Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Camp Courage?
We are an independent Christian camp that is not affiliated with a church. Camp Courage USA operates through By Faith Youth Ministries, Inc. and is a 501C3 not for profit organization and is supported through individual donations.
Where is Camp Courage?
Camp Courage USA utilizes a beautiful campground close to Tulsa, Oklahoma and provides the programming at those facilities for each of our sessions. Our current season is located at a camp in McAlester (about 2 hours south of Tulsa). In the future, Camp Courage USA will own its own grounds and facilities.
When are camp payments due?
A deposit of $30 is required to hold a spot for each camper. All remaining balances are due no later than 3 weeks prior to camp start date. Accounts not paid may result in loss of registration. Payments can be made online in full or with easy monthly installments either manually or automatically.
What is the ratio of campers to leaders?
Typically, Camp Courage USA will have 1 leader for 6 campers. This does not include our support staff.
How is my child grouped?
Our campers are divided into groups based on age and gender depending on enrollment. Those groups are ages 8-9, 10-11, 12-13, and 14-15. Each small group of campers is paired with another group to form a coed team.
What are the swimming requirements at camp?
Swimming lessons are not taught while at camp so each camper is assessed for swimming abilities. Lifejackets are worn by non-swimmers and in designated areas at all times. A wrist band is utilized to indicate swimmers from non-swimmers. Certified lifeguards are present at all swimming locations.
What if my child needs to take medication during camp?
All prescribed medication and over the counter (OTC) medication must be checked in with the nurse upon check-in, with the original bottle inside a zip-loc bag. No child is allowed to administer or keep in their possession over-the-counter medications or prescribed medications. If a child is in need of over-the-counter medications a nurse will assess their condition and administer the proper dosage with documentation.
How close is the nearest hospital?
There are two hospitals within 13 miles of camp.
Is there a nurse available at all times?
Yes, our nurse is available 24 hours a day.
How do you pick your staff?
Our staff is comprised of Team Leaders ages 18 or older and assistant leaders ages 16-18. Each staffer is carefully handpicked by our Director and Advisory Board and must pass a thorough background check before being accepted. Each staffer must complete an extensive application and interview process. All references are checked in detail.
What is the discipline policy?
We believe in rewarding and recognizing good behavior, however, the need for discipline arises from time to time. First offense-verbal warning. Second offense-removal from activity. Third offense-a visit with the Camp Director and a call to parent/guardian. Continued disobedience will result in dismissal from camp without a refund. The expense to pick up their camper is the responsibility of the parent/guardian. Please refer to complete list of camper rules.
What if my child loses something while at camp?
If you discover an item missing when your camper arrives home, please contact our office as soon as possible and we will attempt to locate your item in the lost and found. Arrangements to pick up your item can be made. All items not claimed by August 31 will be donated to a local charity.
Are washing machines available for campers that wet the bed?
Washing machines are not available for everyday use, however, if a child tells the team leader, or the team leader discovers the need, our staff will clean up while the kids are out.
May I call my child at camp?
Campers can receive calls only in the case of an emergency. Incoming calls are discouraged out of consideration of planned activities. Campers are not allowed to have cell phones.
Can I reach someone at camp any time of the day or night in case of an emergency?
Yes, the emergency number is (918)946-8393. EMERGENCY ONLY
What do you do for homesick kids?
Campers are allowed to call home at the Camp Director's discretion. Campers who become homesick and leave their camp session early are not eligible for refunds.
How can I communicate with my child?
Camp Courage USA has a wonderful communication system in place for parents and campers. Once a camper is registered parents are given the chance to sign up for Bunk Notes for a nominal fee. Parents/guardians can email their camper and campers can respond. Each camper/parent has a unique code so that notes are viewed only by that parent and are secure. Camper pictures can also be accessed through Bunk1 with this service on a secure Camper/Parent only network. Or join our Facebook page to see pictures.
Are you able to provide special dietary needs? (i.e. nothing with red dye, no sugar)
Yes, if the child is under medical supervision by a doctor or an allergic reaction is known. To ensure special needs are met, please call our camp office at least two weeks prior to camp and make note on the registration page online for your camper. Special snacks may be provided by the parent but only if medically necessary.
Are snacks allowed in the dorms?
Snacks and drinks are not allowed in the dorms or Chapel.
When is the snack shop and souvenir shop open?
The shop is typically open during designated free times.
How much money should a camper bring?
The average amount brought to camp is $30.
Do kids keep their own money at camp?
Money will be collected upon arrival at camp and placed on account in the snack/souvenir shop. All transactions will be made on account and remaining money will be returned to campers at check-out time.
What are the specific activities the campers will be doing?
Swimming at the pool, low challenge course, climbing wall, rappelling wall, lake beach and swimming dock, zip line over the lake, canoeing, volleyball, ultimate Frisbee, campfires, hiking, fishing, crafts, basketball, skateboarding, waterslide into the lake, laser tag (one session), blob, soccer, organized group games.
What do the kids do if it rains?
Camp Courage USA is prepared with several creative and fun indoor activities. There is a large covered pavilion for all sorts of court games. There also will be skits, drama, wacky talent show and more. Cool arts and crafts as well as creative games.
If my child has to come home early, is there a partial refund?
It depends on the reason for leaving. In the case of illness (as determined by the camp nurse), the camp fees will be refunded on a per day basis. In the case of dismissal due to continue behavioral problems or homesickness, camp fees will not be refunded. The camp will not be held responsible for travel expenses incurred in picking up the child.