Welcome to Inlow Baptist Camp, a serene retreat nestled in the beautiful landscape of Tajique, New Mexico. Surrounded by the picturesque Manzano Mountains, their camp offers a tranquil setting that provides an ideal backdrop for spiritual growth and personal development.
Founded on a commitment to fostering a close-knit community and deepening faith, Inlow Baptist Camp has been a cornerstone of spiritual education and recreation for many years. With a rich history rooted in the Baptist tradition, the camp has grown from a humble gathering place into a vibrant center for youth and families seeking to connect and enrich their spiritual lives.
At the heart of its mission, Inlow Baptist Camp is dedicated to “Creating environments for life change through the message of Jesus Christ.” We believe in nurturing the spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being of each camper, ensuring they leave with a renewed spirit and stronger faith.
Catering primarily to youth, their camp offers specialized programs for both boys and girls across various age groups. Through a blend of adventurous activities, biblical teachings, and community building, we provide a safe and engaging environment where campers can thrive during their transformative summer experience.
Join us at Inlow Baptist Camp, where faith meets fun in the majestic setting of New Mexico’s wilderness, and life-long friendships are forged under the canopy of the Manzano Mountains.
Programs Offered by Inlow Baptist Camp
Inlow Baptist Camp offers a diverse range of programs designed to engage campers of all ages in activities that promote spiritual growth, personal development, and lots of fun. Here’s a detailed look at the programs available:
1. Standard Camp Sessions
- Description: These sessions focus on traditional camp activities intertwined with daily devotionals and spiritual teachings. Activities include hiking, crafts, team sports, and campfires.
- Length of Sessions: Available in one-week or two-week formats, allowing families to choose the duration that best fits their summer plans.
- Typical Daily Schedule:
- Morning Devotion: Start the day with a group devotional.
- Breakfast
- Activity Block 1: Hiking or team sports.
- Lunch
- Rest Time: A short period for relaxation.
- Activity Block 2: Arts and crafts or individual sports.
- Dinner
- Evening Worship and Campfire: End the day with worship and storytelling around the campfire.
2. Specialty Camps
- Description: These camps are designed for campers interested in specific activities or themes, such as arts, sports, or science. Each specialty camp incorporates elements of faith and personal growth with the focused activity.
- Length of Sessions: Typically one week.
- Specialty Programs:
- Arts Camp: Focuses on painting, drawing, and other forms of visual arts.
- Sports Camp: Includes training in various sports like soccer, basketball, and volleyball.
- Science Camp: Offers hands-on science experiments and learning in nature.
3. Leadership Development Program
- Description: Aimed at older campers, this program focuses on developing leadership skills through advanced camp activities, mentorship roles, and special projects.
- Length of Sessions: Two weeks, providing an intensive leadership experience.
- Typical Daily Schedule:
- Morning Leadership Seminar: Lessons on leadership principles.
- Breakfast
- Leadership Practice: Leading younger campers in activities.
- Lunch
- Project Work: Planning and executing camp projects.
- Dinner
- Evening Reflection and Planning: Reflect on the day’s lessons and plan for the next day.
Each program at Inlow Baptist Camp is designed to offer a balanced mix of fun, learning, and spiritual enrichment, ensuring that every camper has a memorable and impactful experience. Whether they are painting a landscape, scoring a goal, or leading a team, campers will find plenty of opportunities to grow and explore in the beautiful setting of Tajique, NM.
Accommodations in Inlow Baptist Camp
Inlow Baptist Camp provides a range of accommodations to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all campers and staff. Here’s an overview of the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities available at the camp:
Sleeping Arrangements
- Cabins: The primary accommodation at Inlow Baptist Camp consists of cozy, rustic cabins that blend into the natural surroundings of the Manzano Mountains. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and sleeps 8-12 campers, along with 1-2 counselors to ensure safety and supervision. Cabins are grouped by age and gender to create a comfortable environment for all campers.
- Tents: For specific programs focused on outdoor skills and nature immersion, there are opportunities to sleep in tents. This allows campers to experience a more authentic outdoor adventure under the stars.
- Dormitory Style: For larger groups or special events, the camp also offers dormitory-style accommodations which feature larger shared rooms with multiple bunk beds and communal living spaces.
Dining Options
- Meal Plans: The camp provides three well-balanced meals per day, served in the communal dining hall where campers and staff gather to enjoy food and fellowship. The dining hall is the heart of the camp, offering a range of wholesome, nutritious options to fuel the campers throughout their activities.
- Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, Inlow Baptist Camp is committed to accommodating special dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-specific meals. Campers or parents are encouraged to communicate any such needs before arrival so the kitchen staff can prepare accordingly.
Bathroom and Shower Facilities
- Central Bathhouses: Strategically located near the cabins and main camp areas, the bathhouses are equipped with multiple toilets, sinks, and private shower stalls. The facilities are separated by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
- Accessibility: Bathrooms and showers are designed to be accessible to ensure that all campers, including those with disabilities, can use them comfortably.
Inlow Baptist Camp is dedicated to providing a safe, comfortable, and accommodating environment for all participants, ensuring that their physical needs are met so they can focus on their spiritual growth and camp activities without worry.
Activities in Inlow Baptist Camp
Inlow Baptist Camp offers a wide variety of activities designed to engage campers in both fun and educational experiences. Here’s a detailed look at the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available at the camp:
List of Activities Offered
- Swimming: Summer camps feature a swimming pool where campers can cool off, take swimming lessons, or participate in fun water games under the supervision of certified lifeguards.
- Hiking: With the Manzano Mountains as a backdrop, campers have the opportunity to explore various trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, all while learning about the local flora and fauna.
- Crafts: A dedicated crafts area allows campers to express their creativity through different mediums such as painting, pottery, and woodworking.
- Team Sports: Facilities for soccer, basketball, and volleyball are available, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
- Archery: Under careful supervision, campers can learn and practice archery, focusing on safety and skill development.
- Canoeing: On the camp’s small lake, campers can learn basic canoeing skills and water safety.
- Bible Study: Daily sessions where campers engage with biblical teachings and discussions tailored to their age and understanding.
- Campfires: Regular campfire gatherings provide a time for singing, storytelling, and sharing experiences in a warm, communal atmosphere.
Special Events or Traditions
- Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend each session, setting the tone and providing a memorable conclusion to the camp experience.
- Camp Olympics: A fun-filled day of competition where campers participate in various sports and activities, fostering team spirit and camaraderie.
- Talent Show: An evening where campers can showcase their talents, whether it’s singing, dancing, playing a musical instrument, or performing skits.
- Theme Days: Special days where activities are centered around a specific theme, such as “Superhero Day” or “Back to the 80s”, adding a unique and playful twist to the camp routine.
Skill Development Opportunities
- Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs designed to develop their skills in guiding and mentoring younger campers.
- Outdoor Survival Skills: Special workshops that teach practical skills like fire-building, orienteering, and safe hiking practices.
- Artistic Expression: Workshops in various arts that encourage personal expression and skill advancement in specific artistic fields.
- Environmental Education: Programs that focus on conservation and the importance of environmental stewardship.
At Inlow Baptist Camp, activities are thoughtfully designed to not only be enjoyable but also enrich the campers’ lives spiritually, physically, and intellectually, ensuring a well-rounded experience that impacts their development positively.
The staff of Inlow Baptist Camp
Inlow Baptist Camp is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and enjoyable environment for all campers. This commitment is supported by a carefully selected and well-trained staff. Here’s an overview of the staff-to-camper ratio, the hiring process, qualifications, and the training and certifications required:
Staff-to-Camper Ratio
- General Staffing: Inlow Baptist Camp maintains a staff-to-camper ratio of approximately 1:8, ensuring that each camper receives personalized attention and supervision.
- Specialized Activities: For activities requiring more intensive supervision and instruction, such as swimming and archery, the ratio is adjusted to approximately 1:5 to ensure safety and provide more focused guidance.
Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications
- Recruitment: The camp recruits staff from a variety of sources, including local universities, community job fairs, and through referrals from trusted staff members. Priority is given to individuals with experience in child care, and education, and those who demonstrate a strong alignment with the camp’s values and mission.
- Screening: Applicants undergo a thorough screening process that includes background checks, reference checks, and interviews. This rigorous process helps ensure that all staff members are trustworthy and capable of contributing positively to the camp environment.
- Qualifications: Staff members are typically required to have previous experience working with children, and those in leadership positions often have educational backgrounds in child development, education, or related fields.
Training and Certifications
- General Training: All staff undergo comprehensive pre-camp training that covers camp policies, child behavior management techniques, emergency procedures, and the specific responsibilities of their assigned roles.
- Specialized Certifications:
- CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Certifications must be current, and refresher courses are provided during staff training.
- Lifeguard Certification: Staff involved in water activities are required to have lifeguard certification from a recognized authority, ensuring that they are well-equipped to manage safety in aquatic environments.
- Specialty Training: Depending on their roles, some staff may also receive additional training in areas such as wilderness first aid, archery instruction, or environmental education.
- CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Certifications must be current, and refresher courses are provided during staff training.
Continuous Professional Development
- Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, staff participate in ongoing training sessions to refine their skills and adapt to any emerging needs or challenges. This includes weekly staff meetings to review procedures, share experiences, and receive feedback.
- Leadership Development: Senior staff and returning staff are given opportunities for leadership development, which prepares them for more significant responsibilities at the camp or in future educational and caregiving roles.
Inlow Baptist Camp takes pride in its dedicated and highly qualified staff, who are essential to creating a safe, enjoyable, and enriching camp experience for all participants.
Safety and Health in Inlow Baptist Camp
Inlow Baptist Camp prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing rigorous protocols and maintaining facilities to address any health or safety concerns that may arise. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the safety protocols, on-site health facilities, and emergency policies:
Safety Protocols and Procedures
- Routine Safety Checks: Daily inspections are conducted on all camp facilities and equipment, especially those used for activities such as swimming, archery, and climbing, to ensure they meet safety standards.
- Activity-Specific Protocols: Each activity offered at the camp has specific safety guidelines that staff and campers must follow. For example, life jackets are required for all water activities, and harnesses are checked and double-checked for climbing activities.
- Weather Safety: The camp has established protocols for handling various weather conditions, including severe storms and extreme heat. This includes having designated safe areas and procedures for quickly moving campers to these locations.
- Night-Time Security: The camp ensures that all cabins are locked at night and monitored by night-duty staff, maintaining a secure environment for sleeping campers.
On-Site Health Facilities and Staff
- Health Center: Inlow Baptist Camp maintains an on-site health center staffed with a licensed nurse available 24/7 during camp sessions. The health center is equipped to handle routine health issues such as minor injuries, allergies, and common illnesses.
- Staff Qualifications: All health center staff have appropriate medical qualifications, including registered nurses or paramedics. They are experienced in pediatric and emergency care, ensuring they are prepared to effectively handle the specific needs of children.
- Medical Supplies and Equipment: The health center is stocked with necessary medical supplies and equipment, including first aid kits, emergency medications, and tools for basic diagnostic procedures.
Policies on Handling Emergencies
- Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a comprehensive emergency response plan that includes procedures for handling incidents such as injuries, fires, lost campers, and natural disasters. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect new safety standards and best practices.
- Communication: In the event of an emergency, the camp has protocols for quickly communicating with all staff members and contacting external emergency services if necessary. Parents are promptly informed of any significant issues affecting their children.
- Training: All camp staff participate in emergency preparedness training, which includes first response training, evacuation procedures, and effective communication during crises.
- Partnerships with Local Authorities: The camp maintains strong relationships with local emergency services, including fire departments, hospitals, and law enforcement agencies. This ensures a quick and coordinated response in case of a serious emergency.
Inlow Baptist Camp’s comprehensive approach to safety and health ensures that all campers and staff can enjoy a secure and healthy camp environment. The camp’s commitment to maintaining strict safety standards and having well-prepared health facilities and emergency plans reflects its dedication to the well-being of every individual at the camp.
Cost and Registration in Inlow Baptist Camp
Inlow Baptist Camp strives to make its transformative experiences accessible and affordable to families from all backgrounds. Here’s an overview of the cost of attendance, registration details, and financial support options available:
Cost of Attendance
- What It Includes: The cost of attending Inlow Baptist Camp covers all lodging, meals, and activities. It also includes any materials needed for specialty camps (e.g., art supplies, sports equipment) and basic health services at the on-site clinic.
- Fee Structure: Fees vary depending on the length of the session and the type of program. Standard one-week sessions typically range from $300 to $450, while specialized camps or extended sessions may have different pricing.
Registration Process and Deadlines
- How to Register: Registration can be completed online through the camp’s website. The process includes filling out camper information, selecting the desired session, and submitting health and dietary information.
- Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months in advance of the summer season, with early bird discounts offered to those who register by a certain date. Spaces are limited and fill up on a first-come, first-served basis, so early registration is encouraged.
Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies
- Payment Plans: Inlow Baptist Camp offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of the camp. These plans allow payments to be spread out over several months leading up to the start of the session.
- Refunds and Cancellations: The camp provides a full refund if cancellation occurs up to a month before the start of the session. For cancellations within a month of the start date, a portion of the fee may be retained as a cancellation fee. In cases of cancellation due to medical reasons, a doctor’s note can allow for a full refund.
- Insurance: Families are encouraged to consider camp insurance that can cover the costs in case of unexpected cancellations.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
- Scholarships: Inlow Baptist Camp offers scholarships based on financial need. These scholarships can cover a significant portion of the camp fees, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent any child from attending.
- Application for Financial Aid: Families seeking financial assistance must fill out a scholarship application form, which requires documentation of financial need. The camp’s scholarship committee reviews these applications and awards scholarships based on the available funds and the number of applicants.
- Community Support: The camp also engages local businesses and community organizations to sponsor additional scholarships, increasing the availability of financial aid.
Inlow Baptist Camp is dedicated to providing an inclusive environment where all children can enjoy a memorable and impactful summer experience, regardless of their financial situation. With comprehensive support options and transparent policies, the camp makes every effort to accommodate the needs and circumstances of all families.
Parent and Camper Preparation in Inlow Baptist Camp
Preparing for a stay at Inlow Baptist Camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents, especially if it’s their first camp experience. To ensure everyone is ready for a great summer, here’s a detailed guide on what to pack, important camp rules and policies, and helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents:
Packing List
- Clothing: Pack enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for the session, including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, and layers for cooler evenings. Include a rain jacket and sturdy footwear for hiking and outdoor activities.
- Bedding and Toiletries: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets for the cabin beds, a pillow, and all necessary toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo).
- Swimwear and Towels: Include swimwear and at least two towels (one for swimming and one for showers).
- Sun Protection: Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential for protection against the sun.
- Insect Repellent: To avoid bug bites, bring insect repellent, especially if participating in evening outdoor activities.
- Water Bottle: A reusable water bottle is crucial for staying hydrated throughout the day.
- Flashlight or Headlamp: Useful for nighttime activities and moving around the camp after dark.
Rules and Policies
- Technology Use: To maximize engagement and immersion in the camp experience, the use of personal electronic devices (smartphones, tablets, etc.) is restricted. Devices, if brought, are collected at check-in and returned at the end of the session.
- Visitation: Parents and guardians are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to minimize disruptions to the camp schedule and to help campers adjust to camp life.
- Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules, respect fellow campers and staff, and participate in scheduled activities. Bullying and disruptive behavior are not tolerated and may lead to dismissal from camp.
Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents
- Pre-Camp Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities to make new friends. This can help alleviate any anxiety.
- Packing Together: Involve your child in the packing process to ensure they are comfortable with what they are bringing and understand the importance of each item.
- Communication: Explain how communication will work during their time at camp. While daily contact may not be possible, let them know how they can communicate with you during their stay.
- Homesickness: It’s common for new campers to experience homesickness. Encourage them to stay involved in activities and talk to camp staff if they are feeling down.
- Positive Reinforcement: Remind your child of their strengths and how they can use them at camp. Positive reinforcement helps build confidence and excitement for new experiences.
By thoroughly preparing and understanding what to expect, first-time campers and their parents can ensure a smoother transition to camp life and make the most of the enriching experiences offered by Inlow Baptist Camp.
Inlow Baptist Camp stands as a beacon of adventure, spiritual growth, and community in the stunning surroundings of Tajique, New Mexico. With its diverse array of programs, robust safety measures, and a warm, inclusive environment, the camp promises more than just a retreat; it offers a transformative experience for youth. Campers leave Inlow Baptist with lasting friendships, renewed faith, and personal growth, having been nurtured in an atmosphere that values each individual’s development.
Whether engaging in exciting outdoor activities, participating in meaningful worship sessions, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, Inlow Baptist Camp provides a unique opportunity to disconnect from daily distractions and connect with something greater. The camp’s dedicated staff, comprehensive facilities, and commitment to safety ensure that every camper’s experience is not only enjoyable but also enriching.