Welcome to Shekinah Ranch Camp, a unique and inspiring retreat nestled in the scenic region of Charleroi, Pennsylvania. Located amidst the rolling hills and natural beauty of southwestern Pennsylvania, the camp is not far from significant landmarks like the Monongahela River, offering a picturesque backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities.

Founded with a deep sense of purpose, Shekinah Ranch Camp has been dedicated to shaping young lives through enriching experiences and spiritual growth. The camp’s history is rooted in a commitment to providing a safe, nurturing environment where children can explore their potential and strengthen their faith.

Their mission at Shekinah Ranch Camp is to create an environment where young people can meet Jesus Christ, grow in their faith, and experience fun, life-changing opportunities. This mission is reflected in every aspect of their programming and daily interactions, with an emphasis on personal development and community building.

Shekinah Ranch Camp is a summer camp that caters to boys and girls across various age groups. The camp offers a wide range of activities designed to cater to different interests and age levels, ensuring that every camper finds something they love while fostering a sense of adventure and lifelong friendships.

Join us at Shekinah Ranch Camp for an unforgettable summer filled with joy, learning, and adventure in the heart of Pennsylvania!

Programs Offered by Shekinah Ranch Camp

Shekinah Ranch Camp provides a diverse array of programs designed to engage, educate, and inspire campers of all ages. Whether your child is interested in exploring the outdoors, developing athletic skills, or engaging in creative arts, their programs offer something for everyone.

Description of Programs

Their programs are thoughtfully crafted to foster personal growth, teamwork, and spiritual development. Key offerings include:

Adventure Activities: From horseback riding to zip-lining, campers can enjoy thrilling outdoor adventures that build confidence and leadership skills.
Sports Programs: Focused on sportsmanship and skill development, their sports camps include soccer, basketball, and more, catering to all levels of athletic ability.
Creative Arts: For the creatively inclined, they offer arts and crafts, music, and drama programs, encouraging campers to express themselves and discover new talents.
Spiritual Enrichment: Daily devotionals and Bible studies are integral to their camp experience, helping campers explore their faith in a supportive community.

Length of Sessions

Shekinah Ranch Camp offers flexible session lengths to accommodate the needs of all families:

One-Week Sessions: Perfect for first-time campers or those looking for a short but impactful experience.
Two-Week Sessions: Ideal for deeper exploration of camp activities and more substantial personal growth.
Full Summer Options: For the ultimate camp experience, campers can immerse themselves in activities and community building throughout the summer.

Specialty Programs

In addition to their general camp programs, they offer specialty tracks for campers with specific interests:

Equestrian Program: This specialty program focuses on horse care, riding skills, and equestrian safety, suitable for beginners to advanced riders.
Leadership Development: Designed for older campers, this program focuses on developing leadership skills that can be applied both inside and outside of camp.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Shekinah Ranch Camp is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, free time, and community interactions:

Morning: After breakfast, campers engage in a morning devotional followed by their chosen activity sessions.
Afternoon: Post-lunch, campers participate in different electives or continue with their morning activities.
Evening: Dinner is followed by evening activities such as campfires, group games, or night hikes.
Night: Campers wind down with a cabin chat led by their counselors, reflecting on the day and discussing life lessons.

At Shekinah Ranch Camp, every day is an opportunity for fun, learning, and personal growth, all within the framework of their Christian philosophy and mission.

Accommodations in Shekinah Ranch Camp

At Shekinah Ranch Camp, they prioritize comfort and convenience to ensure that every camper has a memorable and enjoyable experience. Their accommodations and facilities are designed to blend seamlessly with their natural surroundings while providing a safe and welcoming environment for all campers.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their primary accommodation type is cabins, which are spacious and well-ventilated. Each cabin houses multiple campers and is divided into sleeping areas with bunk beds. Cabins are supervised by experienced counselors who stay in the cabins to provide guidance and support.
Tents: For older campers or those participating in specific adventure programs, they offer tent sleeping options. This allows for a more immersive outdoor experience, with campers sleeping under the stars in secure and comfortable tents.
Dormitory Style: For special events and larger group accommodations, they have dormitory-style facilities that provide a communal living experience, fostering camaraderie and friendship among campers.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: All campers enjoy nutritious and hearty meals prepared daily by their skilled kitchen staff. They provide three balanced meals per day, along with healthy snacks to keep energy levels high.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to all dietary needs, their menu includes options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific dietary restrictions such as gluten-free and dairy-free diets. Parents are encouraged to communicate any special dietary needs during the registration process to ensure they accommodate them properly.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Centralized Facilities: Bathroom and shower facilities are centrally located and easily accessible from all sleeping areas. These facilities are separated by gender and are well-maintained with cleanliness and hygiene as top priorities.
In-Cabin Bathrooms: Some of their newer cabins are equipped with in-cabin bathrooms, providing convenience and privacy. These are typically reserved for younger campers or those requiring special accommodations.
Eco-Friendly Options: In line with their commitment to the environment, they also provide eco-friendly bathroom solutions, such as compost toilets and solar-powered showers, especially in more remote camping areas.

At Shekinah Ranch Camp, they strive to provide a comfortable, safe, and enriching camping experience for every participant. Their facilities are continuously updated to meet the needs of their campers and staff, ensuring a pleasant stay for everyone involved.

Activities in Shekinah Ranch Camp

Shekinah Ranch Camp offers a diverse and engaging array of activities designed to cater to a wide range of interests and skill levels. Their programs are structured to encourage skill development, foster personal growth, and build lasting friendships, all within a safe and supportive Christian environment.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Activities such as hiking, swimming, and horseback riding allow campers to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Sports: They offer a variety of sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery, which promote teamwork and physical fitness.
Creative Arts: Summer camps can indulge in their creative side through crafts, painting, music, and drama workshops.
Water Activities: With access to a lake, campers enjoy boating, canoeing, and fishing, along with swimming under the supervision of certified lifeguards.
Equestrian Program: This specialized program teaches campers about horse care, riding skills, and safety around animals.
Ropes Course: Their challenging ropes course includes low and high elements, fostering teamwork and confidence among participants.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfires: Regular campfire gatherings are a time for songs, storytelling, and marshmallow roasting, helping to create a sense of community and shared experience.
End-of-Camp Carnival: A tradition at Shekinah Ranch, the carnival features games, contests, and performances, celebrating the achievements and friendships developed over the camp session.
Spiritual Services: Weekly chapel services and daily devotionals are integral to camp life, allowing campers to deepen their faith and reflect on their experiences.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers have the opportunity to participate in leadership programs, which prepare them for roles as junior counselors and camp leaders.
Skill Workshops: Focused workshops in areas like sports, arts, and outdoor survival skills help campers advance their abilities and gain new competencies.
Personal Development: Activities are geared not only toward fun but also towards developing important life skills such as responsibility, cooperation, and resilience.

At Shekinah Ranch Camp, they believe in providing an environment where campers can try new things, challenge themselves, and enjoy achievements in a variety of domains. Whether they’re mastering a new art technique, conquering fears on the ropes course, or leading a team in sports, campers leave with enhanced skills, new friends, and happy memories.

The staff of Shekinah Ranch Camp

At Shekinah Ranch Camp, they are proud of their dedicated and skilled team of staff members who play a pivotal role in creating a safe, engaging, and supportive environment for their campers. From counselors to activity specialists, their staff is carefully selected and trained to ensure they meet the highest standards of care and professionalism.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Optimal Ratios: They maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and supervision. Typically, their ratio is one staff member for every five campers, which allows us to provide a high level of care and interaction, enhancing the overall camp experience.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Rigorous Selection Process: Their hiring process includes thorough background checks, interviews, and reference checks to ensure that all staff members are not only qualified but also share their camp’s values and mission.
Diverse Expertise: They hire staff with a variety of skills and backgrounds, including education, sports coaching, arts, and outdoor recreation, to cater to the diverse range of activities offered at the camp.
Experience and Maturity: Priority is given to applicants who have prior experience in camp settings or with child and youth development. Many of their staff members are college students pursuing degrees in relevant fields, as well as teachers and youth leaders during the off-season.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: All staff members undergo comprehensive pre-camp training that covers their camp philosophy, child behavior management techniques, safety protocols, and emergency procedures.
Certifications: Staff involved in specific activities, such as swimming or the ropes course, hold appropriate certifications. All their staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid to ensure they are prepared to respond to any health or safety issues promptly.
Continuous Development: Throughout the summer, they conduct ongoing training and professional development sessions to ensure that their staff remains vigilant and updated on best practices in camper care and safety.

Their staff’s commitment to fostering a nurturing environment helps every camper at Shekinah Ranch Camp feel valued, safe, and excited to participate in all that they offer. This strong foundation of qualified and compassionate staff is key to delivering a memorable and impactful camp experience.

Safety and Health in Shekinah Ranch Camp

Ensuring the safety and well-being of their campers and staff is a top priority at Shekinah Ranch Camp. They have comprehensive safety protocols and health facilities in place to manage any situation that might arise during camp sessions.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Risk Assessment: Before camp sessions begin, all facilities and equipment undergo thorough safety checks to ensure they are in optimal condition. Regular assessments continue throughout the camp season.
Emergency Preparedness: They have detailed emergency response plans tailored to various scenarios, including severe weather, fire, and medical emergencies. These plans are regularly reviewed and practiced with staff and campers upon arrival.
Activity Safety: Specific safety protocols are in place for each activity offered at the camp, especially for those involving higher risks, such as horseback riding, swimming, and the ropes course. Equipment is regularly inspected, and all safety guidelines must be followed by campers and staff.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Shekinah Ranch Camp is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and on-call physicians. The health center is prepared to handle minor injuries, and illnesses, and to manage ongoing health needs of campers, such as medication administration.
Availability: The health center is open throughout the day with set hours and is available for emergencies 24/7. All camp staff are informed about how to quickly access medical help if needed.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Immediate Response: In the event of an emergency, their trained staff are equipped to respond immediately, providing first aid and stabilizing the situation while emergency services are contacted if needed.
Communication: Parents are notified as soon as possible in the event of an emergency involving their child. They maintain open lines of communication to ensure that parents are kept informed and can make decisions regarding their child’s care.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: Shekinah Ranch Camp works closely with local emergency services, including fire departments, hospitals, and police, to ensure a swift response to any emergency. They regularly review and update their collaborative plans to align with best practices and local guidelines.

Their proactive approach to safety and health, combined with rigorous training and well-equipped facilities, ensures that Shekinah Ranch Camp remains a safe and secure environment for all campers and staff, allowing parents to feel confident in the care and supervision their children receive while at camp.

Cost and Registration in Shekinah Ranch Camp

Shekinah Ranch Camp is committed to providing a fulfilling camp experience that is both accessible and affordable for families. They understand the importance of clear and manageable financial options, and they strive to accommodate the diverse needs of their camp community.

Cost of Attendance

Inclusive Pricing: The cost of attendance varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Generally, fees cover all camp activities, meals, accommodation, and any special events or excursions included in the camp program.
Additional Costs: Certain specialized activities or programs, like the equestrian program, might have additional fees to cover specific equipment or extra staffing needs. These will be clearly outlined during the registration process.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children. This system allows families to select their preferred session dates, fill out necessary health and consent forms, and make payments securely.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months in advance of the camp season, with early bird discounts offered to those who register early. Deadlines for each session are set to allow adequate preparation for camper arrivals, and these are clearly communicated.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Recognizing that families have different budgeting needs, they offer flexible payment plans that allow the camp fees to be paid in installments leading up to the start of the session.
Refunds and Cancellations: Should you need to cancel your registration, they provide a tiered refund policy. Full refunds (minus a small administrative fee) are available up until a certain date, which typically is a few weeks before the session begins. After this date, partial refunds are available up until the start of the camp, barring any last-minute cancellations which may not be eligible for a refund.
Insurance: They also recommend considering camp insurance to cover potential losses due to unexpected cancellations or medical issues.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: They believe that every child should have the opportunity to experience camp, regardless of financial circumstances. Scholarships are available based on need, and they encourage families to apply early as funds are limited.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, they sometimes offer sliding scale fees based on family income, as well as special discounts for siblings, multiple sessions, or referrals.

At Shekinah Ranch Camp, they are dedicated to making their programs as accessible as possible, offering a variety of financial options to ensure that all interested families have the opportunity to join their camp community.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Shekinah Ranch Camp

Preparing for camp can be an exciting time for both campers and their parents. At Shekinah Ranch Camp, they want to ensure that this process is smooth and that all participants feel ready and confident as they approach their camp experience. Here’s a guide to help with packing, understanding camp rules, and getting the most out of the camp experience.

Packing List

To ensure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay, here’s a recommended packing list:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing (including rain gear and warm layers), swimwear, hats, and sturdy footwear for hiking and sports.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or bed linens and a pillow.
Toiletries: Including sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications (with clear instructions).
Equipment: Water bottle, flashlight or headlamp, and optional items like binoculars or a camera.
Special Items: Musical instruments or specific gear related to their chosen activities, if applicable.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is restricted at camp. These items can be used during designated times and areas but are otherwise stored safely.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to help maintain the camp schedule and dynamics. Detailed information on visitation days and times will be provided ahead of the camp session.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for others, positive participation, and safety are paramount. They have a strict no-bullying policy and rules against inappropriate behavior to ensure a supportive environment for all campers.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities to make new friends. Address any anxieties by talking through what a typical day looks like.
Communication: Understand the camp’s communication policies, including how often and through what means you can expect updates. Prepare your child for the experience of being away from home with positive reinforcement.
Homesickness: It’s normal for some campers to experience homesickness. Encourage your child to stay engaged in activities and to talk to their counselor, who is trained to help.
Safety: Reinforce the importance of following camp rules and listening to staff instructions, especially regarding safety during activities.

By following these guidelines and preparing adequately, parents and campers can ensure a smooth transition to camp life, setting the stage for a memorable and enriching summer at Shekinah Ranch Camp.

At Shekinah Ranch Camp in Charleroi, Pennsylvania, they are committed to providing a safe, enriching, and joyful summer experience for every camper. Nestled in the beautiful natural surroundings of southwestern Pennsylvania, their camp offers a diverse range of activities and programs designed to nurture physical, spiritual, and emotional growth. Their dedicated staff, comprehensive safety protocols, and strong community spirit ensure that each camper leaves with not only memorable experiences but also new skills, stronger faith, and lifelong friendships.

Whether your child is joining us for the thrill of outdoor adventures, the creativity of arts and crafts, or the camaraderie of team sports, Shekinah Ranch Camp promises an environment where they can thrive and explore. They pride themselves on being a place where campers can meet challenges with enthusiasm, learn in a supportive environment, and grow in confidence and character.