Arrowhead Bible Camp, located in the serene setting of New Auburn, Wisconsin, offers a peaceful retreat nestled in the heart of the Midwest. This camp is uniquely positioned near serene lakes and expansive forests, making it an ideal location for outdoor activities and spiritual reflection. Established with a vision to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Christian values among youth, Arrowhead Bible Camp has been a cornerstone in the community for spiritual growth and development.

The mission of Arrowhead Bible Camp is to create a nurturing environment that builds stronger connections to faith through scripture-based teachings and fellowship. This philosophy is integrated into all aspects of camp activities, aiming to enrich the spiritual lives of its attendees.

Arrowhead Bible Camp serves as a facility, welcoming boys and girls of various age groups, typically ranging from 8 to 18 years old. The camp offers a range of programs that cater to different age groups, ensuring that each camper receives age-appropriate spiritual guidance and outdoor experiences. This approach allows Arrowhead Bible Camp to provide a comprehensive, enriching camp experience that promotes personal growth, friendship, and a deeper faith commitment.

Programs Offered by Arrowhead Bible Camp

Arrowhead Bible Camp offers a diverse array of programs tailored to enhance the spiritual, physical, and intellectual development of its campers. The sessions vary in length to accommodate different needs and schedules, ranging from one-week retreats to full summer engagements. This flexibility allows families to choose the duration that best fits their summer plans.

Programs and Descriptions

Adventure Camps:
- Duration: One or two weeks
- These camps are designed for thrill-seekers and nature lovers. Activities include hiking, canoeing, and wilderness survival skills, all woven together with daily devotionals and group worship.
Leadership Development Programs:
- Duration: Two weeks to full summer
- Aimed at older campers, these programs focus on developing leadership skills through team-building exercises, leadership workshops, and service projects, preparing teens to be leaders in their communities and churches.
Arts and Crafts Workshops:
- Duration: One week
- Campers explore their creative sides through various arts and crafts projects, including painting, woodworking, and pottery, all integrated with lessons about creativity from a biblical perspective.
Sports Camps:
- Duration: One week
- Focusing on physical fitness and teamwork, these camps offer a variety of sports, such as basketball, volleyball, and soccer, emphasizing cooperation, fair play, and spiritual sportsmanship.
Science and Nature Exploration:
- Duration: One to two weeks
- These sessions combine scientific inquiry with the exploration of the natural world, encouraging campers to learn about God’s creation through hands-on activities like astronomy, biology, and environmental science.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:00 AM: Wake Up & Morning Devotion
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning Program (varies by specific camp focus)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet Time/Personal Reflection
2:00 PM: Afternoon Activities (arts and crafts, sports, science labs)
5:00 PM: Dinner
6:00 PM: Evening Worship and Bible Study
8:00 PM: Campfire and Fellowship
10:00 PM: Lights Out

Each day at Arrowhead Bible Camp is carefully structured to balance physical activities, creative pursuits, and spiritual enrichment, ensuring that each camper has a memorable and transformative experience.

Accommodations in Arrowhead Bible Camp

Arrowhead Bible Camp provides comfortable and rustic accommodations designed to enhance the camping experience while maintaining a close connection with nature. The camp’s facilities are thoughtfully arranged to cater to the needs of campers and staff, ensuring a comfortable stay throughout their program.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The camp features a series of well-constructed cabins that blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural environment. Each cabin can house between 8 to 12 campers, with bunk beds and storage space for personal belongings. Cabins are divided by age group and gender to provide a safe and supportive environment for all campers.
Counselor Accommodations: Counselors stay in the cabins with the campers, providing supervision and guidance throughout the night. There is typically one counselor for every 5 to 6 campers.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Arrowhead Bible Camp offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, served in a communal dining hall. The meals are designed to be nutritious and energy-boosting, catering to the active lifestyle of campers.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to diverse dietary needs, the camp’s kitchen staff is equipped to handle various dietary restrictions and preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-specific meals. Campers or their guardians are encouraged to communicate any dietary needs in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Central Bathhouses: The camp is equipped with central bathhouses that serve the cabin clusters. These facilities are separated by gender and are strategically located to ensure easy access from the cabins. Each bathhouse is equipped with multiple showers, sinks, and toilet stalls, designed to handle the camp’s capacity and maintain cleanliness and hygiene.
Maintenance and Cleaning: The bathhouses are maintained and cleaned daily by the camp’s housekeeping staff, ensuring that hygiene standards are met consistently. This attention to cleanliness is crucial for both comfort and health during the campers’ stay.

Overall, Arrowhead Bible Camp’s accommodations are designed to ensure that every camper feels safe, comfortable, and well-cared for throughout their stay, allowing them to focus fully on their camp experience and spiritual growth.

Activities in Arrowhead Bible Camp

Arrowhead Bible Camp offers a rich variety of activities designed to engage campers in both fun and learning, enhancing their physical abilities, creative talents, and spiritual insights. These activities are tailored to ensure that every camper has an enriching experience, balanced between action-packed adventure and reflective learning.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Activities include swimming in the nearby lake, hiking on scenic trails around the camp, and canoeing. These activities not only provide fun and exercise but also teach campers about the natural environment.
Arts and Crafts: A creative workshop where campers can engage in crafts like pottery, painting, and woodworking, fostering creativity and providing a tangible reminder of their time at camp.
Sports: Organized sports activities such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery help campers develop teamwork and personal fitness.
Fishing: Given the camp’s proximity to lakes, fishing is a popular activity, teaching patience and skill.
Campfire Gatherings: Summer camps and evening campfires are a staple, featuring singing, storytelling, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These are integral traditions at Arrowhead Bible Camp, marking the beginning and end of the camp season. They include introductions, camp songs, and a preview of what campers can expect during their stay.
Talent Shows: A camp-wide talent show encourages campers to display their talents, whether it be in music, dance, drama, or comedy, promoting confidence and entertainment.
Themed Days: Special themed days, such as “Pirate Day” or “Wild West Day,” add a fun and engaging twist to the regular schedule, allowing campers and staff to dress up and participate in themed activities.
Spiritual Emphasis Days: These days are focused on deepening spiritual understanding through extended worship services, guest speakers, and group discussions.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to participate in leadership training programs, preparing them to serve as junior counselors or leaders in group activities.
Survival Skills Workshops: Teaching practical skills such as building a fire, finding safe drinking water, and constructing shelters.
Bible Study Groups: Organized study sessions and discussions help campers explore their faith and apply biblical teachings to everyday life.

Arrowhead Bible Camp’s diverse array of activities and special events ensures that each camper’s experience is not only enjoyable but also enriching, allowing them to develop a variety of skills and create lasting memories.

The staff of Arrowhead Bible Camp

Arrowhead Bible Camp is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment for all campers, which is greatly facilitated by its dedicated and well-trained staff. The camp takes great care in ensuring that all staff members are not only qualified but also passionate about their roles, supporting the camp’s mission and enhancing the camp experience for every participant.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Arrowhead Bible Camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care. The typical ratio is one staff member for every six campers. This ratio allows staff to effectively monitor and engage with campers, ensuring safety and a high quality of program delivery.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: The camp recruits staff from a variety of sources, including local universities, job fairs, and online job portals. Preference is given to applicants with previous camping experience or those who have worked in child-focused environments.
Qualifications: Applicants must have a minimum of a high school diploma, but many are college students or graduates with backgrounds in education, recreation, or related fields. A strong personal character, a passion for working with youth, and a commitment to the camp’s Christian values are essential.
Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks are mandatory for all potential hires, including criminal background checks and references to ensure the safety and security of the campers.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Prior to the camp season, all staff undergo an intensive training program that covers camp policies, child behavior management techniques, safety protocols, and specific training related to their assigned roles.
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 during pre-camp training sessions.
Specialized Training: Depending on their roles, some staff members may also receive additional training in areas such as lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, or specific activity leadership (e.g., archery, boating).
Continuous Education: Throughout the camp season, staff members participate in ongoing training sessions to review procedures and learn new skills that enhance their effectiveness and responsiveness in various situations.

This comprehensive approach to staff recruitment, qualification, and training ensures that Arrowhead Bible Camp is a safe and supportive environment where campers can enjoy their experiences while being under the supervision of caring and competent staff.

Safety and Health in Arrowhead Bible Camp

Arrowhead Bible Camp prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing rigorous safety protocols and maintaining robust health facilities. The camp’s commitment to a secure environment is reflected in its detailed procedures and readiness to handle any emergencies that may arise.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: The camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire drills and emergency evacuation procedures, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with how to respond in various scenarios.
Activity-Specific Safety Rules: Each activity offered at the camp comes with its own set of safety rules, which are rigorously enforced. For example, all aquatic activities are supervised by certified lifeguards, and appropriate safety gear must be worn during sports and adventure activities.
Secure Facilities: The camp facilities are regularly inspected and maintained to meet safety standards. This includes securing all equipment and facilities used in camp activities, as well as ensuring that sleeping and communal areas are safe and secure.
Restricted Access: Arrowhead Bible Camp controls access to the campgrounds, ensuring that only authorized personnel and registered campers are allowed on the premises. This helps to maintain a secure environment.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: The camp maintains a well-equipped health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, such as registered nurses or paramedics, who are available 24/7 during the camping season.
Staff Qualifications: Healthcare staff are required to have appropriate medical qualifications and are trained to handle a range of medical situations, from minor injuries to health emergencies.
Medication Management: The health center also manages the storage and distribution of medications for campers who require them, ensuring that medications are administered safely and as prescribed.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Arrowhead Bible Camp has a comprehensive emergency response plan that outlines procedures for various potential emergencies, including severe weather, health crises, and accidents.
Communication Protocols: In the event of an emergency, the camp has established protocols for communicating with local emergency services and parents. This ensures that relevant parties are informed and can respond quickly.
Training for All Staff: All camp staff receive training on the emergency response plan and are regularly updated on their roles and responsibilities in emergency situations.
Partnerships with Local Authorities: The camp maintains strong relationships with local emergency services, such as fire departments, hospitals, and police, to ensure a quick response when external assistance is required.

These safety and health measures at Arrowhead Bible Camp are integral to its operations, ensuring that the camp provides a safe and healthy environment where campers can enjoy their activities with peace of mind, knowing that comprehensive systems are in place to protect their well-being.

Cost and Registration in Arrowhead Bible Camp

Arrowhead Bible Camp offers an enriching experience with a focus on affordability and accessibility, ensuring that many families can benefit from its programs. The camp provides clear information on costs, registration, and financial support options.

Cost of Attendance

Fees: The cost of attending Arrowhead Bible Camp varies depending on the length and type of session. Typically, fees range from $200 to $600 per week. These fees include all lodging, meals, activities, and program materials.
What’s Included: The fees cover the complete camp experience—accommodation in cabins, three daily meals, all camp activities, and access to camp facilities. Additional costs might arise for special outings or optional purchases such as camp merchandise.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Families can register their campers online. The registration process involves filling out camper information, selecting session dates, and providing medical and dietary information.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months before the camp season starts and remains open until sessions are filled. It’s advisable to register early as spaces can fill up quickly, and early registration discounts are often available.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Arrowhead Bible Camp offers payment plans to help families manage the cost of the camp. These plans allow families to pay the camp fees in installments leading up to the start of the camp session.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp has a structured refund policy. Full refunds are usually available until a month before the session begins, minus a non-refundable deposit. After this point, partial refunds may be available depending on the timing of the cancellation.
Cancellation Policy: In case of cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness, the camp typically offers credits for future sessions or partial refunds based on how close to the session date the cancellation occurs.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Arrowhead Bible Camp provides scholarships to help families who may not afford the full cost of attendance. These scholarships are often need-based and require families to fill out an application detailing their financial situation.
Financial Aid: The camp also offers various forms of financial aid, including discounts for siblings, early registration, and multi-week stays. Families are encouraged to contact the camp administration for more detailed information on available financial support.

Arrowhead Bible Camp’s commitment to accessibility ensures that financial constraints do not hinder a camper’s ability to participate, aiming to provide every child with the opportunity to experience the joy and growth that the camp offers.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Arrowhead Bible Camp

Preparing for a stay at Arrowhead Bible Camp involves careful planning and understanding of the camp’s expectations and requirements. To ensure that both campers and their parents are ready for the upcoming camp experience, here’s a comprehensive guide on packing, rules, and helpful tips.

Packing List

Essentials:

Clothing: Pack enough for the session duration, including underwear, socks, t-shirts, shorts, and pants. Include a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
Footwear: Comfortable shoes for activities (sneakers), sandals for showers, and hiking boots if applicable.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, bug repellent, and a towel.
Reusable Water Bottle: Essential for hydration throughout the day.

Optional:

Swimwear: For aquatic activities, include a swimsuit and towel.
Rain Gear: A raincoat or poncho for wet weather.
Hat and Sunglasses: For sun protection.
Flashlight or Headlamp: Useful for evening activities.

Do Not Bring:

Expensive items that could be lost or damaged, such as jewelry.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Arrowhead Bible Camp encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and peers. Devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops are typically not allowed.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to respect the camp schedule, with visitation usually limited to designated visiting days to minimize disruptions.
Behavior: The camp maintains strict policies regarding behavior. Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is expected at all times. Bullying and inappropriate behavior are not tolerated.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:

Stay Open-Minded: Be ready to try new activities, make new friends, and learn new skills.
Follow the Pack List: Packing according to the list provided by the camp ensures you have everything needed for a comfortable stay.
Communicate: If you’re feeling homesick or have any concerns, talk to your counselor. They’re there to help!

For Parents:

Stay Informed: Read all materials provided by the camp before your child attends. Knowing the schedule, rules, and what to expect can help you prepare your child better.
Pack Together: Help your child pack, using the packing list as a guide to ensure nothing essential is forgotten.
Set Expectations: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting opportunities and the fact that it’s normal to feel a bit nervous about new experiences.

By following these guidelines, campers and parents can ensure that the experience at Arrowhead Bible Camp is both enjoyable and rewarding, filled with personal growth and fun activities.

Arrowhead Bible Camp offers a unique blend of spiritual growth, outdoor adventure, and community building in the scenic heart of New Auburn, Wisconsin. With its comprehensive array of programs, dedicated staff, and robust safety protocols, the camp provides a nurturing environment where campers of various ages can explore their faith, develop new skills, and form lasting friendships.

The camp’s commitment to fostering a technology-free and inclusive atmosphere allows campers to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature and each other. Through its thoughtful balance of structured activities and free exploration, Arrowhead Bible Camp ensures that every camper experiences personal growth and joy. Whether you’re a first-time camper or a returning enthusiast, Arrowhead Bible Camp promises an enriching summer filled with fun, learning, and adventure.