Welcome to Camp Fontanelle, a serene getaway nestled in the heart of Nickerson, Nebraska. This picturesque camp is strategically located in a tranquil area that boasts lush landscapes and is easily accessible from major cities in the region. Established with a spirit of adventure and community, Camp Fontanelle has been a beacon of joy and learning for youth since its inception.

Camp Fontanelle’s mission is to provide a safe, fun, and enriching environment where children and teens can explore nature, build friendships, and develop skills for life. They believe in fostering a nurturing atmosphere that encourages personal growth, teamwork, and a deep appreciation for the great outdoors.

As a camp, they welcome boys and girls across various age groups, ranging from 6 to 17 years old. Each program is thoughtfully designed to cater to the different developmental stages of their campers, ensuring a rewarding and age-appropriate experience for everyone. Whether it’s through thrilling outdoor activities, creative arts and crafts, or reflective campfire discussions, Camp Fontanelle is dedicated to creating unforgettable summer memories. Join us for an extraordinary adventure where fun meets learning in the beautiful setting of Nickerson, Nebraska.

Programs Offered by Camp Fontanelle

Camp Fontanelle offers a diverse range of programs designed to cater to different interests and age groups, ensuring that every camper has a memorable and enriching experience. Here’s an overview of the programs and what campers can expect during their stay:

General Camp Programs

Length of Sessions: Options range from one-week sessions to full summer enrollment, allowing families to choose the duration that best fits their summer plans.
Activities: These sessions include a mix of outdoor adventures, team sports, arts and crafts, and environmental education, providing a well-rounded camp experience.

Specialty Programs

Arts Camp:
- Duration: One-week sessions
- Focus: Campers engage in various artistic activities, including painting, drama, music, and dance, culminating in a showcase at the end of the session.
Sports Camp:
- Duration: One or two-week sessions
- Sports Offered: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, and more. These sessions focus on skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Science Camp:
- Duration: Two-week sessions
- Curriculum: Includes hands-on experiments and explorations in biology, chemistry, and physics, designed to spark curiosity and a love for learning.

Typical Daily Schedule

Morning:
- Wake-up and breakfast
- Morning assembly with all campers
- First activity block (e.g., arts and crafts or sports practice)
Afternoon:
- Lunch and rest period
- Second activity block (e.g., science experiments or nature hikes)
- Free time for socializing or optional activities
Evening:
- Dinner
- Evening program (e.g., campfire, talent show, or night hike)
- Bedtime preparations

Each day at Camp Fontanelle is carefully structured to balance active engagement with ample downtime, ensuring that campers remain energized and enthusiastic throughout their stay. Whether they’re here for a week or the entire summer, campers are sure to find a program that excites and challenges them in a supportive and dynamic environment.

Accommodations in Camp Fontanelle

Camp Fontanelle is committed to providing comfortable and accommodating living spaces for all campers to enhance their overall experience. Here’s an overview of the accommodations available at the camp:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodations are cozy, rustic cabins designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Each cabin houses 8-10 campers and is supervised by trained staff members to ensure safety and comfort. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings.
Tents: For older campers or special adventure programs, there are options to sleep in tents for part of the session. This allows for a more immersive outdoor experience, especially during specific wilderness and survival skills programs.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Fontanelle provides three well-balanced meals per day, served in a communal dining hall where campers gather to eat and socialize. The dining hall is a hub of camp life, offering a variety of nutritious options to cater to the energy needs of active children and teenagers.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dietary practices, the camp offers vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options. Parents are encouraged to communicate any specific dietary needs their children might have prior to arrival so that the kitchen staff can prepare accordingly.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Modern bathroom and shower facilities are conveniently located near all sleeping quarters. The bathrooms are separated by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Accessibility: Facilities are designed to be accessible to all campers, including those with mobility challenges.

Camp Fontanelle’s accommodations are thoughtfully designed to ensure that all campers can have a comfortable and enjoyable stay, with all the necessities taken care of so they can focus on the fun and learning aspects of their camp experience.

Activities in Camp Fontanelle

Camp Fontanelle offers a wide array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels, promoting both fun and educational growth. Here’s what campers can look forward to:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Activities like hiking, canoeing, and zip-lining allow campers to explore the natural beauty of the area.
Water Sports: The camp features swimming, kayaking, and fishing in the camp’s own lake, providing ample opportunities for water-based fun and learning.
Creative Arts: Summer camps can express themselves through various arts and crafts, drama, music, and dance workshops.
Sports: Facilities for sports like soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery foster teamwork and physical fitness.
Nature Education: Guided nature walks and environmental science projects help campers learn about the ecosystem and the importance of conservation.
Survival Skills: Programs that teach orienteering, fire-building, and other survival skills are also popular among older campers.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings are a staple, where campers sing songs, share stories, and participate in talent shows.
End-of-Session Carnival: A festive carnival marks the end of each session, featuring games, prizes, and performances by the campers.
Theme Days: Special theme days, such as Pirate Day or Superhero Day, add a fun twist to activities and dress codes.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership training programs, which prepare them to take on roles such as junior counselors or activity leaders in future sessions.
Environmental Stewardship: Educational activities focused on sustainability and wildlife conservation instill a sense of responsibility and awareness regarding environmental issues.
Creative Expression: The arts programs not only enhance creativity but also help in developing confidence and public speaking skills through performances.

Camp Fontanelle is dedicated to providing a dynamic environment where every camper can find something they love, develop new skills, and make lifelong friends. Whether it’s through thrilling outdoor activities or creative endeavors, the camp fosters an atmosphere of learning, growth, and fun.

The staff of Camp Fontanelle

Camp Fontanelle is dedicated to ensuring a safe, supportive, and fun environment for all campers through a carefully selected and highly trained staff. Here’s an overview of the staff structure and training protocols:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Staffing: Camp Fontanelle maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care. The typical ratio is approximately one staff member for every six campers, which helps to foster a close-knit community and allows for effective supervision.
Specialized Activities: For activities requiring more specialized skills or heightened safety measures, such as swimming or rock climbing, the ratio is even lower to ensure that safety is always prioritized.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: The hiring process for Camp Fontanelle staff is rigorous and includes thorough background checks, reference checks, and interviews. The camp recruits individuals who are passionate about working with children and who have previous experience in camping, education, or related fields.
Qualifications: Staff members often have educational backgrounds in fields such as education, psychology, recreation management, or environmental science. Many are also returning staff who have grown up with the camp, adding a valuable perspective and deep understanding of the camp’s culture and traditions.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: All staff undergo extensive pre-camp training that covers camp policies, child development, emergency procedures, and specific training for their assigned roles. This training ensures that staff are well-prepared to create a safe and positive camp environment.
CPR and First Aid: Every staff member is required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additionally, staff involved in water activities have lifeguard certifications, and those in charge of adventure sports receive relevant training and certifications in those areas.
Continuous Education: Throughout the camp season, ongoing training sessions are held to review procedures and introduce new skills relevant to the staff’s responsibilities, ensuring that the team remains vigilant and well-prepared to handle any situation.

Camp Fontanelle takes great pride in its staff, understanding that the quality of the staff directly impacts the quality of the camper’s experience. The camp’s commitment to thorough training and strict safety standards ensures that every camper has a safe, enjoyable, and enriching stay.

Safety and Health in Camp Fontanelle

At Camp Fontanelle, the safety and health of campers and staff are paramount. The camp has comprehensive safety protocols and health facilities in place to ensure a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities with peace of mind.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: Camp Fontanelle conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure that campers and staff are familiar with procedures in case of an emergency.
Equipment and Facility Safety: All equipment used for camp activities is regularly inspected and maintained. Facilities are also checked to ensure they meet safety standards, with repairs and updates made as necessary.
Activity Supervision: Camp activities are always supervised by qualified staff members who are trained in activity-specific safety practices. This includes ensuring that all safety gear is worn and proper techniques are followed.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Fontanelle has a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and, during peak session times, a visiting doctor. The health center is prepared to handle routine health issues and minor injuries.
Health Checks: Upon arrival, campers undergo a health check to identify any existing conditions or allergies that the camp staff should be aware of. This helps in managing any potential health issues during their stay.
Medication Management: The health center staff is responsible for storing and administering any medications campers need during their time at camp, ensuring they are given accurately and on time.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Action Plans: The camp has detailed emergency action plans tailored to various scenarios, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical incidents. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, the camp has protocols for communicating quickly and effectively with all camp staff and, importantly, with parents and guardians. This includes using phone calls, texts, and emails to update parents on the situation and any actions they may need to take.
Local Collaboration: Camp Fontanelle collaborates with local emergency services to ensure a quick response time in case of serious emergencies. Regular meetings and joint drills with local fire, police, and emergency medical teams help maintain a strong, cooperative response plan.

Through these rigorous safety and health protocols, Camp Fontanelle ensures that the well-being of its campers is always prioritized, enabling them to focus on enjoying a safe and fun-filled camp experience.

Cost and Registration in Camp Fontanelle

Camp Fontanelle strives to make its camp experience accessible and affordable for families, offering a clear and straightforward cost structure, an easy registration process, and options for financial aid. Here are the details regarding cost, registration, and financial support:

Cost of Attendance

What It Includes: The cost of attending Camp Fontanelle covers all lodging, meals, activities, equipment, and program materials. Prices vary depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Additional costs may apply for special activities or out-of-camp excursions.
Fee Structure: Fees are typically set per session, with longer sessions costing more due to the extended duration and additional activities offered.

Registration Process and Deadlines

How to Register: Registration can be completed online through the camp’s website. The process includes filling out necessary forms, providing medical information, and selecting preferred sessions and activities.
Deadlines: It’s advisable to register early as sessions can fill up quickly. Specific registration deadlines are usually provided on the camp’s website and vary by session. Early registration often comes with the benefit of discounted rates.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding that paying for camp can be a significant expense, Camp Fontanelle offers payment plans to spread the cost over several months. These plans can be arranged during the registration process.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp has a structured policy for refunds and cancellations, typically requiring notice several weeks before the session starts for a full refund minus a deposit. Details of these policies are clearly outlined during registration to ensure transparency.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Fontanelle offers scholarships to help reduce the cost for families in need. These are awarded based on financial need and occasionally merit or specific criteria such as leadership qualities or community service.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available through various programs and can be discussed with the camp’s administrative office. The camp encourages families to apply for aid if the cost is a barrier, as they aim to make the camp experience accessible to all interested children.

Camp Fontanelle is committed to providing a memorable and impactful camp experience without financial constraints being a barrier. With a range of financial options and supports, the camp ensures that all families have the opportunity to consider this enriching summer option for their children.

Cost:

Campolodeon (3rd-6th grade): This classic week-long program costs $475.
Mini Camp (2nd-3rd grade): This shorter program (3 days) costs $240.
Splish Splash (3rd-6th grade): This water-themed program (4 days) costs $425.
Girls Only (3rd-6th grade): This week-long program focused on girls’ activities costs $475.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Fontanelle

Preparing for a stay at Camp Fontanelle is an exciting experience for both campers and their parents. To ensure everyone is ready and informed, here are some guidelines on what to pack, understanding camp rules and policies, and tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

Clothing: Pack enough clothes for the duration of the stay, including comfortable clothing for daily activities, warmer layers for cooler evenings, and rain gear. Don’t forget swimwear, a hat, and sturdy footwear for hiking.
Bedding and Towels: Include a sleeping bag or bedding for cabin bunks, a pillow, and towels for both swimming and showering.
Toiletries: Essential toiletries such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and sunscreen. Insect repellent is also recommended.
Water Bottle: A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Flashlight or Headlamp: For evening activities and navigating the campsite at night.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Fontanelle encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and each other. Mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are generally discouraged or allowed only at specific times under supervision.
Visitation: Parents are advised to respect the camp’s visitation policies, which are designed to ensure the safety and structure of the camp program. Visits may be allowed on designated days, with prior notification required.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow the camp’s code of conduct, which includes respecting fellow campers, staff, and the camp facilities. Bullying, aggressive behavior, and possession of prohibited items are strictly not allowed.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Pre-Camp Communication: Discuss what the camp experience will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships. Address any anxieties your child might have about being away from home.
Practice Independence: Help your child practice independence in the weeks before camp, such as packing their own bag or managing their hygiene, to build confidence.
Stay Positive: It’s normal for both parents and children to feel a bit anxious about camp. Stay positive and focus on the growth and fun that camp provides.
Set Expectations about Communication: Explain how often and by what means you’ll communicate. Camps often have specific times and methods for phone calls or emails.

By preparing adequately and understanding the camp’s rules and expectations, both campers and their parents can ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience at Camp Fontanelle. This preparation helps set the stage for a summer filled with growth, learning, and fun.

Camp Fontanelle offers a vibrant, enriching summer experience where campers can thrive in a safe, supportive environment. With its diverse range of programs and activities, tailored to various interests and age groups, the camp fosters development, adventure, and lifelong friendships. The dedicated staff ensures that every camper enjoys a balance of fun and educational opportunities, all while nestled in the beautiful natural surroundings of Nickerson, Nebraska.

Whether it’s your child’s first time at camp or they’re returning for another unforgettable summer, Camp Fontanelle is dedicated to making every camper’s experience truly exceptional. Join us at Camp Fontanelle for a summer filled with exploration, learning, and joy, where every day is an adventure and every camper leaves with memories that last a lifetime.