Nestled in the heart of North Dakota, Park River Bible Camp offers a unique blend of spiritual growth and outdoor adventure. Located in Park River, this camp is a haven of natural beauty, surrounded by the lush landscapes that characterize this vibrant region. Not far from local landmarks, the camp provides an ideal setting for exploration and reflection.

Established with the aim of nurturing faith and fostering community, Park River Bible Camp has a rich history of bringing together youth from diverse backgrounds. Since its inception, the camp has been a place where campers can grow both spiritually and personally in a safe, supportive environment.

At the heart of their mission is the philosophy to “encourage and equip individuals for a life of faith and service.” This mission drives all of their programs and activities, ensuring that each camper receives a meaningful and transformative experience.

Park River Bible Camp is a facility that welcomes boys and girls across various age groups. They are dedicated to providing a range of activities that cater to the needs and interests of all their campers, from the youngest children to teenagers, ensuring that each age group has an enriching and enjoyable experience.

Join us at Park River Bible Camp for a summer of fun, faith, and fellowship!

Programs Offered by Park River Bible Camp

At Park River Bible Camp, they offer a variety of programs tailored to inspire, educate, and entertain their campers, making every summer memorable. Their sessions and activities are designed to cater to different interests and age groups, ensuring that every camper finds something they love.

1. General Camp Sessions

Their general camp sessions are the backbone of their program, providing campers with a full experience of camp life. These sessions typically last one week, with options to extend for additional weeks. Activities include traditional camp games, campfire storytelling, nature hikes, and daily worship sessions.

2. Specialty Programs

To cater to diverse interests, they offer specialty programs focusing on different areas:

Arts Camp: For those interested in creativity, their Arts Camp includes painting, crafts, and performance arts. These sessions encourage self-expression and creativity.
Sports Camp: Ideal for active campers, the Sports Camp focuses on physical activities such as soccer, basketball, and water sports, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
Science Camp: Their Science Camp invites curious minds to explore environmental science, astronomy, and more through experiments and outdoor activities.

3. Leadership Development

For older campers, they provide leadership training sessions that focus on developing skills necessary for leadership roles both within and outside the camp setting. These sessions are usually two weeks long and include team-building exercises, leadership theory, and practical leadership opportunities.

4. Family Camp

They also offer a Family Camp where families can experience the joys of camp together. This session includes family-oriented activities and provides a great opportunity for families to bond and grow in faith together.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Park River Bible Camp is structured to provide a balance of activities, worship, and free time, ensuring that campers are engaged and energized throughout the day.

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning devotion
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activity session (varies by program)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time/Rest
2:00 PM: Afternoon activity session
5:00 PM: Free time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening worship/service
8:00 PM: Campfire activities
9:30 PM: Lights out

Each day is carefully planned to ensure that campers not only have fun but also grow in their faith and make lasting friendships. Join us at Park River Bible Camp for a summer filled with joy, learning, and adventure!

Accommodations in Park River Bible Camp

At Park River Bible Camp, they strive to ensure that every aspect of their campers’ stay is comfortable, safe, and conducive to an enjoyable camp experience. Here’s an overview of their accommodations:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their primary accommodation option consists of well-maintained cabins that house 8-12 campers each. Cabins are divided by age and gender and are staffed with experienced counselors to ensure safety and provide guidance. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings.
Dormitory Style: For larger groups or special events, they also offer dormitory-style accommodations that can house larger numbers of campers. These are typically used for retreats and leadership camps.
Tents: For those interested in a more rustic experience, they offer supervised tent camping sessions. These are usually part of specific programs that focus on outdoor skills and nature immersion.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: All campers are provided with three well-balanced meals per day, served in their communal dining hall. Meals are prepared by their skilled kitchen staff and aim to be nutritious and energy-boosting to keep up with the demands of an active day.
Dietary Accommodations: They are committed to accommodating the dietary needs of all their campers. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available, and we can also cater to other specific dietary restrictions with prior notice.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathroom and shower facility, which is shared among a small group of cabins. These facilities are separated by gender and are equipped with multiple showers, sinks, and toilet stalls.
Hygiene: Maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene is a priority for us. All facilities are cleaned and sanitized multiple times daily, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for their campers.

At Park River Bible Camp, they believe that a good night’s sleep, healthy meals, and clean facilities are essential to a fantastic camp experience. Their accommodations are designed to ensure that every camper feels at home and can focus fully on enjoying their camp experience and growing in their faith.

Activities in Park River Bible Camp

Park River Bible Camp is dedicated to providing a diverse range of activities that cater to all interests and help foster skills and personal growth. Here’s a detailed look at the activities they offer:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy nature through activities like hiking, canoeing, and fishing. They also offer archery and orienteering for those interested in learning navigation skills.
Swimming: Their camp includes supervised swimming sessions in their on-site pool, perfect for cooling off on hot days or learning new swimming strokes.
Crafts: Engage in creative expression with activities like pottery, tie-dying, and woodworking. These activities are designed to boost creativity and provide campers with a tangible memory of their time at camp.
Sports: They offer a variety of sports, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and ultimate frisbee. These activities are great for building teamwork and physical fitness.
Performing Arts: Summer camps can explore their theatrical side in drama workshops or join music sessions, where they can sing or learn to play instruments.
Spiritual Life: Daily devotionals, worship services, and Bible studies are integral to their program, allowing campers to deepen their faith and reflect on their spiritual journey.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfires: Regular campfire nights feature storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, providing a perfect end to the day.
Theme Days: Special theme days, such as Superhero Day or Backwards Day, add a fun and quirky twist to camp life.
End-of-Camp Banquet: A tradition that celebrates the achievements of campers with awards, performances, and a formal dinner.
Family Day: At the end of each session, families are invited to join for a day to experience camp life, participate in activities, and celebrate with their campers.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs designed to develop skills in team management, problem-solving, and effective communication.
Environmental Education: Through guided nature walks and sustainability projects, campers learn about environmental stewardship and the importance of conservation.
Artistic Expression: Their arts and crafts sessions, along with performing arts programs, help campers discover and refine their artistic talents.

At Park River Bible Camp, they believe in the power of play and learning combined. Their activities are designed not just for fun, but also to equip campers with skills and experiences that will benefit them beyond their time at camp. Whether they’re building a campfire, starring in a play, or leading a team, campers at Park River Bible Camp are sure to have an enriching and unforgettable summer.

The staff of Park River Bible Camp

At Park River Bible Camp, they take pride in their dedicated and highly qualified staff, who play a crucial role in ensuring that every camper has a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience. Here is an overview of their staffing structure, hiring process, and training protocols:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

They maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and high-quality supervision. Typically, their ratio is one staff member for every five campers. This ratio allows us to provide a safe and supportive environment, closely monitoring and actively engaging with each camper.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Selection Process: Their staff are carefully selected through a rigorous hiring process that includes background checks, personal interviews, and reference checks to ensure that they are not only qualified but also genuinely passionate about youth development and education.
Qualifications: Staff members typically have previous experience in camping, education, or child care. Many are college students pursuing related fields, such as education, psychology, or recreation management. They also seek staff with specific skills that align with the activities they offer, such as certified lifeguards for swimming, trained artists for crafts, and experienced hikers or naturalists for outdoor activities.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, behavior management techniques, and specific training related to their assigned activities.
Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional certifications, such as lifeguarding or wilderness first aid, are required for staff involved in specific activities like swimming or hiking.
Ongoing Development: Throughout the camp season, they conduct regular meetings and training sessions to refine skills, address any issues, and ensure all staff are updated on the best practices in camper care and safety.

Their commitment to maintaining a highly trained and responsive staff ensures that Park River Bible Camp is a place where parents can feel confident about their children’s safety and where campers can thrive. The staff are not just supervisors; they are role models and mentors, dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of the campers they serve.

Safety and Health in Park River Bible Camp

Ensuring the safety and health of their campers and staff is paramount at Park River Bible Camp. They have established comprehensive protocols and maintain well-equipped facilities to handle any situation that may arise. Here’s an overview of their safety measures and healthcare provisions:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: They conduct regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuations, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures in case of emergencies.
Activity Safety: All activities are supervised by staff members trained in activity-specific safety protocols. Equipment is regularly inspected, and safety gear must be worn during activities such as archery, canoeing, and any sports involving physical contact.
Secure Campus: The camp maintains strict policies regarding who can enter and leave the premises, ensuring a secure environment. All visitors must check in at the administration office, and children are only released to authorized guardians.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Their on-site health center is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including a registered nurse who is on duty 24/7. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses, and is stocked with essential medications and first aid supplies.
Staff Qualifications: All healthcare staff are required to have current certifications and are experienced in pediatric and emergency care. They are capable of assessing camper health issues and providing appropriate care or making decisions about the need for additional medical services.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Action Plans: Specific action plans are in place for various types of emergencies, including severe weather, health outbreaks, and other critical situations. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, communication protocols are established to quickly inform all staff and, if necessary, parents and local authorities. They ensure that clear, timely, and accurate information is provided to all stakeholders.
Local Healthcare Partnerships: They have established relationships with nearby medical facilities to ensure that campers have quick access to additional medical care if needed. In case of a serious injury or illness, transportation to a local hospital can be arranged promptly.

Park River Bible Camp is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for all campers and staff. Their proactive approach to safety training, combined with their well-equipped health facilities and clear emergency policies, ensures that they are prepared to respond effectively to any situation that may arise.

Cost and Registration in Park River Bible Camp

Understanding the cost, registration process, and financial options is crucial for families considering Park River Bible Camp. They strive to make camp accessible and affordable, with clear policies to help families plan their summer. Here’s an overview:

Cost of Attendance

Fees: The cost of attending Park River Bible Camp varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Fees typically cover all camp activities, meals, accommodation, and any special events. For example, a standard one-week session may cost around $400, whereas specialized programs like leadership training or science camps may have different fees due to additional resources and staffing.
What’s Included: The fee includes lodging in cabins or dorms, three meals per day, all program materials, and full participation in camp activities. Additional costs may apply for certain optional activities or special outings.

Registration Process and Deadlines

How to Register: Registration can be completed online. The process includes filling out camper information, selecting the session and program, and completing health and consent forms.
Deadlines: Early registration typically opens in January and they encourage early registration to ensure a spot in the desired session. Some programs have limited capacity and may fill up quickly. Deadlines for registration are usually set for about a month before the start of each session, but late registrations may be accepted based on availability.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: To make the cost more manageable, they offer structured payment plans that allow families to pay the camp fee in installments. Details and schedules for payment plans are available during the registration process.
Refunds and Cancellations: They understand that plans can change. Their policy allows for a full refund up to one month before the session begins, minus a non-refundable deposit. Cancellations closer to the session date may receive a partial refund or the option to apply fees to a future session, depending on the circumstances.
Cancellation Policy for Camp: If the camp needs to cancel a session due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., severe weather, health concerns), full refunds will be issued or families can choose to transfer registration to another session.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: They believe every child should have the opportunity to experience camp. Scholarships are available based on need, merit, or both.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available based on specific criteria, such as family income or multiple siblings attending.

At Park River Bible Camp, they are committed to transparency and support throughout the registration and payment process, ensuring that families can access all necessary information to make informed decisions about camp attendance. Their goal is to remove financial barriers as much as possible, allowing all children to enjoy a rewarding camp experience.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Park River Bible Camp

Preparing for camp is an exciting part of the experience for both campers and their parents. To ensure everyone is well-prepared, they provide detailed guidelines on what to bring, camp rules and policies, and tips to help first-time campers and their parents feel comfortable and ready for a great summer at Park River Bible Camp.

Packing List

To ensure campers have everything they need for a fun and safe experience, here’s a recommended packing list:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing (including layers for cooler evenings), pajamas, swimsuit, rain gear, and sturdy footwear (sneakers and hiking boots).
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a towel.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, water bottle, hats, and sunglasses.
Optional Items: Books, stationary for writing home, and a camera (non-digital for younger campers).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and ensure all campers are present at the moment, personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are not allowed. They encourage letter writing and provide opportunities for campers to communicate with their families.
Visitation: Parents and family members are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to minimize disruptions and maintain the camp schedule and security.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for others, positive participation, and safety are paramount. They have strict policies against bullying and inappropriate behavior to ensure a supportive environment for all campers.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Engage with Others: Try to participate in as many activities as possible and make new friends.
- Stay Positive: Homesickness is normal; remember, it usually passes as you get more involved in camp activities.
- Communicate: Don’t hesitate to talk to your counselor if you’re feeling uncomfortable or need help.
For Parents:
- Stay Informed: Read all the provided materials from the camp to understand the schedule, rules, and what your child will be doing.
- Communicate: Explain to your child what camp will be like, and discuss what they’re excited about, and any worries they might have.
- Packing: Help your child pack, ensuring they are part of the process so they know what they have brought with them.

Preparing effectively for camp can help ensure that both parents and campers have a smooth, enjoyable experience from day one. At Park River Bible Camp, they’re dedicated to helping first-time campers adjust quickly and make the most of their summer with us!

As summer approaches, Park River Bible Camp stands ready to offer an unforgettable experience for campers of all ages. Their beautiful setting, diverse programs, dedicated staff, and commitment to safety ensure that each camper has a joyful, enriching, and transformative experience. Whether it’s through engaging activities, spiritual growth, or making new friends, campers leave with cherished memories and new skills that last a lifetime.

At Park River Bible Camp, they believe in the power of camp to change lives. They are dedicated to fostering a nurturing environment where every child can explore their potential, grow in faith, and enjoy the great outdoors. With their robust safety protocols, comprehensive financial aid options, and a community-oriented atmosphere, they strive to make the camp experience accessible and rewarding for everyone.