Welcome to Clark Canyon Bible Camp, a serene and spiritually enriching retreat nestled in the scenic landscapes of Dillon, Montana. Located amidst the rolling hills and picturesque vistas of southwestern Montana, their camp offers an ideal setting for personal growth and exploration of faith. Not far from the historic landmarks of Bannack State Park and the Beaverhead River, the camp’s surroundings inspire both awe and reflection.

Founded with the vision of fostering a deep, personal understanding of the Bible and its teachings, Clark Canyon Bible Camp has been a place of spiritual renewal and community for over two decades. Their mission is to “nurture young minds and hearts towards a profound love and understanding of God’s word, encouraging them to live lives of faith and service.”

As a Bible-centered camp, they cater to boys and girls across various age groups, typically ranging from 8 to 16 years old. Their programs are carefully designed to accommodate the unique needs and spiritual journeys of each age group, ensuring a supportive, engaging, and enriching experience for all campers.

Join us at Clark Canyon Bible Camp, where faith meets fun, friendships are forged, and young lives are transformed through the power of God’s word.

Programs Offered by Clark Canyon Bible Camp

Clark Canyon Bible Camp offers a diverse range of programs designed to cater to different interests and age groups, ensuring that every camper finds something to enrich their summer experience. Their sessions vary in length to accommodate different family schedules and camper commitments.

Program Descriptions:

Explorers Program: Tailored for their youngest campers aged 8-10, this one-week session introduces them to camp life. Activities are designed to be fun, and engaging, and introduce the foundational stories of the Bible.
Adventurers Program: For ages 11-13, these two-week sessions delve deeper into Bible study and personal development. Campers participate in team-building activities and more challenging outdoor adventures.
Leadership Development Program: Aimed at teenagers 14-16, this intensive two-week program focuses on developing future leaders through advanced Bible studies, leadership workshops, and community service projects.

Specialty Programs:

Arts Program: Emphasizes creative expression through painting, drama, and music, intertwining these activities with spiritual lessons and daily devotions.
Sports Program: Focuses on physical fitness and teamwork with activities like soccer, basketball, and swimming, all while learning about sportsmanship from a biblical perspective.
Science and Nature Program: Explores God’s creation through environmental science, astronomy, and biology, encouraging curiosity and stewardship of the earth.

Typical Daily Schedule:

7:00 AM: Wake up and personal time
7:30 AM: Morning devotion and prayer
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Bible study session
10:30 AM: Specialty program activity (Arts, Sports, or Science)
12:30 PM: Lunch
1:30 PM: Quiet time/Rest
2:00 PM: Afternoon recreation (free choice of sports, crafts, or nature walks)
4:00 PM: Workshop (varies daily – topics include leadership, community service, environmental care)
5:30 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening worship and campfire
9:00 PM: Cabin time (reflection and fellowship)
10:00 PM: Lights out

Each day at Clark Canyon Bible Camp is carefully structured to balance spiritual growth with physical activity, artistic expression, and communal living, all within a nurturing and supportive Christian environment.

Accommodations in Clark Canyon Bible Camp

Clark Canyon Bible Camp is thoughtfully equipped to ensure that every camper has a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Here’s what you can expect in terms of accommodations, dining, and facilities:

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: Campers are housed in cozy, rustic cabins that blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings. Each cabin can accommodate up to 12 campers along with 2 counselors, ensuring supervision and safety. The cabins are divided by age group and gender to provide a comfortable environment for all campers.
Dormitories: For older campers and during larger sessions, dormitory-style accommodations are available. These are equipped with bunk beds and communal living spaces where campers can socialize and relax.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: All meals are included in the camp fees and are served in the communal dining hall, which is a central hub of activity at camp. Their kitchen staff prepares three nutritious meals per day, plus snacks.
Dietary Accommodations: They take pride in catering to various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle special dietary requirements with care and attention, ensuring that every camper enjoys delicious and safe meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Facilities: Separate bathroom and shower facilities for boys and girls are centrally located near the cabins and dormitories. The facilities are well-maintained and cleaned multiple times a day to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Privacy and Accessibility: Private shower stalls and changing areas provide privacy and convenience. Additionally, all facilities are designed to be accessible to ensure that campers with disabilities can move about comfortably and safely.

At Clark Canyon Bible Camp, they strive to create a ‘home away from home’ atmosphere, ensuring that the physical comforts contribute positively to the overall spiritual and personal growth experiences of the campers.

Activities in Clark Canyon Bible Camp

Clark Canyon Bible Camp provides a wide range of activities designed to engage campers in both fun and learning. These activities not only entertain but also build skills, enhance spiritual understanding, and foster deep connections among campers.

List of Activities Offered:

Swimming: Supervised by certified lifeguards, their pool and lake offer fun and relaxation while teaching water safety.
Hiking: Explore the scenic trails around Dillon, MT, and learn about the local flora and fauna.
Crafts: From pottery to beadwork, crafts allow campers to express their creativity.
Sports: Organized games and competitions in soccer, basketball, volleyball, and more.
Fishing: Teach patience and skill as campers fish in nearby streams and lakes.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Watercraft activities provide fun and challenge on the water.
Archery: Summer camps learn precision and focus, by practicing in a safe, supervised environment.
Drama and Music Workshops: These workshops allow campers to explore their artistic side through performance.
Bible Study and Devotionals: Daily sessions that explore biblical teachings and encourage personal reflection.

Special Events or Traditions:

Opening Night Bonfire: A time for campers to get to know each other and set the tone for their camp experience.
Talent Show: At the end of each session, campers can showcase their talents to the whole camp.
Theme Days: Special days like “Wild West” or “Superhero Day” add a fun twist to activities.
Camp Olympics: A camp-wide competition that builds team spirit and camaraderie.
Closing Ceremony: A reflective and celebratory event that marks the end of the camp session.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Training: Older campers participate in activities that develop leadership skills, preparing them for roles as future camp counselors or leaders in their communities.
Environmental Stewardship: Activities focused on conservation and nature appreciation teach campers about their responsibility to the environment.
Spiritual Growth: Through structured Bible studies and informal discussions, campers explore their faith and learn values like compassion, respect, and integrity.

Each activity at Clark Canyon Bible Camp is designed to provide a balance of fun, learning, and personal growth, ensuring that every camper leaves with new skills, stronger faith, and lasting memories.

The staff of Clark Canyon Bible Camp

The staff at Clark Canyon Bible Camp are dedicated to providing a safe, engaging, and spiritually enriching experience for every camper. Here’s how they ensure their staff are well-prepared to meet the needs of their camp community:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

To ensure individual attention and a high level of care, they maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio of approximately 1:5. This ratio allows their counselors and staff to effectively oversee and interact with campers, ensuring a personalized and safe camping experience.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Recruitment: They recruit staff from a variety of sources, including local universities, church communities, and recommendations from past staff members.
Selection Criteria: Candidates must demonstrate a strong personal faith, experience, and enthusiasm for working with children, and a commitment to their camp’s mission and values.
Background Checks: All potential staff undergo thorough background checks, including criminal history and references, to ensure the safety and security of their campers.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camping season begins, all staff attend a comprehensive training program. This training covers camp policies, child development, emergency procedures, and conflict resolution.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are often completed prior to employment, or they provide training sessions during pre-camp training.
Specialized Training: Staff involved in specific activities, like swimming or archery, receive additional training and certifications pertinent to their roles (e.g., lifeguarding or archery instructor certifications).
Ongoing Education: Throughout the camp season, they hold regular meetings and training sessions to refresh skills and discuss any issues that arise, ensuring continuous improvement and adherence to best practices.

Their commitment to a well-trained and qualified staff ensures that Clark Canyon Bible Camp remains a safe and positive environment where campers can explore their faith, build lasting friendships, and develop new skills.

Safety and Health in Clark Canyon Bible Camp

At Clark Canyon Bible Camp, the safety and health of their campers and staff are their top priorities. They have established comprehensive safety protocols and procedures to ensure that everyone enjoys a secure and healthy camp experience.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Emergency Preparedness: They conduct regular training sessions with all staff on emergency response protocols, including fire safety, severe weather procedures, and lockdowns. Emergency drills are performed at the beginning of each camp session to ensure that all campers and staff are familiar with these procedures.
Activity Safety: Each activity offered at the camp is supervised by staff members who are trained and certified in that specific area. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure it meets safety standards. They also enforce strict safety rules during activities, such as wearing helmets during biking and life jackets during water activities.
Security Measures: The camp is equipped with security measures including controlled access points and regular patrols by camp staff. They also have a strict visitor policy, requiring all visitors to check in and be escorted while on campgrounds.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Their on-site health center is staffed with a licensed nurse available 24/7. The center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with the necessary medical supplies and medications.
Health Checks: Upon arrival, all campers undergo a health check to identify any existing medical conditions or needs. Parents are required to provide a detailed medical history and a list of any medications their child is taking.
Collaboration with Local Hospitals: For more serious injuries or illnesses, they have arrangements with nearby medical facilities to ensure quick and professional medical care. Their staff are trained to quickly assess situations and transport campers to these facilities if necessary.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Immediate Response: In the event of an emergency, staff are trained to immediately secure and attend to the affected campers while simultaneously alerting the appropriate emergency services.
Communication: They maintain clear lines of communication with parents and guardians. In the event of an emergency involving their child, parents are notified as soon as possible with updates on the situation and any actions being taken.
Continual Review and Improvement: Their safety procedures and emergency protocols are continually reviewed and updated based on feedback and new safety standards in the industry to ensure they remain effective and comprehensive.

Through these measures, Clark Canyon Bible Camp strives to provide a safe, secure, and healthy environment where campers can focus on growth, exploration, and fun without concerns for their well-being.

Cost and Registration in Clark Canyon Bible Camp

At Clark Canyon Bible Camp, they strive to make their programs accessible while maintaining high-quality experiences. Here’s everything you need to know about the cost, registration, and financial options available to ensure every child has the opportunity to enjoy their camp.

Cost of Attendance:

The cost of attending Clark Canyon Bible Camp varies depending on the length and type of session. For example, one-week sessions typically cost around $500, while two-week sessions are approximately $950.
What’s Included: This cost includes all lodging, meals, activities, and program materials. There are no additional required costs once campers are on-site, although small amounts of money may be brought for optional purchases like snacks or camp merchandise.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

How to Register: Registration is conducted online through the camp’s website. Prospective campers will need to complete a registration form, provide medical information, and submit any requested documents.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January and remains open until sessions are full. To secure a spot, it is advisable to register early as their camp tends to fill up quickly. Specific deadlines for each session are listed on their website.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: They offer flexible payment plans that allow families to spread the cost of camp over several months leading up to the summer. These plans can be arranged through their camp office.
Refunds: Full refunds are available up to one month before the session begins, less a non-refundable deposit of $100. After this date, partial refunds may be available depending on the circumstances leading to cancellation.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations must be communicated as early as possible. Refunds or credits for future sessions may be offered based on the timing of the cancellation and the reason provided.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: They believe that financial constraints should not prevent any child from experiencing camp. Clark Canyon Bible Camp offers a number of scholarships each year to families in need. These scholarships can cover the partial or full cost of camp attendance.
How to Apply for Scholarships: Applications for scholarships are available through their website and require the submission of financial information and a brief statement of need. All scholarship applications are reviewed confidentially and aid is awarded based on demonstrated need and availability of funds.

Their goal at Clark Canyon Bible Camp is to ensure that every child has the opportunity to enjoy a transformative camp experience, regardless of their financial situation.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Clark Canyon Bible Camp

Ensuring that both campers and parents are well-prepared for the camp experience is key to a successful stay at Clark Canyon Bible Camp. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help with packing, understanding camp rules, and easing any first-time jitters.

Packing List:

Clothing: Pack enough for the session duration, including weather-appropriate attire (shorts, t-shirts, pants, long sleeves), pajamas, underwear, socks, and a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
Footwear: Comfortable sneakers, sandals, and waterproof boots or shoes for outdoor activities.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (depending on the bed type), pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any personal care items.
Other Essentials: Water bottle, flashlight or headlamp, hat, sunglasses.
Optional Items: Books, notepads, pens, or other personal items for leisure time.

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and immersion in the camp experience, they have a no-electronics policy for campers. This includes smartphones, tablets, and personal gaming devices. Emergency contact will be maintained through camp office phones.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to minimize disruption and allow campers to fully engage in camp activities and build independence.
General Conduct: Respect for others, participation in scheduled activities, and adherence to safety guidelines are expected of all campers.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

For Campers:
- Stay Positive: It’s normal to feel a bit homesick. Remember that camp staff are there to help, and keeping busy with activities can help you adjust.
- Be Open to New Experiences: Camp is a great place to try new things and meet new friends. Embrace the opportunities that come your way.
For Parents:
- Communication: Understand the camp’s communication policies, including how and when you can expect updates about your child.
- Emotional Preparation: Prepare your child by discussing what the camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships to be made.
- Stay Involved: Attend any pre-camp orientations or meetings to get familiar with the camp’s environment and staff.

By following these guidelines and tips, both first-time and returning campers, along with their parents, can feel confident and ready for an enjoyable and enriching experience at Clark Canyon Bible Camp.

As they wrap up their overview of Clark Canyon Bible Camp, it’s clear that this special place is more than just a summer camp—it’s a community where young people grow spiritually, build lasting friendships, and develop new skills in a safe and nurturing environment. Nestled in the beautiful landscapes of Dillon, Montana, the camp offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, creative expression, and spiritual education designed to enrich the lives of its campers.

With a commitment to safety, inclusivity, and personal development, Clark Canyon Bible Camp stands out as a destination where parents can confidently send their children, knowing they will be cared for both physically and spiritually. The camp’s diverse programs, seasoned staff, and robust facilities ensure that each camper’s experience is both enjoyable and transformative.