Parent Info

Everything Parents Need to Know

Parent Information

Everything you need to know to prepare your camper for an amazing week at Bear Lake Camp.

Check-In & Check-Out

Check-In Times

Sunday: 4:30-5:30pm at the Dining Hall

Primary Overnight Exception: Thursday Morning at 10:00am

Please arrive during the designated window so we can properly welcome your camper and get them settled into their cabin.

Pick-Up Times

Friday Night: 6:30pm

Junior 3 Exception: Thursday at 6:30pm

Check out your camper at their cabin and collect their belongings.

Stop by the Snack Shack to get your left-over money, camp picture (if ordered), and browse BLC gear for sale.

Please arrive on time - counselors are released when all campers are picked up.

What Happens at Check-In

When you arrive, you will:

  1. Head to the tent near the parking lot
  2. Our LITs will happily collect and deliver your luggage on the Bear Lake Express
  3. Head to Check In at the Dining Hall Porch
  4. Settle your balance
  5. Get your cabin assignment
  6. Head to the cabin to meet your counselor and choose a bed
  7. Say your goodbyes before opening program 5:30

Pro tip: Arrive a few minutes early to walk around, see the waterfront, and ask any last-minute questions!

Camper Expectations

Participation

Attend and actively participate in all scheduled events and activities.

Respect

Display respect for others, counselors, staff, and camp property at all times.

Conduct

Conduct themselves in an appropriate, Christ-honoring manner throughout the week.

What to Bring

Packing List

We've prepared a comprehensive packing list to help your camper be prepared for an amazing week. Click below for everything they'll need (and what to leave at home).

View Complete Packing List

Staying Connected

Communication Policy

We operate by the core value of "Awayness" our during the week to help campers fully engage in the camp experience. This means that our camp program is "screen free."

  • Campers do not have access to phones
  • If you need to reach your camper for an emergency, call the camp office and leave a message.
  • Leadership staff will facilitate a call home if your camper is struggling

Regular Updates

We'll keep you in the loop!

  • Photo Slideshows posted on our Facebook/Instagram page
  • You're welcome to send letters or care packages (no food please)

Write to Your Camper

Snail Mail

Our campers love to get mail at camp! Send letters, postcards, or packages to:

Camper Name c/o Bear Lake Camp 1805 S. 16th St. Albion, IN 46701

Mail sent Monday or Tuesday will typically arrive before camp ends.

Care Package Tips

  • Do send encouraging notes, stickers, small items
  • Do include stamps and addressed postcards
  • Don't send food (dietary reasons and cabin critters!)
  • Don't send expensive items that could get lost

Camper E-Mail

Send an E-mail to your camper!

  • Email to: [email protected]
  • Put your camper's name and cabin number in the subject line
  • Please refrain from sending pictures or links as e-mails must be printed out for campers

*Please honor this courtesy by only sending one email to your camper/day to help us reduce excessive paper waste.

Pray for Your Camper

We believe PRAYER is a vital part of the ministry at Bear Lake Camp. You are encouraged to pray throughout the day. Coordinated staff prayer times take place daily at 7:00am, 5:00pm, and 10:30pm.

Pray daily that your camper and others will:

  • Be CHANGED by encountering Jesus
  • Make a decision to GROW in their faith
  • Be EQUIPPED to read and engage Scripture
  • Build healthy relationships with others
  • Experience the love of God
  • Sense God's presence daily
  • Enjoy a fun, safe week

Also pray for your camper's specific needs and for our camp staff!

Health & Safety

Medical Care

  • Camp nurse on-site 24/7
  • Hospital 15 minutes away
  • All staff trained in First Aid and CPR
  • We'll contact you for any health concerns

Medications

  • Turn in all medications to nurse at check-in
  • Medications must be in original containers
  • Include written dosage instructions
  • Nurse dispenses all medications on schedule
  • Campers may NOT keep meds in cabins (exceptions made for rescue inhalers and T1 Diabetes)

Frequently Asked Questions

Have more questions? Check out our comprehensive FAQ page covering registration, activities, daily schedules, and more.

View FAQ

Contact Us

Camp Office

Phone: (260) 799-5988

Email: [email protected]

Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm

Ready to Register?

Register Now

We can't wait to see your camper this summer!