Nestled in the heart of Oklahoma, in the serene region near Stuart, Camp Walk On Water offers an unforgettable summer experience. Located amidst natural landmarks that boast rich landscapes and tranquil waters, their camp provides a backdrop where adventure meets tranquility.
Founded with the vision of fostering growth and resilience among youth, Camp Walk On Water has a storied history of bringing children closer to nature while helping them develop lifelong skills. Their mission is to empower each camper to explore their potential through engaging activities and meaningful community interaction, emphasizing respect for nature and one another.
As a camp, they welcome boys and girls across various age groups, from 6 to 16 years old. At Camp Walk On Water, they believe in the transformative power of camp experiences to shape young minds and hearts in a supportive, fun-filled environment. Whether it’s hiking, swimming, canoeing, or arts and crafts, every day is a new adventure at Camp Walk On Water.
Programs Offered by Camp Walk On Water
At Camp Walk On Water, they offer a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental needs of each camper. Their sessions and specialty programs are crafted to ensure that every camper has an enriching, fun, and educational experience.
Program Description
Their programs range from traditional camp activities to specialized sessions focusing on arts, sports, and science. Campers have the opportunity to engage in:
- Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, canoeing, and wilderness survival skills.
- Arts and Crafts: Pottery, painting, and other creative arts.
- Sports: Soccer, basketball, swimming, and archery.
- Science and Nature: Environmental education, wildlife studies, and hands-on science experiments.
Length of Sessions
- One-Week Sessions: Ideal for younger campers or first-timers, focusing on an introduction to all activities.
- Two-Week Sessions: A more in-depth exploration of skills and activities, with special events and overnight wilderness adventures.
- Full Summer Program: A comprehensive, immersive experience allowing campers to fully engage with all camp offerings and special projects.
Specialty Programs
- Leadership Development: For older campers, focusing on team-building, leadership skills, and community service.
- Explorer’s Club: An intensive program for nature lovers that includes advanced hiking, mapping, and ecological studies.
Typical Daily Schedule
- 7:30 AM – Wake Up
- 8:00 AM – Breakfast
- 9:00 AM – Morning Activities (e.g., Arts and Crafts, Science Projects)
- 12:00 PM – Lunch
- 1:00 PM – Rest Time/Free Time
- 2:00 PM – Afternoon Activities (e.g., Sports, Swimming)
- 5:00 PM – Dinner
- 6:00 PM – Evening Activities (e.g., Campfire, Storytelling)
- 8:30 PM – Cabin Time (preparation for bed)
- 9:00 PM – Lights Out
Each day at Camp Walk On Water is structured to balance active engagement with ample time for relaxation and social interaction, ensuring that each camper goes home with memorable experiences and new friendships.
Accommodations in Camp Walk On Water
Camp Walk On Water provides comfortable and safe accommodations designed to enhance the camp experience while ensuring the well-being of all campers.
Sleeping Arrangements
- Cabins: Their primary accommodation, the cabins are nestled within their scenic campgrounds, surrounded by natural beauty. Each cabin houses 8-10 campers along with 2 counselors, ensuring close supervision and a familial atmosphere. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, storage spaces, and electricity.
- Tents: For specific programs or older camper groups, they also offer tent camping experiences that allow campers to connect more deeply with nature. Tents are set up in designated safe and scenic areas of the campgrounds.
Dining Options
- Meal Plans: Camp Walk On Water serves three nutritious meals per day, along with healthy snacks. Meals are enjoyed in their communal dining hall where campers gather to eat and share their day’s experiences.
- Dietary Accommodations: They are committed to inclusive dining options that cater to all dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle special dietary requirements with the utmost care and attention.
Bathroom and Shower Facilities
- Centralized Facilities: Their camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities, centrally located for easy access from all cabins and main activity areas. Separate facilities for male and female campers ensure privacy and convenience.
- Maintenance and Cleanliness: The health and safety of their campers are paramount. All facilities are cleaned and sanitized multiple times a day, and they adhere to strict hygiene and health standards to provide a comfortable and safe environment.
At Camp Walk On Water, they strive to create a home away from home where campers can thrive both personally and socially in a supportive community setting.
Activities in Camp Walk On Water
Camp Walk On Water offers a rich and varied activity program designed to engage campers in both fun and educational ways. Here’s a look at some of the activities and special opportunities available:
List of Activities Offered
- Swimming: Daily swim lessons and free swim periods in their natural lake.
- Hiking: Guided trails through local terrain and educational nature walks.
- Crafts: A variety of artistic activities including pottery, beadwork, and painting.
- Sports: Organized sports such as soccer, basketball, and volleyball, plus archery and canoeing.
- Performing Arts: Drama and dance workshops, culminating in camp-wide performances.
- Science Exploration: Engaging in environmental studies and basic astronomy.
- Adventure Challenges: Rope courses, rock climbing, and team-building exercises.
Special Events or Traditions
- Opening Bonfire: A traditional opening night event where campers set their intentions for the summer and get to know one another.
- Camp Olympics: A mid-summer event featuring team competitions across various sports and activities.
- Talent Show: Summer camps showcase their skills and talents in a supportive, celebratory environment.
- Closing Ceremony: A poignant closing event that reflects on the achievements of the summer, complete with awards and recognitions.
Skill Development Opportunities
- Leadership Training: Programs for older campers to develop leadership skills, including counselor-in-training (CIT) opportunities.
- Environmental Stewardship: Educational programs that focus on conservation and sustainable practices.
- Arts Mastery: Advanced workshops in various arts for campers to deepen their skills.
- Sports Clinics: Specialized clinics to enhance skills in specific sports, led by expert instructors.
At Camp Walk On Water, every activity is designed with the dual purpose of fun and learning, encouraging campers to explore new areas, develop skills, and build confidence. The camp atmosphere is vibrant and inclusive, ensuring every camper feels valued and engaged throughout their stay.
The staff of Camp Walk On Water
At Camp Walk On Water, they take great pride in their dedicated and skilled staff who play a pivotal role in creating a safe, enjoyable, and enriching camp experience for all campers.
Staff-to-Camper Ratio
They maintain a high staff-to-camper ratio to ensure attentive supervision and personalized care. Their ratio is typically 1 staff member for every 5 campers, which allows us to provide a supportive and secure environment, with staff members readily available to address the needs of each camper.
Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications
- Recruitment: They select staff members through a rigorous recruitment process that includes detailed interviews, background checks, and reference checks.
- Qualifications: Their staff includes a mix of education professionals, seasoned camp leaders, and skilled specialists in various activities (such as arts, sports, and science). All staff members are required to have prior experience working with children and a demonstrated ability to lead and inspire young people.
- Diversity and Inclusivity: They are committed to hiring staff from a variety of backgrounds to reflect the diversity of their campers and to bring a wealth of perspectives to the camp experience.
Training and Certifications
- Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo comprehensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and activity leadership.
- Certifications: All staff are required to hold current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additionally, staff members involved in specific activities like swimming or rock climbing hold relevant certifications from recognized authorities (e.g., lifeguard certification, climbing instructor certification).
- Ongoing Development: Throughout the camp season, they provide ongoing training and professional development opportunities to ensure their staff are equipped with the latest skills and knowledge in their respective areas.
Their staff are not just supervisors and facilitators; they are role models and mentors who genuinely care about the growth and well-being of each camper. At Camp Walk On Water, they believe that their staff’s professionalism and dedication are key to their camp’s success and the positive experiences of their campers.
Safety and Health in Camp Walk On Water
At Camp Walk On Water, the safety and well-being of their campers and staff are their highest priorities. They implement rigorous safety protocols and maintain excellent health facilities to ensure a secure environment where parents can feel confident about their children’s care.
Safety Protocols and Procedures
- Routine Safety Drills: Regularly scheduled drills for fire, weather emergencies, and other potential threats to ensure that all campers and staff are prepared and know how to respond in various scenarios.
- Activity Safety: Each activity is led by staff trained and certified in that specific area. For example, all water-based activities are supervised by lifeguards with certifications. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to the highest standards.
- Secure Campus: The camp is designed with security in mind, featuring controlled access points and staff trained to ensure the safety of campers at all times. Night patrols and a check-in system further enhance security.
On-Site Health Facilities and Staff
- Health Center: The camp has a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed medical professionals, including nurses and an on-call physician. The health center is prepared to handle routine health issues and is equipped with essential medications and first aid supplies.
- 24/7 Availability: Their medical staff are available around the clock to address any health concerns or emergencies that may arise, ensuring prompt and efficient medical attention.
- Health Screening: Upon arrival, each camper undergoes a health screening to identify any existing conditions or allergies, which helps their medical staff provide personalized care throughout the camper’s stay.
Policies on Handling Emergencies
- Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a comprehensive emergency response plan that includes procedures for evacuation, communication with parents, and coordination with local emergency services.
- Training in Emergency Preparedness: All staff members receive training in emergency preparedness and response as part of their pre-camp orientation. This training is updated regularly to reflect best practices and new guidelines.
- Communication: In the event of an emergency, Camp Walk On Water has a clear communication plan to keep parents informed. This includes immediate notifications through various channels depending on the nature of the emergency.
Through these detailed safety protocols, on-site health facilities, and comprehensive emergency policies, Camp Walk On Water ensures that every camper enjoys a safe, healthy, and fun-filled summer experience.
Cost and Registration in Camp Walk On Water
Understanding the cost and registration details is essential for planning your child’s summer at Camp Walk On Water. They strive to make their camp experience accessible and manageable for families through transparent pricing, flexible payment options, and financial aid opportunities.
Cost of Attendance
- Inclusions: The cost of attendance at Camp Walk On Water includes all lodging, meals, activities, and equipment. It also covers all special events, arts and crafts supplies, and camp T-shirts.
- Fees: The fees vary depending on the length of the session:
- One-week session: $500
- Two-week session: $950
- Full summer (eight weeks): $3,600
Registration Process and Deadlines
- Online Registration: Families can register their children through their online portal, where they can fill out necessary forms, choose session dates, and specify any particular dietary or medical needs.
- Deadlines: Early registration typically opens in January, with a deadline by the end of March to take advantage of early bird rates. Regular registration continues through May or until sessions are full.
- Confirmation: Once registered, families will receive a confirmation email with a camper’s packet that includes a detailed list of what to bring, check-in times, and other preparatory information.
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 easier to budget for the camp experience.
- Refunds: Full refunds are available up until one month before the session begins. After that, a 50% refund is available up to two weeks before the session start date. No refunds are provided within two weeks of the session start date, except in cases of medical emergencies.
- Cancellation: If a session is cancelled by the camp due to unforeseen circumstances, families are entitled to a full refund or the option to transfer registration to a future session.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
- Scholarships: Camp Walk On Water offers a limited number of scholarships each year based on financial need, merit, and availability.
- Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available to families who demonstrate significant financial need, and applications for aid are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
They encourage families interested in Camp Walk On Water to explore all the financial options available to ensure that all children have the opportunity to experience the joy and growth that their camp provides.
Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Walk On Water
Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. At Camp Walk On Water, they aim to make the preparation process smooth and straightforward, ensuring that both parents and campers feel ready and excited for the upcoming adventure. Here’s what you need to know:
Packing List
To help campers have a comfortable and enjoyable experience, here’s a recommended packing list:
- Clothing: Enough clothes for the session (e.g., T-shirts, shorts, pants), including swimwear, a rain jacket, and a warm sweater or jacket for cooler evenings.
- Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals for general wear, and water shoes for aquatic activities.
- Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (depending on the camper’s preference) and a pillow.
- Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Miscellaneous: Hat, sunglasses, water bottle, flashlight or headlamp, and any necessary medication.
- Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a disposable camera (if parents prefer not to send electronic devices).
Rules and Policies
- Technology Use: They encourage a technology-free environment to help campers fully engage with their surroundings and peers. Mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are discouraged; however, parents can contact camp staff for updates.
- Visitation: Parents are welcome to visit during designated visitation days, typically scheduled in the middle of sessions. Outside of these times, visits are discouraged to maintain the camp program and schedule.
- Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to adhere to camp rules, show respect to both peers and staff and participate actively in scheduled activities.
Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents
- For Campers:
- Engage in discussions about what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friends.
- Practice overnight stays with friends or relatives to adjust to being away from home.
- Begin a countdown to build excitement and anticipation for the camp experience.
- For Parents:
- Ensure all forms, including medical forms, are submitted well before the deadline.
- Label all belongings with the camper’s name to prevent items from getting lost.
- Set up a communication plan with camp staff to stay informed about your child’s experience.
By following these guidelines and preparations, both parents and campers will feel more comfortable and excited about the adventure that awaits at Camp Walk On Water. Whether it’s the first time or a returning season, these preparations help ensure a smooth, enjoyable camp experience.
Camp Walk On Water stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and personal growth, set amidst the natural beauty of Stuart, Oklahoma. With its diverse array of activities, committed staff, and strong emphasis on safety and community, Camp Walk On Water offers a unique summer experience that enriches young lives. The camp’s philosophy ensures that every camper not only has immense fun but also develops essential life skills, friendships, and cherished memories.
From the thrill of outdoor adventures to the quiet moments of crafting and self-expression, Camp Walk On Water is dedicated to fostering an environment where all campers can thrive. Whether it’s their first time away from home or they’re seasoned camp veterans, each camper is encouraged to explore, discover, and grow in the supportive and vibrant community of Camp Walk On Water.