Summer Camp FAQ | Camp Friedenswald

When I bring my camper on Sunday, where do I go?
This is a great question! When you arrive at Camp Friedenswald, there will be signs for Parent Parking. After you park, there will be signs pointing towards Check-In. We usually have a member of the summer staff waiting to greet you in the parking lot and they will be happy to direct you.
When does camp begin and end?
All Summer Camps begin on Sunday with check-in from 3-4 pm and end on Friday at 1 pm. Pre-Junior Camp ends on Thursday at 1 pm.
Primary Camp ends on Saturday with a special parent/child lunch at 12:30 pm.
What happens when I arrive at Camp on the first day? What forms are required?
The first thing everyone does is Check-In. We need a signed Parent Permission form* and a completed up-to-date Health Form* for every camper. If you haven’t paid yet, you can pay by cash, check, or credit card – you can also purchase a Camp Store gift card for your camper. Your child will make a nametag, meet his/her counselor, and meet the health officer. *You can fill out and submit all forms in advance with your Online Registration.
What is Camp Store?
Each evening campers have the opportunity to buy camp items from the Corner Cabin Gift Shoppe. With your registration documents there is a list of sample items and their prices. At the beginning of the week during Check-In, parents/campers are able to purchase Camp Store gift cards to use throughout the week. At the end of the week any remaining balance on the gift cards is donated to camper scholarships for the following year.
Are you able to accommodate special diets?
Let us know your child’s special dietary needs in advance on the Health Form and we will do our very best to accommodate any needs.
What does my camper need to bring?
For a full list of items, see here.
Can I see pictures of my camper throughout the week?
Yes! We love to share photos of our campers on our Facebook page. Throughout the week we post pictures, and we encourage parents to check out our pictures there.
Can I send my camper mail throughout the week?
Of course! Campers love to hear from their families during the week. We encourage parents to leave mail with camp staff at Check-In, and we will deliver it to your camper on the date you specify. This helps make sure your mail actually gets to camp while your camper is here, and not stuck in the mail!
You may also send a note through snail mail to:
Camp Friedenswald
c/o Your camper’s name
15406 Watercress Way
Cassopolis, MI 49031
Can my camper bring a cell phone?
The short answer is no. We collect all electronic screen devices at Check-In and keep them locked in the Camp Office until Check-Out.
How does Camp Friedenswald handle homesickness?
We realize that homesickness can be a struggle for some campers, regardless of age. Our goal is for all campers to have an exciting and enjoyable experience. When homesickness arises, our staff spend time with the camper, keeping them distracted from their fears and focused on the fun of camp. We read stories, do puzzles, draw pictures and write letters home. If homesickness occurs at bedtime, we try our best to keep the campers occupied until they fall asleep. If their homesickness is keeping them from enjoying camp, we will call you and discuss options for helping your camper, including leaving early..
Can I pick up my camper early?
Yes. If you need to pick your camper up before Check-Out, you must fill out an Early Release Form at Check-In. When you come to pick him/her up, sign the camper out with a Camp Staff member.
What happens during the swim test?
Our swim area has three different sections: red, yellow and green. The red section is shallow. Anyone can be in this section without a swim test. To swim in the yellow section, campers must be able to swim approximately 25 meters without touching the bottom. To swim in the green section, campers must also be able to tread water for 3 minutes. Certified lifeguards conduct the swim tests.
What if my child gets sick or has an injury? Is there a doctor on staff? How is health care handled?
We have a qualified health officer on duty at all times throughout the week. We will notify you immediately if your child is sick and needs additional medical attention or needs to be transported to a hospital.
Can my camper request to be in the same cabin as someone else? How do cabinmate requests work?
The camp experience is all about making and deepening friendships, so we allow campers to request two cabin mates and do our best to accommodate requests. However, we cannot guarantee campers will be with each of their requested cabinmates due to housing limitations.