Sullivan Hills Camp Ashland NE

Welcome to Sullivan Hills Camp, a serene retreat nestled in the lush landscapes of Ashland, Nebraska. Positioned strategically in the heart of the Midwest, this camp offers a unique blend of natural beauty and accessible location, just a stone’s throw away from local landmarks such as the Platte River and Mahoney State Park.

Established with a vision to foster growth and development in youth, Sullivan Hills Camp has a rich history of providing a nurturing environment where children can explore, learn, and grow. Their mission is to cultivate a community where young individuals can develop their skills, discover new interests, and build lasting friendships, all within a safe and supportive setting.

At Sullivan Hills Camp, they cater to boys and girls across various age groups, offering tailored programs that suit the developmental stages and interests of each group. Whether it’s adventure, education, or just plain fun, their camp provides an enriching experience that contributes to the holistic development of every camper.

Join us at Sullivan Hills Camp, where fun meets learning and memories last a lifetime!

Programs Offered by Sullivan Hills Camp

Sullivan Hills Camp offers a diverse range of programs designed to cater to different interests and age groups, ensuring a memorable and enriching summer experience for every camper. Here’s an overview of the programs available:

General Camp Sessions

• Length of Sessions: Campers can choose between one-week or two-week sessions.
• Activities: These sessions include a variety of activities such as hiking, swimming, canoeing, arts and crafts, team sports, and nature exploration. The goal is to provide a well-rounded experience that encourages personal growth and fun.

Specialty Programs

1. Arts Camp:
   • Length: One-week sessions
   • Focus: This program is dedicated to all forms of artistic expression including painting, sculpture, drama, and music. It’s perfect for nurturing creativity and artistic skills in a fun, supportive environment.
     
2. Sports Camp:
   • Length: Two-week sessions
   • Focus: Focused on a variety of sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery, this camp emphasizes teamwork, leadership, and physical fitness.
     
3. Science Camp:
   • Length: Two-week sessions
   • Focus: Designed for budding scientists, this camp covers topics such as ecology, astronomy, and biology through hands-on experiments and outdoor exploration.

Typical Daily Schedule

• Morning:
  • 7:00 AM – Wake-up
  • 7:30 AM – Breakfast
  • 8:30 AM – Morning activities (vary by camp focus)
• Afternoon:
  • 12:00 PM – Lunch
  • 1:00 PM – Rest time/Free time
  • 2:00 PM – Afternoon activities (skill-based or recreational)
• Evening:
  • 6:00 PM – Dinner
  • 7:00 PM – Evening activities (campfires, storytelling, night hikes)
  • 9:00 PM – Lights out for younger campers
  • 10:00 PM – Lights out for older campers

Each day at Sullivan Hills Camp is structured to balance activity with adequate rest, ensuring that campers remain energized and engaged throughout their stay. This schedule allows for a mix of directed and self-chosen activities, catering to personal interests and providing flexibility within the structured program.

Accommodations in Sullivan Hills Camp

At Sullivan Hills Camp, they ensure that all campers feel comfortable and well-cared for during their stay. Here’s a detailed look at the accommodations they offer:

Sleeping Arrangements

• Cabins: Their primary accommodation consists of rustic yet comfortable cabins that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Each cabin houses up to 12 campers along with 2 counselors, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings.

Dining Options

• Meal Plans: They provide three balanced meals per day, served in their communal dining hall. Meals are prepared by experienced staff, with an emphasis on nutritious, kid-friendly options that provide the energy needed for an active day.
  
• Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, they offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive alternatives. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle special dietary requirements with the utmost care to ensure every camper enjoys safe and delicious meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

• Facilities: Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathroom and shower facility, ensuring easy access for all campers. These facilities are divided by gender and are equipped with multiple stalls and showers to prevent congestion during peak times.
  
• Hygiene Standards: Maintaining high hygiene standards is paramount at Sullivan Hills Camp. Bathrooms and showers are cleaned and sanitized multiple times daily to ensure cleanliness and comfort for everyone.

With these accommodations, Sullivan Hills Camp aims to provide a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable environment, allowing campers to focus on what really matters: having fun and learning new things!

Activities in Sullivan Hills Camp

Sullivan Hills Camp is packed with a variety of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels. Here’s a closer look at the dynamic experiences they offer:

List of Activities Offered

• Outdoor Adventures: Includes swimming, hiking, canoeing, and archery. These activities not only introduce campers to the joys of the outdoors but also promote physical fitness and appreciation for nature.
  
• Creative Arts: Summer camps can explore their artistic sides through activities like crafts, painting, pottery, and drama workshops. These sessions encourage creativity and self-expression.
  
• Team Sports: They offer a range of sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and softball. These activities are great for building teamwork and leadership skills.
  
• Science and Exploration: Engaging activities such as star gazing, wildlife exploration, and environmental science projects help campers discover the world around them while fostering a curiosity for learning.

Special Events or Traditions

• Campfire Nights: An essential camp tradition, featuring storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting. These nights are perfect for bonding and creating lifelong memories.
  
• End-of-Session Carnival: A celebratory event where campers can enjoy games, face painting, and a variety of fun booths, marking the culmination of their camp experience.
  
• Color Wars: A camp-wide team competition that spans several days and includes a variety of sports and challenges, fostering spirit and camaraderie among campers.

Skill Development Opportunities

• Leadership Programs: Older campers have opportunities to participate in leadership training sessions, where they learn valuable skills such as conflict resolution, team management, and effective communication.
  
• Environmental Stewardship: Through guided nature walks and conservation projects, campers learn about environmental protection and the importance of sustainable living.
  
• Arts and Crafts Workshops: These workshops allow campers to dive deeper into specific crafts, improving their techniques and allowing them to take home tangible reminders of their achievements.

At Sullivan Hills Camp, activities are designed not just for fun, but also to nurture personal growth and skill development, ensuring that every camper leaves with new friends, new skills, and wonderful memories.

The staff of Sullivan Hills Camp

At Sullivan Hills Camp, they are dedicated to providing a safe, educational, and enjoyable environment for all campers. This commitment is supported by their attentive and well-qualified staff. Here’s an overview of their staffing details:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

• They maintain a high staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and safety. Their ratio is typically 1 staff member for every 5 campers, which allows us to closely monitor camper well-being and provide a nurturing environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

• Recruitment: They recruit staff from a variety of sources, including universities, teacher networks, and recommendations from educational professionals.
  
• Qualifications: All staff members are required to have experience in child care or education, a clean background check, and a genuine interest in working with children. For specialty areas, such as sports or arts, relevant experience or qualifications are mandatory.
  
• Interviews and Selection: Candidates go through a rigorous interview process that assesses their experience, skills, and suitability for working in a camp environment. This includes scenario-based assessments to evaluate their problem-solving and leadership abilities.

Training and Certifications

• Mandatory Training: Before the beginning of each camp season, all staff undergo comprehensive training that includes child safety, emergency response procedures, conflict resolution, and activity leadership.
  
• Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additionally, staff involved in specific activities such as swimming or archery hold relevant certifications, ensuring they can provide expert instruction and respond to emergencies.

Continuous Education

• Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, they provide ongoing training sessions to keep staff updated on the best practices in child care and camp management.
  
• Feedback and Evaluation: Regular feedback sessions help staff to continuously improve their skills and adapt to the dynamic camp environment.

The investment in Their staff’s qualifications and training ensures that every camper at Sullivan Hills Camp enjoys a supportive, educational, and safe camp experience.

Safety and Health in Sullivan Hills Camp

Safety and health are paramount at Sullivan Hills Camp, where they implement rigorous protocols and maintain robust facilities to ensure the well-being of every camper. Here’s an outline of their comprehensive approach:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

• Regular Drills: They conduct regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency lockdowns, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures and can respond calmly and effectively in any situation.
  
• Activity-Specific Safety: Each activity is supervised by staff trained in that specific area, with strict adherence to safety guidelines and procedures. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to prevent accidents.
  
• Secure Campus: The camp is monitored to ensure only authorized personnel and campers are on the premises. Check-in and check-out procedures are strictly enforced to ensure the safety of all campers.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

• Health Center: Their on-site health center is staffed with licensed healthcare professionals, including a nurse available 24/7 during camp sessions. The center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with the necessary medical supplies and medications.
  
• Health Checks: Upon arrival, each camper undergoes a health check to identify any existing medical conditions or needs, ensuring personalized care throughout their stay.
  
• Healthcare Partnerships: They maintain relationships with nearby medical facilities and emergency services, ensuring quick access to advanced medical care if needed.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

• Emergency Action Plans: Sullivan Hills Camp has detailed action plans for a variety of potential emergencies, from natural disasters to health crises. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to new challenges.
  
• Communication Protocol: In the event of an emergency, they have a clear communication protocol to inform parents and guardians immediately while ensuring the situation is handled efficiently. Regular updates are provided until the resolution of any incident.
  
• Training in Emergency Preparedness: All staff undergo training in emergency preparedness and response, equipping them to handle unexpected situations professionally and calmly.

Through these comprehensive safety and health measures, Sullivan Hills Camp ensures a secure environment where parents can feel confident about their children’s safety, and campers can focus on enjoying their summer experience.

Cost and Registration in Sullivan Hills Camp

Sullivan Hills Camp is committed to providing an unforgettable summer experience, with clear and accessible registration and payment options to ensure that every child has the opportunity to enjoy their camp. Here’s an overview of the cost, registration, and financial support available:

Cost of Attendance

• What It Includes: The cost of attending Sullivan Hills Camp covers all accommodations, three meals per day, snacks, all camp activities, equipment use, and access to health services. This ensures that campers have everything they need without additional fees.
  
• Cost Variation: Costs may vary depending on the length of the session and the specific program selected. Specialty camps, such as those focusing on science or sports, may have different rates due to specialized equipment and staffing needs.

Registration Process and Deadlines

• How to Register: Registration can be completed online through the camp’s website. The process involves filling out camper information, selecting the desired session and any specialty programs, and submitting medical information.
  
• Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January and runs until spaces are filled. Early registration is encouraged as some sessions and specialties fill up quickly. Specific deadlines for each session are listed on their registration portal.

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, making it more manageable.
  
• Refunds: Full refunds are available up until a month before the camp session starts. After this point, partial refunds may be available depending on the circumstances of the cancellation.
  
• Cancellation Policies: Cancellations due to medical reasons are typically refunded fully with a doctor’s note. For other cancellations, fees may be retained to cover the reserved spot and preparations already made.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Scholarships: Sullivan Hills Camp provides scholarships based on need and merit. Families can apply for these scholarships through a separate application available on their website.
  
• Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available based on family income, with the goal of making camp accessible to all children.

Their aim at Sullivan Hills Camp is to ensure no child misses out on a summer of growth and fun due to financial constraints. They encourage families to explore all the financial support options they offer.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Sullivan Hills Camp

Preparing for a summer at Sullivan Hills Camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure everyone is ready for the experience, they provide detailed guidelines on what to bring, camp rules, and helpful tips for first-time campers and their families.

Packing List

• Clothing: Pack comfortable and durable clothing that can withstand outdoor activities, including T-shirts, shorts, pants, and swimsuits. Also, bring warmer layers for cooler evenings, such as sweatshirts and long pants.
• Footwear: Include sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals for casual wear, and water shoes for aquatic activities.
• Bedding: Campers need to bring their own bedding, including a sleeping bag, pillow, and bed linens suitable for a twin-size bed.
• Toiletries: Don’t forget personal hygiene items like toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and sunscreen. Insect repellent is also recommended.
• Miscellaneous: Flashlights, water bottles, hats for sun protection, and any needed prescription medications (with clear instructions).

Rules and Policies

• Technology Use: To maximize engagement and connection with nature and each other, they discourage the use of personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. If brought, they will be collected and safely stored until the end of the session.
  
• Visitation: For the safety and security of campers and staff, visitation is generally limited to designated visiting days. Parents are encouraged to connect with their children through letters and emails during other times.
  
• Behavioral Expectations: They promote a respectful and inclusive environment. Bullying, discrimination, or any form of harassment is strictly prohibited and will be addressed promptly.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

• For Campers:
  • Be open to making new friends and trying new activities. Camp is a great place to learn new skills and discover new interests.
  • Remember that it’s okay to feel homesick. Most campers feel this at some point, and staff are there to help you adjust and feel comfortable.
    
• For Parents:
  • Prepare your child by discussing what the camp experience will be like, including the fun activities planned and the new friends they’ll make.
  • Stay positive about the separation. It’s an opportunity for growth for your child to become more independent.
  • Take advantage of pre-camp orientations or information sessions offered by the camp to get answers to any remaining questions and to help set your mind at ease.

By following these guidelines and preparations, campers and parents can ensure a smooth transition to camp life, making the most of the enriching experiences that Sullivan Hills Camp offers.

Sullivan Hills Camp in Ashland, Nebraska, offers a vibrant, enriching summer experience where children can explore, learn, and grow in a safe and supportive environment. With a wide range of activities, dedicated staff, and comprehensive safety measures, they ensure that every camper has the opportunity to develop new skills, make lifelong friendships, and build lasting memories.

Whether engaging in creative arts, embarking on outdoor adventures, or participating in team sports, campers at Sullivan Hills are encouraged to embrace new challenges and discover their potential. They invite you to join us at Sullivan Hills Camp, where the joys of summer await in every activity and the promise of adventure beckons in the great outdoors.