The Importance of Mini Camp for Youth Development at Camp Ondessonk
For more than 60 years, Camp Ondessonk has been a place where children form lasting friendships, build confidence, and develop a love for the great outdoors. Our Mini Camp programs provide the perfect introduction to sleep-away camp, helping young campers transition into longer sessions while fostering personal growth and independence in a safe, supportive environment.
Why Mini Camp Matters for Youth Development
Mini Camp at Camp Ondessonk is specifically designed for children entering 3rd through 5th grade (ages 8-10), offering a tailored introduction to the magic of summer camp. This program helps young campers build confidence, develop social skills, and cultivate a love for outdoor adventure—all while under the close guidance of our caring and experienced counselors.
According to the American Camp Association (ACA), attending summer camp at an early age helps children develop essential life skills, including independence, problem-solving, and resilience. Research from the ACA also indicates that camp experiences contribute to improved social-emotional learning, helping children navigate relationships, regulate emotions, and enhance their sense of self-worth (American Camp Association, 2021).
What Makes Mini Camp Special?
Camp Ondessonk offers two Mini Camp programs: Mini Camp and Mini Camp Explorers, each providing an enriching outdoor experience in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest.
Mini Camp (3-Day Session)
Perfect for first-time campers, this 3-day program introduces kids to rustic camping while allowing them to experience classic camp activities like:
- Nature walks and handicrafts
- Boating and swimming
- Archery and pony rides
- Campfires and group skits
With a 1:3 or 1:4 counselor-to-camper ratio, Mini Campers receive nearly constant guidance, ensuring they feel supported and safe while exploring new experiences.
Mini Camp Explorers (6-Day Session)
For those ready for a longer adventure, Mini Camp Explorers extends the experience to a full 6-day. This program builds upon the traditional Mini Camp experience, offering additional time to:
- Develop social skills through communal living
- Engage in structured activities designed for teamwork and friendship-building
- Explore more of the traditions that make Camp Ondessonk so beloved by generations of campers
The Lasting Impact of Mini Camp
Many of Camp Ondessonk’s dedicated staff members were once Mini Campers themselves, a testament to how transformative this early camp experience can be. By introducing children to a sleep-away camp in a structured and nurturing environment, Mini Camp lays the foundation for future camp adventures, including Traditional Camp, Horse Camp, and Adventure Camp programs.
A study conducted by the University of Waterloo found that children who attend summer camp show significant improvements in self-confidence, independence, and emotional intelligence compared to their peers who do not participate in camp programs (University of Waterloo, 2019). These are life skills that extend beyond summer camp, shaping children into well-rounded individuals who are better equipped to navigate school, relationships, and future challenges.
Register for Mini Camp Today!
Spots for Camp Ondessonk’s Mini Camp programs fill quickly! Give your child the opportunity to experience the joys of outdoor adventure, personal growth, and lifelong friendships by enrolling in Mini Camp or Mini Camp Explorers today.
Camp Ondessonk’s Mini Camp is more than just a fun summer getaway—it’s a stepping stone to confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of the outdoors. Join us this summer and watch your child thrive!