Located in the serene region of Howell, Michigan, Waters Edge Camp offers a picturesque setting where the calming waters meet lush, green landscapes. Nestled close to prominent local landmarks, their camp provides an idyllic escape into nature that is both refreshing and exhilarating.

Waters Edge Camp has a rich history of providing a supportive and engaging environment for young minds since its inception. Born from a passion to inspire and educate, their camp has become a beacon of adventure and learning in Michigan, cherished by both campers and their families.

At Waters Edge, they are guided by a mission to foster a community where young individuals can grow both personally and socially through outdoor experiences and cooperative living. They believe in empowering campers by providing opportunities for personal development, environmental stewardship, and lifelong friendships.

They are proud to be a camp that welcomes boys and girls across various age groups. Their programs are designed to cater to children and teens, providing age-appropriate activities that challenge, inspire, and entertain. Whether through team sports, creative arts, or outdoor adventures, every camper finds a place to thrive at Waters Edge.

Join us at Waters Edge Camp for an unforgettable summer where fun meets learning and memories last a lifetime!

Programs Offered by Waters Edge Camp

At Waters Edge Camp, they offer a wide range of programs designed to engage campers in activities that are fun, educational, and enriching. Their programs are thoughtfully structured to cater to diverse interests and age groups, ensuring an unforgettable summer for every camper.

Program Descriptions

Adventure Program: This program includes activities like hiking, canoeing, and wilderness survival skills. It’s perfect for those who love the great outdoors and want to learn more about navigating and enjoying nature.
Arts and Crafts Program: Campers unleash their creativity through various forms of art such as painting, sculpture, and craft-making. This program encourages artistic expression and imagination.
Sports Program: Focusing on physical fitness and teamwork, this program includes sports such as soccer, basketball, and swimming. It’s designed to improve skills, promote sportsmanship, and ensure healthy exercise.
Science Explorers Program: A hit for curious minds, this program involves hands-on science experiments, nature walks, and learning about the environment. It’s perfect for campers who have a keen interest in understanding how the world works.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: Ideal for younger campers or first-timers who are getting a taste of camp life.
Two-Week Sessions: These sessions provide a deeper dive into camp activities and allow for more significant personal growth and learning.
Full Summer: The most immersive option, spanning several weeks, where campers can experience all aspects of camp life and form lasting friendships and memories.

Specialty Programs

Leadership Development: Designed for older campers, this program focuses on building leadership skills through workshops, team-leading activities, and community service.
Environmental Stewardship: Campers learn about conservation, participate in eco-friendly projects, and understand the importance of protecting their environment.
Performing Arts: This program includes drama, dance, and music, culminating in performances at the end of the session.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM: Wake Up
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning Activities (Choice of Arts, Sports, or Science)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet Time/Rest
2:00 PM: Afternoon Activities (Adventure trips, Leadership workshops, or Environmental projects)
5:00 PM: Free Time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening Activities (Campfires, group games, talent shows)
9:00 PM: Lights Out (Varies by age group)

At Waters Edge Camp, every day is a new adventure, packed with opportunities for learning, growth, and fun. Whether it’s through structured activities or free play, campers gain invaluable experiences that enrich their summer and their lives.

Accommodations in Waters Edge Camp

At Waters Edge Camp, they ensure that every aspect of their accommodations is designed to make their campers’ stay comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. From the cozy sleeping arrangements to the nutritious dining options, they provide an environment that feels like a home away from home.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their primary accommodation type, the cabins at Waters Edge are spacious and well-ventilated. Each cabin houses 8-10 campers and is grouped by age and gender. Cabins are equipped with bunk beds, and storage space for personal items, and are located close to central facilities for easy access.
Tents: For specific adventure programs, campers have the opportunity to sleep in tents. This allows them to fully immerse themselves in the outdoor experience, learning how to set up tents and live sustainably in nature.
Dorms: Available for older campers, their dorm-style accommodations are similar to those found in a college setting, providing a more independent living situation which is great for fostering maturity and preparation for future life stages.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: All meals are provided at Waters Edge Camp, with three balanced and hearty meals served daily in their communal dining hall. Their kitchen staff prepares a variety of kid-friendly options to ensure that all campers have the energy they need for a busy day of activities.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding that some of their campers have specific dietary needs, they offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive alternatives. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle different dietary requirements, ensuring that every camper has nutritious and safe meal options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathroom Facilities: Strategically located throughout the camp for easy accessibility from the cabins, tents, and common areas, their bathrooms are maintained with the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
Shower Facilities: Separate shower facilities for boys and girls are available, equipped with individual stalls to ensure privacy and comfort. These facilities are cleaned and sanitized multiple times a day to maintain a high level of hygiene.

At Waters Edge Camp, they believe that a great camping experience starts with excellent accommodations. Their facilities are tailored to meet the needs of their campers, ensuring they have everything they need to enjoy their time at camp fully.

Activities in Waters Edge Camp

Waters Edge Camp is bustling with a variety of activities designed to cater to all interests and promote a holistic development experience. Their activities are structured to ensure every camper engages, learns, and most importantly, has fun!

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Supervised by certified lifeguards, swimming is a favorite among campers. Their lake provides a refreshing escape and the opportunity to learn or improve swimming skills.
Hiking: With guided trails around their scenic location, campers explore the natural beauty of Michigan, learning about local flora and fauna.
Crafts: Their arts and crafts sessions allow campers to express themselves creatively, making everything from friendship bracelets to custom t-shirts.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Summer camps learn basic paddling techniques and water safety while exploring the waterways around the camp.
Archery: Taught by experienced instructors, archery helps campers improve focus and coordination.
Sports: They offer a variety of sports including soccer, basketball, and volleyball, focusing on teamwork and healthy competition.
Performing Arts: Campers can participate in drama, dance, and music, culminating in performances that build confidence and stage presence.
Nature Studies: This includes bird watching, insect collecting, and learning survival skills, which enhance environmental awareness.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfires: Regular campfire nights feature storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and tradition.
Color Wars: This camp-wide competition splits campers into teams to compete in various sports and creative challenges, promoting spirit and camaraderie.
End-of-Summer Carnival: A festive celebration with games, face painting, and food, allowing campers to enjoy the end of their session in a fun, carnival atmosphere.
Talent Shows: An opportunity for campers to showcase their talents, whether it be in music, dance, magic, or comedy.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Skills: Through various camp roles and group projects, campers enhance their leadership abilities, learning responsibility, and team management.
Social Skills: Camp life encourages making new friends, cooperating in teams, and developing effective communication skills.
Problem Solving: Many activities require critical thinking and creativity, from navigating a canoe trip to strategizing in team sports.
Personal Growth: Campers are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, try new activities, and discover their passions and abilities.

At Waters Edge Camp, activities are more than just time-fillers; they are stepping stones for personal development, skill acquisition, and unforgettable memories.

The staff of Waters Edge Camp

At Waters Edge Camp, their staff is the backbone of the camp experience, ensuring safety, fun, and learning. They maintain high standards for staffing to provide the best possible environment for their campers.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

They pride themselves on maintaining an excellent staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care. Their general ratio is one staff member to every six campers. This ratio allows their staff to effectively supervise, engage, and interact with all campers, ensuring a safe and supportive environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: They recruit staff from a variety of sources, including top universities, teacher recommendations, and professional referrals, ensuring a diverse and skilled team.
Qualifications: All potential staff members must have previous experience working with children, whether through teaching, coaching, or previous camp employment. A background in education, psychology, or recreation is highly desirable.
Interviews: Candidates undergo a rigorous interview process, including multiple interviews and background checks. They focus on finding individuals who are not only skilled but also passionate about youth development and outdoor education.
References: They require and thoroughly check multiple professional and personal references to ensure the reliability and integrity of their staff.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo comprehensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and specific training for their assigned roles.
Certifications: All staff members are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additionally, staff working in specialized activities like swimming or archery have relevant certifications, such as lifeguard training or archery instructor certification, respectively.
Ongoing Education: Throughout the camp season, they provide ongoing training and professional development opportunities to ensure that their staff can continue to grow their skills and effectively respond to the needs of all campers.

The dedication and professionalism of the staff at Waters Edge Camp ensure a safe, enjoyable, and enriching camp experience for every camper. Their staff are not just supervisors; they are role models and mentors who make a lasting impact on the lives of the children they work with.

Safety and Health in Waters Edge Camp

Ensuring the safety and well-being of their campers and staff is their top priority at Waters Edge Camp. They implement rigorous safety protocols and have comprehensive health facilities on-site to address any needs that might arise during camp sessions.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: They conduct regular safety drills, including fire drills, severe weather drills, and emergency response drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are well-prepared in case of an emergency.
Equipment Checks: All equipment used for activities such as sports, crafts, and outdoor adventures is regularly inspected and maintained to meet safety standards.
Supervision: Campers are supervised at all times by experienced staff members. Special activities, especially those involving water or heights, include additional staff to ensure maximum safety.
Secure Campus: The camp is designed to be secure with controlled access points and is monitored to ensure that only authorized persons are on campgrounds at all times.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Waters Edge Camp is equipped with a well-staffed health center that operates 24 hours a day. The center is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and, during peak times, a visiting doctor.
Facilities: The health center is equipped to handle a range of medical issues from minor injuries and illnesses to more urgent medical conditions. It includes beds for resting, areas for treatment, and secure storage for medications.
Medication Management: Their medical staff is responsible for distributing medications according to the guidelines provided by parents and doctors. All medications are kept securely in the health center.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan that is tailored to a variety of scenarios, including natural disasters, health emergencies, and other urgent situations. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, communication protocols are in place to inform parents and guardians immediately. The camp maintains up-to-date contact information for all camper families to ensure swift communication.
Partnerships with Local Services: They have established relationships with local emergency services (fire, police, hospital) to ensure a quick response time in case additional support is needed beyond what their on-site staff can provide.

The safety and health policies at Waters Edge Camp are designed to create a secure and caring environment where parents can feel confident about the well-being of their children, and campers can enjoy their activities with peace of mind.

Cost and Registration in Waters Edge Camp

Understanding the financial aspect of camp attendance is important for families. At Waters Edge Camp, they strive to provide clear information about costs, registration procedures, and available financial support options, ensuring that their camp experiences are accessible to as many children as possible.

Cost of Attendance

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

Accommodations: All sleeping arrangements whether in cabins, tents, or dorms.
Meals: Three meals per day, along with healthy snacks.
Activities: All scheduled activities and the use of all camp facilities.
Supervision: 24/7 supervision by trained and certified staff.
Health Care: Access to on-site health care and emergency services.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Registration for camp sessions can be completed online through their secure website. This process includes filling out necessary forms regarding the camper’s health, emergency contacts, and any special requirements.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months before the start of the summer season. They recommend registering early as some sessions fill up quickly. Specific deadlines for each session are listed on their website.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Recognizing that families may need flexibility in payment, Waters Edge Camp offers payment plan options. These plans allow families to spread the cost of camp over several months.
Refunds and Cancellation: If you need to cancel a registration, a full or partial refund may be available depending on how far in advance the cancellation is made. Specific details of the refund policy are clearly outlined during the registration process.
Cancellation Insurance: Families have the option to purchase cancellation insurance which covers the cost of camp should you need to cancel for any reason including illness or unforeseen events.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Waters Edge Camp offers scholarships to help families who may not be able to afford the full cost of the camp. These scholarships are need-based and aim to ensure that the camp is accessible to all children.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available based on the camper’s circumstances. Details about the application process for financial aid are available on their website.

At Waters Edge Camp, they believe that every child deserves the enriching experience of summer camp, and they are committed to facilitating this through comprehensive financial support options and clear, straightforward registration processes.

Cost:

Adventure Camp (Grades 3-6) – $240
Discovery Camp (Grades K-2) – $160
Youth Camp (Grades 6-12) – $275

Parent and Camper Preparation in Waters Edge Camp

Preparing for camp, especially for first-timers, can be both exciting and a bit daunting. At Waters Edge Camp, they aim to make this preparation process as smooth as possible by providing detailed guidance on what to pack, understanding camp rules and policies, and offering helpful tips for both campers and their parents.

Packing List

To ensure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience, here’s a basic packing list:

Clothing: Pack enough for 1-2 weeks, including weather-appropriate attire. Include t-shirts, shorts, jeans, sweatshirts, a raincoat, and a swimsuit. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
Footwear: Comfortable sneakers, water shoes, and flip-flops or sandals.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, bug spray, and any necessary personal items.
Towels: At least two, one for swimming and one for showers.
Flashlight or Headlamp: Plus extra batteries.
Water Bottle: To stay hydrated throughout the day.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and any sports or musical equipment if participating in specific activities.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, the use of personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and gaming systems is restricted at camp. Devices are collected upon arrival and returned at departure.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit on designated days only to help maintain the camp schedule and minimize homesickness for new campers.
Behavior: Respect for others, positive behavior, and cooperation are expected at all times. Specific guidelines will be provided in the camper handbook.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Camper Tips:
- Stay Open and Positive: Try new activities, make new friends, and embrace the camp experience.
- Communicate: Don’t be afraid to express any concerns or needs to the camp staff—they’re there to help!
Parent Tips:
- Prepare Together: Go over the packing list with your child to ensure they feel prepared and involved.
- Discuss Expectations: Talk about what camp will be like focusing on the exciting opportunities and adventures ahead.
- Stay Connected: Utilize any scheduled communication (e.g., letters, emails) to stay in touch without disrupting the immersion of the camp experience.

By following these guidelines and preparing accordingly, both parents and campers can look forward to a fulfilling and memorable experience at Waters Edge Camp.

Waters Edge Camp offers a unique blend of adventure, creativity, and friendship, set against the beautiful backdrop of Howell, Michigan. Their camp provides a safe, inclusive, and dynamic environment where children from diverse backgrounds come together to explore their interests, develop new skills, and create lasting memories. With a wide range of activities, committed staff, and excellent facilities, Waters Edge is dedicated to fostering a nurturing community that encourages personal growth and joy.

They understand the importance of a well-rounded summer experience and strive to make every camper’s stay both enjoyable and enriching. Whether it’s through sports, arts, science, or outdoor adventures, each camper finds opportunities to thrive while gaining independence and self-confidence. The policies and preparation guidelines they provide ensure that families are well-informed and ready for the exciting journey ahead at camp.