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Everything you need to know—policies, forms, payments, readiness, and more.
Registration & Payments
Deposit is non-refundable. Balance is refundable if canceled ≥4 weeks before session start (medical exceptions may apply). Changes must be requested in writing/email. Cancellation or termination due to misconduct or homesickness: Camp Jorn YMCA will retain 100% of the session fee
At Camp Jorn, we believe every child should have the opportunity to experience camp. Scholarships and fundraising options are available to help families of all sizes and income levels.
Scholarships
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Typical Awards: Families may qualify for up to 50% off the base rate. Limited full scholarships are available for qualifying families.
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How to Apply:
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Complete the online camper application.
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Submit a Scholarship Application with a $50 refundable deposit per camper. (Applied toward camper balance; refundable if canceled at least 4 weeks before camp.)
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Scholarships are made possible by the generosity of donors, alumni, community members, and volunteers.
Fundraising Opportunities
Camp Jorn provides optional fundraising opportunities for families to help offset camper costs:
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Partner programs with Meadow Farms, Flower Power, and other vendors allow families to earn funds toward their camper balance.
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Participation is optional, and all proceeds go directly toward your child’s camp experience.
Forms & deadlines
- Health History & Immunization Record
- Resident Camp Letter to the Counselor
- Authorized Grown-Ups (pickup permissions)
- Transportation Form (bus stop selection is limited—submit early)
- Front/Back of Health Insurance Card
- Camper Photo
- Parent Handbook (download)
Readiness & supervision
- Overnight (ages 8–16): 8:1
- Leadership (ages 13–17): 10:1
Campers should: communicate needs in English; follow directions; refrain from unsafe behaviors (incl. self-harm); identify/avoid risks; be comfortable in a rustic setting; move over uneven terrain; manage sensory load; handle hygiene independently; and participate respectfully in group life. See Camper Eligibility for details.
Daily life
See “A Day at Camp Jorn”—mornings in classes, afternoons with cabin activities, evenings with all-camp campfires and reflection. Lights out at 10 pm.
Camp Jorn is a tech-free camp, and all electronic devices—including cell phones, tablets, and smartwatches—must be left at home so campers can fully connect with nature, friends, and themselves.
On-site store with CJ gear and limited snacks. Load $40–$60/week via Camp InTouch (no camper cash). Refunds for balances $10+ are issued in fall. Tip: vary deposit amounts between siblings to avoid duplicate-charge declines.
Sending Mail to Campers
We love when campers receive mail from home! Letters and care packages are a fun way to stay connected during your camper’s stay.
You may send both letters and packages to camp at the address below:
Camp Jorn YMCA
Attn: (Camper’s Name & Session)
13591 Zenner Lane
Manitowish Waters, WI 54545
Package Guidelines
- It’s okay to send packages to your camper!
- If you send a treat, please include enough for the entire cabin (typically 10 campers and 2 counselors).
- Do not send products containing nuts.
- To keep mail manageable for our staff and campers, please limit packages to one per week per camper.
Tip: Care packages that include small games, crafts, books, or puzzles are great for the whole cabin to enjoy together.
Mail will be held if your camper is away on a trip and distributed upon their return.
Please note we cannot forward or return mail that arrives after your camper leaves, and there is no mail delivery on weekends or closing day.
We recommend mailing letters or packages at least one week early to ensure timely delivery.
Encouraging Letters from Campers
Encourage your camper to write home by packing:
- Stationery and pens
- Stamps
- Pre-addressed, stamped envelopes
CampStamps: Emailing Your Camper
Camp Jorn partners with CampInTouch to offer CampStamps — a one-way email system that allows you to send letters electronically.
To use this service:
- Log into your CampInTouch account.
- Scroll to the section “Credit Card for Email & Photos.”
- Even if you have a card on file for tuition, you’ll need to re-enter your card info for this section.
- Under “Your Account – Camp Stamps,” click “Buy More.”
- CampStamps are available in packs of 10, 15, 20, or 30.
- One stamp = one letter.
- Stamps carry over from year to year and may be shared with family or friends.
- Once purchased, return to the menu and click “Email.”
- Type your message (one page per letter).
- If you have multiple campers, send individual letters for each.
- Submit your message — our staff prints and delivers it with the daily mail. Cut-off for same-day delivery: 10:00 a.m. Emails received after 10 a.m. will be delivered the next day.
Please note:
- Campers cannot reply to CampStamp emails.
- Unused CampStamps are non-refundable but roll over each season.
- Questions about CampStamps can be directed to CampMinder at (303) 444-2267.
Helpful Communication Tips
- Focus on positive and encouraging messages.
- Ask specific questions such as:
- “What’s your favorite activity so far?”
- “Tell me about your counselor!”
- “What’s your favorite camp meal?”
- Avoid language that emphasizes missing home — instead, express pride and excitement for their experience.
- Include a photo or a short update from home.
Remember, campers will not have access to phones or computers, so letters are the best way to stay in touch.
Cell Phones & Communication
We understand that in today’s world of instant communication, it can be challenging for parents to be away from their camper. However, the camp experience is greatly enhanced when children unplug from their devices and fully enjoy every moment of camp without experiencing “FOMO” (fear of missing out).
- Cell phones are not allowed for campers at Camp Jorn YMCA.
- Do not promise your camper that they will be able to call home, as this can increase homesickness and create unnecessary stress.
- If an urgent problem arises at camp, we will contact you immediately.
This policy helps campers focus on making friends, exploring nature, and engaging in activities — creating a more meaningful and memorable camp experience.
If You Need to Reach Us
If you have questions or would like to check on your camper during their stay, please contact our office.
Camp Registrar, Jenn Davis, is happy to assist or connect you with the appropriate Camp Director.
- You may request one cabin mate for your camper through the registration form.
- Requests must be mutual — both families must agree.
- Campers must be within one year of age or grade and have the same or compatible gender identity.
- Campers must be in the same program and session to be housed together.
- While we do our best to accommodate requests, no cabin mate requests are guaranteed.
- Please submit all cabin mate requests in writing at the time of registration.
Campers are assigned to cabin groups of 8–10 campers, with two staff members serving as their counselors. Cabin groups are organized based on:
- Age
- Gender identity
- Program registration
Lodging Options
Camp Jorn offers a variety of lodging, including:
- Cabins
- Yurts
- Platform tents
Assignments are based on program, session length, and camper age.
Personal Space
- Each camper has their own bunk and storage area to call their own during their stay at camp.
- This personal space helps campers feel comfortable, organized, and independent while at camp.
We love having families involved in camp, but visits are not allowed during your camper’s session.
If you would like to arrange a tour before your camper’s session begins, please contact our registrar Jenn Davis, 715-543-8808 ext 0201 or email jenn@campjornymca.org.
This ensures you can see camp, meet staff, and get familiar with the environment before your child arrives.
Camp Jorn is a place for campers to connect with people in real and meaningful ways and to enjoy nature’s beauty and unique sounds.
To support this experience, cell phones, computers, iPods, and other electronic devices are not allowed at camp.
This policy helps campers:
- Build friendships through direct interaction
- Fully engage in activities and the natural environment
- Disconnect from screens and enjoy the camp experience
If your camper occasionally experiences bedwetting, please let us know in the Letter to the Counselor. This allows us to prepare the bunk counselors and ensure your child is supported.
What to Bring
- Your child should bring their own pull-ups.
- They can change into them at night in whichever way is most comfortable:
- In their suitcase in the cabin bathroom
- Stored in the health lodge and changed in a private bathroom
Support & Privacy
- Staff often encourage campers to wake a staff member and a buddy if they need to use the bathroom at night.
- If an accident occurs, staff follow a strict privacy protocol and wash the bedding in the health lodge.
- Counselors are supportive, understanding, and kind — bedwetting is a common situation at camp, and there’s nothing to be embarrassed about.
The more openly your camper communicates with their counselor, the better we can help with clean sheets, clothes, or any other needs.
Lost and found items are displayed on picnic tables in front of the Program Center.
- When you check your camper out, feel free to look for any lost items.
- All unclaimed items not picked up within 5 days will be donated to a local charity.
- If you request a return of lost items, you will be charged for shipping unless you can arrange a local pick-up.
- To prevent lost items, please label all belongings with your camper’s first and last name.
- If found items are labeled, we do not typically contact families directly — it is your responsibility to reach out if you want the item returned.
Swim Evaluation & Waterfront Safety
All campers participate in a swim evaluation on their first afternoon at camp.
What Happens During the Swim Evaluation
- Campers go to the waterfront with their cabin group.
- They are asked to:
- Jump into the lake
- Swim 2–4 lengths
- Tread water
- Campers who feel this is unattainable may jump in the shallow section and blow bubbles.
- Participation is never forced; all campers are supported and encouraged at their own pace.
Safety & Supervision
- Our staff are well-trained to help children who are uncomfortable or afraid in the water.
- Extra lifeguards are on duty during evaluations.
- Campers are classified as:
- Non-swimmer
- Beginner
- Intermediate
- Advanced
- Swim classifications determine how deep a camper may safely swim.
Inclusive Water Activities
- A shallow swim section allows most campers to touch the bottom.
- Life jackets are available at the swim docks, so campers of all skill levels can safely enjoy the water.
Homesickness at Camp
It is completely normal for a camper to feel homesick at camp. Being in a new environment with new people can be challenging, and many campers (and even some staff) experience homesickness at some point.
What Homesickness Looks Like
Homesickness is a natural reaction to being away from the comforts of home and family. Its intensity varies from camper to camper:
- Many campers experience mild homesickness during the first day or two at resident camp.
- For most, these feelings subside quickly.
- A few campers may experience more intense or prolonged feelings of missing home.
Typical signs include:
- Sadness or crying
- Mild anxiety about being away from family
- Expressing feelings in letters or conversations
How We Help
Our staff are trained to recognize and address homesickness. They use proven strategies to help campers adjust and feel more comfortable.
- Campers may express homesickness in letters early in the session — this is normal and nothing to worry about.
- If a camper struggles with homesickness for a prolonged period, we will contact you immediately to work together to support your child.
Parental Role
Your response as a parent is an important part of easing homesickness. While it’s natural to miss your camper, try to avoid passing your own anxieties on to them.
For example:
- Instead of: “I’m going to miss you so much,”
- Try: “I can’t wait for you to get home and tell me all the awesome things you do at camp this week!”
By focusing on excitement and encouragement, you help your camper transition more smoothly and enjoy their time at camp.
We love celebrating campers’ birthdays while they’re at Camp Jorn!
- Birthdays are celebrated during dinner on the camper’s special day.
- One of our favorite traditions is having the entire camp sing “Happy Birthday” to the birthday camper.
- Families are welcome to send a special treat for the camper to share with their cabin mates (typically 10 campers and 2 counselors per cabin).
Tips for Celebrating Birthdays at Camp
- Nut-Free Treats: All treats must be nut-free to keep all campers safe.
- Shareable Snacks: Send enough for the whole cabin so everyone can enjoy the celebration.
- Small Surprises: Consider small, inexpensive items like stickers, pencils, or craft supplies that cabin mates can enjoy.
- Avoid Electronics or Expensive Gifts: For safety and fairness, please do not send electronics or costly items.
- Include a Note: A short, cheerful birthday note from home adds a special personal touch.
Tip: Encourage your camper to share and enjoy their birthday treats responsibly — it’s a great way to build community and kindness in the cabin!
Programs & Trips
All campers participate in at least one overnight camping trip with their cabin group. Leadership programs — Explorer, TEVA, LIT, and CIT — take part in multi-night trips. Trip length and location are determined by camp session, age, and ability.
Trip Locations & Experiences
- Younger campers: Overnight trips take place at Camp Jorn sites, such as Club CJ and Fox Island.
- Older campers: Often canoe to nearby DNR sites for their overnight adventure.
- Two-week campers: May go on a 2–3 day trip over the middle weekend of their session.
- Leadership campers (TEVA, LIT & CIT): Trips range from 3–6 nights, with travel several hours from camp for backpacking or canoeing. Potential destinations include:
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- Turtle Flambeau Flowage
- Porcupine Mountains
- Namekagon River
- Northern Highland Forest
- Manitowish River
- Superior Hiking Trail
Safety & Supervision
- Campers sleep outdoors in tents during these trips.
- All trips are led by well-trained and experienced trip leaders.
- Safety is our top priority — all precautions are taken to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.
Benefits of Overnight Trips
Overnight trips provide unique educational and developmental opportunities, helping campers:
- Learn about themselves
- Connect with nature
- Overcome challenges
- Work together as a group
These experiences are a core part of the Camp Jorn experience, fostering independence, teamwork, and confidence in a natural setting.
Waterski, Sailing, Fishing, and Biking campers enjoy extended skill development time each day, along with classic camp activities in the afternoons and evenings. Specialty campers also take part in a 2-3 night overnight camping trip with their group.
Waterskiing Program: 4 lessons, $200 (Ages 10+)
- Campers must be confident swimmers (100 feet swim + 2.5 minutes treading water).
- Instruction covers beginner to advanced skills with professional equipment.
- Weather permitting.
- To register, you can do so online by completing your camper application or by logging into your account and fill out the additional options form. Alternatively, you can email jenn@campjornymca.org or call the office at 715-543-8808 for assistance.
Transportation
- $220 round trip / $110 one way.
- Stops in Gurnee, IL (Warren Township HS), Kenosha, WI (Kenosha YMCA), DeForest, WI (Park & Ride). Seats limited—select in your Transportation Form.
- Pathfinders: No bus; families may stay locally.
- Biking Specialty: No bus space for personal bikes (camp can provide bikes/helmets).
CIT admissions
Counselor in Training (CIT) Program
The Counselor in Training (CIT) Program is designed for campers who aspire to become future counselors at Camp Jorn. This program equips teens with the skills, confidence, and experiences necessary to be exceptional camp leaders. While developing their own unique counseling style, CITs focus on problem-solving, perseverance, and the joy of making a meaningful impact on the camp community and the lives of younger campers.
The CIT schedule mirrors the overall camp structure, with participants stepping up as leaders through CIT-specific activities that enhance their leadership and teamwork abilities.
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3-Week CIT Program: Participants embark on a 6-day, 5-night hiking trip in Michigan’s Porcupine Mountains — an experience that builds resilience, teamwork, and confidence.
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2-Week CIT Program: Participants take part in a shorter wilderness trip and focus on developing practical camp leadership skills in areas such as archery, fishing, biking, and sailing.
All CITs will also have the opportunity to shadow counselors in cabins or day camp groups, further refining their counselor and leadership skills.
Entry & Acceptance
Entry into the CIT Program is competitive and based on a completed application and an interview with the Camp Director and/or experienced summer staff.
Application requirements:
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Applications due January 15, 2026
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Two reference letters (from coaches, teachers, pastors, employers, etc.)
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Virtual interviews held January 31 – February 2, 2026 (scheduled once the application is received)
Please note: The application and interview process is designed to help teens gain valuable experience and develop skills that will prepare them for future college and career opportunities.
When registration opens on December 2, please register for your preferred CIT session. All applicants will be automatically waitlisted, and credit cards will not be charged unless your teen is accepted into the program. Parents/guardians will be notified of acceptance no later than February 16, 2026.
