What a Typical Day Looks Like at Camp Ondessonk: A Parent’s Guide to the Summer Camp Experience
By the Camp Ondessonk Communications Team
When families begin researching summer camps, one of the most common questions is: “What does a typical day at Camp look like?” At Camp Ondessonk, the better-prepared campers are, the more rewarding and enriching their experience will be. That’s why we’re pulling back the curtain to help you and your camper visualize the daily rhythm of life in our lush, 983-acre Shawnee National Forest setting.
As a proud member of the American Camp Association (ACA), Camp Ondessonk upholds the highest standards for safety, staffing, programming, and camper well-being. Our horse programs are also certified by the Certified Horsemanship Association, ensuring that campers ride and care for horses under the guidance of expert instructors and adhere to safe practices.
A Day in the Life at Camp Ondessonk
Each day at Camp Ondessonk is intentionally structured to balance adventure, reflection, personal growth, and play. While every session is packed with memorable moments, here’s a look at what a “typical day” might look like for your camper:
Morning Kickoff
- 7:45 AM – Breakfast
- Campers rise with the sun and fuel up with a hearty, kid-approved breakfast in the Dining Hall. Our meals are planned with dietary needs in mind, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options.
- 8:45 AM – Activity Rotations (Session I)
- Mornings are all about hands-on adventure! Campers rotate through exciting, counselor-led activities such as: Archery & Riflery, Boating and Swimming (Red Cross lifeguards), Nature Exploration and Woodscraft, Handicrafts
- Horseback riding (CHA Certified),
- and Creative Arts
- Challenge Course and Outdoor Skills
Pro Tip for Parents: Encourage your camper to try something new—Camp is a place for healthy risk-taking and discovering hidden talents.
Midday Reset
- 12:30 PM – Lunch
- Campers reunite with their unit (small living group) to enjoy a nutritious, family-style lunch.
- 1:00 PM – Siesta (Rest Hour)
- Quiet time in the cabin offers campers the opportunity to recharge and unwind. They might write letters home, read, journal, or rest after a morning full of action.
Afternoon Adventures
- 2:30 PM – Activity Rotations (Session II)
- The second round of activity periods allows campers to explore new experiences or delve deeper into their favorite camp experiences.
- 4:45 PM – Free Time & Shower Time
- Campers have time to socialize, play games, or head to the shower house. Campers develop independence by managing their own hygiene and organizing their personal belongings.
Evening Connection & Camp Spirit
- 5:45 PM – Optional Prayer Service
- Rooted in Catholic tradition but welcoming to all faiths, our daily prayer service provides an inclusive opportunity for reflection.
- 6:15 PM – Flag Ceremony
- As a unifying ritual of camp life, campers, and staff gather in reverence and respect to lower the flag before dinner.
- 6:30 PM – Dinner
- Everyone comes together to refuel with a lively, nourishing dinner in the Dining Hall, which is often filled with singing, laughter, and skit announcements.
- 8:00 PM – Evening Activity
- Each night holds something special: themed dances, all-camp games, campfires, or a night hike under the stars.
- 10:00 PM – Taps & Lights Out
- Campers settle in for the night to the sound of taps playing across Camp—tired, happy, and ready to do it all again tomorrow.
Teaching Responsibility, Respect, and Resilience
At Camp Ondessonk, we emphasize our three guiding principles:
- Take Care of Ourselves
- Take Care of Others
- Take Care of Camp
Campers are coached by role models—many of whom grew up at Camp themselves—to make good choices, build friendships, and contribute positively to the community. With a camper-to-staff ratio of 8:1, each child is known, supported, and empowered to grow.
First-Time Campers: What to Know
Sending your child to an overnight Camp for the first time can be an emotional milestone for both campers and parents! We encourage families to talk through the camp schedule and expectations in advance. Remind your camper that Camp life will differ from home, but that’s a good thing! They’ll return with new confidence, skills, and stories to tell.
Visit our Parent Resources page for practical tips on preparing your camper, including:
- Transportation info
- Packing lists
- Cabin life expectations
- Medical care
- Mail and packages
“Camp is one of the few places where children can truly unplug, explore independence, and build community with others in a safe, structured, and screen-free environment.”
— American Camp Association
Who Can Attend Camp Ondessonk?
Camp Ondessonk is a Catholic youth camp open to all, regardless of race, national origin, religion, or identity. While rustic and communal by nature, our team works closely with families to accommodate most physical, emotional, and dietary needs. Contact us before registration to discuss how we can create the best possible experience for your camper.
Final Thoughts: A Week of Wonder
A week at Camp Ondessonk is more than just a schedule—it’s a rite of passage, a home away from home, and a place where lifelong friendships and values take root. Whether it’s your camper’s first summer or their fifth, each day is designed to help them discover who they are and who they want to become.
For more details about what a typical day at camp looks like, including programs, availability, and registration information, visit ondessonk.com or call us at 618-695-2489.
