Nestled in the serene landscapes of Ellison Bay, Wisconsin, Camp Zion stands as a beacon of adventure and spiritual growth in the Door County region. Surrounded by the picturesque views of Green Bay waters and close to the famed Newport State Park, the camp offers a unique setting that combines natural beauty with ample opportunities for exploration and reflection.

Founded with a deep commitment to fostering community and faith among young people, Camp Zion has been a place of joy and learning for decades. Its mission is to create a safe, fun, and spiritually enriching environment where campers can grow both personally and in their faith, guided by Christian principles and a strong sense of community.

Camp Zion is a Christian camp that welcomes boys and girls across various age groups. The camp programs are thoughtfully designed to cater to different age groups, ensuring that each camper receives age-appropriate guidance and activities that contribute to their development and spiritual growth. This nurturing environment makes Camp Zion not just a place to spend the summer, but a memorable and impactful experience in a young person’s life.

Programs Offered by Camp Zion

Camp Zion offers a diverse array of programs designed to meet the interests and developmental needs of its campers, enhancing both their skills and spiritual growth. Each program is crafted to provide a balanced mix of educational, recreational, and spiritual components.

Program Descriptions

Explorer Camps: These camps are perfect for younger children, offering one-week sessions that introduce campers to outdoor activities, team-building games, and Bible lessons in a fun, supportive environment.
Adventure Camps: Designed for older children and teenagers, these two-week sessions delve deeper into personal and spiritual development through challenging activities, group discussions, and leadership training.
Leadership Development Programs: For teens interested in leadership roles, these programs often span the full summer and focus on developing skills necessary for leadership, both at camp and in broader community contexts.

Specialty Programs

Camp Zion also offers specialty programs that focus on particular interests:

Arts Program: Includes music, drama, and crafts, encouraging creative expression while exploring spiritual themes.
Sports Program: Offers a variety of sports, from basketball to sailing, emphasizing teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness.
Outdoor Adventure: Focuses on skills like kayaking, hiking, and camping, teaching respect for nature and survival skills.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Zion is structured to provide a mix of activities with ample time for rest and reflection:

Morning:
- 7:30 AM – Wake Up
- 8:00 AM – Breakfast
- 9:00 AM – Morning Devotion and Worship
- 10:00 AM – Activity Session 1 (e.g., Arts, Sports, or Outdoor Adventure)
Afternoon:
- 12:00 PM – Lunch
- 1:00 PM – Quiet Time/Reflection
- 2:00 PM – Activity Session 2
- 4:00 PM – Free Time/Recreational Activities
Evening:
- 6:00 PM – Dinner
- 7:00 PM – Evening Program (Games, Campfire, Storytelling)
- 9:00 PM – Cabin Time/Small Group Discussions
- 10:00 PM – Lights Out

Each aspect of the schedule is thoughtfully designed to nurture the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of campers, making their experience at Camp Zion both memorable and transformative.

Accommodations in Camp Zion

Camp Zion provides comfortable and safe accommodations designed to enhance the camping experience while ensuring the well-being of all campers.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers stay in well-maintained cabins that are nestled among the natural surroundings of the camp. Each cabin houses 8-10 campers along with 1-2 camp counselors, ensuring proper supervision and a family-like atmosphere. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and have electricity and heating.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Zion offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three balanced meals per day, served in the communal dining hall. The meals are prepared by experienced staff, with the aim to fuel campers with the energy needed for their active days.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, Camp Zion provides options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific dietary restrictions such as gluten-free and dairy-free diets. Parents are encouraged to discuss their child’s dietary needs with the camp staff before arrival to ensure well-prepared meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Separate bathroom and shower facilities are provided for boys and girls, located conveniently near the cabins. The facilities are modern and maintained multiple times a day to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
Privacy and Safety: Privacy is a priority in the design of these facilities, with individual shower stalls and dressing areas. Safety protocols are strictly followed, and younger campers are always accompanied by staff members during their routines.

These accommodations at Camp Zion are crafted to provide a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable environment, allowing campers to focus on their growth and enjoyment without the worries of everyday necessities.

Activities in Camp Zion

Camp Zion offers a robust lineup of activities that cater to all interests and skill levels, fostering personal growth, teamwork, and an appreciation for nature among its campers.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing in the nearby lake, as well as hiking and orienteering in the surrounding wooded areas.
Sports: A variety of sports activities including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery, promoting physical fitness and sportsmanship.
Creative Arts: Crafts, painting, and pottery classes, as well as music and drama workshops that encourage creative expression.
Nature and Science: Gardening, star-gazing sessions, and environmental education classes that teach campers about the local flora and fauna and broader ecological awareness.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend the camp sessions, featuring performances by campers, awards recognitions, and reflections on their experiences.
Campfires: Regular campfire gatherings include singing, storytelling, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and tradition.
Theme Days: Special theme days such as “Pirate Day” or “Superhero Day” encourage campers to dress up and engage in themed activities, adding a fun and imaginative twist to the camp experience.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to participate in leadership training sessions, where they learn about responsibility, conflict resolution, and leading by example.
Survival Skills Workshops: These workshops teach practical skills like fire-making, shelter-building, and safe hiking practices.
Personal Development Workshops: Sessions on topics like teamwork, self-esteem, and effective communication are designed to boost personal growth and social skills.

Through these activities, special events, and skill development opportunities, Camp Zion not only provides fun and excitement but also instills valuable life skills and lasting memories in its campers.

The staff of Camp Zion

Camp Zion is committed to providing a safe, educational, and fun environment for all campers, largely thanks to its dedicated and well-trained staff.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Ratio: Camp Zion maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure individual attention and a personalized experience for each camper. Typically, the ratio is 1 staff member for every 5 campers. This ratio allows staff to monitor the safety and well-being of campers effectively, while also providing guidance and support during activities.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: The camp recruits staff from a variety of sources, including local universities, teaching colleges, and through referrals from existing staff. Prospective staff members must have a passion for working with children and a background in education, recreation, or a related field.
Qualifications: All potential staff members undergo a thorough background check and are required to have previous experience in childcare or youth programs. Additionally, those applying for specialist roles, such as lifeguards or adventure guides, must have relevant experience and certifications.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Before the beginning of each camp season, all staff members participate in an intensive training program. This program covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and activity-specific training.
Certifications: All staff are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Staff involved in specific activities like swimming, boating, or archery hold additional certifications such as lifeguarding or specific coaching credentials.
Ongoing Development: Throughout the camp season, staff members are offered ongoing training sessions and professional development opportunities to enhance their skills and adapt to evolving best practices in youth camp management.

Camp Zion takes great pride in its staff, recognizing that they are the backbone of the camp experience. Their qualifications, training, and dedication ensure that Camp Zion remains a safe and joyful place where children can learn, grow, and have fun.

Safety and Health in Camp Zion

Camp Zion prioritizes the safety and health of its campers and staff through rigorous protocols, well-equipped health facilities, and comprehensive emergency response strategies.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Training: All staff undergo regular safety training, including emergency response drills and situation awareness to ensure they are prepared to handle any incident effectively.
Activity Safety: Specific safety protocols are in place for all activities, especially those involving higher risks like swimming or climbing. Equipment is regularly inspected, and safety gear is mandatory for certain activities.
Secure Environment: The camp maintains a secure environment with controlled access to ensure only authorized personnel and campers are on-site. Regular checks and a clear visitor policy further enhance the camp’s security.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Zion has a well-equipped health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, including a licensed nurse available 24/7 during camp sessions. The health center is prepared to handle routine medical issues and is stocked with the necessary supplies and medications to address a range of minor injuries and illnesses.
Healthcare Staff: The healthcare staff are capable of administering first aid, managing prescriptions, and providing ongoing care for campers with chronic conditions. They also ensure that all health records are up-to-date and that parents are notified in the event of any health issues.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Preparedness Plan: Camp Zion has a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan that includes procedures for natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical situations. This plan is reviewed and updated annually to adapt to new safety standards and environmental conditions.
Evacuation Procedures: Detailed evacuation procedures are in place, with designated safe areas and routes clearly marked and communicated to all camp staff and campers. Regular evacuation drills ensure everyone knows their role in an emergency.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, Camp Zion has a clear communication plan to inform parents, emergency services, and local authorities. The camp is equipped with multiple communication devices to ensure connectivity even if standard systems fail.

Through these meticulous safety and health measures, Camp Zion ensures that every camper’s experience is not only enriching and fun but also secure and well-supervised, providing peace of mind to both parents and staff.

Cost and Registration in Camp Zion

Camp Zion is dedicated to providing an enriching camp experience at a reasonable cost, along with flexible payment options and financial assistance to ensure that all children have the opportunity to attend.

Cost of Attendance: Camp Zion’s fees typically range from $350 to $450 per week, depending on the specific program and duration. This cost usually includes:

Lodging in cabins or tents
All meals and snacks
Program activities and materials
Access to camp facilities
Qualified staff supervision

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration Process: Parents can register their children through Camp Zion’s online portal, which provides a step-by-step guide through the registration process. This includes filling out necessary health and consent forms and choosing specific camp sessions and activities.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged as some sessions fill up quickly. Deadlines are typically set a few months before the camp starts, with reminders sent via email to prospective campers.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Camp Zion offers flexible payment plans that allow families to pay in installments leading up to the camp session. This can help ease the financial burden by spreading out the cost over several months.
Refunds and Cancellation: A full refund is usually available until a month before the camp begins, less a non-refundable deposit. Cancellations after this point may receive a partial refund depending on the timing, and cancellations due to medical reasons are typically handled on a case-by-case basis.
Cancellation Insurance: Families are encouraged to purchase cancellation insurance, which can cover unexpected cancellations outside of the normal refund policy.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Zion offers scholarships based on need, merit, or both. These scholarships can cover part or all of the cost of camp, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent enthusiastic campers from attending.
Financial Aid Application: Applications for financial aid require the submission of financial information, and the amount of aid offered can vary. The camp strives to assist as many families as possible within its budgetary constraints.

Camp Zion’s commitment to accessibility and affordability ensures that many families have the opportunity to experience all that the camp has to offer, making it a rewarding investment in a child’s growth and development.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Zion

Camp Zion ensures that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the camp experience, providing detailed guidelines on packing, adherence to camp rules, and tips for first-time campers to help make the transition smooth and enjoyable.

Packing List

Essential Clothing: Pack comfortable and durable clothing suitable for active outdoor activities, including t-shirts, shorts, and long pants. Also include a jacket for cooler evenings and rain gear.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking and a pair of sandals or water shoes for aquatic activities.
Bedding and Toiletries: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow, towels, and personal toiletry items.
Sun and Insect Protection: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent are essential.
Other Essentials: Flashlight, water bottle, and any needed medications (with instructions).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Zion encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and peers. Mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are typically not allowed, or their use is restricted to certain times and areas.
Visitation: Parents are generally allowed to visit on specific visiting days, which are scheduled to minimize disruption to the camp program and allow campers to settle into camp life.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for others, positive participation in camp activities, and adherence to safety guidelines are crucial. Parents and campers are briefed on these expectations before the camp session begins.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Pre-Camp Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities to make new friends. Address any anxieties your child may have about being away from home.
Stay Positive: For parents, it’s important to stay positive and excited about your child’s camp experience. If you’re enthusiastic, your child is more likely to feel confident about their upcoming adventure.
Communication: Teach your child how to use any approved communication methods, such as letters or postcards. Prepare them for the possibility of homesickness, and discuss strategies to manage it.
Packing Together: Involve your child in the packing process to ensure they understand what they are bringing and why each item is necessary.

By thoroughly preparing both campers and their parents, Camp Zion aims to create a seamless and enriching experience that fosters independence, confidence, and a deep appreciation for community and outdoor activities.

Camp Zion in Ellison Bay, Wisconsin, stands out as a premier destination for youth looking to explore the outdoors, develop new skills, and deepen their spiritual understanding in a supportive community setting. With its comprehensive array of programs, from adventurous outdoor activities to creative arts and sports, the camp offers something for every young person, fostering personal growth and lifelong memories.

The camp’s commitment to safety, health, and comprehensive camper support is evident in its meticulous attention to detail—from well-trained staff and robust safety protocols to the on-site health facilities and thoughtful accommodation options. This ensures that every camper’s experience is not only fun and engaging but also secure and supportive.