Welcome to Timber Creek Camp, nestled in the scenic surroundings of Pulaski, Mississippi. This beautiful retreat is ideally located in a serene region, offering a backdrop of lush woodlands and the calming sounds of nature, making it an ideal site for a summer camp experience.

Timber Creek Camp has a rich history of providing enriching outdoor activities and fostering a sense of community and personal growth among its campers. Since its inception, the camp has been dedicated to creating a supportive, fun, and safe environment where young people can explore and develop their skills and confidence.

At the heart of Timber Creek Camp is its mission to empower young individuals to reach their fullest potential through adventurous, high-quality programs that promote a healthy spirit, mind, and body. Their philosophy centers on nurturing leadership, respect, and teamwork through outdoor education and activities.

Timber Creek Camp offers a variety of programs tailored to different age groups, welcoming boys and girls from diverse backgrounds. Whether it’s learning survival skills, engaging in sports, or participating in arts and crafts, there’s something at Timber Creek for every camper to enjoy and learn from, making their summer not just fun but also immensely enriching.

Programs Offered by Timber Creek Camp

Timber Creek Camp offers a diverse range of programs designed to cater to various interests and age groups, ensuring an engaging and memorable experience for every camper. Here’s an overview of what they offer:

Programs Description

Their programs are crafted to balance structured learning with ample time for fun and relaxation, allowing campers to explore their interests in a supportive environment. From outdoor adventures to creative arts and athletic activities, each program is aimed at developing skills, fostering friendships, and building character.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: Perfect for first-time campers or those looking for a short but sweet experience.
Two-Week Sessions: Offers a more immersive experience with more time for specialized activities and personal development.
Full Summer: The ultimate camp experience, where campers fully engage in the camp community and participate in a progressive, comprehensive program.

Specialty Programs

Arts: Includes activities like painting, drama, music, and crafts, encouraging creative expression and innovation.
Sports: Focuses on physical fitness and team sports, including soccer, basketball, swimming, and archery, promoting teamwork and healthy living.
Science: Engages campers in the wonders of science through experiments, nature walks, and astronomy, fostering curiosity and critical thinking.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercises
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (rotating through specialty programs)
12:00 PM: Lunch and rest period
1:30 PM: Afternoon activities (free choice of sports, arts, or science)
5:00 PM: Free time and optional clinics
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening program (campfire, talent show, storytelling, etc.)
9:00 PM: Lights out for younger campers
10:00 PM: Lights out for older campers

This structured yet flexible schedule allows campers to make the most of their day while providing them with the freedom to choose activities that most interest them, all within the beautiful and expansive grounds of Timber Creek Camp in Pulaski, MS.

Accommodations in Timber Creek Camp

At Timber Creek Camp, they prioritize comfort and convenience to ensure that every camper has a pleasant stay while they explore and engage in their diverse programs. Here’s an overview of the accommodations they offer:

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers at Timber Creek Camp stay in cabins that blend rustic charm with modern amenities. Each cabin houses a small group of campers, fostering a close-knit atmosphere that helps build camaraderie and friendships. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, and storage areas for personal belongings, and are grouped by age and gender to ensure comfort and appropriate supervision.

Dining Options

Timber Creek Camp provides a variety of dining options that cater to all tastes and dietary needs:

Meal Plans: They offer three balanced meals a day, prepared by their experienced kitchen staff. Meals are served in a communal dining hall, where campers can enjoy food and fellowship together.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to all dietary requirements, their menu includes vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-friendly options. Parents can discuss their child’s dietary needs with us before the camp session begins to ensure all accommodations are met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities that are conveniently located near each group of cabins. Facilities are separated by gender and are maintained multiple times a day to ensure cleanliness and hygiene. Hot and cold water is available, along with private stalls for showers and changing, ensuring privacy and comfort for all campers.

At Timber Creek Camp, they aim to make the camping experience as comfortable and accommodating as possible, allowing campers to focus on enjoying their activities and building lasting memories in a safe and caring environment.

Activities in Timber Creek Camp

Timber Creek Camp is rich in activities and special events that cater to a wide range of interests and skills, ensuring that every camper finds something they love while also having opportunities to try new things. Here’s a rundown of what they offer:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Includes hiking, camping, and nature exploration, where campers learn about the environment and survival skills.
Water Activities: Features swimming, canoeing, and fishing in their private lake, promoting water safety and fun.
Crafts: Offers a variety of creative options such as pottery, jewelry making, and woodworking, encouraging creativity and fine motor skills.
Sports: Summer camps can participate in team sports like soccer, basketball, and volleyball, as well as individual pursuits like archery and mountain biking.
Performing Arts: Includes drama, dance, and music, allowing campers to express themselves and develop performance skills.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Bonfire: A tradition that marks the beginning of each session, where campers gather around a bonfire for introductions, camp songs, and team-building activities.
Color Wars: A multi-day event full of spirited competitions across a variety of sports and challenges, fostering teamwork and camp spirit.
Talent Show: Campers have the opportunity to showcase their talents, whether it be in music, dance, magic, or comedy, in a supportive and enthusiastic environment.
End-of-Session Banquet: Celebrates the achievements of all campers with awards, recognitions, and a festive meal, culminating in a final campfire.

Skill Development Opportunities

Timber Creek Camp emphasizes the development of both hard and soft skills through its activities:

Leadership and Teamwork: Many activities are designed to enhance leadership qualities and teamwork, including specific leadership training sessions for older campers.
Problem Solving and Critical Thinking: Through adventure games and science explorations, campers engage in activities that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Creative Expression: Arts and crafts, as well as performing arts programs, allow campers to explore and develop their creative talents.
Physical Fitness: A wide range of sports and physical activities help campers improve their physical health and learn about the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle.

At Timber Creek Camp, they are committed to providing a fun, educational, and memorable camping experience, where every camper can grow, learn, and enjoy in a safe and welcoming environment.

The staff of Timber Creek Camp

Timber Creek Camp is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for all campers, which is underpinned by their highly qualified and attentive staff. Here’s an overview of their staffing details:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

They maintain an excellent staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and care. Their general ratio is one staff member for every five campers, which allows us to closely monitor and engage with each child, providing a personalized and supportive experience throughout their stay at camp.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Hiring Process: Their staff are selected through a rigorous hiring process that includes multiple interviews, background checks, and reference verifications. They look for candidates who are not only experienced in camp leadership but also have a passion for working with children and a strong moral character.
Qualifications: Staff members typically have experience in education, youth counseling, or specific activity areas like sports, arts, or science. Many of their staff are pursuing or have completed degrees in relevant fields such as education, psychology, or physical education.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid before the commencement of camp. These certifications are crucial for ensuring the health and safety of all campers and staff on site.
Activity-Specific Training: Staff responsible for specific activities, such as swimming or archery, hold additional certifications relevant to their areas (e.g., lifeguard certification for swimming instructors).
Ongoing Training: Once hired, staff undergo a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, child behavior management, safety protocols, and emergency response procedures. This training is conducted annually before the summer sessions begin and is supplemented with ongoing training sessions throughout the camp duration.

Their commitment to maintaining a highly trained and competent staff ensures that every camper at Timber Creek Camp enjoys a safe, enjoyable, and enriching summer experience.

Safety and Health in Timber Creek Camp

Timber Creek Camp prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing stringent safety protocols and maintaining comprehensive health facilities on-site. Here’s how they ensure a secure and healthy camp environment:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: Campers and staff participate in regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuation drills, to ensure everyone knows how to act in an emergency.
Activity Safety: Each activity is supervised by staff trained specifically for that activity, with rigorous safety checks on equipment and facilities. Safety gear is mandatory for activities such as biking, climbing, and water sports.
Supervision: Campers are under constant supervision, with staff ensuring that safety rules are followed in all camp areas, including living, eating, and activity spaces.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: The camp has a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed medical professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor. The health center is prepared to handle routine healthcare needs and minor medical emergencies.
Medications: All camper medications are stored securely in the health center and administered by the medical staff according to the prescribed schedule and dosage.
Availability: Medical staff are available 24/7, ensuring that health care is accessible at any time of the day or night.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Timber Creek Camp has a detailed emergency response plan that includes procedures for various scenarios, including medical emergencies, natural disasters, and other critical incidents. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, the camp has protocols for communicating with all camp staff and, crucially, with parents and guardians. This ensures that families are informed promptly of any situation concerning their child.
Evacuation Procedures: Clear evacuation routes and procedures are established and well-known to all staff and campers. In case of a need for evacuation, the camp coordinates with local authorities to ensure a smooth and safe process.

By maintaining strict safety protocols, having a capable health staff on-site, and implementing thorough emergency procedures, Timber Creek Camp ensures a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities with peace of mind, knowing they are well-cared for and protected.

Cost and Registration in Timber Creek Camp

Timber Creek Camp offers a comprehensive and transparent approach to cost, registration, and financial considerations, ensuring that families are well-informed and can plan accordingly. Here’s what you need to know:

Cost of Attendance

Cost Details: The cost of attending Timber Creek Camp varies depending on the session length and the specific program chosen. Generally, fees cover all camp activities, meals, accommodation, and standard medical care.
Inclusions: The fee includes access to all camp facilities, equipment use, expert instruction for all activities, three daily meals, and 24-hour supervision by their trained staff. Additional costs may apply for optional extras such as special excursions or specific specialty equipment.

Registration Process and Deadlines

How to Register: Registration for camp can be completed online through their website. The process includes filling out the camper’s information, selecting preferred sessions and activities, and submitting required medical and consent forms.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January and remains open until all spots are filled. Early registration is encouraged to secure a place in preferred sessions, as some programs may fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: They offer flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of camp. Families can choose to pay in installments, with final payments usually due one month before the camp session begins.
Refunds and Cancellations: If cancellation is necessary, a full refund is available up to a certain date, typically one month before the start of the session. After this date, partial refunds may be offered, and typically no refunds are available once the session has started unless for medical reasons documented by a physician.
Insurance: Families are encouraged to consider camp insurance to cover unexpected cancellations.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Availability: Timber Creek Camp believes every child should have the opportunity to experience camp. They offer a limited number of scholarships each year based on financial need and camper merit.
Application for Financial Aid: Families needing financial assistance can apply through a separate application form available on their website. This form requires documentation of financial status and a written statement of need.

By providing clear information on costs, an easy registration process, flexible payment options, and support through financial aid, Timber Creek Camp strives to make its enriching camp experience accessible to as many children as possible.

The cost of registration for Timber Creek Camp in Pulaski, MS depends on the specific program. Here’s a breakdown of their fees:

Pinelake Church 56 Camp: This program is for 5th and 6th graders and costs $250.
CentriKid Camps: This program costs $365 per participant.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Timber Creek Camp

Preparing for a stay at Timber Creek Camp is an exciting part of the camp experience for both parents and campers. Here’s a guide to help ensure that families are well-prepared for the adventure:

Packing List

Essentials: Clothing for a variety of weather conditions (including rain gear and warm layers), comfortable footwear for hiking and sports, a hat, and sunglasses.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, insect repellent.
Equipment: Water bottle, flashlight or headlamp, and any specific gear related to specialized activities (though most equipment is provided by the camp).
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a small backpack for day trips.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are not allowed. This helps campers to connect more deeply with each other and their surroundings.
Visitation: For the safety and security of all campers, visitation is generally restricted to specific visitor days which are communicated at the start of each session. Families are encouraged to respect these guidelines to ensure the program runs smoothly.
Behavior Expectations: Respect, cooperation, and positivity are expected at all times from campers. Bullying, possession of contraband, or other disruptive behaviors can result in a camper being sent home.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Stay Open and Positive: Embrace the new experiences and the chance to make new friends.
- Be Self-Reliant: Learn to take care of your belongings and manage your personal hygiene.
- Participate Fully: Get involved in as many activities as you can to make the most of your camp experience.
For Parents:
- Prepare Together: Go through the packing list with your camper, allowing them to make choices where appropriate to give them a sense of control and involvement.
- Discuss Expectations: Talk about what camp will be like focusing on the fun and growth opportunities, and discuss how to handle feelings of homesickness.
- Stay Connected: Use the appropriate channels provided by the camp to send messages or emails if permitted.

By following these guidelines and preparations, campers and parents can ensure a smooth transition into camp life, making the most of the Timber Creek Camp experience.

Timber Creek Camp in Pulaski, Mississippi, offers a unique and enriching summer experience for children of all ages. With a diverse range of activities, from swimming and hiking to crafts and science, the camp provides a dynamic environment where campers can explore their interests, develop new skills, and make lifelong friends.

The camp’s commitment to safety, coupled with a caring and qualified staff, ensures that each camper enjoys a secure and memorable stay. Through its well-rounded programs, inclusive atmosphere, and emphasis on personal growth, Timber Creek Camp not only promises an enjoyable summer adventure but also fosters the development of young individuals into confident and responsible leaders. Whether you’re preparing for your first summer at camp or returning as a seasoned camper, Timber Creek is ready to offer another season of fun, learning, and adventure in the great outdoors.