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General Information

Camp Gifford wants to make sure your kids have fun while they are here. We have a variety of activities kids can participate in over the week they are here that provide them with opportunities for spiritual growth, problem solving, adventure, and many more. We create a space for children to experience new and exciting activities all the while learning about Christ's love for them along the way.

Camp Activities

Situated on 120 acres of rich woodlands, Camp Gifford has hiking trails, lakefront access for swimming and boating, and a ton of different program areas for campers to explore why they are here. With a dedicated craft house, volleyball, gaga pit, basketball courts, challenge course elements, and even life-size foosball, your child will have plenty of opportunity for a funfilled week!

Contacting Your Child at Camp

Your campers would love to hear from you while they are here! Phone calls and visits to camp during your child's stay can often spark homesickness in your camper when they are otherwise feeling comfortable at camp. Excluding emergencies or other pre-arranged circumstances, we ask that you limit your phone calls to camp, and instead send letters in the mail or send us an email, which we will print and deliver to your camper. 

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If your child becomes homesick and wants to speak with you we will make sure to get you on the phone for a chat.

Mail at Camp

To send a letter or postcard to your camper, please use the following mailing address:

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Camper's Name

C/O Camp Gifford

3846 North Deer Lake Rd

Loon Lake WA, 99148

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We recommend sending any letters a day or two in advance to ensure they arrive in time. You can send several letters in a large envelope, which we will distribute each day if you'd like, just make sure you indicate what letter should be opened each day .

Money at Camp

Your camper will not need to bring any money to camp. Daily snacks, as well as all meals, are included in your child's camp experience. Campers are given a Camp Gifford t-shirt, and all crafts are provided as part of our summer program. If your child brings money to camp, it will be collected, labeled, and stored in the safe in the main office until the last day of camp, when it will be returned before they go home.

Camp Visits

We would be happy to give you a tour of camp prior to your camper's session. Tours may be arranged by calling the main camp office at 509-233-2511. Please note, we do not allow visits to camp while your child is attending camp.

Preparing for Camp

Whether your child is new to camp this year, or they've been coming for years now, there are a variety of things you can do ahead of time to make sure your child is prepared to come to camp. Being away from home for a week can be scary for kids, and we want to make sure they are prepared and ready for their week of fun. 

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Here are a few pointers from Christian Camp and Conference Association that can help prepare your child for their stay at Camp Gifford.

  1. Talk about the activities they may be doing at Camp: swimming, hiking, arts & crafts, fishing, boating, and sleeping out. Let them know that there are adults who will be watching over them and helping them through the activities.

  2. Decide what to pack (and mark all their clothing!). Go through the list of clothing suggestions and get them ready together. Make sure they have sneakers and socks. For the younger child it is a good idea to pack each day’s clothing together in a group so that they know what to wear.

  3. Prepare the postage. Send stamped and addressed postcards with them so they can easily send notes home.

  4. Sidestep the separation. Focus on the stories they will be able to tell when they arrive home. It’s best not to suggest that your camper can call home if they get homesick.  In the event of homesickness, our staff will do all they can to redirect and help your camper. Rest assured that, if the homesickness is persistent or causing excessive sadness, we will contact you to find the best solution.

  5. Send a letter. Everyone likes to get mail. It makes them feel important. Mail it even before your child leaves home (Pro tip – you can send several letters in a large envelope marked with which day we should give each letter to your camper).

  6. Celebrate the homecoming. Plan a special dinner for the evening he/she returns and make a welcome home sign.  Let them know this is happening so they can look forward to it!

Camp Gifford Core Values

Spiritual Development

At Camp Gifford, we are committed to helping campers grow in their faith and deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ. Spiritual development is essential because it provides guidance, strength, and purpose, shaping character and nurturing a lifelong connection with God. We live this out through daily devotions, worship, Bible study, and Christ-centered relationships. By fostering an environment of grace, encouragement, and service, we invite campers to experience God’s love and discover His purpose for their lives.

Friendship

At Camp Gifford, we believe that friendship is essential for personal growth, connection, and a sense of belonging. We provide guided opportunities for campers to develop social skills and build meaningful relationships. Friendships are important because they offer support, joy, and lifelong memories. Studies show that deep, meaningful friendships positively impact emotional and social well-being, shaping a child’s confidence and character. We foster friendships through shared experiences, meaningful conversations, fun activities, and daily interactions with new people. By creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, we encourage campers to build lasting connections that extend beyond their time at camp.

Discovering Potential

At Camp Gifford, we strive to create an environment where campers and staff alike grow in their understanding of their God-given potential. We believe that every individual has unique gifts, talents, and purpose waiting to be discovered. This is important because recognizing one’s potential builds confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose. As campers explore new challenges and experiences, they gain a deeper understanding of their capabilities and how they can positively impact the world around them. We cultivate this growth through encouragement, skill-building activities, leadership opportunities, and challenges that inspire perseverance and self-discovery. By fostering a supportive and faith-centered environment, we empower campers and staff to embrace their potential and step into who God created them to be.

Safety

Social and Emotional Growth

At Camp Gifford, we believe that social and emotional growth is essential for developing confidence, empathy, and strong relationships. We create an environment where campers interact with peers from diverse cultures, social circles, economic backgrounds, and belief systems. This is important because learning to navigate group dynamics helps campers become more self-aware, develop leadership skills, and grow in their ability to understand and support others. These experiences prepare them to engage with the world in a thoughtful and compassionate way. We foster this growth through meaningful discussions, shared responsibilities, and collaborative activities that encourage self-leadership and social awareness.

Skill Development

At Camp Gifford, we believe that learning new skills builds confidence, creativity, and a deeper connection to the world around us. Time spent in nature has been shown to restore the mind, bring a sense of calm, and foster a positive outlook—making camp an ideal setting for growth and discovery. Skill development is important because it encourages problem-solving, self-expression, and resilience. As campers engage in hands-on activities, they gain confidence in their abilities and a greater understanding of their place in the world. We cultivate this growth by providing opportunities to explore new skills, whether through arts and crafts, team challenges, or outdoor activities. By trying new things in a supportive environment, campers develop both practical abilities and a lifelong love of learning.

Adventure

At Camp Gifford, we believe adventure fosters growth, resilience, and a deeper connection with God. Through play, exploration, and hands-on outdoor activities, campers discover more about themselves and their Creator. Adventure is important because it builds confidence, adaptability, and the ability to navigate both success and failure. By embracing new challenges in nature, campers develop courage, problem-solving skills, and a sense of wonder at God’s creation. We create a safe, intentional space for campers to take risks, try new things, and push their limits—whether climbing, exploring, or tackling team challenges—learning that growth comes through faith, perseverance, and a spirit of adventure.

At Camp Gifford, all of our policies, procedures, and practices are intentionally created to foster a safe environment for everyone to thrive.  Safety includes physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, ensuring that campers feel secure, valued, and supported in every aspect of their camp experience.  Clear communication is key to maintaining this environment, helping campers understand expectations, boundaries, and the support available to them. This is important because true growth happens when campers feel secure. A safe environment allows them to take healthy risks, build confidence, and form meaningful connections without fear or harm. Through well-trained staff, structured activities, and a culture of respect and care, we prioritize the well-being of every camper so they can fully experience the joy and transformation of camp.

Care at Camp

Emergency Contact

In the case of illness or injury it may become necessary for the child to leave camp early. Please be sure that the names and phone numbers for your emergency contacts are correct and in operation. In the event that we cannot reach the parent, this information becomes extremely important. If you will be out of town during your child’s visit, please provide the camp with the phone number of an adult that can help transport your child home if it becomes necessary.

Completing the Medical Form

Be sure to complete all areas of the health history.  It is important that the parental release is signed so your child may be treated by a physician or hospital in the case of emergency. No child will be allowed to stay on the campgrounds without the release being signed. Any special diet or activity restrictions should be identified on the form. Please complete the medical form in its entirety.  (Please note that biological gender is required on the medical form).

Sickness or Injury While at Camp

If your camper gets sick or is injured while at Camp Gifford our staff will be sure to contact you for direction.  We don’t typically call home for every scrape or bump, but rest assured that our health team will be in contact with you for any significant cuts, scrapes or bruises; fevers, cold/flu symptoms, chronic tummy problems; and certainly any injuries or sickness that may require the camper to be transported. 

 

We will check the list of OTC medications that you have allowed us to dispense and we will not provide any unapproved medications to your camper, without first calling and receiving your permission.  In the unlikely case of a serious accident or injury you will be notified as soon as possible – our first priority will be to stabilize and transport your camper. 

 

We realize how important the care of your camper is to you and we want you to feel confident with our level of care and response.  Please feel free to call the Director for a chat if you have any questions (Captain Kelly Cain, 509-233-2511).

Early Departure

All campers, whether being picked up early or at the end of the session, will only be released to the parent/guardian that is listed on the Camper Application. If another person will be picking them up you must provide a written note, preferably at drop-off, stating who they may be released to. 

 

We may call to confirm the note is legitimate. Please plan to show photo identification when you come to camp (please inform any friends or family that may come pickup your child that they must be able to show valid proof of their identify – e.g., State or Federal ID. Any adult picking a child up must also be on the paperwork that was submitted when you registered your camper – or shown on a note provided by that parent/guardian).

If a Camper is Taking Prescribed Medication

  • Each medication must be brought to camp in the original prescription bottle/container. This includes all medications (e.g., asthma inhaler package/boxes, epi-pens, etc.).

  • The physician’s instructions (dosages/times of administration) must be clearly marked on the prescription bottle/container. Dispensing pharmacy phone numbers must be legible on the prescription bottle. This should agree with the dosage written on the Medical Information Form.  Our Health Care Managers may only dispense medications using the dosages and times shown on the original prescription container.

  • Medication administration times are breakfast/lunch/dinner/and bedtime. Please ensure your camper brings a sufficient amount of medications to last the entire camp period.

  • Detailed medication information should be written legibly on the Medical Information Form. This includes medication name, dosage, and times when medication is to be administered.

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