Welcome to Camp Ajawah, a cherished retreat nestled in the serene landscapes of Wyoming, Minnesota. Located just a short drive from the Twin Cities, their camp is situated in a region renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and proximity to the scenic banks of the Sunrise River. This idyllic setting offers an ideal backdrop for adventure and exploration, making it a perfect summer getaway for youth.

Camp Ajawah has a storied history that dates back to its establishment in 1934. Originally founded as a place for young people to escape bustling city life, it has since evolved into a haven where campers can learn, grow, and forge lasting friendships in a supportive community environment. Over the decades, Camp Ajawah has maintained its rustic charm and commitment to fostering a connection with nature.

Their mission at Camp Ajawah is “Building Youth for a Better Tomorrow.” They are dedicated to nurturing the physical, emotional, and intellectual development of young people through outdoor activities, communal living, and environmental stewardship. Their philosophy emphasizes resilience, teamwork, and personal growth, all cultivated in the great outdoors.

Camp Ajawah serves as a seasonal sanctuary for boys and girls, organized into separate two-week sessions throughout the summer. They welcome campers aged 7 to 15, providing them with a structured, age-appropriate program that encourages both personal independence and collective responsibility.

Join us at Camp Ajawah, where summer adventures await, lifelong friendships are born, and the joys of youth are celebrated under the expansive Minnesota sky.

Programs Offered by Camp Ajawah

Camp Ajawah offers a variety of programs designed to engage, educate, and inspire campers in a dynamic, natural setting. Here is a breakdown of the programs available:

Program Description:

At Camp Ajawah, their programs focus on outdoor activities that promote physical health, teamwork, and environmental awareness. They provide a balanced mix of adventure, creativity, and learning opportunities tailored to different age groups and interests.

Length of Sessions:

Two-Week Sessions: Their standard offering consists of two-week sessions throughout the summer. This duration allows campers to fully immerse themselves in camp life and build strong connections with peers and staff.
Leadership Camp: For older campers, they also offer a four-week Leadership Camp designed to develop advanced outdoor skills and leadership qualities.

Specialty Programs:

Arts: Their arts program includes crafts, theater, and music, encouraging campers to explore their creativity and express themselves artistically in a natural setting.
Sports: They offer a variety of sports, including swimming, canoeing, archery, and team sports like soccer and volleyball, which are integral to their daily activities.
Science and Nature: Campers engage in environmental education through hands-on science activities, nature hikes, and wildlife observation, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of the natural world.

Typical Daily Schedule:

A day at Camp Ajawah is structured to provide a blend of activities, free time, and community interactions:

7:30 AM – Wake Up: Start the day with a refreshing morning dip in the river.
8:00 AM – Breakfast: Energize with a nutritious meal.
9:00 AM – Morning Activities: Participate in scheduled activities like canoeing, archery, or nature hikes.
12:00 PM – Lunch: Recharge with a hearty meal followed by some rest.
1:00 PM – Afternoon Activities: Engage in arts and crafts, sports, or environmental education sessions.
5:00 PM – Free Time: Campers have personal time to explore, socialize, or relax.
6:00 PM – Dinner: Enjoy a well-deserved dinner with fellow campers.
7:00 PM – Evening Program: Participate in campfires, storytelling, or themed nights.
9:00 PM – Lights Out: End the day with a good night’s rest, ready for another day of adventure.

Camp Ajawah is dedicated to providing a fulfilling summer experience where campers not only have fun but also grow personally and socially in a supportive community.

Accommodations in Camp Ajawah

At Camp Ajawah, they strive to provide comfortable and rustic accommodations that enhance the camping experience while ensuring safety and convenience for all campers. Here’s an overview of the accommodations they offer:

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: Campers stay in traditional wooden cabins that blend into the scenic surroundings. Each cabin is designed to house approximately 8 to 12 campers along with 2 counselors, fostering a close-knit group atmosphere. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings.
Tents: For specific programs or special outdoor nights, campers may have the opportunity to sleep in tents. This allows them to fully immerse themselves in the natural environment and learn essential camping skills.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: At Camp Ajawah, all meals are provided in a communal dining hall where campers gather to eat together, promoting a sense of community and fellowship. Their kitchen staff prepares three well-balanced meals daily, along with occasional snacks.
Dietary Accommodations: They understand the importance of accommodating various dietary needs. Their meal plans include options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific dietary restrictions such as gluten-free or dairy-free requirements. Parents are encouraged to communicate any special dietary needs prior to the camp session to ensure they can accommodate them.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Bathrooms: Separate bathroom facilities for boys and girls are conveniently located near the cabins. These facilities are equipped with flush toilets and sinks.
Shower Facilities: Modern shower facilities with hot water are also available and are designed to ensure privacy and convenience. Shower times are scheduled to maintain order and cleanliness.

Their accommodations at Camp Ajawah are designed to ensure that all campers can enjoy a comfortable stay while maintaining the rustic and natural charm of the camping experience. Safety, comfort, and hygiene are their top priorities, and they are committed to providing a healthy and enjoyable environment for all participants.

Activities in Camp Ajawah

Camp Ajawah offers a wide array of activities designed to cater to various interests and skill levels, ensuring that every camper has an enriching and enjoyable experience. Here’s a detailed look at the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered:

Swimming and Water Sports: Summer camps can enjoy swimming in the natural river setting, canoeing, and fishing under the supervision of trained lifeguards.
Hiking: Guided hikes through the surrounding forest areas allow campers to explore local flora and fauna and learn about environmental conservation.
Crafts: A range of craft activities such as pottery, beadwork, and woodworking are available, encouraging creativity and manual skills.
Sports: Campers engage in various sports including soccer, volleyball, basketball, and archery, promoting physical fitness and teamwork.
Outdoor Skills: Skills like fire-building, orienteering, and camping are taught, equipping campers with essential survival skills.
Nature Education: Activities focused on wildlife observation, star gazing, and environmental education sessions help deepen campers’ appreciation for nature.

Special Events or Traditions:

Opening/Closing Ceremonies: The camp season begins and ends with ceremonies that build a sense of community and celebrate the camp’s traditions.
Campfires: Regular campfire nights feature storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a classic camping atmosphere.
Theme Days: Special themed days, such as Pirate Day or Superhero Day, add a fun and creative twist to the camp routine.
Talent Shows: Campers have the opportunity to showcase their talents and enjoy performances by their peers in a supportive environment.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs that focus on developing skills necessary for effective teamwork and peer leadership.
Environmental Stewardship: Programs that teach about local ecosystems and sustainable practices empower campers to become proactive environmental stewards.
Artistic Expression: Through various arts and crafts projects, campers explore and develop their artistic abilities.
Physical Development: Regular participation in a variety of sports helps improve physical health and introduces campers to new athletic interests.

Camp Ajawah not only offers a fun and engaging summer experience but also focuses on developing valuable life skills in a nurturing environment. This balanced approach ensures that campers leave with not only great memories but also enhanced capabilities and deeper respect for the natural world.

The staff of Camp Ajawah

Camp Ajawah is committed to providing a safe, educational, and enjoyable camping experience for all campers. This commitment is reflected in their dedicated staff, their qualifications, and the comprehensive training they receive. Here’s an overview of the staff structure, qualifications, and training at Camp Ajawah:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

To ensure personalized attention and high-quality supervision, Camp Ajawah maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio. Typically, the ratio is about 1 staff member for every 5 campers. This allows their staff to effectively monitor and engage with each camper, ensuring a safe and supportive environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Hiring Process: Their staff are carefully selected through a rigorous hiring process that includes background checks, personal interviews, and reference checks. They seek individuals who are not only skilled but also passionate about youth development and outdoor education.
Staff Qualifications: Camp Ajawah hires a diverse team of staff members who bring a range of experiences and skills to the camp. Many are former campers themselves or have extensive experience working with children in educational or recreational settings. Staff members typically have backgrounds in education, recreation, or related fields.

Training and Certifications:

Mandatory Training: All staff undergo comprehensive pre-camp training that covers camp policies, child safety, emergency procedures, and specific training related to their roles. This training ensures that all staff are prepared to create a safe and engaging camp environment.
CPR and First Aid Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. This is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of all campers, especially given the camp’s setting and the nature of the activities offered.
Specialized Training: Staff responsible for specific activities such as swimming, canoeing, or archery receive additional training and certifications pertinent to their areas. For example, aquatic staff are certified lifeguards, and those leading high-adventure activities have relevant safety and technical training.

Camp Ajawah’s commitment to staff training and qualifications is central to its mission of providing a safe and enriching camp experience. Their staff are equipped not only with the necessary skills to lead activities and manage groups but also with the compassion and insight to foster personal growth and positive camp experiences for every camper.

Safety and Health in Camp Ajawah

Safety and health are paramount at Camp Ajawah, and they have established comprehensive protocols and facilities to ensure the well-being of all campers and staff. Here’s an overview of their safety measures, health facilities, and emergency handling policies:

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Risk Assessments: Regular risk assessments are conducted for all activities and camp areas to identify and mitigate potential hazards.
Safety Training: All staff members receive extensive safety training, which includes emergency response, hazard recognition, and activity-specific safety practices.
Equipment Checks: Equipment used in activities like sports, canoeing, and archery is routinely inspected and maintained to ensure it is safe and functional.
Supervision: Campers are closely supervised at all times, with particular attention given during high-risk activities or when near water.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Camp Ajawah is equipped with a well-maintained health center staffed by a qualified nurse or healthcare professional who is on-site 24/7. The health center is prepared to handle routine health issues and stabilize any urgent conditions until further medical treatment can be accessed.
Health Checks: Upon arrival, all campers undergo a health check to identify any pre-existing conditions or needs that should be monitored during their stay.
Medication Management: The health center staff are responsible for storing and administering any medications campers need, ensuring they are taken correctly and on schedule.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Plans: The camp has detailed emergency response plans tailored to various scenarios, including severe weather, fire, injury, and other critical situations. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated.
Emergency Training: Staff participate in regular drills to practice their response to different emergency scenarios, ensuring preparedness and effective execution of emergency plans.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, there are protocols in place for notifying and communicating with parents, local authorities, and emergency services promptly and effectively.
Evacuation Procedures: Should an evacuation be necessary, routes and procedures are clearly defined and practiced. All staff and campers are familiar with these procedures to ensure a swift and organized response.

Through rigorous safety protocols, dedicated health facilities, and detailed emergency policies, Camp Ajawah commits to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for every camper. Their goal is to ensure that parents feel confident in the safety measures they have in place and that campers can focus on enjoying their enriching and fun summer camp experience.

Cost and Registration in Camp Ajawah

Camp Ajawah strives to offer an accessible and valuable summer camp experience. Here are the details regarding the cost of attendance, registration process, and financial assistance options:

Cost of Attendance:

Fees: The cost of attending Camp Ajawah typically includes all lodging, meals, activities, and program materials. For a standard two-week session, the cost is approximately $850 per camper. The four-week leadership camp has a different fee structure due to its extended duration and specialized content.
What’s Included: The fee covers accommodation in cabins, all meals at the camp, supervision by trained staff, and all program activities such as sports, crafts, and educational workshops.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Online Registration: Registration for camp sessions can be completed online through the Camp Ajawah website. The registration portal opens typically in early January.
Deadlines: It is advisable to register early as spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration usually closes about a month before the start of each session, or as soon as all spots are filled.
Required Information: Parents need to provide camper medical information, emergency contacts, and any pertinent dietary or special care needs during the registration process.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: To make the cost more manageable, Camp Ajawah offers installment payment plans. Parents can opt to spread the payment across several months leading up to the camp session.
Refunds: A full refund is available if cancellation occurs up to one month before the start of the session. After this period, partial refunds may be available, depending on the circumstances leading to cancellation.
Cancellation Policy: In case of cancellations due to unforeseen events or circumstances (like illness), Camp Ajawah tries to be as accommodating as possible, offering credits for future sessions when applicable.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Camp Ajawah is committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to experience camp, regardless of financial situation. A number of need-based scholarships are available each year.
Financial Aid Application: Parents seeking financial assistance are encouraged to apply early, as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications for financial aid are reviewed confidentially and aim to assist as many families as possible.

Camp Ajawah is dedicated to making the summer camp experience both memorable and affordable, with a variety of payment options, financial aid, and comprehensive coverage of camp essentials within the registration fee. This ensures a hassle-free process for parents and a wonderful camp experience for all campers.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Ajawah

Ensuring that campers and their parents are well-prepared for the summer camp experience is a key priority at Camp Ajawah. Here’s a guide on packing, rules, and useful tips to help first-time campers and their parents feel ready and confident about their upcoming adventure.

Packing List:

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

Clothing: Enough clothes for two weeks (camp provides laundry services for longer stays), including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, swimwear, and a jacket for cooler evenings.
Footwear: Sturdy sneakers, sandals, and waterproof boots.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, shampoo, and a towel.
Sun and Bug Protection: Sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, insect repellent, hat, and sunglasses.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight or headlamp, water bottle, small backpack for day trips, and any necessary medications.
Optional Items: Books, stationary for writing letters, disposable camera.

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: Camp Ajawah encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and peers. Mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are discouraged and may be collected and stored safely upon arrival.
Visitation: To ensure the safety and structure of the camp program, visitation during sessions is generally limited to special events or by prior arrangements with the camp administration.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to adhere to the camp’s code of conduct, which promotes respect, responsibility, and community. Bullying or disruptive behavior is not tolerated.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

For Campers:
- Be Open to New Experiences: Try different activities, even those that might be outside your comfort zone.
- Stay Positive: Homesickness is normal. Focus on making friends and the exciting things you’re learning.
- Communicate: If you’re feeling unhappy or need help, talk to your counselor. They’re there to help!
For Parents:
- Discuss Expectations: Talk about what camp will be like, including the exciting activities and the likelihood of missing home.
- Stay Connected: Write letters or send care packages to your camper to stay connected and boost their morale.
- Trust the Process: It’s natural to worry, but remember that camp staff are trained to ensure your child’s safety and happiness.

Camp Ajawah is dedicated to making the camp experience positive and enriching for all campers. Preparing adequately and understanding the camp’s policies and expectations will ensure that both parents and campers have an enjoyable and memorable time.

Camp Ajawah stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and growth in the beautiful setting of Wyoming, Minnesota. With its rich history, dedication to nurturing young minds, and commitment to safety and community, Camp Ajawah offers more than just a typical summer retreat—it provides a transformative experience that shapes tomorrow’s leaders. Whether through swimming in the natural rivers, hiking through lush forests, or engaging in creative arts and sciences, campers are encouraged to explore their potential in a supportive and enriching environment.

The camp’s array of programs, skilled staff, and robust facilities ensure that each camper enjoys a safe, educational, and incredibly fun summer. The experiences gained at Camp Ajawah go beyond simple recreation; they build character, foster friendships, and create memories that last a lifetime. For parents looking for a place that values personal growth as much as play, and for kids eager for summer adventures, Camp Ajawah is an outstanding choice. Join us to discover, learn, and grow in the great outdoors, where every day is an opportunity for a new adventure.