Nestled in the serene landscapes of Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin, Camp Jorn YMCA stands as a beacon of youth development and outdoor adventure. This idyllic camp is strategically located in the Northern Highland region of Wisconsin, offering panoramic views and direct access to the pristine waters of Rest Lake.

Camp Jorn YMCA was established with a profound commitment to fostering a strong sense of community, environmental stewardship, and personal growth among its campers. From its humble beginnings, the camp has grown into a cherished summer destination where children and teens form lasting friendships, learn new skills, and embrace challenges.

The mission of Camp Jorn YMCA is to provide transformative experiences that nurture leadership potential, develop character, and encourage social responsibility in a safe and supportive environment. This mission is woven into every activity, ensuring that each camper leaves with a stronger sense of self and community.

Camp Jorn YMCA is a camp that welcomes boys and girls of various age groups. The camp offers a wide range of programs designed to meet the needs of children from elementary through high school. Whether through waterfront activities, wilderness explorations, or creative arts, each session is structured to provide meaningful experiences that contribute to the holistic development of every camper.

Programs Offered by Camp Jorn YMCA

Camp Jorn YMCA provides a diverse array of programs that cater to the interests and developmental stages of various age groups. These programs are thoughtfully designed to promote learning, friendship, and personal growth. Below is an overview of the programs offered, including session lengths, specialty areas, and a glimpse into the campers’ daily schedules.

Program Description

Traditional Camp Programs:
- Session Lengths: Available in one-week, two-week, or full summer options, allowing families to choose the best fit for their schedules and their children’s comfort levels.
- Activities: These programs include a mix of outdoor adventures, sports, swimming, crafts, and team-building exercises. Each activity is designed to build confidence, encourage teamwork, and foster a connection with nature.
Specialty Camps:
- Arts Camp: Focuses on creativity through painting, sculpture, drama, and music. Sessions typically last two weeks and provide an immersive artistic experience.
- Sports Camp: Offers intensive coaching in sports such as soccer, basketball, and volleyball. These one-week sessions focus on skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition.
- Science Camp: Engages campers in hands-on scientific exploration, including ecology, astronomy, and physics. These two-week sessions are designed to spark curiosity and a love for learning.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Jorn YMCA is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, meals, free time, and rest. Here’s a typical daily schedule:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning dip
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (rotations through different program areas)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time/rest hour
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (specialty program sessions or elective activities)
5:00 PM: Free time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening program (campfire, night hikes, talent shows)
9:00 PM: Cabin time and lights out

Each session is carefully structured to ensure that campers enjoy a full day of activities while also having ample time for rest and reflection. Through its diverse offerings, Camp Jorn YMCA ensures that every camper has the opportunity to grow, learn, and have fun in a supportive community setting.

Accommodations in Camp Jorn YMCA

Camp Jorn YMCA is dedicated to providing a comfortable and safe living environment for all campers. The camp accommodations include well-maintained structures and facilities designed to enhance the camping experience while keeping the rustic charm of outdoor living.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins:
- The primary accommodations at Camp Jorn YMCA are cabins, which are traditionally constructed with wood to blend into the natural surroundings. Each cabin houses between 8 to 12 campers, along with at least two camp counselors to ensure supervision and safety. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings, providing a cozy and communal living experience.
Tents:
- For older campers or those participating in specific adventure programs, there are opportunities to sleep in tents. This option is typically part of wilderness exploration activities where campers learn to set up their own tents and live more directly in nature.

Dining Options

Meal Plans:
- Camp Jorn YMCA offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, served in the communal dining hall. The meals are designed to be nutritious and appealing to young campers, providing the energy needed for active days.
Dietary Accommodations:
- Understanding the importance of catering to diverse dietary needs, the camp kitchen staff are trained to prepare meals that accommodate various dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-specific requirements. Parents are encouraged to discuss their child’s dietary needs with the camp staff before arrival to ensure appropriate preparations can be made.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities:
- The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities strategically located near the cabins and main activity areas. Separate facilities for boys and girls ensure privacy and convenience. Bathrooms are maintained and cleaned regularly to uphold hygiene standards.
Accessibility:
- Facilities are designed to be accessible to all campers, including those with mobility challenges. Ramps and adapted shower areas are available to ensure that every camper can navigate and use these facilities comfortably.

The accommodations at Camp Jorn YMCA are thoughtfully arranged to foster a sense of community, ensure safety, and provide comfort, allowing campers to fully engage with their activities and enjoy their camp experience to the fullest.

Activities in Camp Jorn YMCA

Camp Jorn YMCA offers a wide range of activities that cater to diverse interests and skill levels, ensuring that every camper finds something enjoyable and enriching. Here is a detailed overview of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available at the camp.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures:
- Swimming: Supervised swimming sessions in Rest Lake.
- Hiking: Guided hikes through scenic trails around the camp and surrounding natural areas.
- Canoeing and Kayaking: Water-based exploration of the lake, teaching paddling techniques and water safety.
- Archery: Instruction and practice in archery skills, focusing on safety and technique.
Creative Arts:
- Crafts: Summer camps, pottery, beadwork, and woodworking, allowing campers to create personal souvenirs.
- Drama and Music: Opportunities to participate in camp skits, plays, and musical performances.
Team Sports:
- Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball: Organized games and coaching in various team sports that emphasize teamwork and physical fitness.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfires: Regular evening campfires where stories are shared, songs sung, and marshmallows roasted, fostering a sense of community and tradition.
Color Wars: An annual event where campers are divided into teams to compete in various fun and engaging activities, promoting spirit and camaraderie.
End-of-Summer Carnival: A festive celebration featuring games, treats, and performances, marking the end of each summer session.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Programs designed for older campers to develop leadership skills, including responsibility, decision-making, and group management.
Environmental Education: Activities that educate campers about local ecology, conservation practices, and the importance of environmental stewardship.
Personal Growth Workshops: Sessions that focus on building self-esteem, conflict resolution skills, and fostering independence.

The activities at Camp Jorn YMCA are designed not only to entertain but also to educate and develop skills in young individuals. By participating in these activities, campers not only have fun but also build lasting friendships, develop new competencies, and grow personally and socially in a supportive environment.

The staff of Camp Jorn YMCA

Camp Jorn YMCA prides itself on maintaining a highly qualified and dedicated staff, ensuring a safe and enriching camp experience for every camper. Below are details about the staff-to-camper ratio, the hiring process, staff qualifications, and the training and certifications required for the camp personnel.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Ratio: Camp Jorn YMCA maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and supervision. Typically, the ratio is one staff member for every six to eight campers, which allows for adequate oversight during both general activities and specialized programming.
Specific Ratios: For activities that require higher levels of supervision, such as swimming or archery, the ratios are adjusted to ensure even greater safety and supervision.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: The camp recruits staff from a variety of sources, including local universities, teacher recommendations, and through networks of former campers who return as staff members.
Selection Process: Potential staff members undergo a rigorous selection process that includes background checks, interviews, and reference checks to ensure that they are not only qualified but also have the right temperament and commitment to youth development.
Qualifications: Staff members typically have experience in child care, education, or specific activity areas (like sports or arts). Many are pursuing or have completed degrees in education, psychology, or related fields.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: All staff undergo comprehensive pre-camp training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, behavior management techniques, and specific training for camp activities.
Certifications:
- CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid to respond effectively to any medical emergencies.
- Lifeguard Certification: Staff involved in aquatic activities are certified lifeguards, ensuring the safety of all water-based activities.
- Specialized Training: Depending on their roles, staff may also have additional certifications, such as wilderness first responder, archery instructor, or boating safety.

The commitment to thorough training and high standards for staff qualifications underscores Camp Jorn YMCA’s dedication to providing a safe, enjoyable, and enriching camp environment for all campers. This level of care and professionalism ensures that parents can trust their children are in capable hands while they explore, learn, and grow at camp.

Safety and Health in Camp Jorn YMCA

Camp Jorn YMCA is committed to ensuring the highest standards of safety and health for all campers and staff. The camp has established comprehensive protocols and maintains well-equipped health facilities to manage any potential emergencies effectively.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Training: All staff participate in regular safety drills, including fire, weather emergencies, and lockdown procedures, to ensure they are well-prepared in case of an emergency.
Activity-Specific Safety Measures: Each activity offered at the camp comes with its own set of safety guidelines, which are rigorously enforced. For instance, all aquatic activities are supervised by certified lifeguards, and equipment used for sports and adventure activities is regularly inspected for safety.
Secure Environment: The camp is equipped with controlled access points to ensure that only authorized personnel and campers are on-site. Regular checks and a secure perimeter contribute to a safe camping environment.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Jorn YMCA has an on-site health center that is staffed with qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses and/or a visiting doctor. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is prepared to stabilize more serious conditions until emergency services arrive.
Medication Management: The health center also manages medications for campers, ensuring that those who require medication receive it at the correct times and in the correct dosages, under professional supervision.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan that is communicated to all staff. This plan includes procedures for evacuation, shelter-in-place, and coordination with local emergency services.
Parental Notification: In the event of an emergency, the camp has a clear protocol for notifying parents or guardians. This process is swift to ensure that families are informed as soon as possible about their child’s safety.
Training in First Aid and CPR: As part of their training, all camp staff are required to be certified in First Aid and CPR. This ensures that they can provide immediate care in the event of an emergency until medical professionals can take over.

Camp Jorn YMCA’s comprehensive approach to safety and health ensures a secure environment where parents can feel confident about their children’s well-being, and campers can enjoy their activities without unnecessary risks. This commitment to safety is integral to the camp’s philosophy and operations, promoting a positive and healthy camp experience for everyone involved.

Cost and Registration in Camp Jorn YMCA

Camp Jorn YMCA aims to provide a valuable and accessible summer experience for children and teenagers. Understanding the financial considerations of families, the camp offers detailed information about costs, registration procedures, and financial support options.

Cost and What It Includes: Camp Jorn YMCA typically offers various session lengths, with costs varying accordingly. A standard one-week session might range from $600 to $800, while a two-week session could be between $1200 and $1600. These fees usually include:

Lodging in cabins
All meals and snacks
Program activities and materials
Access to camp facilities
Supervision by trained staff

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Camp Jorn YMCA offers an online registration system where parents can fill out forms, select sessions, and submit necessary medical and personal information about their camper.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged as some sessions fill up quickly. Specific registration deadlines are typically set a few months before the summer season starts, and these are clearly communicated on the camp and through promotional materials.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: To accommodate different family needs, Camp Jorn YMCA offers payment plans that allow parents to spread the cost of camp over several months. These plans can be set up at the time of registration.
Refunds and Cancellation Policies: The camp has a structured refund policy, which generally allows for a full or partial refund up to a certain date before the camp session begins. After this date, refunds may not be available, or a cancellation fee may apply, depending on the circumstances of the cancellation.
Insurance: Families are also encouraged to consider camp insurance that can cover the cost of attendance in case of unexpected cancellations due to illness or other emergencies.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Jorn YMCA believes that financial constraints should not prevent a child from attending camp. Scholarships are available to help reduce the cost for families in need. These scholarships are typically need-based and require families to submit an application detailing their financial situation.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available through various community organizations or partnerships that the camp maintains.

Camp Jorn YMCA strives to make its programs accessible and affordable for all families, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to experience the joys and benefits of summer camp. These financial arrangements and supports reflect the camp’s commitment to inclusivity and community support.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Jorn YMCA

To ensure that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the camp experience at Camp Jorn YMCA, it’s essential to be aware of what to pack, understand the camp’s rules and policies, and consider some tips for those new to the camp environment. This preparation helps ensure a smooth transition and a positive experience.

Packing List

Essential Items:

Clothing: Pack enough for the session duration; include layers for cooler evenings and rain gear. Don’t forget a swimsuit, hat, and sturdy footwear for hiking.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, depending on the accommodation type.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Reusable Water Bottle: To stay hydrated throughout the day.
Flashlight or Headlamp: Essential for evening activities.

Optional Items:

Camera: Disposable or digital, for capturing memories (if allowed).
Books: For leisure reading during downtime.
Writing Materials: Notebooks and pens for journaling or writing letters home.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use:

Device Policy: Camp Jorn YMCA generally promotes a technology-free environment to encourage campers to engage fully with their surroundings and peers. Therefore, cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are usually not allowed or are only permitted at specific times under supervision.

Visitation:

Visitation Policy: To ensure the safety and structure of the program, visitation during sessions is typically restricted. Parents are encouraged to connect with their children during designated times such as opening and closing days or through scheduled events.

Behavioral Expectations:

Conduct: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is expected at all times. Campers are to follow all guidelines and instructions provided by the camp staff.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:

Be Open to New Experiences: Try new activities, make new friends, and be open to the camp’s adventures.
Communicate: If you’re feeling homesick or have any concerns, talk to your counselors. They are there to help!

For Parents:

Stay Positive: Your enthusiasm about the camp experience will help ease any nerves your child might have.
Pack Together: Involve your child in the packing process to give them a sense of control and anticipation for the upcoming adventure.
Set Expectations: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships to be made.

By preparing thoroughly and understanding what to expect, both parents and campers can look forward to a fulfilling experience at Camp Jorn YMCA. This preparation not only eases anxieties but also sets the stage for a summer filled with growth, learning, and fun.

Camp Jorn YMCA in Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin, provides an enriching environment where children and teenagers can explore their interests, develop new skills, and form lasting friendships. With a wide array of activities ranging from outdoor adventures and creative arts to sports and environmental education, the camp offers something for every camper. The dedicated staff ensures a safe, nurturing, and engaging atmosphere, helping each camper to grow personally and socially.

The camp’s commitment to safety, health, and comprehensive preparation for campers and parents underscores its dedication to providing a positive and memorable summer experience. The values of leadership, community, and respect are woven into every aspect of the camp, ensuring that the youth leave Camp Jorn YMCA with enhanced self-esteem, leadership skills, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.