Program FAQs

WHAT MAKES BURNAMWOOD SO SPECIAL?
Burnamwood is going on six decades of a well rounded Christian camping program. With a strong tradition of focusing on the individual, we are dedicated to providing positive, responsible, and caring role models for every Burnamwood camper.  Most of our staff and volunteers have grown up as Burnamwood campers themselves and are passionate about continuing the ministry that has been so meaningful to them.  Additionally, we develop a completely unique curriculum that facilitates thoughtful bible study and spiritual exploration, outdoor recreation, and creativity for each summer camp session and weekend retreat.  Every activity we plan is designed to enrich a camper’s spiritual, mental, social, or physical well-being.

HOW ARE ROOMMATES ASSIGNED?
Campers are placed into cabins first and foremost based on their gender.  Siblings of the same gender are assigned the same cabin, unless otherwise notified.  The campers are then arranged based primarily on age.

Roommate requests are welcomed.  Campers are allowed to request up to two of their roommates and we do our best to honor all requests, providing for space in each cabin.

WHAT IF MY CAMPER GETS HOMESICK?
Homesickness most commonly occurs from a camper being unsure about being in a new environment. Especially if this is your child’s first time at an overnight camp, the first day or two might be difficult. However, homesickness typically is temporary and usually passes once your child becomes engaged in camp activities.  The best preparation for homesickness is to discuss the adjustment to a new environment, like camp, and what your child’s expectations are.  Positive encouragement like telling them that missing home is an okay feeling, and support for trying something new can be good motivation!

During the last two weeks of May, the summer staff undergo a training period and study homesickness, along with many other topics.  By the time campers arrive, they are well prepared to counsel and help campers find activities, whether it be sports, crafts, or hiking, to enjoy at camp.

WHAT IF MY CAMPER HAS MEDICATIONS TO BRING?
If your camper has prescription medicine that will be needed while at camp or non-prescription medicine (like over-the-counter allergy relief) that you would like them to take, please make sure you include that information on their registration.  During check-in, please provide the Burnamwood Staff with the needed medicine and label it (if it’s not already done so).  The Burnamwood Staff will ensure your camper receives the dose as prescribed and will log each dosage.  For the safety of all campers, medicine stays locked with the Burnamwood Summer Camp Director or medical volunteer.  Rescue inhalers may be kept on the camper’s person, unless you designate otherwise during check-in.

WHAT SHOULD WE PACK FOR CAMP?

With every online registration, the Parent – Camper Information FAQ should be emailed automatically.  Included in this document is a packing list, as well information about check-in procedures and the camp covenant.  If you still need a copy, you can download one here, Camper and Parent Info.

HOW IS THE STAFF HIRED?
Hiring is conducted by the Executive Director and members of the Burnamwood Programming Committee.  All applicants submit an application, short-essay questions, and a national background check.  Reference checks are then made to personal references, church educators, and past employers. Additionally, several rounds of interviews are conducted by the Executive Director and Programming Committee members.

We seek to employ positive, Christian role models who are able to facilitate a safe and well-rounded camping experience.