Welcome to YMCA Camp Marrowbone, a cherished retreat nestled in the scenic heart of Marksville, South Dakota. Located near notable landmarks such as the lush Marksville State Forest and the serene Lake Vernon, their camp provides an idyllic backdrop for unforgettable summer adventures.

YMCA Camp Marrowbone has a storied history, established to forge lasting memories and foster personal growth in a nurturing environment. Since its inception, the camp has been a beacon for youth development, promoting strong values through community living, outdoor adventures, and skill-building activities.

Guided by the YMCA philosophy of building healthy spirit, mind, and body for all, Camp Marrowbone is committed to creating a supportive, inclusive, and safe environment where every camper can thrive. Their mission resonates through every aspect of their programs, encouraging campers to develop respect for themselves and others and to become responsible contributors to their communities.

YMCA Camp Marrowbone is a facility that welcomes boys and girls across various age groups, typically ranging from 6 to 16 years old. They offer a diverse array of activities tailored to cater to the developmental needs and interests of each age group, ensuring a balanced and enriching experience for all.

Join us at YMCA Camp Marrowbone, where the days are filled with exploration, learning, and laughter, all while making lifelong friendships in the great outdoors.

Programs Offered by YMCA Camp Marrowbone

YMCA Camp Marrowbone offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to a wide range of interests and ages, ensuring every camper has the opportunity to explore their passions, develop new skills, and make lasting memories. Here’s an overview of the programs and what a typical day looks like at Camp Marrowbone:

Programs Offered

Traditional Camp Programs:
- Duration: Available in one-week, two-week, or full-summer sessions.
- Description: These programs focus on classic camp experiences, including swimming, hiking, canoeing, and campfires. They emphasize personal growth, teamwork, and outdoor skills.
Specialty Programs:
- Arts Camp:
  - Duration: One-week sessions.
  - Description: Campers engage in various creative activities such as painting, drama, music, and dance, culminating in a camp-wide showcase at the end of the session.
- Sports Camp:
  - Duration: One or two-week sessions.
  - Description: Focuses on a variety of sports, including soccer, basketball, archery, and more, offering both skill development and competitive play.
- Science Camp:
  - Duration: Two-week sessions.
  - Description: Designed for budding scientists, this program includes activities like environmental studies, basic robotics, and astronomy, encouraging curiosity and critical thinking.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:00 AM – Wake Up: Start the day with a refreshing wake-up call.
7:30 AM – Breakfast: Gather in the dining hall for a nutritious start to the day.
8:30 AM – Morning Assembly: Camp-wide assembly to discuss the day’s schedule and any special announcements.
9:00 AM – Morning Activity Block: Campers head to their first activity of the day, which could be a specialty program or traditional camp activity.
12:00 PM – Lunch: Re-energize with a hearty meal and some downtime.
1:00 PM – Rest Hour: Time for relaxation and letter writing.
2:00 PM – Afternoon Activity Block: Campers participate in a second set of activities, often different from the morning to provide a variety.
5:00 PM – Free Time: Campers have free time to explore, play, or relax with friends.
6:00 PM – Dinner: Another opportunity to refuel and share stories of the day’s adventures.
7:00 PM – Evening Program: Activities vary nightly and include campfires, talent shows, or themed parties.
9:00 PM – Cabin Time: Time to wind down with cabin mates and prepare for bed.
10:00 PM – Lights Out: Time to rest up for another exciting day.

YMCA Camp Marrowbone’s schedule is designed to strike a balance between structured activities and free time, allowing campers to explore their interests while building independence and social skills. Whether it’s through arts, sports, or science, each camper finds a place to shine at Camp Marrowbone.

Accommodations in YMCA Camp Marrowbone

At YMCA Camp Marrowbone, they ensure that all campers have comfortable accommodations and dining options that cater to their needs, making their stay both enjoyable and convenient. Here’s a detailed look at the accommodations, dining, and facilities available at Camp Marrowbone:

Sleeping Arrangements

Camp Marrowbone provides a classic camp experience with a range of sleeping options designed to foster camaraderie and community among campers:

Cabins: The primary accommodation type, their cabins are spacious and well-ventilated, housing 8-10 campers along with at least two counselors. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and close proximity to central bathroom and shower facilities.
Tents: For older campers or special wilderness programs, they offer the option to sleep in tents. This provides a more rugged, outdoor experience and is typically part of specific adventure or survival skills programs.
Dorms: Available for larger groups or special events, dormitory-style accommodations include multiple beds in a larger, open space, offering a different style of communal living.

Dining Options

Nutrition is paramount at Camp Marrowbone, and their dining services are designed to keep campers energized and healthy throughout their stay:

Meal Plans: They provide three well-balanced meals per day, served in the communal dining hall. Meals are varied to ensure a range of nutrients and to keep the menu exciting for campers.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of dietary needs, they cater to various restrictions and allergies including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Parents are encouraged to discuss their child’s dietary needs in advance to ensure they can accommodate them properly.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Ensuring the comfort and hygiene of all campers, their bathroom and shower facilities are conveniently located and maintained:

Bathrooms: Separate bathroom facilities for boys and girls are centrally located near cabin and dorm areas. These facilities are equipped with flush toilets and sinks.
Showers: Modern shower facilities are available with individual stalls, providing privacy and convenience. Hot and cold water is available, and the areas are cleaned and sanitized multiple times a day.

At YMCA Camp Marrowbone, their goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, and healthy environment for all campers, allowing them to focus on having fun and learning new skills. Their accommodations and facilities are thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of every camper, ensuring a memorable and enriching camping experience.

Activities in YMCA Camp Marrowbone

YMCA Camp Marrowbone is a hub of activity, offering a wide range of programs that cater to diverse interests and promote skill development. Below is a detailed list of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available to campers:

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Daily swimming sessions in Lake Vernon, with safety always prioritized and supervised by certified lifeguards.
Hiking: Guided hikes through the nearby Marksville State Forest, exploring different trails and learning about local flora and fauna.
Crafts: A variety of arts and crafts activities designed to spark creativity, including pottery, beadwork, and painting.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water-based adventures on Lake Vernon, teaching basic paddling techniques and water safety.
Archery: Instruction in safety and technique, allowing campers to practice precision and focus.
Sports: A range of sports activities such as basketball, soccer, volleyball, and softball.
Nature Studies: Programs that explore environmental science and wildlife, promoting ecological awareness and respect.
Outdoor Survival Skills: Summer camps, learning essential survival skills such as fire-building, orienteering, and shelter construction.
Ropes Course: Challenges on low and high ropes courses, which foster teamwork and personal confidence.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Night Campfire: A tradition that welcomes all campers with songs, skits, and introductions, setting the tone for their camp experience.
Color Wars: A multi-day event where campers are divided into teams to compete in various physical and creative challenges.
Talent Show: An end-of-session event where campers can showcase their talents in front of their peers and camp staff.
International Day: Celebrating cultural diversity, campers and staff share traditions, foods, and stories from their home countries.
Family Day: At the end of each session, families are invited to participate in activities, observe what their children have learned, and join for a communal meal.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Programs designed for older campers focusing on leadership skills, conflict resolution, and team management.
Environmental Education: Hands-on activities that teach campers about conservation, sustainability, and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
Artistic Expression: Opportunities to delve into various art forms, allowing campers to discover and develop their artistic talents.
Physical Fitness: Encouraging a healthy lifestyle through active sports and challenges that promote physical wellness.
Social Skills: Through group activities and communal living, campers enhance their communication skills, learn to work in teams, and build lasting friendships.

YMCA Camp Marrowbone creates a dynamic environment where campers not only enjoy themselves but also gain valuable skills that contribute to their personal growth. The variety of activities, coupled with the special events and skill development programs, ensures a rich and transformative experience for every camper.

The staff of YMCA Camp Marrowbone

YMCA Camp Marrowbone is committed to ensuring a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all campers. This commitment is reflected in their stringent staff hiring practices, comprehensive training programs, and their favorable staff-to-camper ratios. Here’s a detailed overview:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Ratio: They maintain a staff-to-camper ratio of 1:8 for children aged 6 to 8, and 1:10 for campers aged 9 to 16, ensuring personalized attention and supervision.
Specialty Areas: For activities that require more intensive supervision and instruction, such as swimming or archery, the ratio is adjusted to 1:6 to enhance safety and instruction quality.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Staff are typically recruited from a pool of previous campers who have aged out of the program, local universities, and through national camping networks. Priority is given to candidates with experience in child care, education, or relevant fields.
Interviews and Background Checks: All potential hires undergo a rigorous interview process and must pass comprehensive background checks, including criminal history and reference checks.
Qualifications: Staff members are often pursuing or have completed degrees in education, recreation, or similar fields. A passion for working with children and a strong moral character are essential traits they look for in all staff members.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff participate in an extensive orientation that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and activity-specific training.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are often provided by the camp if staff have not already obtained them prior to employment.
Specialized Certifications: For activities that require additional expertise, such as lifeguarding or ropes course management, staff must hold relevant certifications. They ensure that instructors for these activities are fully qualified and certified to manage any situations that may arise.
Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, staff undergo continuous training and performance evaluations. This includes weekly meetings to discuss camper progress, review procedures, and refine strategies to enhance the camp experience.

YMCA Camp Marrowbone’s staff are not just employees but role models and caretakers who are dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where young people can learn, grow, and thrive. Their staff is well-equipped to handle both the day-to-day and more complex needs of their campers, ensuring a safe, fun, and educational experience for everyone involved.

Safety and Health in YMCA Camp Marrowbone

Safety and health are paramount at YMCA Camp Marrowbone, and they have a comprehensive framework in place to ensure the well-being of all campers and staff. Here’s an overview of their safety protocols, on-site health facilities, and emergency handling policies:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Activity Safety: Each activity at camp is conducted under strict safety guidelines, with appropriate gear and supervision. For example, all aquatic activities are supervised by certified lifeguards, and safety gear such as life jackets are mandatory.
Regular Drills: The camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure everyone knows how to act in an emergency.
Safety Briefings: Campers and staff receive detailed safety briefings at the start of the camp and before each activity, outlining potential risks and the safety measures in place.
Check-In Procedures: Strict check-in and check-out procedures ensure that only authorized persons enter the campgrounds, and that all visitors are logged and monitored.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: YMCA Camp Marrowbone has a fully equipped health center staffed by a licensed nurse available 24/7 during the camp season. The health center is capable of handling minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with the necessary medications and first-aid equipment.
Health Staff: In addition to the on-site nurse, they often have a visiting doctor or a paramedic available, especially during high-intensity activity periods or large camp gatherings.
Medication Management: All camper medications are managed and distributed by the health center staff, ensuring that medications are stored correctly and administered at the correct times.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan tailored to a variety of potential scenarios, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical incidents.
Communication Systems: In the event of an emergency, the camp uses a robust communication system to notify all staff and, if necessary, emergency services and parents. This system includes radios, public address systems, and emergency contact protocols.
Transportation for Emergencies: The camp maintains vehicles on-site specifically designated for emergency use. This ensures that transportation is immediately available if a camper needs to be transported to a hospital or specialized medical facility.
Parental Notification: Parents are immediately notified in the event of any emergency affecting their child, following a predefined protocol that respects privacy and urgency.

YMCA Camp Marrowbone is dedicated to maintaining a secure and healthy environment. Their proactive measures and well-prepared staff ensure that all campers can enjoy a fun and safe camping experience, with the assurance that their well-being is their top priority.

Cost and Registration in YMCA Camp Marrowbone

YMCA Camp Marrowbone is committed to providing an enriching and accessible summer camp experience. Here’s detailed information on the cost of attendance, registration details, and financial assistance options:

Cost of Attendance

Cost: The cost of attending YMCA Camp Marrowbone varies depending on the length of the session and the type of program chosen. Typically, one-week sessions cost approximately $400, two-week sessions are around $750, and a full summer may range from $2,500 to $3,000.
Included in the Cost: Fees cover all lodging, meals, activities, equipment, and program materials. Additional costs may apply for special outings or optional activities outside the standard camp offerings.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration Process: Parents can register their children, where they will need to create an account, fill out necessary medical and consent forms, and choose their preferred session and activities.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January and remains open until sessions are full. Early registration is encouraged as many sessions fill up quickly, especially for popular age groups and specialty programs.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: To make camp more affordable, YMCA Camp Marrowbone offers flexible payment plans. Families can choose to spread the cost over several months leading up to the camp session.
Refunds and Cancellation: If cancellation occurs more than one month before the start date, families can receive a full refund minus a small administrative fee. Cancellations within a month of the start date may result in partial refunds or the option to apply the fee to a future session, depending on the circumstances.
Insurance: Camp insurance is also available for purchase at registration to cover unexpected cancellations due to illness or injury.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid

Scholarships: YMCA Camp Marrowbone offers scholarships to help reduce the cost for families in need. These scholarships are awarded based on financial need and typically cover a portion of the camp fees.
Financial Aid: The camp also collaborates with local organizations and charities to provide additional financial aid opportunities. Families are encouraged to apply early for these programs as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

YMCA Camp Marrowbone strives to make the camp experience as accessible as possible to all families, ensuring no child misses out due to financial constraints.

Parent and Camper Preparation in YMCA Camp Marrowbone

YMCA Camp Marrowbone aims to ensure that both campers and their parents are well-prepared for the upcoming camp experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide including a packing list, camp rules and policies, and helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents:

Packing List

To ensure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay, the following items are recommended:

Clothing: Pack enough comfortable clothing for the duration of the stay, including t-shirts, shorts, long pants, and a jacket for cooler evenings. Include swimwear and a sturdy pair of hiking boots or walking shoes.
Bedding: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (depending on the sleeping arrangements), and a pillow.
Toiletries: Include items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Other Essentials: Water bottle, flashlight with extra batteries, hat, sunglasses, and any necessary personal items.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, or small games for downtime.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, technology use is restricted at camp. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are discouraged and, if brought, will be collected and stored safely upon arrival and returned at departure.
Visitation: Parents are welcome to visit during specific visitation days, which are scheduled to minimize disruption to the camp program. Outside of these days, visitations are generally not allowed to ensure the safety and structure of the camp environment.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules, and respect fellow campers, staff, and the natural surroundings. Bullying, aggressive behavior, or possession of prohibited items will result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what the camp experience will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships. Encourage independence at home to ease the transition to camp life.
Homesickness: It’s common for first-time campers to experience homesickness. Parents can help by expressing confidence in their child’s ability to handle being away from home.
Communication: Explain how communications will work, including how often and by what means they can expect to hear from their child. Reassure them that no news is good news.
Packing Together: Involve your child in the packing process to give them a sense of control and ensure they know what they have packed.

By adequately preparing and understanding the camp’s guidelines, both parents and campers can look forward to a positive and memorable camp experience at YMCA Camp Marrowbone. This preparation helps set the stage for a summer filled with growth, learning, and fun.

YMCA Camp Marrowbone stands as a beacon of adventure, growth, and community in the beautiful setting of Marksville, South Dakota. Through its diverse programs and activities, campers from various backgrounds are invited to explore the great outdoors, develop new skills, and forge lasting friendships. The camp’s commitment to safety, coupled with its robust educational and recreational offerings, ensures a supportive environment where every child can thrive.

With dedicated staff, excellent facilities, and a legacy of enriching young lives, YMCA Camp Marrowbone promises not just a summer escape, but a transformational experience that campers will cherish for a lifetime. Whether it’s their first summer or they’re returning veterans, campers leave with increased confidence, cherished memories, and a deeper appreciation for the community and the natural world around them.