Welcome to Comeca Camp and Retreat Center, a haven of adventure and spiritual growth located in Cozad, Nebraska. Nestled in the scenic heartland of the United States, their camp is uniquely positioned near prominent landmarks such as the lush 100th Meridian and the historic Oregon Trail, offering a picturesque backdrop for a variety of camp activities.

Founded with a deep commitment to fostering community and personal development, Comeca Camp and Retreat Center have been enriching lives since its establishment. Their mission is to provide a welcoming environment for spiritual growth, personal challenge, and community building. They believe in the power of nature and nurturing guidance to help individuals explore their potential and strengthen their faith.

Designed to cater to both boys and girls across various age groups, Comeca Camp offers a wide range of programs that encourage exploration, learning, and personal development in a safe and supportive environment. Whether it’s through adventure activities, group discussions, or quiet reflection, each camper is given the opportunity to grow both personally and spiritually.

Join us at Comeca Camp and Retreat Center for an unforgettable experience where adventure meets purpose, all within the beautiful landscapes of Cozad, Nebraska.

Programs Offered by Comeca Camp and Retreat Center

Comeca Camp and Retreat Center offers a diverse range of programs designed to meet the interests and developmental needs of their campers. Here’s an overview of their programming, session lengths, specialty programs, and what a typical day looks like at Comeca:

Programs Offered

1. Traditional Camp Sessions: These sessions are the heart of Comeca’s offerings, where campers participate in a broad spectrum of activities including sports, crafts, and nature exploration. Sessions typically last one or two weeks, providing ample time for campers to dive deep into the camp experience and form lasting friendships.

2. Specialty Camps:

Arts Camp: Focuses on creativity through painting, sculpture, drama, and music. Campers explore different mediums and techniques in a supportive environment.
Sports Camp: Tailored for young athletes, this program emphasizes skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship in a variety of sports.
Science Camp: Designed for curious minds, this camp offers hands-on experiments and projects in areas such as biology, astronomy, and environmental science.

3. Leadership Development Programs: For older campers, these sessions focus on building leadership skills through advanced camp activities, team-building exercises, and mentorship roles.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: Perfect for younger campers or first-timers.
Two-Week Sessions: Offers a more immersive experience with additional opportunities for personal growth and skill development.
Full Summer Programs: A select number of spots are available for campers who wish to experience the full summer at Comeca, engaging in a variety of activities and special events.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM – Wake Up & Morning Exercise
8:00 AM – Breakfast
9:00 AM – Morning Activity Block: Campers participate in their chosen specialty program or traditional camp activities.
12:00 PM – Lunch
1:00 PM – Quiet Time/Rest
2:00 PM – Afternoon Activity Block: Different activities or continuation of the morning session.
5:00 PM – Free Time: Campers can relax, play, or engage in informal activities.
6:00 PM – Dinner
7:00 PM – Evening Activities: These might include campfires, night hikes, talent shows, or thematic parties.
9:00 PM – Campers’ Lights Out: Depending on age group.

At Comeca Camp and Retreat Center, each day is structured to balance activity with adequate rest, providing a holistic experience that supports both personal and communal growth. Whether it’s a one-week session or a full summer adventure, campers leave with cherished memories and new skills.

Accommodations in Comeca Camp and Retreat Center

At Comeca Camp and Retreat Center, they ensure that every aspect of their accommodations contributes to a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable camp experience. Here’s a detailed look at their sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities:

Sleeping Arrangements

1. Cabins: Their primary accommodation type consists of cozy, well-maintained cabins that house campers in small groups, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal items, ensuring a homey and organized environment.

2. Dormitory Style: For larger groups or special events, they offer dormitory-style accommodations that provide a communal living experience, ideal for fostering team spirit and group cohesion.

3. Camping Sites: For a more adventurous experience, they have designated camping sites where older campers can enjoy sleeping in tents under the stars. This option is typically incorporated into specific programs aimed at wilderness skills and outdoor living.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: They provide three nutritious and hearty meals per day, served in their communal dining hall. Meal times are not only an opportunity to refuel but also a time for social interaction and relaxation.

Dietary Accommodations: Understanding that some campers have specific dietary needs, Comeca Camp offers vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive options. They strive to meet all dietary requirements with advance notice, ensuring that every camper has access to delicious and appropriate meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Centralized Facilities: Their bathroom and shower facilities are centrally located and easily accessible from all living areas. These facilities are separated by gender and are well-lit and clean, with multiple stalls and showers to ensure privacy and minimal waiting times.
Ensuite Options: In some of their dormitory accommodations, they offer ensuite bathrooms for added convenience and privacy.
Maintenance and Cleanliness: They prioritize cleanliness and hygiene, with facilities cleaned multiple times a day by their dedicated staff. This ensures a comfortable and hygienic environment for all campers and staff.

At Comeca Camp and Retreat Center, they understand that great accommodations are key to a fantastic camp experience. Their varied lodging options, tailored meal plans, and well-maintained facilities are all designed to make each camper’s stay as comfortable as possible.

Activities in Comeca Camp and Retreat Center

Comeca Camp and Retreat Center offers a wide array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and abilities, ensuring an enriching experience that is both fun and educational. Here’s a look at the various activities, special events, and skill development opportunities they offer:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps can enjoy swimming in their natural lake, hiking through scenic trails, and canoeing. For the thrill-seekers, they also offer archery and a high ropes course.
Creative Arts: They encourage creativity through various crafts, such as pottery, painting, and woodworking. Campers can also participate in music and drama workshops, culminating in performances at the end of sessions.
Sports: A range of sports activities are available, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and softball, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
Nature and Science Programs: These programs might include gardening, stargazing, environmental education, and basic survival skills workshops, allowing campers to connect with and learn about the natural world.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Night Campfire: A traditional start to the session where campers and staff gather for introductions, campfire stories, and s’mores, setting the tone for the camp spirit.
Color Wars: A multi-day event filled with various challenges and competitions between teams, fostering spirit, camaraderie, and friendly competition.
End-of-Session Gala: A celebratory event where campers showcase their talents and achievements from their time at camp, including performances from arts and crafts to sports and science projects.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs where they learn to lead activities, manage small groups, and develop essential communication and problem-solving skills.
Environmental Stewardship: Through activities like recycling projects and nature clean-ups, campers learn about sustainability and the importance of caring for the environment.
Personal Growth Workshops: Workshops that focus on self-esteem, conflict resolution, and effective communication skills help campers develop important life skills.

Comeca Camp and Retreat Center is dedicated to providing a dynamic and supportive environment where every camper can try new things, hone existing skills, and develop new interests. Whether they are climbing a ropes course, performing on stage, or participating in team sports, campers leave with a sense of accomplishment and memories that last a lifetime.

The staff of Comeca Camp and Retreat Center

The staff at Comeca Camp and Retreat Center are dedicated to providing a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers. They take great care in selecting, training, and supporting their staff so that they meet the highest standards of camp leadership and safety. Here’s an overview of their staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, and the qualifications and training their staff undergo:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Supervision: They maintain a staff-to-camper ratio of approximately 1:8, ensuring that each camper receives personalized attention and support throughout their camp experience.
Specialized Activities: For activities requiring more intensive supervision and skill, such as swimming or ropes courses, the ratio is adjusted to 1:5 to ensure safety and provide more focused guidance.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: They recruit staff from a variety of sources, including universities, teacher associations, and referrals from within the camping community. Potential staff members are carefully screened to ensure they align with their mission and have the necessary background to contribute positively to their camp environment.
Qualifications: All potential staff members must have previous experience working with children, and those applying for specialized positions (such as lifeguards or ropes course instructors) must have relevant certifications. A background check is mandatory for all staff members before they are hired.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Prior to the arrival of campers, all staff undergo a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, child behavior management techniques, safety protocols, emergency procedures, and specific training for their assigned activities.
Certifications: All staff members are required to have current CPR and First Aid certifications. Additional certifications, such as lifeguarding or wilderness first aid, are required for staff involved in specific activities that demand such qualifications.
Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, they conduct regular training sessions to refresh skills and discuss new approaches to camp leadership and safety.

At Comeca Camp and Retreat Center, their staff are not just supervisors—they are role models, mentors, and leaders who are integral to creating a nurturing camp environment. Their expertise, enthusiasm, and dedication ensure that every camper enjoys a safe, rewarding, and memorable camp experience.

Safety and Health in Comeca Camp and Retreat Center

At Comeca Camp and Retreat Center, the safety and health of their campers and staff are their top priorities. They have established comprehensive safety protocols and maintain on-site health facilities to ensure a secure and responsive environment. Here’s a detailed look at their safety protocols, health facilities, and emergency handling policies:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Activity-Specific Safety: Each activity offered at the camp has its own set of safety protocols, developed in accordance with best practices and industry standards. For instance, all water activities are supervised by certified lifeguards, and equipment for activities like archery or the ropes course is regularly inspected for safety.
General Safety Measures: The camp is equipped with security measures that include controlled access to the campgrounds, regular patrols by trained security staff, and comprehensive safety drills that are conducted with campers and staff at the beginning of each session.
Weather and Environmental Safety: They monitor weather conditions closely and have protocols in place for severe weather, including safe shelters and evacuation procedures. The camp also implements fire safety rules and has clear guidelines for encountering wildlife.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Their on-site health center is staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor. The center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is prepared to stabilize and respond to more serious medical situations until further medical assistance can be accessed.
Health Checks: Upon arrival, all campers undergo a health check to identify any existing conditions or medications that staff should be aware of. This ensures that each camper’s health needs are known and can be appropriately managed during their stay.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Comeca Camp has a detailed emergency response plan that includes procedures for a range of potential emergencies, from medical incidents to natural disasters. All staff are trained in these procedures and participate in regular drills to ensure they are well-prepared.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, the camp maintains clear lines of communication with local emergency services and parents. Parents are immediately notified in the case of any serious incident involving their child.
Evacuation Procedures: Should an evacuation be necessary, the camp has predefined routes and rendezvous points. Transportation is readily available to facilitate a quick and organized evacuation to a safe location.

The health and safety measures at Comeca Camp and Retreat Center are designed to create a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities without worry. Through rigorous training, dedicated health facilities, and thorough safety protocols, they ensure that every camper’s stay is not only fun but also safe.

Cost and Registration in Comeca Camp and Retreat Center

At Comeca Camp and Retreat Center, they strive to make their programs accessible and affordable to families while maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety. Here’s detailed information on the cost of attendance, the registration process, payment plans, and financial assistance options:

Cost of Attendance

What It Includes: The cost of attending Comeca Camp covers all lodging, meals, and activities. It also includes any materials needed for specific programs, such as arts and crafts supplies, sports equipment, and educational materials. Transportation to and from the camp is generally not included unless specifically stated.
Pricing Tiers: Costs vary depending on the length of the session and the type of program. One-week sessions typically start at a base price, with two-week and specialty camps being slightly higher due to the additional resources required.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Registration for camp sessions is handled through their website. Prospective campers can fill out an online form with their personal information, session selection, and any medical or dietary needs.
Deadlines: It is advisable to register early as sessions fill up quickly. Deadlines are typically set a few months before the start of each session to allow for proper planning and preparation. Specific deadlines are clearly listed on their registration portal.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: To accommodate different family budgets, Comeca Camp offers flexible payment plans that allow families to pay for camp in installments rather than all at once. These plans can be arranged during the registration process.
Refunds: Full refunds are available up to a certain date, which is usually about a month before the session begins. After this date, partial refunds may be available, except in cases of illness or family emergency, where exceptions can be made.
Cancellation Policies: If a session is canceled by the camp due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., extreme weather, health advisories), full refunds will be issued or alternate session enrollments will be offered.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Comeca Camp offers a number of scholarships each year to families who need financial assistance. These scholarships can cover part or all of the cost of the camp, depending on the camper’s situation.
Application for Financial Aid: Families wishing to apply for financial aid can do so through a separate application form available on their website. This process involves submitting some financial documentation and a brief explanation of the need for assistance.

They at Comeca Camp and Retreat Center believe that all children should have the opportunity to experience the joy and growth that camp provides, regardless of their financial situation. Their aim is to support as many families as possible through their various pricing, payment, and financial aid options.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Comeca Camp and Retreat Center

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their families, especially for those experiencing it for the first time. At Comeca Camp and Retreat Center, they provide detailed guidance to ensure everyone is ready for the adventure. Here’s a breakdown of the essential preparation steps including the packing list, rules and policies, and some helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

Clothing: Pack weather-appropriate clothing including t-shirts, shorts, long pants, sweatshirts, and a rain jacket. Include swimsuits, a hat, and sturdy shoes for hiking as well as sandals for more casual wear.
Bedding and Toiletries: Bring a sleeping bag or bedding set, pillow, towels, and personal toiletry items (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, etc.).
Miscellaneous Gear: Don’t forget a flashlight, sunscreen, insect repellent, water bottle, and any necessary medications (with clear instructions for administration).
Optional Items: Cameras, books, and journals are welcome for downtime activities. Label all personal items with the camper’s name to avoid losses.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is restricted at the camp. Devices may be used during designated times, but they encourage campers to disconnect and enjoy the full camp experience.
Visitation: Parents and guardians are encouraged to visit only during designated visiting days to minimize disruptions and maintain camp security and routine. All visitors must check in at the camp office upon arrival.
Behavioral Expectations: They expect all campers to adhere to camp rules, respect fellow campers and staff, and participate actively in scheduled activities. Bullying, exclusion, and inappropriate behavior are not tolerated and can lead to dismissal from camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Familiarization: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the fun activities and new friendships to be made. This can help alleviate any nervousness.
Communication: Explain how you’ll communicate during camp. While regular contact may not be possible, some camps allow letters or emails, and explaining this can reassure both campers and parents.
Practice Camp Skills: Encourage independence before camp starts by practicing skills like making the bed, organizing belongings, and choosing clothes daily.
Positive Reinforcement: Remind your camper about the positive aspects of camp, such as learning new skills, becoming more independent, and making new friends.

These guidelines and tips are designed to ensure that both parents and campers are well-prepared and can look forward to a positive and enriching summer camp experience at Comeca Camp and Retreat Center.

At Comeca Camp and Retreat Center in Cozad, Nebraska, they take pride in offering a dynamic, enriching, and memorable summer camp experience. Their camp provides a perfect blend of adventure, creativity, and learning in a supportive and safe environment, making it an ideal place for children to grow and explore. With a broad range of activities, committed staff, and a focus on safety and personal development, Comeca Camp is dedicated to fostering a sense of community and lifelong memories.

Their inclusive programs cater to a variety of interests and ages, ensuring that every camper finds something they love while gaining new skills and building confidence. The beauty of their natural surroundings, combined with their comprehensive facilities and nurturing community, makes Comeca Camp and Retreat Center a unique and cherished place for both campers and their families.