Camp Activities

summer camp activities collage

Good old-fashioned fun – the essence of camp.  We offer a progression of activities based on the age group, program focus, and skill level. There are new challenges and experiences for the youngest of campers all the way to more adventurous older youth and adults.

Check out some of our favorite camp activities below.

Archery

Campers can try their hand at shooting a bullseye or play archery tic-tac-toe, after a thorough lesson on range safety led by qualified staff members. New skills can help build self-confidence! (completed grades 5+)

B.L.A.S.T

Bible Learning And Spirit Time is a daily hour of chaplain-led songs, crafts, games, and reflections relating to the daily theme and Bible verse.

Candle Time

Many of the best conversations at camp happen as we wind down at the end of the day. Whether sitting around a small campfire with our family group or a single candle in the cabin, Candle Time is a moment for intentional and thoughtful reflection about the day and discussions about faith and life.

Canoeing

Campers grab PFDs (life jackets) and paddles, then gather for an interactive skills and safety orientation led by a trained instructor.  Then it’s time to explore the coves of DuBois Center’s lake with a certified lifeguard. Depending on the day, campers might enjoy just hanging out, a lively game of noodle tag, or even a “dinosaur egg” hunt. (completed grades 5+ and adult/child pairs)

Cookouts

Hot dogs, foil stews, pie iron pizzas, s’mores – sound delicious? Cookouts are an integral part of our group-building focus, especially for our older campers. Outlanders have the option to cook out twice!

Creek Walks

Get ready to get wet! Whether campers want to learn about stream ecology and erosion or just splash around, the creek is a great place to cool off.

Gaga Ball

Jump into the pit for this version of dodgeball. Skill and luck play equal parts in this fast-paced game that anyone can win.

Group Games

Large and small groups play a variety of fun and engaging games. These activities focus on active participation as opposed to winning and losing. Elbow Tag, Scream & Run, Ninja, Everybody’s It and Captain Midnight are only a few of our favorites.

Horseback Riding

No doubt about it, our horses are the most popular kids in camp, and all campers have the option to ride.

Campers receive instruction in basic barn etiquette and how to safely lead, mount, ride, and dismount a horse. Our riding instruction is based on safety and recreation. It is not intended as instruction for horse shows or competitions. Campers attending our Horse Camps spend significantly more time with the horses.

Nature Discoveries

Whether on a dedicated nature hike or just walking to breakfast, DuBois Center is a great place to explore creation – deer, owls, and beautiful native wildflowers are common sights! Habitat, Bat & Moth and Hug-a-Tree are favorite games that help campers explore the natural world.

Night Hikes

Once the sun goes down and the lights go out, the world looks a lot different! Learning how our senses adapt to the darkness is just part of the adventure. It could be an evening of active games, or just quiet time soaking in the light of a starry night.

Nine Square in the Air

A mash-up between four square and volleyball that is played with a nine-square grid overhead – luck rules, and anyone can win!

Swimming

Swim! Splash! Float! Play! Campers have the chance to hit the beach daily.  The sand is perfect for sandcastle building contests or a game of beach volleyball! Our waterfront, supervised by certified lifeguards during each activity, is split into shallow and deep ends to accommodate different skill levels and campers must pass a swim test to enter deeper waters.

Team Building

A series of engaging challenges that stress teamwork over individual achievement. Campers begin to recognize that when they think before acting, they can accomplish more together as a group. It’s simple cooperative games for younger campers and more challenging initiatives for older campers.

Teams Course

(Not Currently Available as of May 2024)

Balancing on wires, swinging through the air, climbing and crawling – all with the integral support of cabinmates. Groups build on the cooperative skills developed during Team Building and take on greater challenges. A trained leader facilitates effective communication and teaches advanced techniques which enable groups to safely support one another on our low-ropes teams course.

Water Mat

WALK ON WATER… or at least the water mat. Our water mat is a camp favorite! Campers jump, play, nap, and dance across our floating mat – some of the most fun you’ll see on water! PFDs are required, so all campers are able to participate, regardless of swimming ability.