Located on the serene shores of Long Lake in Minnesota, Camp Teko is a picturesque retreat nestled within the vibrant landscapes of the Midwest. Known for its breathtaking views and proximity to notable landmarks such as Minneapolis, their camp offers an ideal setting for adventure and relaxation.

Camp Teko was established with a vision to create a nurturing environment where young minds could flourish. Over the years, it has become a beloved summer destination, where campers from various backgrounds come to explore, learn, and grow.

Their mission at Camp Teko is to foster a community of respect, learning, and joy. They believe in empowering their campers to develop their strengths, embrace challenges, and build lasting friendships. Their philosophy is centered around the values of inclusivity, personal growth, and environmental stewardship.

Camp Teko caters to boys and girls across various age groups. With a wide range of activities tailored to different interests and developmental stages, they ensure that every camper finds something that excites and challenges them.

Join us at Camp Teko for an unforgettable summer experience where fun meets purpose and every day brings a new adventure!

Programs Offered by Camp Teko

At Camp Teko, they pride themselves on offering a diverse array of programs that cater to the interests and developmental needs of their campers. Here’s a glimpse into the various programs and what a typical day looks like at their camp:

Session Lengths

One-Week Sessions: Ideal for younger campers or first-timers who are getting acquainted with the camp experience.
Two-Week Sessions: Perfect for those who wish to deepen their engagement and enjoy a more immersive experience.
Full Summer Options: For campers who can’t get enough of Camp Teko, they offer a full summer program that spans several weeks, providing a comprehensive and transformative experience.

Specialty Programs

Arts: Their arts program includes workshops in painting, sculpture, music, and theater. Campers unleash their creativity under the guidance of expert instructors.
Sports: They offer a range of sports activities including soccer, basketball, swimming, and canoeing. Their programs focus on skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Science: For curious minds, their science program explores natural sciences through hands-on experiments, environmental education, and exploration activities.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM – Wake Up: Start the day with a refreshing morning routine.
8:00 AM – Breakfast: Gather at the dining hall for a nutritious start to the day.
9:00 AM – Morning Activities: Campers head to their first scheduled activities, be it arts, sports, or science workshops.
12:00 PM – Lunch: A time to refuel and relax with friends.
1:00 PM – Quiet Time: Campers get a chance to rest, write letters home, or read.
2:00 PM – Afternoon Activities: Campers resume their adventure with different activities or continue with their morning sessions.
5:00 PM – Free Time: Campers enjoy some free time to explore the camp, play informal games, or socialize.
6:00 PM – Dinner: Another opportunity to connect with friends over a meal.
7:00 PM – Evening Program: Each evening offers a special event, such as a campfire, talent show, or night hike.
9:00 PM – Bedtime for Younger Campers: Lights out for their younger participants.
10:00 PM – Bedtime for Older Campers: Older campers wind down for the night.

Each day at Camp Teko is structured to provide a balance of learning, play, and rest, ensuring that every camper has a memorable and enriching summer experience.

Accommodations in Camp Teko

At Camp Teko, they prioritize comfort and convenience to ensure that every camper feels at home during their stay. Here’s what you can expect in terms of accommodations, dining, and facilities:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their primary accommodation consists of well-constructed cabins that blend rustic charm with modern amenities. Each cabin houses 8-12 campers and is grouped by age and gender to foster camaraderie and safety. Cabins are equipped with bunk beds, and storage space for personal belongings, and are closely situated to central bathroom and shower facilities.
Tents: For specific programs focused on adventure and wilderness skills, they offer tent sleeping options. These are typically used during special overnight outings and are fully supervised.
Dorms: Depending on the camp session and age group, they also utilize dorm-style accommodations which provide a more communal living experience, particularly suitable for older campers.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Teko operates a full-service dining hall where meals are served three times a day. Their meal plans are designed to be hearty, nutritious, and energizing, catering to the needs of active campers.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining, they offer options for various dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and kosher. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle allergies and specific dietary restrictions, ensuring that every camper has safe and enjoyable meal options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathrooms: Their camp is equipped with several bathroom facilities strategically located near each cabin and common area. These facilities are separated by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Showers: Shower facilities are communal, with individual stalls to ensure privacy. Hot water is available, and the areas are well-lit and ventilated.

At Camp Teko, they strive to create a living environment that supports the well-being and enjoyment of every camper, making their summer experience both comfortable and memorable.

Activities in Camp Teko

Camp Teko is dedicated to providing a dynamic and enriching experience through a wide range of activities designed to engage, educate, and excite their campers. Here’s an overview of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities they offer:

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Supervised by certified lifeguards, their swimming program includes instruction for beginners and advanced swimmers, as well as free swim periods.
Hiking: They explore the natural trails around Long Lake, teaching campers about local flora and fauna and outdoor survival skills.
Crafts: Their arts and crafts sessions allow campers to express their creativity through various mediums such as pottery, beading, and painting.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water sports are a big part of the summer, giving campers the chance to learn paddling techniques and water safety.
Sports: They offer a variety of sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery, focusing on skill development and teamwork.
Nature Exploration: Summer camps learn about environmental stewardship through interactive nature walks and wildlife studies.
Theater and Dance: Their performing arts program includes drama workshops, dance classes, and an end-of-session performance for campers to showcase their talents.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfires: Regular campfire gatherings include storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and tradition.
Color Wars: This camp-wide competition splits campers into teams for a series of fun, competitive events, promoting spirit and camaraderie.
Talent Shows: Campers get to display their unique talents, whether it’s playing an instrument, dancing, or performing magic tricks.
End-of-Summer Carnival: A festive celebration with games, prizes, and food, marking the culmination of a memorable summer.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs designed to develop skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and responsibility.
Environmental Education: Through hands-on activities, campers learn about conservation and the importance of sustainable practices.
Arts Workshops: Expert-led sessions in various art forms provide deep dives into skills like photography, ceramics, and digital arts.

At Camp Teko, their activities are structured to promote personal growth, skill development, and a deep appreciation for community and nature. Whether it’s through sports, arts, or outdoor adventures, campers leave with not only new skills but also lifelong memories and friendships.

The staff of Camp Teko

At Camp Teko, they understand that the quality of their staff directly impacts the camp experience. They are committed to maintaining a high standard of safety, care, and education. Here’s how they ensure their staff is prepared to provide the best possible environment for their campers:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Staffing: They maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and supervision. Typically, this ratio is 1 staff member for every 6 campers, allowing us to meet each camper’s needs effectively.
Specialized Activities: For activities requiring specialized skills or higher safety measures, such as swimming or archery, the ratio is even lower to ensure maximum supervision and instruction quality.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Rigorous Selection: Their hiring process includes thorough background checks, multiple interviews, and reference checks to ensure that all staff members are trustworthy and have a strong desire to work with children.
Diverse Expertise: They hire staff with a variety of skills and backgrounds, including education, sports, arts, and environmental science, to cater to the diverse programs offered at Camp Teko.
Experience with Children: All staff members are required to have previous experience working with children, whether in educational, recreational, or caretaking settings.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Certifications: All staff members are required to have current CPR and First Aid certifications. Additional training in lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, and specific sports or activities certifications are mandatory for relevant roles.
Pre-Camp Training: Before campers arrive, all staff undergo extensive training that covers Their camp philosophy, emergency procedures, child psychology, conflict resolution, and specific training related to their assigned roles.
Ongoing Development: Throughout the summer, they conduct regular review sessions and provide opportunities for staff to gain further training and address any areas of concern.

Camp Teko’s commitment to a well-trained, professional, and caring staff ensures a safe, enriching, and fun environment for every camper. They take pride in their team’s ability to support and inspire campers, helping them to grow both personally and socially during their time at camp.

Safety and Health in Camp Teko

Ensuring the safety and well-being of their campers is paramount at Camp Teko. They have comprehensive safety protocols and health facilities in place to manage everyday health needs and any potential emergencies efficiently.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: They conduct regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown procedures, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with emergency protocols.
Activity-Specific Safety: Each activity is guided by specific safety rules, which are strictly enforced. For instance, all water activities are supervised by lifeguards, and equipment for sports and adventure activities is regularly inspected.
Secure Environment: The camp is secured and monitored, with controlled access to ensure that only authorized personnel and campers are on the premises. All visitors must sign in and be approved before entering.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Teko has a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor. The center is prepared to handle a range of medical issues from minor injuries and illnesses to managing chronic conditions.
24/7 Availability: Medical staff are available around the clock to ensure that health care is accessible at any time. The health center is also stocked with essential medications and first aid supplies.
Communication with Parents: In case of illness or injury, parents are promptly notified according to the protocols provided at registration. Their policy ensures transparency and swift communication to keep parents informed about their child’s health.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: They have a detailed emergency response plan tailored to various potential scenarios, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical situations. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated.
Training for Staff: All staff members receive training on how to handle emergencies, including administering first aid, executing evacuation plans, and using communication tools effectively.
Partnerships with Local Authorities: They maintain strong relationships with local emergency services (fire, police, hospitals) to ensure a quick response time and coordinated efforts in case of serious emergencies.

By prioritizing safety and health through rigorous protocols, dedicated facilities, and trained professionals, Camp Teko ensures a secure and supportive environment for all campers, allowing them to enjoy their camp experience with peace of mind.

Cost and Registration in Camp Teko

Camp Teko is committed to providing an enriching summer camp experience that is accessible to families with varying financial capabilities. Below are the details regarding the cost of attendance, the registration process, and financial support options.

Cost of Attendance

Inclusion in Fees: The cost of attending Camp Teko includes all lodging, meals, activities, and equipment. There are no additional mandatory fees for any of the regular camp programs. Optional extras, such as special outings or merchandise, may incur additional costs.
Variable Pricing: Costs may vary depending on the length of the session and the type of program selected. Typically, one-week sessions start at a basic rate, with longer sessions such as two-week or full summer options having a higher total cost due to the extended duration and additional activities.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children through their secure online portal. The process includes filling out camper information, selecting session(s), and submitting medical and dietary information.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged as some sessions fill up quickly. Specific deadlines for each session are listed on their website, with early bird discounts available up to a certain date.
Confirmation: Upon completing registration and payment, families receive a confirmation email with a packet of pre-camp information, including packing lists, schedules, and arrival day instructions.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Recognizing that families may have different budgeting needs, Camp Teko offers structured payment plans that allow for incremental payments leading up to the camp session.
Refunds and Cancellations: They offer a refund policy where full refunds are available up to a certain period before the camp session begins, typically until one month prior. Cancellations after this period may receive partial refunds depending on the proximity to the start date of the session.
Insurance: Families are also encouraged to consider camp insurance to cover unexpected cancellations or early withdrawals due to medical reasons.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Teko provides scholarships based on need and availability. Families in need are encouraged to apply early, as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available through various programs and grants designed to make the camp experience more accessible.

At Camp Teko, they strive to make their camp experiences as inclusive and accessible as possible, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent a child from enjoying a memorable summer.

Cost:

Aleph:(9 days) – $945
Bet:(8 days) – $840
Gimel:(10 days) – $1050
Dalet:(10 days) – $1050

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Teko

Preparing for camp can be an exciting time for both parents and campers, especially if it’s the first time. At Camp Teko, they aim to provide all the necessary information to ensure everyone is well-prepared and knows what to expect. Here’s a guide to help you get ready:

Packing List

To ensure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience, please include the following items in their packing:

Clothing: Enough for the session length, including swimwear, comfortable clothing for activities, and a few warmer items for cooler evenings.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals for casual wear, and water shoes if possible.
Bedding and Towels: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow, bath towels, and beach towels.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Other Essentials: Water bottle, flashlight or headlamp, hat, and sunglasses.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and small games or toys.

Please label all items with your child’s name to help keep track of personal belongings.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, Camp Teko has a no-electronics policy for campers. This includes smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Emergency contact with children is facilitated through the camp office.
Visitation: Parents are welcome to visit on designated days, typically mid-session, to minimize disruption to the camp program and help campers adjust to camp life.
Behavior Expectations: They promote a respectful and inclusive environment. Bullying, disrespectful behavior, or disregard for camp rules will be addressed promptly and may result in consequences depending on the severity.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friends. Encourage your child to express any concerns and questions they might have.
Practice Sleepovers: If possible, arrange a few sleepovers away from home to help your child get used to being away from home.
Communication: Write letters to your camper and send them with pre-addressed, stamped envelopes and paper for writing back. This can help ease any homesickness.
Relax and Trust: It’s natural to worry, but relax and trust the camp staff. They are experienced and trained to ensure your child has a safe and enriching experience.

With these preparations in place, both campers and parents can feel confident and excited about the upcoming adventure at Camp Teko.

Camp Teko stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and growth, nestled in the natural beauty of Long Lake, Minnesota. Their camp provides a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment where children from diverse backgrounds can discover new interests, develop essential skills, and forge lasting friendships. With a robust array of activities ranging from arts and sports to science and outdoor exploration, Camp Teko caters to a wide array of interests and age groups.

Their commitment to safety, health, and high-quality programming is matched by their dedication to making the camp experience accessible through scholarships and financial aid. The structured registration process, comprehensive preparation information for parents and campers, and a caring and qualified staff ensure a seamless and rewarding summer experience.