Welcome to Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp, a scenic retreat nestled on the shores of Flathead Lake in Rollins, Montana. This serene camp is positioned in a region renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and proximity to notable landmarks like Glacier National Park and the Mission Mountains. Established with a rich heritage of community and spiritual growth, Flathead Lake Camp has been a beacon of joy and development for youth since its inception.

Rooted in a philosophy that emphasizes personal growth through faith, fellowship, and fun, the camp aims to foster a nurturing environment where young people can explore their potential and strengthen their spiritual connections in a natural setting. Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp is a facility that welcomes boys and girls across various age groups, offering programs tailored to nurture both the body and spirit in a safe, supportive community.

Join us at Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp for an unforgettable experience where adventure meets purpose, all set against the stunning backdrop of Montana’s natural beauty.

Programs Offered by Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp

Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp offers a diverse range of programs designed to engage campers in a variety of activities while fostering personal growth and a strong community spirit. Each program is crafted to make the most of the camp’s stunning natural surroundings and provide a meaningful, enriching experience. Here’s an overview of what campers can expect:

Program Descriptions:

Explorer Camps: These sessions are perfect for younger campers, introducing them to camp life with a fun, supportive environment filled with games, crafts, and simple nature activities.
Adventure Camps: Designed for middle school-aged children, these camps ramp up the excitement with more challenging activities like hiking, canoeing, and outdoor skills.
Leadership Development Camps: Older campers can participate in leadership programs, where they develop essential skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership through advanced camp responsibilities and peer mentoring.

Length of Sessions:

One-Week Sessions: Ideal for first-time campers or those looking for a short but sweet experience.
Two-Week Sessions: These sessions provide a deeper dive into camp activities and community building.
Full Summer Programs: A comprehensive camp experience spanning several weeks, perfect for those who wish to fully immerse themselves in all aspects of camp life.

Specialty Programs:

Arts Camp: Campers explore their creative sides through activities like painting, music, drama, and crafts, all inspired by the camp’s natural setting.
Sports Camp: Focusing on physical fitness and teamwork, this program includes activities like swimming, archery, and team sports.
Science Camp: Designed for curious minds, this program integrates fun, educational activities with a focus on environmental science and nature exploration.

Typical Daily Schedule:

7:00 AM: Wake-up and morning exercises
7:30 AM: Breakfast
8:30 AM: Morning session (activity varies by day and program)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time/Rest period
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (specialty program sessions or free choice activities)
5:00 PM: Free time and optional activities
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening program (campfires, skits, guest speakers)
9:00 PM: Lights out (times vary by age group)

This structured yet flexible schedule allows campers to explore new interests, develop skills, and make lasting friendships, all within the beautiful, safe confines of Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp.

Accommodations in Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp

Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp provides comfortable and well-organized accommodations that enhance the camping experience, ensuring all campers feel at home during their stay. Here’s a detailed look at the living arrangements, dining options, and other facilities available at the camp:

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: The camp primarily uses cabins for sleeping accommodations. These cabins are cozy, rustic, and designed to blend in with the natural surroundings. Each cabin houses a specific number of campers, typically 8-12, along with 1-2 counselors who provide supervision and support. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings.
Tents: For specific programs focused on adventure and survival skills, campers may have the opportunity to sleep in tents. This allows for a fully immersive outdoor experience.
Dorms: There are no dorm-style accommodations at this camp; the focus is on more traditional, intimate camping experiences through cabin and tent living.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: The camp offers full meal plans for all campers, which include three well-balanced meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), along with occasional snacks. Meals are served in a communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and share the day’s experiences.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, the camp’s kitchen staff is well-equipped to handle special dietary requests such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive meals. Campers or parents are encouraged to communicate any specific dietary needs ahead of time so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Facilities: Separate bathroom and shower facilities for males and females are strategically located throughout the camp. These facilities are shared among the campers and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Accessibility: The camp ensures that bathroom and shower facilities are accessible to all campers, including those with mobility challenges.

Overall, Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp strives to provide a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable environment that allows campers to focus on their growth and enjoyment without the worry of everyday necessities.

Activities in Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp

Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp is packed with a wide array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and abilities, promoting both fun and learning through hands-on experiences. Here’s a closer look at the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered:

Swimming: Enjoy the refreshing waters of Flathead Lake with supervised swimming sessions.
Hiking: Explore the natural beauty surrounding the camp through guided hikes.
Crafts: Engage in creative arts and crafts projects, which might include anything from painting to pottery.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Paddle on the serene waters of the lake, learning basic skills and safety.
Archery: Learn precision and focus with archery lessons taught by experienced instructors.
Rock Climbing: Tackle a climbing wall to build strength and confidence.
Fishing: Summer camps learn the basics of fishing along the shores of Flathead Lake.
Campfires: Gather around the campfire for storytelling, songs, and marshmallow roasting.
Team Sports: Participate in organized sports like soccer, volleyball, and basketball.
Nature Walks: Learn about local flora and fauna in educational nature walks.

Special Events or Traditions:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: Celebrate the start and end of camp sessions with ceremonies that set the tone and reflect on the camp experiences.
Camp Olympics: A day of friendly competition where campers participate in various sports and activities, promoting teamwork and camp spirit.
Talent Shows: Campers showcase their talents in front of their peers, whether it’s singing, dancing, magic tricks, or comedy.
Themed Nights: Special themed evenings, such as costume parties or international nights, where campers learn about different cultures or historical periods.
Spiritual Reflections: As a Methodist camp, there are opportunities for spiritual growth through worship services and guided reflections, tailored to be inclusive and inspiring.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Skills: Older campers can participate in leadership training sessions, where they learn to lead groups, resolve conflicts, and manage camp projects.
Environmental Stewardship: Through activities like recycling projects and nature conservation efforts, campers learn about environmental responsibility.
Outdoor Survival Skills: Learn basic survival skills such as fire building, navigation, and shelter construction in specific wilderness programs.
Creative Arts Skills: Develop artistic abilities in various mediums, receiving guidance from skilled instructors in the arts and crafts programs.
Social Skills: Through daily interactions and organized group activities, campers enhance their communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.

At Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp, each activity and event is crafted to enrich the campers’ experience, helping them to grow physically, emotionally, and spiritually in a supportive community setting.

The staff of Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp

Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp is dedicated to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all campers. The quality of the camp experience is deeply tied to the excellence and dedication of its staff. Here’s an overview of the staff-to-camper ratio, the hiring process, staff qualifications, and the training and certifications required:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

The camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care. Typically, the ratio is about 1 staff member for every 6 to 8 campers. This ratio allows for a safe, closely supervised, and supportive environment, essential for both safety and personal development.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Hiring Process: The camp conducts a thorough hiring process that includes detailed application forms, multiple interviews, and background checks. This process helps ensure that all staff members are not only qualified but also committed to the camp’s values and mission.
Qualifications: Staff members are typically required to have previous experience in child care, education, or specific activity areas (like sports or arts). Many are also college students or graduates in related fields such as education, psychology, or recreational management. Additionally, it’s crucial for staff to exhibit strong character, patience, enthusiasm, and a genuine interest in working with children.

Training and Certifications:

Mandatory Training: Before the beginning of each camp season, all staff undergo a comprehensive training program. This training covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child behavior management, and specific training for camp activities.
Certifications: All staff members are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additionally, staff responsible for activities like swimming, archery, or rock climbing often hold additional certifications relevant to their specific areas (e.g., lifeguard certification, climbing instructor certification).
Ongoing Education: The camp encourages and sometimes facilitates ongoing education and training opportunities for staff throughout the camp season and off-season. This commitment to continual improvement ensures that the staff remains knowledgeable in the latest safety protocols and educational strategies.

Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp is committed to maintaining a high standard of safety and quality in its programs, largely achieved through the rigorous standards set for hiring and training its dedicated staff. This approach ensures that campers not only have fun but are safe and well-cared for during their time at camp.

Safety and Health in Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp

Ensuring the safety and health of all campers and staff at Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp is a top priority. The camp implements rigorous safety protocols, maintains on-site health facilities, and adheres to strict policies for handling emergencies. Here’s a detailed overview:

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Routine Safety Checks: Regular inspections and maintenance of camp facilities and equipment are conducted to ensure everything is in safe working order.
Safety Training: All staff undergo extensive safety training, which includes emergency response drills, fire safety, weather emergency procedures, and water safety practices.
Supervision: Staff are trained to provide vigilant supervision at all times, whether during activities, at the dining hall, or in the cabins. This constant oversight helps prevent accidents and respond quickly if issues arise.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: The camp maintains a well-equipped health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, such as nurses or paramedics. This center is prepared to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with necessary medical supplies.
Health Checks: Upon arrival, campers undergo health screenings to identify any existing medical conditions or special care needs. This information is used to ensure the well-being of all campers throughout their stay.
24/7 Availability: Healthcare staff are available around the clock to ensure that any medical issues can be addressed immediately, day or night.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a comprehensive emergency response plan tailored to a variety of potential scenarios, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical situations. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication Systems: In the event of an emergency, the camp has systems in place to quickly communicate with all camp staff and, if necessary, local emergency services and parents. This ensures that everyone is informed and can respond appropriately.
Training and Drills: Regular training and emergency drills are conducted with campers and staff to ensure everyone knows how to act during different types of emergencies. This training includes evacuations, shelter-in-place, and first aid administration.
Coordination with Local Authorities: The camp maintains strong relationships with local emergency services (fire, police, medical) to ensure quick response times and support during emergencies.

By prioritizing health and safety through these comprehensive protocols and systems, Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp ensures a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities and families can feel confident about the care their children receive.

Cost and Registration in Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp

Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp strives to provide an enriching camp experience that is accessible to as many children as possible. Here are details regarding the cost of attendance, registration process, payment plans, and available financial support options:

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes:

Cost: The cost of attending Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp varies depending on the session length and program type. Generally, fees cover all lodging, meals, program materials, and activities. Additional costs might be applicable for specialty programs or excursions.
Inclusions: The fee includes accommodation in cabins, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks), professional supervision, and all scheduled activities and equipment.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Registration Process: Registration typically opens several months before the start of the summer season. Parents can register their children online through the camp’s website, where they will need to fill out necessary forms, including medical information and any specific dietary or special needs.
Deadlines: It is advisable to register early as some sessions fill up quickly. The camp usually sets specific deadlines for each session, which are clearly communicated on the camp’s website and through promotional materials.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: Understanding that paying for camp can be a significant expense, Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp offers payment plans to help families manage the cost. These plans typically allow parents to break the total cost into smaller, more manageable installments.
Refunds and Cancellation: The camp provides details on refunds and cancellations in its registration materials. Generally, there is a non-refundable deposit required at registration. Refunds for the remaining balance might be available until a certain date, barring any administrative fees. After this date, refunds may be partial or non-existent unless cancellation is due to medical reasons.
Cancellation Policy: Specific details about the cancellation policy can be found in the registration agreement, including deadlines and any potential fees involved in canceling a registration.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp offers scholarships to help reduce the financial burden on families. These scholarships are often need-based and require families to submit an application detailing their financial situation.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, the camp may have other financial aid options available. These are intended to ensure that no child is turned away due to financial constraints. The camp encourages families to inquire early about such opportunities as funds are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

The camp’s commitment to making its programs accessible is evident in its flexible payment options and the provision of financial assistance.

Cost:

Cabin Lodging with Meals:

Adults: $65 per night
Children: $60 per night

Cabin Lodging (no meals):

Varies depending on the cabin type (with or without indoor bathroom)
Adults: $36-$42 per night
Children: $30-$36 per night

Campsite:

Tent: $20 per night (no meals)

Day Use:

$17 per person (no meals)

Parent and Camper Preparation in Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp

Preparing for a stay at Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents, especially for those who are experiencing camp for the first time. Here’s a guide on what to pack, understand the camp’s rules and policies, and some helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents:

Packing List:

Clothing: Pack enough comfortable clothing for the duration of the camp, including t-shirts, shorts, long pants, and sweaters for cooler evenings. Include a rain jacket, swimwear, and sturdy footwear for hiking and water activities.
Bedding: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, along with a pillow, for cabin sleeping arrangements.
Toiletries: Include essential toiletries such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and sunscreen. Don’t forget insect repellent and a towel.
Miscellaneous: Pack a hat, sunglasses, water bottle, and flashlight. Label all items with the camper’s name to prevent loss.

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, the use of personal electronic devices (smartphones, tablets, etc.) is typically restricted or prohibited except during designated times. This policy encourages campers to fully immerse themselves in the camp experience and nature.
Visitation: Parents are usually welcome to visit on specific visitation days, which are communicated prior to the start of the camp session. Outside of these times, visits are discouraged to maintain the program’s structure and security.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to adhere to a code of conduct that promotes respect, inclusivity, and safety. Any form of bullying, violence, or harmful behavior is strictly prohibited and could result in dismissal from the camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

For Campers:
- Engage Fully: Try to participate in as many activities as possible to gain the most from your camp experience.
- Be Open to New Friendships: Camp is a great place to meet new people and make friends, so be open to getting to know your fellow campers.
- Communicate: If you’re feeling homesick or facing any issues, talk to your counselor. They’re there to help you.
For Parents:
- Prepare Your Child: Discuss what the camp will be like focusing on the exciting opportunities and activities.
- Stay Positive: If your child is nervous, reassure them about the fun they’ll have and the new friends they’ll make.
- Pack Together: Involve your child in the packing process to help them understand what they are taking and to ensure nothing important is forgotten.
- Set Communication Expectations: Explain the camp’s policies on phone calls and emails, and set expectations for communication during their stay.

By properly preparing and understanding what to expect, both parents and campers can ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and rewarding experience at Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp.

Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp offers a unique blend of adventure, community, and spiritual growth set against the stunning backdrop of Montana’s natural beauty. With a wide array of activities, comprehensive safety protocols, and dedicated staff, the camp provides an ideal environment for young people to explore their potential, develop new skills, and make lasting friendships. Whether it’s through swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Flathead Lake, hiking in the surrounding wilderness, or engaging in creative arts and crafts, campers are encouraged to grow both personally and spiritually in a supportive community setting.

The camp’s commitment to inclusivity, safety, and providing a transformative experience is evident in its thoughtful programs, meticulous preparation guidelines, and robust support systems including scholarships and financial aid. Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp is more than just a summer destination—it’s a place where memories are made, character is built, and the spirit of adventure thrives. For any family seeking a meaningful camp experience for their children, Flathead Lake United Methodist Camp stands out as a premier choice that promises not just fun, but a pathway to personal growth and self-discovery.