We are grateful for the time and energy you have invested in getting to know kids and we look forward to hosting you this summer. As you prepare for your trip, please use the links below to access necessary summer trip documents.
At this time, there are currently no COVID-related limitations for camps in Minnesota, so we will be operating under historical standards for protecting the health and safety of campers. We will continue to update this site with details on any new COVID-19 protocol and guidelines; please bookmark this link and refer back to it frequently.
If you have any further questions, please call (218-325-3550) or send Deb an email (dkohler@castaway.younglife.org). We look forward to hosting you this summer!
Summer 2024
Linens/Bedding may not be provided. Due to the low numbers of volunteers. Castaway will only supply: Pillow, Pillow case, blanket & mattress pad. Plan to pack twin size sheets or sleeping bag and your own towels. If this is a hardship for your area contact Deb at dkohler@castaway.younglife.org
Food Allergies. If parents are concerned about their child's health pertaining to a food allergy, they can email our Food Service Manager, Christine Miller, at cmiller1@castaway.younglife.org or use this form: Special Diet Request Form
Camp Activities Campers can enjoy a variety of activities, including the Climbing Wall, Giant Swing, Tubing, Banana boat, Swimming, Sailing, Kayaking, Game Room, Basketball, Volleyball, Pickleball, Octa Ball, 9 Square in the Air, Soccer, Whiffle Ball, and Frisbee Golf. Other free time options include visiting the Camp Store, Coffee Shop, Snack Shop & Craft Cabana.
NOTE on Camp Attire: As you are helping your campers and leaders prepare for the trip, please consider sharing a word of modesty regarding beach attire.
- Catholic Mass We understand that Mass is important and that while every Catholic kid/leader may not respond, we extend an invitation to celebrate Mass while they are here. St. Mary of the Lakes is the closest Catholic church. Please contact the Castaway office if you would like to make arrangements for someone from your group to attend Mass.
Arrival and Departure Times Arrival Time on Day One will be 2-4 pm Central Time. Departure Time on your last day at Castaway will be 2 pm Central time. On departure day the front gate will not be open for busses until 1 pm. Please communicate with your bus company of these times.
Want to see other camp trips in your Week? On your camp trip in YLCC, click the dropdown arrow in the top right and select Camp Trips by Week. This will show you every trip at the camp you are attending organized by week. This is also where you can see if an area has Requested to Add/Drop spots.
If you want to Request to Add/Drop spots : First check YLCC Camp Trips By Week report to see if anyone wants to drop spots that you can pick up (or visa versa). Then, email Deb (dkohler@castaway.younglife.org) details, be sure to include your area number, week at camp, and number of spots. I will note it in YLCC, so others can see. The process is the same if you see someone wants to drop spots that you'd like to take, or pick-up from them. Email Deb & the other Area Trip Leader the details. Be sure to include your area number, week at camp and number of spots.
Viewing Other Camp Trips (YLCC) You can now view all camp trips and available beds using the Nationally Managed Camp Reservation Report Available in YLCC.
Belonging at Camp Area Camp Trip Survey As we continue to define and create spaces of belonging at camp, assigned teams and camp staff are increasingly encouraged to know more about the campers and leaders on their session before they arrive. Being aware of the nuanced differences specific to the areas coming per week and session will better quip assigned teams and camp staff to create and plan in alignment with the posture of Jesus, who emptied himself with humble compassion (Philippians 2:1-11). In an effort to support this work, the Belonging at Camp Task Force create an AREA CAMP TRIP SURVEY.
Please complete this survey in a timely manner. Here is the link to the AREA CAMP TRIP SURVEY
For the health of all, we would like Trip Leaders/Area Directors to perform medial screenings before starting your travel to camp. This includes taking temps and asking questions about symptoms. Please do this shortly before loading the bus.
Summer Interns play a vital role in our summer camping ministry. Our interns are committed to Christ first and foremost. They also have the ability to lead others, serve with excellence and have a desire to be challenged and grow in their relationship with Christ. Summer Interns will strive to serve Christ, kids and each other. They will also have the opportunity to grow as leaders in ministry, develop Christ-like relationships and enjoy the fun and beauty of camp.
Required Documents
- YL Connect Camp is required for summer 2024. The YLCC Arrival Form replaces the registration packet/A form excel document. Training materials on YL Connect Camp are available through Learning Guides as well as a Quick Guide with videos. The Arrival Form specific information can be found here.
- If you are coming to Castaway from another country contact Deb at dkohler@castaway.younglife.org for instructions.
- Health, Consent, and Release Form (YL6007) (MN requires a physician signature)
- Health Form Travel Paperwork
- Event Medical Screening Form
- Leader Screenings
- Summer Camp Leader Orientation -UPDATED 2024
- 10-Day Call In Form Link
- Medication Collect Form (and instructions)
Additional Resources
- Permission to leave camp early Parents complete this form if anyone under 18 yo needs to leave camp early or they are traveling home by a method different form the way they arrived at camp.
- Electronics at Camp Policy
- Social Media Policy
Due Date Timeline Summer 2024
2024 Camp Dates
10-Day Information Due Date
YLCC Up-To-Date w/ Housing Due Date
GroupMe text Arrival Time
Week 1: June 16 - 21
06/6/2024
06/14/2024
06/16/2024
Week 2: June 22 - 27
06/12/2024
06/20/2024
06/22/2024
Week 3: June 28 - July 3
06/18/2024
06/26/2024
06/28/2024
Week 4: July 11 - 16
07/01/2024
07/09/2024
07/11/2024
Week 5: July 17 - 22
07/07/2024
07/15/2024
07/17/2024
Week 6: July 23 - 28
07/13/2024
07/21/2024
07/23/2024
Week 7: (WL) July 30 - Aug 3
07/20/2024
07/28/2024
07/30/2024
Week 8: (WL) Aug 4 - 8
07/25/2024
08/02/2024
08/04/2024
Week 9: (WL) Aug 9 - 13
07/30/2024
08/07/2024
08/09/2024
