Fun. Safe. Gospel. is more than a motto—it’s our daily mission. Every activity we design is grounded in joy, structure, and purpose. Our environment is intentionally built for both excitement and safety: physically through thoughtful supervision and policies, emotionally through respectful relationships and clear boundaries, and spiritually through a Christ-centered foundation. Whether it’s a camper’s first time fishing, kayaking, or joining a Bible study under the trees, we want every child to encounter the love of Jesus in an environment that’s secure, meaningful, and unforgettable.

Our staff is the heart of Camp Anothen. Every director, lead and counselor is carefully selected through a prayerful hiring process that values character and maturity. Before summer begins, all staff undergo thorough background checks (18+), in-depth training in child safety and emergency procedures, and are taught to follow clear, biblical standards of conduct. From the “Never Alone” policy to certified lifeguards and first aid preparedness, our team is equipped to lead with both compassion and vigilance. We are committed to building a team that reflects the trust parents place in us—and the calling God has placed on each of them to lead and serve well.

At Camp Anothen, we take the safety of every camper seriously—and that starts with accountability. Our “Never Alone” policy, also known as the Rule of Three, ensures that no staff member, volunteer, or leader-in-training is ever alone with a camper. Whether walking to an activity, taking a restroom break, or helping with sunscreen, there must always be at least three people present—typically a staff member and two campers, or two staff with one camper. This standard isn’t just a guideline; it’s a non-negotiable rule designed to protect campers and staff alike, support transparency, and build a culture of trust across our entire camp community.

Water activities are a highlight of the camp experience—and they demand our highest level of attention and care. At Camp Anothen, all swimming and pond activities are overseen by certified lifeguards trained in emergency response, CPR, and aquatic safety. We maintain a strict max 1:35 lifeguard-to-swimmer ratio and enforce clear rules around pool and waterfront conduct. Water safety presentation to campers are required before any water activity begins. Coast Guard approved live vests are required by all persons when in any natural body of water. Swim tests are administered at the start of each pool session to determine pool readiness. Counselors are in the water with their campers—not just watching from the sidelines—ensuring supervision is constant, engaged, and hands-on.

While playing in natural bodies of water does carry inherent risk, we take proactive steps to help minimize those risks and maintain water quality. Our pond is continuously circulated to prevent stagnation and support cooler, cleaner conditions throughout the summer. Its depth and surface sprayers help maintain lower water temperatures, which are less favorable for the growth of harmful microorganisms. Although Naegleria fowleri—a naturally occurring amoeba—is extremely rare in freshwater according to the CDC, we remain vigilant and take multiple precautions to further reduce potential risk.

Our Discovery Camp program is created just for preschool-aged campers. With smaller ratios, sensory-friendly activities, and a slower-paced schedule, our littlest campers are nurtured in a calm, joyful, and fun environment that helps them thrive. Many of our counselors teach preschool during the school year!

We spend the entire day outdoors, so campers are should arrive with sunscreen already applied and bring spray-on sunscreen for reapplication. Staff are trained to assist younger children with reapplication—but only in the presence of another screened adult and only to appropriate areas like arms, legs, face, and neck. Hydration is a priority: clearly marked water stations are placed throughout camp, and campers are encouraged to take water breaks often—especially after physical activity. Shaded areas and water play are also built into the day to help campers stay cool, refreshed, and ready for fun. We also deliberately place each group in a water activity once in the morning and once in the afternoon.

Campers’ physical well-being is closely monitored throughout the day. All medications are stored securely and administered only by trained personnel according to written parent instructions. Staff are trained to recognize signs of illness, injury, heat-related stress, or allergic reactions and will respond immediately. Parents are notified promptly if medical attention is needed. Our goal is to provide a structured, attentive approach to every camper’s health and safety.

Campers are only released to parents or guardians in their camper application or to individuals that have the parent/guardian pick up code.

We uphold clear behavioral expectations to create a safe and respectful environment for all campers. When disciplinary situations arise, our staff responds with consistent procedures that prioritize safety, accountability, and resolution. Repeated or serious behavior concerns are documented and communicated with parents. Our goal is not only to address the moment, but to guide children in making responsible, respectful choices moving forward.

Campers are expected to manage their belongings responsibly (with counselors help), and we provide designated areas for item storage throughout the day. Lost items are collected and stored in a central location, and families are encouraged to label everything clearly. While we are not responsible for lost or damaged personal items, we work with campers to minimize loss and teach responsibility in a shared space. Parent’s are always welcome to call us about any lost item!