Welcome to the Upper Peninsula Bible Camp, a serene retreat nestled in the heart of Little Lake, Michigan. Positioned in the picturesque Upper Peninsula, their camp is surrounded by the natural beauty of lush forests and the tranquil shores of Little Lake, offering an ideal setting for spiritual growth and outdoor adventure.

Established with the vision of providing a nurturing environment to foster spiritual development, Upper Peninsula Bible Camp has been a beacon of faith and fun for young people since its inception. Over the years, they have been committed to creating memorable and impactful experiences that stay with campers long after their stay.

Their mission is to “Nurture and strengthen the faith of young individuals through Biblical teaching, worship, and fellowship in the beauty of God’s creation.” They believe in the transformative power of nature and the teachings of the Bible to guide young lives toward a purposeful path.

Upper Peninsula Bible Camp is a facility that welcomes boys and girls across various age groups. Their programs are tailored to meet the spiritual and recreational needs of children and teenagers, providing them with opportunities to explore their faith in a supportive community setting. Here, campers not only learn about the Bible but also engage in a wide range of activities designed to promote personal growth and teamwork.

Join us at Upper Peninsula Bible Camp for an unforgettable summer of faith, friends, and adventure in the stunning wilderness of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula!

Programs Offered by Upper Peninsula Bible Camp

Upper Peninsula Bible Camp offers a variety of programs designed to cater to different age groups and interests, ensuring that each camper has a fulfilling and enriching experience. Here’s an overview of the programs they offer:

Standard Camp Programs

Duration: Their standard camps typically run for one or two-week sessions throughout the summer.
Activities: Campers participate in a blend of Bible studies, worship sessions, and recreational activities such as hiking, swimming, canoeing, and campfires. These activities are designed to reinforce the camp’s mission while providing fun and engaging ways to explore personal faith.

Specialty Programs

Adventure Camp: This program is designed for those who love the outdoors and adventure. Running for two weeks, the Adventure Camp includes activities like rock climbing, advanced hiking, and wilderness survival skills.
Arts Camp: A one-week session focusing on creative expressions such as music, drama, painting, and crafts. This camp allows campers to explore their artistic talents in a supportive, faith-based environment.
Sports Camp: Geared towards athletic development and teamwork, this one-week program includes sports like soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery.
Science and Nature Camp: A one-week session that encourages curiosity about the natural world through hands-on science experiments, nature walks, and environmental education.

Typical Daily Schedule

Here is what a typical day looks like at the Upper Peninsula Bible Camp:

7:30 AM – Wake-Up Call: Start the day bright and early with a wake-up call.
8:00 AM – Morning Worship: Campers gather for a morning worship session to center themselves spiritually.
8:30 AM – Breakfast: Everyone enjoys a nutritious breakfast to fuel up for the day ahead.
9:15 AM – Bible Study: Campers engage in age-appropriate Bible study sessions, discussing themes and stories with guidance from their counselors.
10:30 AM – Activity 1: The first activity session of the day; could be a sport, craft, or nature hike.
12:00 PM – Lunch: A time to recharge and socialize over a meal.
1:00 PM – Quiet Time: Campers have some personal time for reflection or rest.
1:30 PM – Activity 2: Afternoon activities begin, offering different options from the morning session.
3:30 PM – Free Time: Campers enjoy some free time where they can choose from various recreational options or relax.
5:00 PM – Dinner: Evening meal together as a camp community.
6:00 PM – Evening Program: Special programs, guest speakers, or group games.
8:00 PM – Evening Worship: The day ends with a worship session, providing a moment for reflection and fellowship.
9:00 PM – Lights Out: Campers head to bed to rest up for another day of adventure.

Each day at Upper Peninsula Bible Camp is structured to balance spiritual growth with physical activity, creative expression, and personal development, ensuring that campers leave with lasting memories and a deeper connection to their faith.

Accommodations in Upper Peninsula Bible Camp

At Upper Peninsula Bible Camp, they ensure that every aspect of their accommodations is designed to enhance the camping experience while providing comfort and safety to all campers.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their primary sleeping accommodations are cozy, rustic cabins that are nestled among the trees around the campsite. Each cabin houses 8-10 campers along with 1-2 counselors, ensuring supervision and security. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings. They are grouped by age and gender to create a comfortable environment for all campers.
Tents: For specific programs like the Adventure Camp, offer tent sleeping arrangements. This allows campers to fully immerse themselves in the wilderness experience. Tents are pitched in safe, designated areas and are supervised by experienced staff.
Dormitory Style: For larger groups or special events, they have dormitory-style accommodations which include multiple beds in a larger shared space, providing a fun and communal living experience.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: They provide three well-balanced meals per day, included in the camp fee. Meals are served in the communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and share their day’s experiences. Their kitchen staff prepares a variety of nutritious meals that are both tasty and fulfilling.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to diverse dietary needs, they offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive options. Parents can specify any dietary restrictions their children have during the registration process, and they strive to accommodate these needs to ensure each camper enjoys healthy and delicious meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Their camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities that are conveniently located near all sleeping areas. The bathrooms are separated by gender and are well-maintained by their staff to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
Privacy and Accessibility: Shower areas are designed to ensure privacy, with individual stalls and changing areas. All facilities are accessible to ensure that campers with disabilities can move comfortably and safely.

At Upper Peninsula Bible Camp, they are committed to providing a comfortable, safe, and healthy environment so that campers can focus on their spiritual growth and enjoyment without worry.

Activities in Upper Peninsula Bible Camp

Upper Peninsula Bible Camp offers a rich array of activities and special events designed to engage campers in fun, learning, and spiritual growth. Here’s a detailed look at what campers can expect:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Including swimming in Little Lake, hiking through scenic trails, canoeing, and fishing. These activities allow campers to appreciate the beauty of nature while staying active.
Sports: They offer a variety of sports such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, archery, and ultimate frisbee. These activities promote teamwork and physical fitness.
Crafts: Summer camps can get creative with activities like painting, pottery, beadwork, and woodworking. Crafting sessions are a great outlet for self-expression and creativity.
Performing Arts: Opportunities in drama, dance, and music allow campers to explore their artistic talents, culminating in performances at the end of sessions.
Bible Studies and Worship: Central to their camp experience, these sessions are integrated daily, facilitating spiritual growth and understanding.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings include singing, storytelling, and marshmallow roasting. These nights are a camper’s favorite for bonding and making lifelong memories.
Talent Shows: An opportunity for campers to showcase their unique talents, whether it’s singing, dancing, magic tricks, or other creative performances.
Theme Days: Special days like “Superhero Day” or “Pirate Day” where activities are centered around a fun theme, encouraging campers to dress up and participate in themed games and challenges.
End-of-Camp Banquet: A formal dinner where campers and staff celebrate the session’s achievements and friendships, often including awards and recognitions for campers.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs designed to develop skills in team management, problem-solving, and effective communication.
Environmental Education: Through nature walks and science activities, campers learn about local ecosystems, conservation, and the importance of environmental stewardship.
Survival Skills: Particularly in the Adventure Camp, participants learn skills like orienteering, fire-building, and safe wildlife interactions.

Upper Peninsula Bible Camp is dedicated to providing a balanced experience where campers can develop physically, creatively, and spiritually. Their diverse range of activities ensures that every camper finds something they enjoy while gaining new skills and making friends in a supportive, faith-based community.

The staff of Upper Peninsula Bible Camp

Upper Peninsula Bible Camp takes great pride in its staff, ensuring that all team members are not only highly qualified but also deeply committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and enriching camp experience. Here’s an overview of their staff structure, the hiring process, qualifications, and the training that all team members receive:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

They maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that every camper receives personalized attention and care. Typically, their ratio is 1 staff member for every 5 campers. This ratio allows us to provide a safe, closely supervised, and supportive environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: They recruit staff from a variety of sources, including local universities, teacher colleges, and through recommendations from within their faith community. Their staff is often comprised of former campers who have aged out of the program but wish to continue their involvement.
Qualifications: All potential staff members must pass a thorough background check and have relevant experience in child care, education, or youth ministry. Preference is given to candidates who have prior experience in camping or outdoor leadership.
Interviews: Candidates go through a rigorous interview process, including multiple rounds of interviews focusing on their experience, skills, and their approach to childcare and crisis management.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid before the camp season begins. These certifications are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of all campers and staff.
Specialized Training: Staff members leading specific activities such as swimming, canoeing, or rock climbing must have additional certifications relevant to their area (e.g., lifeguard certification for swimming instructors).
Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season starts, all staff undergo a comprehensive training program. This includes sessions on camp policies, emergency response protocols, behavior management techniques, and specific training on the spiritual and educational content of the camp programs.
Ongoing Education: Throughout the camp season, staff meetings and ongoing training sessions are held to address any issues, review procedures, and ensure that the highest standards of care are maintained.

Their commitment to excellence in staffing ensures that Upper Peninsula Bible Camp is a place where children can grow, learn, and explore in a setting that is as safe as it is fun. With a dedicated team of caring professionals, they make every camper’s experience meaningful and memorable.

Safety and Health in Upper Peninsula Bible Camp

Safety and health are paramount at Upper Peninsula Bible Camp, and they take rigorous steps to ensure the well-being of every camper and staff member. Here is an overview of their safety protocols, health facilities, and emergency procedures:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Supervision: Continuous supervision is maintained at all times, with staff members actively engaged with campers during all activities, meals, and rest periods.
Activity Safety: Each activity, whether it’s outdoor sports, swimming, or crafts, is conducted under strict safety guidelines. Equipment is regularly inspected, and safety gear (like helmets and life jackets) is mandatory for applicable activities.
Drills: Regular safety drills are conducted to prepare both campers and staff for various scenarios, including fire drills and severe weather conditions, ensuring everyone knows how to act swiftly and safely.
Visitor Policy: To maintain a secure environment, their camp has a strict visitor policy. All visitors must check in at the main office, and no unsupervised interactions with campers are allowed.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Their camp features a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed medical professionals, including nurses and an on-call physician. The health center is prepared to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with necessary medical supplies.
Medical Screening: Upon arrival, each camper undergoes a health screening to identify any existing conditions or needs, ensuring that their medical staff is prepared to provide personalized care.
Medication Management: Their health center staff is responsible for storing and administering all medications. Parents are required to provide detailed instructions regarding dosage and timing for any prescribed medications.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a comprehensive emergency response plan that includes procedures for natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other urgent situations. This plan is reviewed and updated annually to adapt to any new challenges or improvements in safety management.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, clear communication channels are established both within the camp and with external emergency services. Parents are immediately notified of any serious incident affecting their child.
Training: All staff members are trained in emergency response, including the use of communication tools, first aid, evacuation procedures, and crisis management. Regular refresher courses are mandatory to ensure that all staff are up-to-date with the latest safety protocols.

Their proactive approach to safety and health at Upper Peninsula Bible Camp ensures that parents can feel confident about their children’s safety, and campers can enjoy their time at camp without worries, fully immersed in the fun and enriching experiences they offer.

Cost and Registration in Upper Peninsula Bible Camp

At Upper Peninsula Bible Camp, they strive to keep their programs affordable while ensuring that all campers have access to a high-quality camp experience. Here’s a detailed guide on the cost of attendance, the registration process, and financial support options:

Cost of Attendance

Fees: The cost of attending Upper Peninsula Bible Camp varies depending on the length and type of program. Standard one-week sessions typically cost between $400 to $500, while specialized two-week programs like Adventure Camp may cost up to $750. These fees include all lodging, meals, activities, and program materials.
What’s Included: The fee covers the complete camp experience—accommodation in cabins, three meals per day, all camp activities, and round-the-clock supervision by their trained staff. Any special equipment needed for specific activities is also provided.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children through their website where they’ll find a registration form to fill out. The form requires basic information about the camper, medical history, and any dietary restrictions.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January and runs until one month before the start of each session. Early registration is recommended as spots fill up quickly, especially for popular sessions.
Confirmation: Once the registration form and initial payment are received, a confirmation email is sent to confirm the camper’s spot.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: They offer flexible payment plans allowing parents to split the camp fee into monthly installments. These plans can be set up at the time of registration.
Refunds: Full refunds are available up to one month before the camp session begins. After this, a 50% refund is available up to two weeks before the session starts. No refunds are provided after this point unless due to medical reasons, which must be supported by a doctor’s note.
Cancellations: If a camp session must be canceled by us due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., extreme weather conditions), full refunds will be issued or an alternative session will be offered.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: They offer a limited number of scholarships each year to families in need. These scholarships can cover up to 50% of the camp fees.
Application for Financial Aid: Parents can apply for financial aid by submitting an application available on their website. The application requires documentation of financial need and a short statement about why the camper would benefit from attending.
Availability: Scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to those with the greatest need and those who have not received a scholarship in previous years.

At Upper Peninsula Bible Camp, they believe that every child deserves the chance to experience the joy and growth that camp offers. They are committed to providing financial support to ensure that cost is not a barrier to participation.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Upper Peninsula Bible Camp

Preparing for a summer at Upper Peninsula Bible Camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To help ensure that everyone is ready for the camp experience, here’s a comprehensive guide including a packing list, camp rules, and tips for first-time campers and parents.

Packing List

To make the most of their camp experience, campers should bring the following items:

Clothing: Enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for the session, including:
- T-shirts
- Shorts
- Jeans or long pants
- Sweatshirts or jackets
- Pajamas
- Undergarments
- Socks
- Swimsuit
- Rain gear
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals for showers, and athletic shoes for sports.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or bed linens for a twin bed, and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary personal hygiene products.
Other Essentials: Flashlight, water bottle, hat, sunglasses, and a backpack for day trips.
Optional Items: Camera, books, writing materials, and small games or sports equipment.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, campers are discouraged from using electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles. These devices can be kept with the camp director for safekeeping and used only in case of emergencies.
Visitation: Parents and guardians are welcome to visit during designated visiting days, which are usually scheduled during the middle of the session. Outside of these times, visits can disrupt the camp program and are generally not allowed.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the fun and new friends. Address any anxieties by talking through what the daily routine will be like.
Communication: Explain how you’ll communicate (e.g., letters, emails sent through the camp website). Reassure your child that it’s okay to feel homesick and that the camp staff is there to help.
Independence: Encourage independence at home with tasks like packing their own suitcase or making decisions about what to take. This can build confidence and ease the transition to camp life.
Emotional Readiness: Prepare your child for the experience by discussing how they can manage feelings of homesickness and the importance of speaking up if they’re uncomfortable.

For parents:

Stay Positive: Your enthusiasm about the camp experience can be infectious. Focus on the positive aspects and how much fun your child will have.
Packing Together: Packing together allows you to ensure that your child has everything they need, while also giving you the opportunity to discuss each item’s purpose and use.
Goodbyes: When it’s time to say goodbye, keep it brief and positive. Prolonged farewells can make the separation harder for both of you.

By preparing adequately, adhering to camp rules, and embracing the spirit of adventure, campers and parents alike can ensure a memorable and enriching experience at Upper Peninsula Bible Camp.

Upper Peninsula Bible Camp provides an exceptional environment for young people to explore their faith, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships amidst the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. With a focus on personal growth, community, and spiritual enrichment, their camp offers a variety of programs and activities designed to engage and inspire campers of all ages.

From immersive outdoor adventures and creative arts to team sports and biblical studies, each aspect of their camp is tailored to foster an atmosphere of learning, fun, and spiritual reflection. Their dedicated staff ensures a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment, making each camper’s experience both rewarding and enjoyable.