consent forms.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January and remains open until sessions are full. They encourage early registration as spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Specific deadlines for each session are listed on the camp’s website.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: To accommodate different family needs, they offer flexible payment plans that allow families to pay the camp fee in installments leading up to the session start date.
Refunds: Full refunds are available up to one month before the session start date. After this point, partial refunds may be available depending on the circumstances surrounding the cancellation.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations made less than two weeks before the session start date typically do not qualify for a refund, except in cases of illness or family emergency, which are handled on a case-by-case basis.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: They offer need-based scholarships to ensure that no child is turned away due to financial constraints. These scholarships can cover part or all of the camp fees.
Financial Aid Process: Families interested in applying for financial aid can do so through a separate application available on their website. This application requires documentation of financial need and a personal statement about why the camper wants to attend PVBC.
Availability: The availability of scholarships and financial aid is subject to funding and is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Early application is encouraged.

Their goal at Pleasant Valley Bible Camp is to provide a transformative and enriching camp experience for all children, regardless of their financial situation. They are committed to transparency and support throughout the registration and financial aid process, ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience for families.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Pleasant Valley Bible Camp

To help ensure that every camper has a positive and rewarding experience at Pleasant Valley Bible Camp in East Jordan, Michigan, they provide comprehensive guidance on packing, camp rules, and tips for first-time campers and their parents. Here’s how you can prepare for an unforgettable summer at camp:

Packing List

To make sure campers have everything they need, here’s a suggested packing list:

Clothing: Pack comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing including t-shirts, shorts, long pants, and layers for cooler evenings. Include a rain jacket, swimsuit, and sturdy shoes for hiking, as well as sandals or flip-flops.
Bedding: Bring a sleeping bag or bedding for twin beds and a pillow.
Toiletries: Include soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, towel, and sunscreen.
Miscellaneous: Don’t forget a hat, water bottle, insect repellent, and a flashlight with extra batteries.
Optional Items: Cameras, books, journals, and small musical instruments are welcome.
Do Not Bring: Please leave electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops at home to fully engage with the camp experience.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: They encourage a tech-free environment to help campers connect with nature and each other. Therefore, the use of cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices is restricted during camp sessions.
Visitation: For the safety and security of all campers, visitation is limited to designated family days only. All visitors must check in at the camp office upon arrival.
Behavior: They expect all campers to follow the camp rules, respect other campers and staff, and participate actively in scheduled activities.

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 a bit homesick; it’s normal, and there are people at camp who can help you manage these feelings.
For Parents:
- Discuss what camp will be like well before departure to help manage expectations and reduce anxiety.
- Send your child with personal items that might help comfort them, such as a favorite book or a family photo.
- Write letters or send care packages to your camper to stay connected and boost their spirits.

By preparing adequately and understanding what to expect, both parents and campers can look forward to a successful and enjoyable experience at Pleasant Valley Bible Camp. Their goal is to create a supportive, fun, and enriching environment where every camper can thrive.

Pleasant Valley Bible Camp, nestled in the heart of East Jordan, Michigan, offers a unique blend of spiritual growth, adventure, and community. With a focus on nurturing the faith and development of young people through engaging programs and activities, their camp provides a safe and enriching environment where campers can explore their potential and deepen their connection with God.

Their dedicated staff ensures that every camper experiences personal attention and care, supported by comprehensive safety measures and a robust health infrastructure. From thrilling outdoor adventures like hiking and canoeing to creative arts and sports, each activity is designed to foster teamwork, self-confidence, and spiritual insight.