Outdoor Education and Getting Ready for Summer Camp
I sometimes laugh at the term “off-season” in reference to the winter months here at Camp Ondessonk. I am happy to say that we’ve had a very busy and productive winter season, as we turn our gaze to an eventful Outdoor Education season in the spring, and another amazing summer full of camp spirit. It is an exciting time for school year programming. We are happy to welcome Greg Santen as our new Program Director. Greg’s experience in the camping industry is extensive, and I have no doubt that he will be a valuable member of the administrative staff for years to come. We also welcome Sarah Allen and Jakob Pasdertz as our new Outdoor Education Staff for the season.
This spring, we look forward to welcoming over 1000 students and teachers, as well as three Road Scholar Programs, Women in the Outdoors, the Heartwood Forest Council, and many day and weekend guests. As you plan your spring, remember to check out the Spring Lodge Workshop and Father/Son Weekends, as well as one of our two open houses. Our school year is booking up quickly, so if you are interested in sending your school, church, or scout group, call immediately to set up a visit and view a schedule of the many activities you can enjoy such as horse rides, hikes, zip-lines, and other rewarding outdoor experiences.
Summer is right around the corner and Camp Ondessonk is ready to open its doors and celebrate our 55th summer! The counseling staff has been hired and camper enrollment is looking great; now we’re just waiting for a little more sun! With the success of mini-camp and mini-camp explorers, Camp is proud to announce that we will be hosting mini-campers all summer long. Along with the mini-camp additions, we have added several new Adventure Programs including Shawnee Zip-Line Adventure and Whitewater Adventure. These new programs will join our current menu to provide older campers or thrill seekers with a cavalcade of fun. As far as our traditional programs go, we have made several big improvements and upgrades from new PFD’s (WHAT IS THIS?) to a brand new High Ropes and Zip-Line Complex. It’s safe to say that our 55th summer will be one to remember!
As summer approaches, remember that every camper counts. Don’t forget about our Ambassador Program, or our Lodge Camp Discount Program which helps spread the good word of camp. The camp community is a strong one, so please help us in getting as many campers to cross the covered bridge as you can. Here at camp we can’t wait for the programming season, and I can’t wait to see each and every one of you soon. Heepwah!
Brian Croft