Nestled in the scenic heart of Bellefontaine, Ohio, Camp Cotubic stands as a beacon of outdoor adventure and character development. Located conveniently within the lush landscapes of the Midwest, this camp is not only surrounded by natural beauty but also steeped in rich history. Since its inception, Camp Cotubic has been dedicated to providing a safe, enriching environment where young minds can explore and grow.

At Camp Cotubic, their mission is simple yet profound: “To foster a nurturing environment that builds character embraces community values, and encourages personal growth through outdoor activities.” This philosophy is woven into every aspect of their camp experience, ensuring that each camper leaves with lasting memories and valuable lessons.

Catering to both boys and girls across various age groups, Camp Cotubic offers a diverse range of programs that are designed to cater to different interests and developmental stages. From thrilling outdoor activities to creative arts and team-building exercises, their camp provides an ideal setting for children to learn, play, and develop important life skills.

Join us at Camp Cotubic, where adventures await and lifelong friendships are made in the heart of Ohio.

Programs Offered by Camp Cotubic

Camp Cotubic provides a variety of programs designed to engage campers of all interests and ages. Each program is tailored to foster growth, learning, and fun in a supportive community environment.

1. Standard Camp Sessions

Description: These sessions include a mix of outdoor activities, sports, and arts and crafts. Campers participate in swimming, hiking, canoeing, and team sports, along with creative arts sessions.
Length: Offered in one-week or two-week durations, these sessions are perfect for campers looking to experience a broad range of activities.
Specialty: General outdoor and creative arts activities.

2. Adventure Camp

Description: Focused on adventure sports and wilderness survival skills, this program includes rock climbing, archery, and orienteering. It’s designed for campers who crave adventure and want to challenge themselves.
Length: Two-week sessions that dive deep into skills training and personal development.
Specialty: Adventure sports and survival skills.

3. Arts and Performance Camp

Description: For the creatively inclined, this camp focuses on music, theater, and visual arts. Campers can participate in drama workshops, choir, band, and various forms of visual arts.
Length: One-week sessions that culminate in a showcase where campers display their talents.
Specialty: Performing and visual arts.

4. Sports Clinic

Description: This program emphasizes skill development in specific sports such as basketball, soccer, and volleyball. Professional coaches and players often lead these clinics.
Length: Typically one week, focusing intensely on one sport.
Specialty: Sports training and teamwork.

5. STEM Explorers Camp

Description: Catering to young scientists and engineers, this camp offers hands-on activities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Projects can include robotics, astronomy, and environmental science studies.
Length: Two-week sessions that encourage exploration and innovation.
Specialty: Science and technology.

Typical Daily Schedule:

Morning: Wake-up, breakfast, and morning assembly followed by the first activity session.
Mid-Morning: Transition to a second activity session, focusing on a different area than the first.
Lunch: Campers and staff gather for a nutritious lunch and some downtime.
Afternoon: After lunch, campers engage in a third activity session, often more relaxed or creative.
Late Afternoon: Free time when campers can choose from various recreational activities or rest.
Dinner: Dinner in the dining hall, followed by an evening activity like campfires, talent shows, or group games.
Night: Wind down with a cabin chat or a quiet reading time before lights out.

Camp Cotubic’s diverse programs and structured daily schedule make it an ideal place for campers to explore their interests and develop new skills in a fun, safe environment.

Accommodations in Camp Cotubic

At Camp Cotubic, they understand that a comfortable stay enhances the overall camp experience. They are committed to providing excellent facilities that cater to the needs of all campers.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their primary accommodation consists of well-constructed cabins that blend rustic charm with modern comforts. Each cabin houses 8-12 campers, depending on age and program. They are equipped with bunk beds, and storage space for personal items, and are grouped by age and gender to promote a safe, community environment. Cabins are situated in clusters, with easy access to common areas and facilities.
Tents: For specific programs like the Adventure Camp, offer the exciting option of tent camping. This allows campers to fully immerse themselves in the outdoors. Tents are set up in secure designated areas and are provided with necessary camping gear.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Cotubic provides three well-balanced meals per day, served in their communal dining hall. Meals are designed to be nutritious and energy-boosting to support an active camp schedule.
Dietary Accommodations: They take pride in catering to various dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle special dietary requirements with the utmost care, ensuring all campers enjoy safe and delicious meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Bathrooms and showers are conveniently located near each cabin cluster. Facilities are separated by gender and are accessible 24/7.
Hygiene: Hygiene and cleanliness are priorities at Camp Cotubic. Bathrooms and showers are cleaned and sanitized daily, and they provide ample facilities to ensure that there are no long waits for showers or toilets, even at peak times.
Privacy and Safety: All facilities are designed to ensure privacy and safety. Shower areas are individual stalls with changing areas and secure locks.

Through these accommodations, Camp Cotubic ensures that every camper’s stay is comfortable, safe, and conducive to an enjoyable camp experience.

Activities in Camp Cotubic

Camp Cotubic offers a wide array of activities designed to engage campers in fun, learning, and personal growth. From outdoor adventures to creative arts, the camp ensures a diverse experience that caters to all interests.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps, swimming, hiking, canoeing, fishing, archery, and rock climbing.
Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, and ultimate frisbee.
Creative Arts: Crafts, painting, pottery, and woodworking.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, music, and campfire storytelling.
Nature Exploration: Bird watching, nature walks, and environmental education.
Water Activities: Kayaking, paddle boarding, and water games.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Ceremony: Each session begins with a welcoming ceremony that helps campers get to know one another and sets the tone for their stay.
Camp Cotubic Carnival: A mid-session event featuring games, treats, and crafts, allowing campers to showcase their skills and celebrate their accomplishments.
Color Wars: A camp-wide team competition involving sports, trivia, and creative challenges, fostering team spirit and camaraderie.
Talent Show: Campers and staff display their talents, from singing to magic tricks, in a supportive, fun-filled environment.
Closing Campfire: A reflective evening where campers share experiences, perform skits, and sing songs, culminating in a memorable farewell.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs, learning skills necessary for counselor roles and beyond.
Environmental Stewardship: Programs that focus on sustainability and conservation, teaching campers the importance of environmental care.
Artistic Expression: Workshops in various arts that encourage creativity and personal expression.
Sports Clinics: Specialized coaching sessions that focus on skill improvement, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Science and Technology: Activities like robotics and simple experiments that spark interest in STEM fields.

At Camp Cotubic, every activity is an opportunity for growth, friendship, and adventure. The camp is dedicated to providing experiences that not only entertain but also enrich the lives of all campers, allowing them to develop skills that will benefit them long after they leave camp.

The staff of Camp Cotubic

At Camp Cotubic, they pride themselves on maintaining a highly qualified and dedicated staff team to ensure a safe, nurturing, and enriching camp experience for all campers.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Cotubic maintains a favorable staff-to-camper ratio of 1:5, ensuring that every camper receives personalized attention and care. This ratio allows their staff to effectively supervise, engage, and assist campers in all activities, fostering a supportive and inclusive camp environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Selection Process: Potential staff members go through a rigorous selection process that includes comprehensive background checks, multiple interviews, and reference checks to ensure they meet their high standards.
Qualifications: They require all staff members to have previous experience in childcare or camp environments. Educational backgrounds in fields such as education, psychology, recreation, or related studies are highly regarded. Staff members are also expected to have a genuine passion for working with children and a strong commitment to the camp’s values.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training in lifesaving skills, such as lifeguard certification, is required for those involved in aquatic activities.
Pre-Camp Training: Prior to the camp season, all staff undergo an intensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, behavior management techniques, and specific training related to their assigned activities.
Ongoing Professional Development: Throughout the camp season, staff are provided with opportunities for ongoing professional development to refine their skills and adapt to evolving best practices in camp leadership and child care.

Specialty Training

Activity-Specific Training: Staff leading specialized activities such as rock climbing, archery, or performing arts receive specific training relevant to their area of expertise to ensure safety and high-quality instruction.
Behavioral Management: They train their staff in positive behavior management strategies to ensure they are equipped to handle a variety of situations sensitively and effectively.
Inclusivity Training: Emphasizing the importance of creating an inclusive and welcoming environment, their staff are trained to support campers from diverse backgrounds and to foster a sense of community among all participants.

The staff at Camp Cotubic are not just caretakers or supervisors; they are role models and mentors dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of every camper. With a strong foundation of training, certifications, and a commitment to safety and fun, their staff is well-equipped to provide an unforgettable camp experience.

Safety and Health in Camp Cotubic

Ensuring the safety and well-being of all campers and staff is a top priority at Camp Cotubic. Their comprehensive safety protocols and healthcare facilities are designed to maintain a secure environment where parents can feel confident about their children’s safety.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: Camp Cotubic conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown procedures, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with emergency protocols.
Activity Safety: All activities are supervised by trained staff members, and appropriate safety gear (like helmets and life jackets) is mandatory for activities such as cycling, rock climbing, and water sports.
Secure Campgrounds: The campgrounds are secured and monitored with controlled access to ensure that only authorized staff, campers, and registered visitors are on-site.
Nighttime Security: Staff members are assigned to conduct regular rounds throughout the night to ensure that all areas are secure and that campers are safe in their accommodations.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Cotubic is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor. The health center is prepared to handle routine health issues and is equipped with the necessary medications and medical equipment.
24/7 Availability: Health center staff are available around the clock to address any medical needs that may arise, ensuring prompt and effective care.
Medical Protocols: Pre-established protocols are in place for managing both common and severe health issues. Camp staff are trained in recognizing health emergencies and know how to quickly escalate issues to medical professionals.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Contact and Response Plan: Camp Cotubic maintains an up-to-date emergency contact system and response plan, which includes communication with local hospitals, fire departments, and other emergency services.
Parental Notification: Parents are promptly notified in the event of any emergency affecting their child. The camp ensures transparency and open communication during such incidents.
Evacuation Plan: An evacuation plan is clearly established and communicated to all staff and campers. Evacuation routes and gathering points are well-marked and practiced during drills.
Crisis Management Team: A dedicated crisis management team is trained to handle various emergencies, ensuring that the camp can respond effectively to any situation.

Through these meticulous safety measures and health policies, Camp Cotubic commits to providing a safe and healthy environment that allows campers to enjoy their activities worry-free and parents to rest assured of their children’s safety.

Cost and Registration in Camp Cotubic

Camp Cotubic aims to provide a fun and enriching camp experience that is also accessible and affordable for families. Below are the details on costs, registration, and financial aid options.

Cost of Attendance

Fees: The cost of attending Camp Cotubic varies depending on the session length and program type. For example, one-week sessions typically range from $350 to $500, while two-week sessions may cost between $700 and $1,000. These fees include all activities, meals, accommodations, and program materials.
What’s Included: The cost covers full participation in the chosen camp session, including all activities, 24-hour supervision, three daily meals, snacks, lodging, and any special events or trips included in the program.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Registration for Camp Cotubic is conducted online through their secure camp management system. Prospective campers can fill out forms, select sessions, and submit necessary medical and consent documents all in one place.
Deadlines: Early registration typically opens in January and offers a discount for early sign-ups. Regular registration continues as long as spots are available, with final deadlines usually set for about one month before the start of each session to allow for proper planning and staffing.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Camp Cotubic offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of camp. Families can choose to pay in installments leading up to the start of the camp session.
Refunds: Full refunds are available up to a month before the session begins, less a nominal administrative fee. Partial refunds may be offered up to two weeks before the session start date. Within two weeks of the session start, refunds are typically not available unless for medical reasons, supported by a doctor’s note.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations must be made in writing. The camp also offers ‘cancellation insurance’ for purchase at the time of registration, which allows for a more flexible refund policy in the event of unexpected circumstances.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Cotubic believes in making camp accessible to all and offers a number of scholarships each year based on financial need, merit, or both. Families are encouraged to apply early as funds are limited.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available in the form of reduced rates or special grants.

Through its comprehensive registration and financial policies, Camp Cotubic strives to ensure that no child misses out on a camp experience due to financial constraints. The camp staff is always available to assist with any questions regarding costs, payments, or financial aid options.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Cotubic

To ensure that both parents and campers are fully prepared for the camp experience, Camp Cotubic provides detailed guidelines on what to pack, key rules and policies, and helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

Clothing: Weather-appropriate attire including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, and sweatshirts; waterproof jacket; swimsuits; pajamas; hats; and sturdy footwear (sneakers, hiking boots, and flip-flops or sandals for showers).
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, bug repellent, and a towel.
Gear: Flashlight or headlamp, water bottle, day pack, and any specific gear related to specialized activities (like musical instruments or sports equipment if applicable).
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, disposable cameras (if allowed), and comfort items like a stuffed animal or photos.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Cotubic generally encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and peers. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are typically not allowed, except for specific educational purposes under supervision.
Visitation: Parents and family are welcome on designated visiting days which are communicated ahead of the camp season. Outside these times, visits are discouraged to maintain the camp schedule and security.
Behavior Expectations: Respect for others, participation in scheduled activities, and adherence to safety guidelines are expected of all campers. Bullying, the use of prohibited substances, and violation of major rules can result in dismissal from camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friends. Address any anxieties by talking through what a typical day will look like.
Communication: Write letters in advance that can be given to your child throughout their stay. Discuss how often you will communicate if allowed and reassure them that you are always thinking of them.
Pack Together: Involve your child in packing to ensure they feel prepared and understand what they are bringing. Label all belongings with their name.
Set Goals: Encourage your child to set personal goals for camp, like trying a new activity or making new friends, to give them a sense of purpose and excitement.
Emotional Preparation: It’s normal for both parents and children to feel nervous. Acknowledge these feelings and emphasize the positive aspects of gaining independence and new experiences.

With these preparations in place, both first-time and returning campers can look forward to a fun and enriching experience at Camp Cotubic. The camp is dedicated to supporting campers and parents through every step of the journey, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable summer adventure.

At Camp Cotubic, they are proud to offer a vibrant summer experience where children can thrive in a safe, nurturing environment. With a rich array of activities, from adventurous outdoor pursuits to creative arts and sciences, their camp is designed to cater to diverse interests and foster personal growth. Their dedicated staff ensures that each camper receives individual attention, guiding them through a journey of self-discovery and skill development.

Their commitment to safety, health, and comprehensive camper and parent preparation underscores their dedication to providing an exceptional camping experience. Whether a camper is joining us for the first time or returning for another unforgettable summer, Camp Cotubic is a place where lifelong memories are made and friendships are forged.