FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the summer camp’s mission?
Chapel Rock’s summer camp mission is to provide a camping experience that will be life-changing.

What measures are in place to ensure the safety of my child?
We thank you for entrusting your child with us, and his/her safety is our priority. First, in the interest of preventing emergencies, we maintain a high level of supervision: a 1:6 counselor to camper ratio. Throughout the day, campers are always with their counselor or a group of counselors. We have procedures in place for any type of emergency and all staff members are trained in these procedures. Campers will be briefed on what to do in an emergency. If your child is in need of medical attention, staff members are trained in CPR and First Aid. We are also located within 2 miles of Yavapai Regional Medical Center.

Should camp be closed due to unforeseen circumstances or should an emergency arise, parents and guardians will be contacted. A detailed message will also be available by calling (928) 445-3499 or (877) 445-3499.

What training do counselors receive?
At a minimum, counselors are trained in camp safety regulations, emergency procedures and communication and basic first aid. Counselors are taken through the “Safeguarding God’s Children” program to be trained in behavior management techniques, child-abuse prevention, appropriate staff and camper behavior and specific procedures for supervision.

What are the ages of the counselors?
Minimum age requirement for counselors is 18 and it typically ranges from 18-24.

How old does my child have to be to attend camp?
There are camps available for 3rd-12th grade campers (completed in the spring). The first two weeks are specifically designed for our younger aged campers 3rd-6th graders. The third week is for 3rd-8th grade. Fourth week will be focused on Jr. High and fifth week is Senior High camp.

What are the desired qualities in counselors?
The same qualities of trustworthiness and dependability sought by any employer are valued characteristics in camp employees. The ability to adapt to a variety of situations, empathy for and ability to work with camp clientele, a strong self-image and an outgoing personality are important characteristics for camp staff. Also, being open and having the ability to lead faith based discussions are essential qualities sought for in a Chapel Rock counselor. Counselors need to have the will and ability to create a memorable, safe experience for the campers and be a strong presence for them.

What percentage of the counselors returned from last year?
Chapel Rock has a great retention rate usually seeing between 45% and 65% returning.

What percentage of campers comes back the next year?
Chapel Rock has seen some campers 11-14 years consecutively and many go on to become counselors. Again, the rate of return is usually greater than 50%.

What are the facilities like?
The age of the facilities ranges from the 1930’s, when Chapel Rock was first established, to as late as 2002. Regardless, they are all cleaned throughout the week by our onsite staff, the campers and counselors themselves and thoroughly over the weekend prior to a new session. Two of the buildings used in summer camp have air conditioning and the rest have swamp coolers. There can be anywhere from 10 to 44 bunks in the cabin all having shared restroom facilities. The most bunks in a single room is 12. Many of the facilities have a kitchenette, TV/DVD, fireplace and common area.

How are behavioral and discipline problems handled?
This is where the director's philosophy comes through loud and clear. Positive reinforcement, assertive role modeling and a sense of fair play are key components of camp counseling and leadership. Rules are necessary in any organization; all of camp is made aware of the rules each and every week. The disciplinary approach taken is reasonable and well-communicated. If penalties are involved for violations, they are applied quickly, fairly, calmly and without undue criticism to campers. Typically, a ‘time out’ for the camper is the appropriate action taken for more serious altercations a talk with the director or a call home might be what needs to happen.

How does the camp handle special needs?
If your child has special requirements, ask the camp director about needed provisions and facilities. There is a nurse on staff. Special foods are available for campers with restricted diets. Please feel free to call to ask specific questions for your child.

How does the camp handle homesickness and other adjustment issues?
Checking with the camper to see if there is a need that is being overlooked is usually the first step. Providing comfort, confidentiality and safety are the counselor’s priorities. We will check to see if a sibling is in camp at the same time, sometimes a familiar face provides all the comfort needed. In some cases, campers are taken to the nurse’s office where they can talk to the nurse, get some sleep, enjoy some private quarters if necessary. We have many loving teddy bears that are cleaned after each use but are always eager to provide comfort. As a last result, we’ll make a call home that will begin with the director making the parent aware of the situation and providing some helpful information on what to share with the child.

Can I visit my child?
Part of being at camp is making great friends while away from parents. Please take the opportunity on check-in and check-out days to meet staff and ask any additional questions about your child’s stay. Your child’s stay at camp is relatively short and we are very busy with activities.

Can I talk to my camper on the phone?
Phone calls to and from home are discouraged, for the fact that they can exacerbate homesickness. You may call the office and ask for the Program Director during business hours and check in on your child’s experience at (877) 445-3499. In the event that a child requests to call home permission is granted by the Program Director after advance contact with the parent or guardian to discuss the situation.

What is Chapel Rock’s policy on cell phones?
Campers are not permitted to have cell phones at camp. They are a distraction and easily lost. However, we understand that you may need to contact your child during camp hours. You are welcome to call the office any time at (877) 445-3499.

What can my child look forward to at camp?
A lot! Your child can look forward to exciting activities they choose to participate in each day, during camper choice time. Our staff strives to make each activity exciting, intriguing and fun. They can look forward to making new friends, exploring their personal faith, swimming, great food, mock rock, etc. Mornings are devoted to fun and age-appropriate spiritual development programming, and there are Sacred Space devotions each morning and night.

Do the campers go swimming? If so, what if my child is not a good swimmer?
The camp does go swimming at the local YMCA on Tuesday evenings. There is a full size Olympic pool, a diving pool and a kid pool with a water slide, which provide opportunity for any ability. YMCA lifeguards are on duty. There are always 3-4 staff that bring games or other activities to do out in the lobby.

What do campers do if it rains?
Kids have a great time rain or shine. If there is no threat of lightning and a light drizzle outdoor activities will continue. At the first sign of lightning and thunder everyone goes inside. We have multiple spaces available where counselors can lead activities, watch movies, play games, etc.

Are there options for picky eaters?
The summer camp menu is catered to children’s tastes. However, if the child cannot eat what entrée is being served there are many options including; salad, fruit, side salads, desserts, peanut butter and jelly, etc.

What if my child is allergic to something?
Please be sure to communicate food or other allergies your child may have. We want everyone to have the best experience possible and letting us know in advance enables us to achieve that.

What if my child has a birthday while attending camp?
There are few things better than a Chapel Rock birthday. Your child will be sung to in a fun, light mannered way. Our kitchen staff makes a wonderful birthday cake complete with decorations.
May I send care packages to my children?
Care packages are great! A special note to your child and enough treats for his/her entire cabin group is appreciated.

Is there a camp store?
The camp store is open on check-in and check-out days. Camp shirts, water bottles, stickers, snacks and other memorabilia are available for purchase. We discourage campers from having money in their possession throughout the week. We serve canteen throughout the week at the camp store and accept donations for supplies on check-in and check-out days. Each child gets a drink and a snack once daily whether a contribution is made or not.

Is financial aid available for summer camp?
If you need more information please call (877) 445-3499.

Can I come for a visit?
If you would like to schedule a visit to Chapel Rock, please call (877) 445-3499 or (928) 445-3499 and our office staff will set a time for you.