Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of southwestern Missouri, Camp Barnabas stands as a beacon of joy and transformation near the serene Mark Twain National Forest. Located in Purdy, Missouri, this camp is not just a place, it’s a vibrant community where life-changing experiences are made.

Founded with a profound purpose, Camp Barnabas is dedicated to providing life-enriching experiences to individuals with special needs and chronic illnesses, along with their siblings. The camp environment is crafted to offer a break from the everyday challenges faced by these individuals, promoting empowerment and fostering a supportive community.

At the heart of Camp Barnabas is a mission rooted in compassion and service: “To change lives through disability ministry.” This guiding principle shapes every activity, program, and interaction within the camp, ensuring that each camper feels valued, loved, and understood.

Camp Barnabas caters to a diverse group of boys and girls across various age groups. Offering tailored programs that address the unique needs of each camper, ensures that everyone can participate fully and experience the joy and camaraderie of camp life.

Whether through engaging in exciting outdoor activities, forming lasting friendships, or learning new skills, campers at Camp Barnabas are emboldened to explore their potential in a safe and nurturing environment. Welcome to a place where barriers are broken, spirits are lifted, and lives are transformed forever. Welcome to Camp Barnabas in Purdy, Missouri.

Programs Offered by Camp Barnabas

At Camp Barnabas, each program is thoughtfully designed to provide campers with a fulfilling and enriching experience, tailored to their individual abilities and interests. Here’s a closer look at the diverse range of programs and activities available:

Program Description

Camp Barnabas offers a variety of session lengths and specialized programs to accommodate the needs and interests of all campers. Each session is carefully crafted to ensure that participants have a memorable and impactful camp experience, full of fun, learning, and personal growth.

Length of Sessions

Sessions at Camp Barnabas typically range from one week to two weeks. This flexible schedule allows families to choose the best fit for their camper’s needs and availability. Some campers may opt for a single week, while others might stay for multiple sessions throughout the summer.

Specialty Programs

Arts: The arts program at Camp Barnabas allows campers to explore their creativity through activities such as painting, crafts, music, and drama. These activities are designed to be accessible for campers of all abilities, encouraging self-expression and artistic exploration.
Sports: Emphasizing teamwork and physical activity, the sports program includes adapted games and sports tailored to the abilities of each camper. Activities may include swimming, basketball, and other modified sports that ensure every camper can participate and enjoy the thrill of the game.
Science: For campers interested in learning and exploration, the science program offers hands-on activities that make learning fun and engaging. This might include simple experiments, nature walks, and educational sessions on various topics, all adapted to be accessible and enjoyable.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Barnabas is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, rest, and meal times, ensuring that each camper can engage fully without feeling overwhelmed. Here’s what a typical day might look like:

Morning:
- 7:30 AM – Wake Up
- 8:00 AM – Breakfast
- 9:00 AM – Morning Assembly
- 9:30 AM – Activity Session 1 (e.g., Arts and Crafts)
Midday:
- 12:00 PM – Lunch
- 1:00 PM – Rest Time/Quiet Time
- 2:00 PM – Activity Session 2 (e.g., Science Workshop)
Afternoon:
- 3:30 PM – Snack Time
- 4:00 PM – Activity Session 3 (e.g., Sports)
- 5:30 PM – Free Time/Recreational Activities
Evening:
- 6:30 PM – Dinner
- 7:30 PM – Evening Program (Campfire, Talent Show, etc.)
- 9:00 PM – Cabin Time/Prep for Bed
- 10:00 PM – Lights Out

This schedule is designed to keep campers engaged and entertained, while also providing ample opportunities for rest and social interaction. Through its varied programs and a well-thought-out daily schedule, Camp Barnabas ensures that every camper has a rewarding and enjoyable summer experience.

Accommodations in Camp Barnabas

Camp Barnabas is committed to ensuring that all campers have a comfortable and accommodating stay during their time at camp. Here’s an overview of the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities available at Camp Barnabas:

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers at Camp Barnabas stay in well-equipped cabins designed to be both comfortable and accessible. These cabins are strategically laid out to ensure ease of access for campers with various needs. Each cabin is climate-controlled to provide a respite from the summer heat and is equipped with necessary safety features, including smoke detectors and easy-to-navigate layouts for campers with mobility challenges.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: At Camp Barnabas, all meals are included in the camp session. The dining hall is a central spot where campers gather to enjoy nutritious and delicious meals prepared by experienced kitchen staff. The camp prides itself on its ability to provide a variety of meal options that not only taste great but also fuel the campers for their active days.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to the individual needs of each camper, Camp Barnabas offers comprehensive dietary accommodations. Whether a camper has allergies, dietary restrictions, or special nutritional requirements, the kitchen staff is equipped to handle these needs efficiently. Campers or their guardians are encouraged to communicate any dietary concerns before arrival to ensure that appropriate preparations can be made.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathroom and shower facilities at Camp Barnabas are designed with accessibility in mind. Each cabin cluster has its own dedicated bathroom and shower facility, which is equipped with features like grab bars, non-slip surfaces, and adequate space for maneuverability. These facilities are maintained with high standards of cleanliness and hygiene, ensuring that all campers can use them comfortably and safely.

Overall, the accommodations at Camp Barnabas are designed to provide a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment for all campers, allowing them to focus on enjoying their camp experience without worries about their daily needs.

Activities in Camp Barnabas

Camp Barnabas is a hub of energy, joy, and discovery, with a wide range of activities designed to engage campers of all abilities. From outdoor adventures to creative arts, each activity is intended to enrich the camp experience, promote personal growth, and foster lasting friendships. Here’s a closer look at the diverse activities and special events that define the spirit of Camp Barnabas:

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: The camp features an accessible pool where campers can enjoy water games, swimming lessons, and free swimming under the supervision of trained lifeguards.
Hiking: Guided hikes along adapted trails allow campers to explore the natural beauty surrounding the camp, ensuring everyone, regardless of mobility, can enjoy the experience.
Crafts: A wide range of craft activities provide opportunities for campers to express their creativity. From painting and sculpting to making friendship bracelets and more, there’s something for every artistic interest.
Sports: Adapted sports activities, including basketball, soccer, and others, are tailored to the abilities of the campers, ensuring everyone can participate and enjoy the thrill of sports.
Archery: With adapted equipment, archery is a popular activity that teaches focus, coordination, and patience, all in a safe and supportive environment.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Barnabas is rich with traditions and special events that highlight the summer and create memorable experiences for all campers:

Theme Nights: These are fun-filled evenings where campers and staff dress up according to different themes, fostering a playful and inclusive atmosphere.
Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings include singing, storytelling, and marshmallow roasting, providing classic camp experiences that build community and friendship.
Talent Shows: Campers get a chance to showcase their talents, whether it’s singing, dancing, magic tricks, or other unique skills, celebrating the diversity and abilities of each individual.

Skill Development Opportunities

The activities at Camp Barnabas are not only fun but also designed to help campers develop valuable life skills:

Leadership Training: Summer camps have opportunities to take on leadership roles, helping to guide younger campers and assist in activity sessions.
Independence Skills: Activities are structured to encourage independence, helping campers learn to do things on their own or with minimal assistance, tailored to their capabilities.
Social Skills: Group activities and shared living spaces foster social interaction and teamwork, crucial skills for building relationships and community integration.

At Camp Barnabas, each day is filled with opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun in a supportive and loving environment. Whether engaging in physical activity, unleashing their creativity, or participating in a camp tradition, campers leave with not only new skills but also memories and friendships that last a lifetime.

The staff of Camp Barnabas

At Camp Barnabas, the quality and dedication of the staff are paramount to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching camp experience for every camper. Here’s an overview of the staff-to-camper ratio, the hiring process, qualifications, and the training that Camp Barnabas staff undergo to ensure they are well-equipped to meet the needs of all campers.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Barnabas maintains a high staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives the attention and care they deserve. Typically, the camp strives for at least one staff member for every two campers. This ratio allows staff to provide personalized support and ensures that all camp activities are conducted safely and effectively.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Hiring Process: The process begins with a thorough application that includes previous experience, references, and a personal statement. Potential staff members undergo extensive interviews and background checks to ensure they are a good fit for the camp’s mission and the populations it serves.
Qualifications: Staff members are often college students or graduates with backgrounds in special education, recreation management, nursing, or related fields. Many have prior experience working with individuals with special needs or have specific skills pertinent to the camp’s activities and services.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff members participate in a comprehensive training program. This training covers a range of topics, including camper care, emergency procedures, activity planning, and understanding the specific needs of the campers served by Camp Barnabas.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are often provided as part of the staff training to ensure that everyone is prepared to handle medical emergencies.
Specialized Training: Depending on their roles, staff may also receive additional training in areas such as behavior management, adaptive sports, and the use of assistive technology. This specialized training is crucial for ensuring that all activities are accessible and enjoyable for campers.

Camp Barnabas also encourages ongoing education and development for its staff, providing them with opportunities to attend workshops and seminars throughout the year. This commitment to professional development helps maintain a high standard of care and ensures that the staff are up to date with the latest best practices in disability support and camp management.

The dedication and preparedness of the staff at Camp Barnabas play a critical role in creating a nurturing environment where campers can thrive and explore their potential without barriers.

Safety and Health in Camp Barnabas

Ensuring the safety and health of every camper is a top priority at Camp Barnabas. With robust protocols and dedicated health facilities, the camp is well-prepared to handle any situation that may arise, providing a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities worry-free.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Camp Barnabas has developed comprehensive safety protocols to protect all campers and staff:

Routine Drills: Regularly scheduled drills to ensure that everyone at the camp is familiar with emergency procedures, including evacuations in the event of fire or severe weather.
Activity Safety: Each activity is guided by specific safety protocols, which include using appropriate safety gear, conducting regular equipment checks, and ensuring that all activities are supervised by trained staff members.
Secure Environment: The camp is equipped with secure facilities, and staff are trained to monitor camper areas continuously to prevent unauthorized access and ensure camper safety.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Barnabas houses a fully equipped health center that is staffed 24/7 during camp sessions. This center is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and occasionally visiting physicians, who can handle both routine and emergency healthcare needs.
Medication Management: The health center staff are responsible for administering all medications, following strict protocols to ensure that each camper receives the correct dosage at the appropriate times.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Medical Response: In case of a medical emergency, the camp’s health staff are trained to provide immediate care, and there are protocols in place for rapid transportation to the nearest hospital if needed.
Communication: Camp Barnabas maintains a clear communication policy to keep families informed in the event of an emergency involving their child. The camp also has established procedures for quickly notifying local emergency services and coordinating with them as needed.
Continuous Training: The health and safety staff at Camp Barnabas participate in ongoing training to stay current with the best practices in emergency preparedness, first aid, and healthcare management.

Camp Barnabas is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for all campers, enabling them to engage fully in the camp experience without the worry of safety concerns. This commitment ensures that campers and their families can trust that the camp is not only a place of fun and growth but also a place where their well-being is prioritized.

Cost and Registration in Camp Barnabas

Camp Barnabas strives to make its life-changing experiences accessible to as many families as possible. Here’s a detailed overview of the cost of attendance, the registration process, and financial support options such as payment plans, scholarships, and more.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Camp Barnabas varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Generally, the fee includes:

All Meals and Accommodations: This covers the duration of the camper’s stay, including all meals, snacks, and housing.
Program Activities: All costs associated with the camp’s diverse activities are included, from arts and crafts supplies to sports equipment and special event materials.
24/7 Care and Supervision: Professional care from trained staff, including medical supervision and any specialized assistance needed by campers.

Prices typically range from $1500 per week.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Families can register their campers through the Camp Barnabas website, where they fill out necessary forms and provide medical and dietary information.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months before the camp season starts and remains open until all spots are filled. Early registration is encouraged as spots can fill up quickly.
Required Documents: Alongside the registration form, parents or guardians need to submit health records, consent forms, and any other required documentation to ensure the safety and well-being of all campers.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding that families have different financial capabilities, Camp Barnabas offers flexible payment plans to spread out the cost of attendance over several months.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp provides a structured cancellation policy where families can receive a full or partial refund depending on when the cancellation is made. Specific details are provided at registration, outlining any non-refundable deposits or administrative fees.
Late Cancellations: For cancellations due to medical or family emergencies, Camp Barnabas tries to be accommodating, often offering the possibility to transfer fees to a future session.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Barnabas offers scholarships to families in need. These scholarships can cover a significant portion of the camp fees and are awarded based on financial need and availability of funds.
External Aid: Families are also encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as charitable organizations and community grants, which often support children attending special needs camps.

By providing various financial support options and detailed information on registration and costs, Camp Barnabas ensures that its programs are accessible to families from diverse backgrounds, reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity and community support.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Barnabas

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their families. To ensure everyone is ready for a successful camp experience, Camp Barnabas provides detailed guidelines on what to pack, camp rules and policies, and helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

To help campers have a comfortable stay, Camp Barnabas recommends bringing the following items:

Clothing: Enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for the session, including items that can get dirty. Include swimwear, hats, and sturdy shoes.
Bedding and Towels: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets for the bed, pillow, bath, and swimming towels.
Personal Care Items: Toiletries, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary personal care items.
Medications: Clearly labeled prescription medications, which should be handed over to the camp health center upon arrival.
Special Items: Any adaptive devices or special equipment the camper might need.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To ensure all campers are fully engaged in the camp experience, personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are usually not allowed. If needed for communication, arrangements can be made with the camp staff.
Visitation: For the safety and security of campers and to foster independence, visitation during sessions is generally limited or discouraged. Specific rules around visitation will be detailed in the camp’s guidelines.
Behavior Expectations: Campers are expected to follow the camp’s code of conduct, which includes respecting others, participating in scheduled activities, and adhering to camp rules.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Familiarization: Before camp starts, discuss what the camp experience will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities to make new friends. Familiarize your child with the daily schedule if possible.
Communication: Discuss how you’ll communicate during their time at camp if allowed, such as writing letters or scheduled calls.
Managing Homesickness: Talk about homesickness and strategies to cope with it. Encourage your child to talk to their counselor and make new friends.
Positive Reinforcement: Remind your child about their strengths and how they can use these to have a great time and help others enjoy their experience too.

Preparing campers and parents with these guidelines and tips not only helps set realistic expectations but also ensures that the camp experience is enjoyable and stress-free for everyone involved. Camp Barnabas is committed to supporting families every step of the way, from the moment they decide to register to the end of their camp session.

Camp Barnabas stands out as a remarkable haven where children with special needs and chronic illnesses find a community that celebrates them as individuals, champions their abilities, and supports their growth in a nurturing environment. Here, every camper is given the opportunity to explore, learn, and thrive through a vast array of activities tailored to their needs, while being surrounded by staff who are not only caretakers but advocates and friends.

At Camp Barnabas, the barriers that often define or limit these incredible children in the outside world fall away. Instead, they are met with understanding, accessibility, and the chance to just be kids in a safe and encouraging setting. From the carefully planned activities and programs to the thoughtfully designed accommodations and health care provisions, every aspect of Camp Barnabas is crafted to ensure a joyful, enriching summer experience.