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FAQs
REGISTRATION
Camp Ozark values your feedback and seeks to constantly improve our experience for camp families so Camp Ozark remains “Incomparable”. To that end, we have re-evaluated our registration policies to align with the strong demand for the Ozark experience. Our aim is to provide a fair and sensible approach to registration and enrollment for future camp sessions. Our goal is to give current camp families and waitlisted families a fair opportunity to register for future sessions while allowing for new camp families to experience Camp Ozark.
While early registration has always been available to current camp families, we have improved the registration process so that camp families don’t miss this opportunity. Several camp families have opted out of early registration and later found themselves on a waitlist. While we cannot say specifically when a session will fill up, we know that generally sessions fill faster and faster each and every year. Taking advantage of early registration will help to alleviate the frustration of waiting too late.
We ask that all camp families pay close attention to correspondence and messaging from Camp Ozark through out the year. Camp Ozark seeks to communicate registration updates through multiple channels including email, text, mail, social media and website updates. Please pay close attention to messaging from Ozark as we endeavor to keep our camp families fully informed of deadlines and registration updates.
Unfortunately, Camp Ozark bunks are limited. While we would like every child to experience Camp Ozark, the reality is we are limited by our current capacity. Waitlists are now common and some can be very lengthy. While we cannot accommodate all camp families, our promise to you is to do our best to communicate clearly and keep our valued camp families informed as best we can.
Camp Ozark has a new policy, with updated registration deadlines for camper registration and enrollment for Summer 2024. Please read the below information carefully.
Camp Ozark offers 14-day and 7-day sessions. Waitlists are common for most, if not all, sessions. All applications are accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis. Therefore, we encourage parents to enroll their campers as soon as possible. It is not uncommon for waitlists to form for the next summer before the current summer begins.
For specifics regarding application policies and procedures, please see the “Agreements” section of your My Ozark dashboard. For questions regarding session availability, please contact our office at 870-867-4131.
JANUARY 5, 2023: EARLY REGISTRATION – available for families (family units defined below) who have registered for Summer 2023 and paid tuition in full. *Early registration is not a new policy. This has always been in place.*
- All families who have a registered camper for Summer 2023 and who have paid the full tuition for that registered camper for Summer 2023, will be able to complete Early Registration for Summer 2024 on January 5, 2023. If you have multiple campers registered for Summer 2023, then you must pay full tuition for each of those campers who desire Early Registration for Summer 2024.
- Once you have paid the full tuition for all registered campers for Summer 2023, you can also complete Early Registration for Summer 2024 for any new camper who is in your Family Unit. The “Family Unit” includes any child, including a legally adopted child or a child placed with you for adoption, a foster child, a stepchild, or a child for whom you or your spouse is the court-appointed legal guardian.
- Note: The Camp Ozark tuition fees for Summer 2023 are due by March 1, 2023. However, if you pay the full tuition early starting January 5, 2023, then your campers can complete this Early Registration for Summer 2024. This is an opportunity to try to choose your specific session before the Summer 2024 registration is open to the public.
- To complete the Early Registration for Summer 2024, you must pay the $400 registration fee* (for two-week sessions) or $300 registration fee* (for one-week sessions) for Summer 2024, which must accompany all camper applications for each session. Details regarding the registration fee* are included below.
March 1, 2023: Priority Registration – available for any families who have registered for Summer 2023
- All families with a camper enrolled in Camp Ozark for Summer 2023 and all families with a camper on the waitlist for Summer 2023 are eligible for Priority Registration for Summer 2024 starting March 1, 2023; and you can complete Priority Registration for any child in your Family Unit.
- To register, families must pay the $400 registration fee (for two-week sessions) or $300 registration fee* (for one-week sessions) for Summer 2024, for all camper applications for each session.
- If a family is registered for Summer 2023 but cancels their Summer 2023 registration after January 5, 2023, and they want to re-register for Summer 2024 after canceling for 2023, they would register during the Priority Registration, starting March 1, 2023.
May 1, 2023: General Public Registration
- Registration for Summer 2024 is open to the general public starting May 1, 2023.
- To register for Summer 2024, you must pay the $400 registration fee (for two-week sessions) or $300 registration fee* (for one-week sessions) for Summer 2024, for all applications for each session.
* The registration fee is required for each camper and for each session. Of that total registration fee, for the two-week sessions, $300 is a deposit and $100 is a non-refundable reservation fee. For the one-week sessions, $200 is a deposit and $100 is a non-refundable reservation fee. The deposit of $300/$200 is fully refundable/transferable up to September 15, 2023. After September 15, 2023, the $300/$200 deposit is non-refundable/transferable. The non-refundable reservation fee of $100 is immediately non-refundable and non-transferable once your camper is enrolled in a session (not waitlisted). Any cancellation, at any time, will result in forfeiture of the $100 non-refundable reservation fee. The registration fee does not guarantee a camper’s acceptance and enrollment in a camp session. A camper’s final acceptance and enrollment in a camp session is contingent upon receipt of the registration fee, fully and timely payments of all tuition and fees, and receipt and review of registration materials and signed forms as outlined in the Camper Policy Agreement.
** Note: Full tuition for Summer 2024 will be due to Camp Ozark on March 1, 2024.
Tuition for each 14-day camp session (pricing available after September 1st). Refer to 2024 Fees FAQ for deposit requirement and important dates.
Tuition for each 7-day camp session (pricing available after September 1st). Refer to 2024 Fees FAQ for deposit requirement and important dates.ll
Tuition for each 14-day camp session (pricing available after September 1st).
Tuition for each 7-day camp session (pricing available after September 1st).
ONE-WEEK SESSIONS
The tuition for one-week sessions includes a registration fee of $300.00 which must accompany all applications for each session. For one-week sessions, of that total registration fee, $200.00 is a deposit and $100 is a non-refundable reservation fee. The deposit of $200.00 is fully refundable/transferable up to September 15, 2023. After September 15, 2023, the $200.00 deposit is non-refundable/transferable. The non-refundable reservation fee of $100.00 is immediately non-refundable and non-transferable once your camper is enrolled in a session (not waitlisted). Any cancellation, at any time, will result in forfeiture of the $100 non-refundable reservation fee.
TWO-WEEK SESSIONS
The tuition for two-week sessions includes a registration fee of $400.00 which must accompany all applications for each session. For two-week sessions, of that total registration fee, $300.00 is a deposit and $100 is a non-refundable reservation fee. The deposit of $300.00 is fully refundable/transferable up to September 15, 2023. After September 15, 2023, the $300.00 deposit is non-refundable/transferable. The non-refundable reservation fee of $100.00 is immediately non-refundable and non-transferable once your camper is enrolled in a session (not waitlisted). Any cancellation, at any time, will result in forfeiture of the $100 non-refundable reservation fee.
Fee is all inclusive – all camp activities, camp shirt and a pair of camp shorts, equipment and supplies, color photo of cabin group, and regular arts and crafts activities.
Final payment is due no later than March 1, 2024.
No additional funds are requested except for personal items – stamps, souvenirs, toothpaste, extra craft activities, etc., all of which are available at the camp stores. ($300.00 is suggested for a 14-day session and $150.00 for a 7-day session.)
No discounts are allowed for late arrivals or early departures.
Boys and girls between the ages of 7 and 17 are eligible for enrollment. All applications are accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis. Waiting lists are common for all sessions. Registration requires a fully completed application and accompanied by the deposit and reservation fee ($300 for one-week sessions and $400 for two-week sessions).
The registration fee does not guarantee a camper’s acceptance and enrollment in a camp session. A camper’s final acceptance and enrollment in a camp session is contingent upon receipt of the registration fee, fully and timely payments of all tuition and fees, and receipt and review of registration materials and signed forms as outlined in the Camper Policy Agreement.
Six year old campers are considered only for one week sessions A or H, after review of application.
16 and 17 year old campers are restricted from registering online for one week sessions. Please call our office at 870-867-4131 for more information.
Camp Ozark offers installment payment plans only through My Ozark until December 31, 2023. Installment payment plans are an easy way to budget and pay camp tuition. Enrolling in an installment plan online offers convenience and flexibility. All registered campers must be paid in full at the date of the last installment as a condition of final enrollment. Deposits are fully refundable (less a $100 reservation fee) up and until September 15, 2023. Cancellations must be made by April 1, 2024 in order to receive a refund (less registration fee).
Families may register their campers for 2024, pay the required deposits, and complete the required application online by clicking on the Register graphic found throughout this website after the open registration dates listed under 2024 registration.
When registering their campers, families will create an online My Ozark account, which will allow families to manage their camper information, make payments, save store items and summer photos for future purchase, and much more.
If a family already has a My Ozark account, they may register for 2024 through their dashboard on their account.
All campers are required to purchase low-cost, no-fault, major medical insurance. The fee for this coverage is minimal, but purchase is a requirement for enrollment at Camp Ozark.
Camp Ozark is pleased to present camp families with optional travel insurance through a 3rd party provider. Plan and purchase details can be found by logging into your My Ozark account once registered.
MULTIPLE SESSIONS
Camp Ozark offers unique one- and two-week session programming. Many campers want to experience even more camp! Campers may register and potentially enroll in three or more consecutive weeks of camping. However, Camp Ozark does not make accommodations for residency between sessions. Camp families must check-out their campers at the close of a session. Campers will be able to check back in as normal the next Opening Day. Camp Ozark will coordinate luggage and cabin changes between sessions as requested.
Should a camper enrolled in multiple sessions cancel one of the sessions after September 15, only the deposit is non-refundable.
Upon acceptance of a camper’s application, he or she is placed in the proper grouping and cabin according to age, development, school grade and session. Every effort is made to place campers according to their cabin preference, but final placement is at the sole discretion of the Cabin Placement Coordinator. Campers may request to be placed in the same cabin with up to two other campers. All such requests must be submitted in writing via the My Ozark dashboard and must be made by both campers two weeks prior to the start of the campers’ session.
Requested cabin mates must be no more than 12 months apart in age. No more than four campers from the same school or social group will be placed in the same cabin. Cross-session requests (when one-week and two-week campers request each other) are not accommodated.
Also, please understand that clear communication with a requested cabin mate is very important. We recommend that all parents involved openly communicate with one another so that all campers may have the best possible start to their Incomparable Camp Ozark experience. To best serve our camp families, the Cabin Placement Coordinator may disclose cabin placement information in order to answer cabin placement questions.
One of our core values at Camp Ozark is Friendship-learning how to be a friend, make a friend and keep a friend. Making new friends is a rich component of the cabin experience and many of our campers choose to not make requests for this reason. We encourage campers to attend without concern for cabin requests, but we will make every effort to accommodate cabin requests in compliance with our cabin placement policies.
Upon acceptance of a camper’s application, he or she is assigned to one of two teams, the mighty Red Team or the powerful Blue Team. Team assignments are completely random unless the camper has a parent or sibling who is already a member of either team. A camper is automatically assigned to the team of the parent or sibling.
NO TEAM REQUESTS ARE PERMITTED OR CONSIDERED WHEN ASSIGNING TEAMS.
Once a camper is assigned to a team, he or she is a member of that team for life. Several factors are considered when assigning teams in order to make War Parties (age specific teams) as balanced as possible.
Waitlists are common for many camp sessions. Getting into a session from a waitlist is dependent on session switches and cancellations which change from year to year. Waitlisted families would be contacted immediately if a spot for their camper becomes available. If your camper ends up not getting into the session, or you decide to make alternate plans, and you are not enrolled in an alternate session, then you would receive your deposit back less a $50 reservation fee.
The tuition for one week sessions includes a $300.00 registration fee per session. Of that total registration fee, $200.00 is a deposit and $100 is a non-refundable reservation fee. The deposit of $200.00 is fully refundable/transferable up to September 15, 2023. After September 15, 2023, the $200.00 deposit is non-refundable/transferable. The non-refundable reservation fee of $100.00 is immediately non-refundable and non-transferable once your camper is enrolled in a session (not waitlisted). Any cancellation, at any time, will result in forfeiture of the $100 non-refundable reservation fee.
The tuition for two week sessions includes a $400.00 registration fee per session. Of that total registration fee, $300.00 is a deposit and $100 is a non-refundable reservation fee. The deposit of $300.00 is fully refundable/transferable up to September 15, 2023. After September 15, 2023, the $300.00 deposit is non-refundable/transferable. The non-refundable reservation fee of $100.00 is immediately non-refundable and non-transferable once your camper is enrolled in a session (not waitlisted). Any cancellation, at any time, will result in forfeiture of the $100 non-refundable reservation fee.
Final payment is due no later than March 1, 2024.
If your cancellation is made prior to April 1st, 2024, you are not liable for the remainder of the tuition. All cancellations made after April 1st, 2024, result in a forfeiture of tuition.
9/15/2023 – *NEW* 2024 Deposit refundable or transferable through this date
1/5/2024 – 2025 Early Registration opens
2/1/2024 – 2024 My Ozark dashboard opens
3/1/2024 – 2024 Tuition due
2025 Priority Registration opens
5/1/2024 – 2024 Health Forms due
2025 Registration opens to the general public
Two weeks prior to session – Detailed travel itineraries are available on the My Ozark dashboard.
Finalize any cabin requests on the My Ozark dashboard.
One week prior to session – Finalize Morning Activity preferences.
TRAVEL
There are four options for traveling to and from Camp Ozark:
1) Arrive via private automobile.
2) Ride a Camp Ozark sponsored chartered bus.
3) Fly into the Little Rock Airport to then be transported to camp via chartered bus.
4) Fly into Bearce Airport, the local Mount Ida airport, to then be transported to camp via camp shuttles.
Parents are encouraged to personally pick their campers up at the close of camp; however, campers may travel home to selected cities via bus or be transported to Little Rock to board commercial flights home. Transportation fees are charged for these services.
Charter buses run to and from Camp Ozark for most sessions from the following cities:
- Alexandria
- Hattiesburg
- Marshall
- Shreveport
- Austin
- Houston
- Memphis
- Texarkana
- Baton Rouge
- Jackson, MS
- Nacogdoches
- Tulsa
- Dallas
- Lafayette
- New Orleans
- Vicksburg/Tallulah
- Fort Smith
- Little Rock
- Oklahoma City
Fee for the bus is based on the city of departure.
Campers who wish to fly either to or from camp via commercial airline can be met at or transported to the Little Rock airport. Because a large number of our campers come from Texas, we arrange for specifically designated flights between Houston/Dallas/Austin and Little Rock to be staffed by Ozark staff members.
Camp Ozark offers fully staffed luxury charter bus service from several cities in a six state area (Texas, Louisiana, Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Mississippi). Several of our camp families take advantage of this extremely economical and convenient travel option. Also, it is a great way to kick-off the camp experience as campers meet new friends and connect with the Ozark staff on the trip.
Incomparable Charter Bus Experience
Our goal is to make the travel experience convenient and incomparable. We work together with reputable charter bus companies in trying to provide an incomparable experience based on a variety of factors including reliability, driver friendliness, professionalism and quality. In addition, Camp Ozark far exceeds the ACA (American Camping Association) recommended staff requirements of one per bus by providing THREE (3) staff members per charter bus.
Travel Staff Training
As part of our staff training and orientation, staff are trained on their travel supervisory responsibilities including travel safety, health, camper monitoring, emergency procedures and check-in/check-out protocols. In addition, all of our staff carry personal cell phones and camp families can track bus arrival times using Camp Ozark patented Info Stream found on the camper dashboard of your MyOzark account or by downloading the “Camp Ozark Go” iPhone app for free at the iTunes app store.
Electronics Restrictions
Due to privacy concerns and to create an incomparable experience free and “un-tethered” from electronics, transmittable devices such as cell phones or tablets with data plans are not permitted at Camp Ozark. Non-transmittable devices such as iPod, mp3 players or tablets without data plans, are permitted while traveling but are not permitted once at Camp Ozark. Upon arrival, all electronic devices are labeled and secured and delivered back to the camper at the end of the camp session.
Meals
We request that all campers pack their own lunch for the trip to Camp Ozark. Camp Ozark provides lunch and a snack (where applicable) for campers traveling home from camp. All charter buses are supplied with sanitization supplies and bottled water for camper use.
Luggage Tags
We request that luggage be restricted to two (2) pieces, a trunk and a duffle. In addition, campers may bring a small carry on such as a back-pack or satchel. In most cabins, trunks are stored under bunks and cannot exceed 15 ½” in height. For those traveling by bus or plane, luggage tags are mailed around two weeks prior to the beginning of each camp session. Please be sure to clearly mark and tag each piece of luggage with these tags. Upon arrival, Camp Ozark Staff will unload and assist campers with their luggage. For further convenience, campers may choose to ship their luggage to and from camp via FedEx or UPS.
Face Coverings
Some charter bus companies may require face coverings. Camp Ozark has agreed to comply with third-party protocols for communicable disease mitigation. Face coverings are otherwise not required at Camp Ozark.
Camp Ozark offers fully staffed charter bus service to and from the Little Rock Airport. Parents may book flights on the airline of their choice in accordance with Camp Ozark’s departure and arrival windows. Upon arrival, all campers are greeted by Camp Ozark Staff and escorted to our charter buses for transport to Camp Ozark. Camp Ozark luggage personnel are on hand to load luggage into the luggage bays once identified by each camper at the baggage claim.
Incomparable Airport Experience
Our goal is to make the travel experience convenient and incomparable. Camp Ozark staff is on hand at the Little Rock Airport for all arrivals and departures. Each camper is met at the gate (as long as permitted) upon arrival and escorted to the baggage claim area by Camp Ozark personnel. Charter buses park in close proximity to the baggage claim area and are monitored and supervised by Camp Ozark Staff. Also, camp luggage staff is on hand to assist campers with moving their luggage from the carousels to the charter bus. Travel manifests are generated from information provided in the travel section of each camper’s MyOzark account. Please make sure the flight information provided is accurate and correct.
Travel Staff Training
As part of our staff training and orientation, staff are trained on their travel supervisory responsibilities including travel safety, health, camper monitoring, emergency procedures and check-in/check-out protocols. In addition, all of our staff carry personal cell phones and camp families can track bus arrival times using Camp Ozark patented Info Stream found on the camper dashboard of your MyOzark account or by downloading the “Camp Ozark Go” iPhone app for free at the iTunes app store.
Electronics Restrictions
Due to privacy concerns and to create an incomparable experience free and “un-tethered” from electronics, transmittable devices such as cell phones or tablets with data plans are not permitted at Camp Ozark. Non-transmittable devices such as iPod, mp3 players or tablets without data plans, are permitted while traveling but are not permitted once at Camp Ozark. Upon arrival, all electronic devices are labeled and secured and delivered back to the camper at the end of the camp session. However, campers who fly are allowed to bring cell phones for convenience of communication in route to and from Camp Ozark.
Meals
Camp Ozark provides lunch and a snack (where applicable) for campers traveling home from camp. Sub sandwiches are provided to all campers upon departure from camp. Transportation to the airport is supplied with sanitization supplies and bottled water for camper use.
Flight Delays
Camp Ozark will make best efforts to communicate with parents regarding flight delays for departing campers; however we ask each parent or guardian to monitor their camper’s flight status. In the case of a flight delay, of course our staff members will supervise, monitor and assist the parent or guardian in making alternative arrangements for each camper. With regard to inbound flight delays, we ask that each parent or guardian notify the Camp Ozark office as soon as they are aware of any change in schedule.
Unaccompanied Minors
While Unaccompanied Minor (UA) policies vary by airline, typically they apply to children under the age of 12 flying alone or not traveling with an accompanying passenger over the age of 12. It is the parent or guardians responsibility to understand and comply with UA policies based on the airline of choice, including payment of any and all UA fees. In most cases, airlines require contact information for the pick-up designee at the arrival airport. Information regarding the Camp Ozark Staff designee is sent out approximately two weeks in advance and can otherwise be found by contacting the Camp Ozark office (assignments typically finalized in May). UA policies do not apply to those traveling on staffed flights on Southwest from Houston, Dallas, or Austin.
Little Rock Airport
The Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport services six (6) airlines, offers 57 departures each day and non-stop jet service to 16 national and international gateway cities. Major airline service includes Southwest, American, Delta, United, US Airways and Frontier. The Little Rock airport offers non-stop flights to Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, Chicago, Memphis, Detroit, Charlotte, Denver, St. Louis, Baltimore, Las Vegas and Phoenix. Typically campers arriving from other areas of the country can book flights with one stop service into Little Rock.
Luggage Tags
We request that luggage be restricted to two (2) pieces, a trunk and a duffle. In addition, campers may bring a small carry on such as a back-pack or satchel. In most cabins, trunks are stored under bunks and cannot exceed 15 ½” in height. For those traveling by bus or plane, luggage tags are mailed around two weeks prior to the beginning of each camp session. Please be sure to clearly mark and tag each piece of luggage with these tags. Upon arrival, Camp Ozark Staff will unload and assist campers with their luggage. For further convenience, campers may choose to ship their luggage to and from camp via FedEx or UPS.
There are many places to stay near Camp Ozark. We suggest you make your reservations well in advance. First-class hotel facilities are available in Hot Springs, Arkansas, 40 miles east of Camp Ozark. In addition, there are several nice lodging, cabin and camping options within 20-30 minutes of Camp Ozark
For more information, refer to the lodging list found HERE
You may also visit the Chamber of Commerce websites for Mount Ida and Hot Springs, or any online travel review guide, such as Trip Advisor.
Camp Ozark is located 6 miles west of Mt. Ida, Arkansas (40 miles west of Hot Springs, Arkansas) in the scenic Ouachita Lake and Mountain region of west-central Arkansas. Our ideal setting provides easy access to the Ouachita River, the Ouachita National Forest, and Lake Ouachita.
Camp Ozark
155 Camp Ozark Drive
Mt. Ida, AR 71957
Phone: (870) 867-4131
Fax: (870) 867-4344
Each session begins on a Sunday. Opening day procedures are designed to make the parents’ and campers’ experience as smooth and efficient as possible. An Opening Day Guide, as well as both valet and luggage service, are provided to all families arriving via private automobile. Campers arriving via chartered bus or airplane receive assistance with luggage and are moved into their cabin immediately upon arrival.
Our goal is to operate in a completely normal fashion. Camp families should anticipate normal participation in Opening Day experiences. Screening requirements may be implemented based on current conditions to protect the health and safety of our campers and staff.
Specific information regarding Opening Day schedules and events are sent via the Travel Itinerary on the My Ozark dashboard to all enrolled campers prior to the beginning of their camp session.
Each session closes on a Saturday. Closing day is a memorable time for campers to end an incomparable session at Camp Ozark!
Our goal is to operate in a completely normal fashion. Camp families should anticipate normal participation in Closing Day experiences. Screening requirements may be implemented based on current conditions to protect the health and safety of our campers and staff.
Specific information regarding Closing Day schedules and events are sent via the Travel Itinerary on the My Ozark dashboard to enrolled campers prior to the beginning of their camp session.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
Camp Ozark will require screening prior to camp. Screening is a very useful tool in helping to keep camp safe and healthy. Normal screening requirements include protocols to help mitigate the risk of communicable disease transmission in our close community. Screening will include temp checks, questionnaires, and verifications that campers are free of communicable disease and asymptomatic. Pre-camp testing is a useful screening tool and may or may not be required depending on current health conditions. Keep in mind that campers come from across the country and several countries abroad. Our commitment is to do what is reasonable and necessary to keep camp as safe as possible. All screening requirements will be communicated and are subject to change on a session-by-session basis. Camp families will receive screening requirements a few weeks prior to the start of the camp session.
The two Health Centers are staffed by a camp physician and up to 10 registered nurses. Additional physicians and a full-service medical clinic are located in Mt. Ida, 6 miles away. It is the camp policy to notify parents of an illness, accident or injury in the event the camper is seen by the camp physician. Should medical bills be incurred, parents are fully responsible for payment.
Vigorous hand-washing always has been and will continue to be part of our daily routine. And, as always, Camp Ozark will maintain its high standards for sanitization, including our full time Cleaning Crew.
Camp Ozark will facilitate the mandatory service of pre-packing campers’ medications in preparation for camp. Camp families must send their medication(s) directly to Camp Ozark. There is a fee for this service.
All pills/capsules (prescription and non-prescription) taken on a routine basis will be individually packaged and sorted according to day and time of administration. If prescription medication is not in pill/capsule form (liquids, eye drops, topical, etc.) they will be dispensed as indicated.
All medication must be delivered to camp at least 3 weeks prior to the camper’s arrival.
Campers that have any type of allergy, whether food, drug, environmental or other, must notify Camp Ozark via the Health Form or in writing before the camper’s session begins. All allergies are entered into the camper’s database. The “Camp Ozark Allergy Form” must be filled out indicating the allergen, the reaction and the treatment if exposure occurs. If the camper has a potentially life threatening allergy, a black band will be placed on their wrist on their arrival, with their allergy written on the band. Food allergies must be discussed with the Food Services Director in advance of the session and alternatives planned for the session. Supplemental foods are usually requested.
Camp Ozark takes water safety very seriously and has developed water safety policies in accordance with guidelines issued both by the American Red Cross and the American Camping Association.
Before participating in any water activity at Camp Ozark, each camper must complete a mandatory swim test supervised by our waterfront staff. At that time, all campers are fitted for life jackets under the supervision of the waterfront staff. Life jackets are color-coded by size. Campers are required to wear a life jackets when participating in all waterfront activities. The only two exceptions are limited to the water slide area where the camp ratio of swimmers to lifeguard never exceeds 2 to 1 and our EDGE program, a daily exercise program where the campers, on a volunteer basis, can choose to swim laps for twenty consecutive minutes while being monitored by a lifeguard.
Campers who pass the swim test receive a permanent “swim bracelet,” which assist the lifeguards in assessing swim ability in each of our water areas. Those who do not pass the swim test do not receive a swim bracelet and must wear a life jacket when participating in all waterfront activities, including the water slides and the EDGE swim. In addition each camper is issued a “swim tag” that is required for admittance into our main waterfront area and wacky world, our youngest campers’ swim area. Camp Ozark implements the “check in/check out” system in both of these areas to assist in camper monitoring and water safety.
Camp Ozark lifeguards are certified by the American Red Cross. In addition. Backboards and AED’s are both available to the waterfront staff should a situation arise requiring their use.
Camp Ozark maintains an excellent safety record in all waterfront activities and reviews its water safety policies on an annual basis.
Sun Protection is taken very seriously at Camp Ozark. In addition to dispensation and application of sunscreen prior to participation in all waterfront and lakefront activities, Camp Ozark trains its staff to encourage sun protection through consistent application of sunscreen. Protective clothing, such as UV rated swim shirts, are also encouraged. While Camp Ozark encourages campers to bring their own sun protection, sunscreen is available in most program areas and UV rated protective clothing is available at the camp store.
In addition, Camp Ozark employs a monitoring system through its restriction protocols that assist summer staff in identifying and caring for campers who are particularly sensitive to sun exposure.
Camp Ozark strives to provide delicious food options that kids enjoy, while recognizing the importance of nutrition and healthy eating. At every meal, campers have the option to eat from the main hot food line, Express Eats line, or an always healthy breakfast bar in the morning or soup, salad and potato bar at lunch and dinner. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and fresh fruit are also available during most meals.
All activity, medical and dietary restrictions are reviewed once submitted during registration. Campers with chronic medical conditions including, but not necessarily limited to, diabetes, cystic fibrosis, heart conditions, etc. are welcome at Camp Ozark as long as the camper can thrive within the Essential Functions defined. Each condition is considered on a case by case basis and final acceptance is at the sole discretion of the camp director in consultation with its medical team.
In order to make reasonable efforts to protect the public health of our entire camp population, Immunizations are mandatory for camp attendance – no exemptions or exceptions.
In order to make reasonable efforts to protect the health and safety of each individual camper, only inhalers, EpiPens, injectable medications, ADD medications, and new prescriptions (newly prescribed in the week prior to attendance) can be brought on Opening Day. There is a $75 handling fee for any other prescription medications brought on Opening Day, other than these exceptions. In addition, Camp Ozark cannot guarantee the proper dispensation of medications within the first 48 hours of receipt. No over-the-counter medications, vitamins, or supplements will be accepted on Opening Day. Thank you for your cooperation.
WHILE AT CAMP
There are no face covering requirements for campers at Camp Ozark. Campers can, of course, elect to wear face coverings if they so choose.
To send your camper mail or packages, please address as shown below:
Camp Ozark
Attn: (Camper Name)
Session (number or letter), (Cabin # if known)
155 Camp Ozark Dr.
Mount Ida, AR 71957
Candy, food and gum are not allowed to be brought or sent to Camp Ozark. Likewise, water balloons, water guns, silly string, and glow sticks should not be sent. All such items will be confiscated and discarded. They will not be returned. Firearms, ammunition, fireworks, knives, and other items deemed dangerous, are strictly prohibited.
Cell phones and other mobile communication or transmittable devices (except in authorized camp activities) are strictly prohibited. Other electronics, such as iPads, iPods, Apple Watches, video cameras, video games, computers, etc., are also prohibited. Any such item brought or sent to camp will be taken up and returned on Closing Day. Camp Ozark is not responsible for theft or damage to any camper personal property.
Ideas of things you can send would be books, magazines, activity books, games, cards, stuffed animals, hair accessories, colored pens or markers, and accessories for the Special Events.
Parents, relatives and friends are requested not to visit campers during the session. Campers are not permitted to leave camp during the session with parents or friends. We ask for your full cooperation in this policy as it is for the well-being of the camper and camp.
Personal animals are prohibited from being brought into the camp program.
Candy, food and gum are not allowed to be brought or sent to Camp Ozark. Likewise, water balloons, water guns, silly string, and glow sticks should not be sent. All such items will be confiscated and discarded. They will not be returned. Firearms, ammunition, fireworks, knives, and other items deemed dangerous, are strictly prohibited.
Cell phones and other mobile communication or transmittable devices (except in authorized camp activities) are strictly prohibited. Other electronics, such as iPads, iPods, Apple Watches, video cameras, video games, computers, etc., are also prohibited. Any such item brought or sent to camp will be taken up and returned on Closing Day. Camp Ozark is not responsible for theft or damage to any camper personal property.
Clothing displaying profanity or inappropriate content is prohibited. Campers should not bring backless shirts, halter tops, crop tops, or any low cut, tight, or revealing apparel.
Telephone calls from parents or friends to campers should be limited to an emergency basis. Please feel free to call the Camp Mom if you need to discuss something relating to your child. Campers are not allowed to use the telephone during their stay at Camp Ozark except for radical emergencies. Campers are allowed to receive e-mail messages. Email packages are available online through your My Ozark account or the Camp Store. Emails are printed at 8 A.M. daily and delivered by 2 P.M. through the Camp Post Office.
No extra money is needed at camp except for personal items such as toothpaste, shampoo, stamps, camp t-shirts, canteen/snack items, extra craft items, etc. A deposit should be made in the camper’s store account; $200 is suggested for two and three week sessions, and $100 is suggested for one week sessions.
The Camp Store operates in similar fashion to a checking account and the unused balance is refunded. In the event your camper’s store balance falls below $25, you will be notified via your My Ozark Dashboard. Additional store funds can be added through your My Ozark account or by calling the camp office at 870-867-4131.
All money must be turned in to the office on the first day of camp. No money is allowed to be kept in the cabins.
The Camp Ozark daily schedule allows campers to participate in a wide variety of activities, both in structured and non-structured settings. Whether it is the excitement of learning a new skill during Morning Activities, the freedom of Mish Mash, the energy and impact of our nightly Worship Services, or the non-stop fun of Special Events, the Camp Ozark program has something for everyone!
A TYPICAL DAY AT CAMP OZARK:
| 7:20 AM | Wake-Up |
| 7:35 AM | Morning Show |
| 7:55 AM | Breakfast/Cabin Clean-Up |
| 8:45 AM | Team Competition |
| 10:05 AM | Chill-Out |
| 10:35 AM | First Activity |
| 11:25 AM | Second Activity |
| 12:15 PM | Third Activity |
| 1:05 PM | Lunch |
| 2:00 PM | Rest Period |
| 3:00 PM | Mish Mash |
| 5:30 PM | Dinner |
| 6:45 PM | Lifeline/Primetime/Ozone |
| 7:30 PM | Special Events |
| 9:00 PM | Devotional/Showers |
| 10:00 PM | Lights Out |
Morning Activities are primarily designed for campers to learn or improve upon a skill from one day to the next. Each camper will receive a unique, individualized morning class schedule based on the camper’s indicated preferences. All classes are a first-come, first-served basis. Each camper will be able to change his or her class schedule upon arrival at camp. Age and gender restrictions for some activities may apply.
Each scheduled Morning Activity generally meets once daily, Monday through Thursday, with a total of three activity periods each day
All areas of camp are staffed and open recreationally every afternoon during our camp-wide free time known as Mish Mash. Campers are able to participate in as many activities as they’d like. Qualified staff is assigned to supervise each activity, while those not assigned are free to take kids to different activities of the camper’s choosing. Organized Tournaments and Clinics are advertised and offered each Mish Mash allowing campers to benefit from instruction in a specific areas, as well as participate alone or with a group in structured play.
Mish Mash is often referred to as the camper’s favorite time of the day because all activities at Camp Ozark are open, with campers having the opportunity to do “whatever they want” at this time. Mish Mash lasts about 2 hours each day.
Campers can pack in a duffel, plastic, or hard side trunk no more than 15” tall (to slide easily under the bunk). Wheels on trunks are not recommended.
A complete list of what to bring can be found here for one week campers and here for two week campers. The special event packing guide can be found here.
No regulation uniform is required. Clothing displaying profanity or inappropriate content is prohibited. Campers should not bring backless shirts, halter tops, crop tops, or any low cut, tight, or revealing apparel.
All clothing and items brought to camp must be marked with camper’s first and last name.
Do NOT pack any prescribed or over-the-counter medication in your camper’s luggage. Refer to the Medication Dispensation Policy on your My Ozark dashboard for further clarification.
Candy, food and gum are not allowed to be brought or sent to Camp Ozark. Likewise, water balloons, water guns, silly string, and glow sticks should not be sent. All such items will be confiscated and discarded. They will not be returned. Firearms, ammunition, fireworks, knives, and other items deemed dangerous, are strictly prohibited.
Cell phones and other mobile communication or transmittable devices (except in authorized camp activities) are strictly prohibited. Other electronics, such as iPads, iPods, Apple Watches, video cameras, video games, computers, etc., are also prohibited. Any such item brought or sent to camp will be taken up and returned on Closing Day. Camp Ozark is not responsible for theft or damage to any camper personal property.
Camp Ozark firmly believes that all campers deserve to have an “incomparable” camp experience, and any camper behavior that negatively affects the experience of others should be addressed in a decisive and timely fashion. Camp Ozark has developed a system of Camper Monitoring designed to prevent, identify and resolve camper behavior issues. Components of Camper Monitoring include:
Monitoring of Camper Behavior
Camp Ozark employs a system of camper monitoring that involves cabin counselors, senior summer staff (“Top Staff” – older Camp Ozark “veterans” who oversee a small group of cabins), and Permanent Staff. One of the primary goals of our camper monitoring system is to be in a position to quickly identify and resolve any camper misbehavior. Our cabin counselors are the first line of “defense,” but all staff members, including the Top and Permanent Staff, are trained to work together to attempt to eliminate misbehavior of any kind.
Permanent Staff
Certain members of the Camp Ozark Permanent Staff are tasked with designing, implementing and evaluating our camper monitoring program. These Permanent Staff members try to stay current on recent trends and thoughts on preventing, identifying and resolving behavioral issues, including bullying. In addition, these Permanent Staff are proactive during the summer in responding to behavioral issues that arise among campers. As issues come to their attention, whether through formal or informal channels, one or more of these Camp Ozark Permanent Staff members becomes involved.
Training of Summer Staff
Camp Ozark trains our Summer Staff in efforts to help them recognize, prevent and resolve camper misbehavior issues, such as bullying. This includes training prior to camp, during our Staff Orientation (required of all summer staff member with very few exceptions), as well as ongoing training and evaluation during summer.
Camper Supervision Rules
Camp Ozark has developed policies and guidelines aimed at adequate supervision and monitoring of campers. For example, we go to great lengths to avoid situations where campers are not directly supervised by staff members at all times. Since most campers who bully or otherwise misbehave tend to do so in the absence of adult supervision, we strive to eliminate those situations.
Opening Day Meetings
On the first night of camp, Camp Ozark conducts age- and gender-specific meetings with all campers. During these opening day meetings, a member of the Permanent Staff reviews our behavioral policies and guidelines and outlines the consequences of misbehavior (ranging from a meeting with Permanent Staff, to loss of camp privileges, to expulsion from camp in extreme cases). A Permanent Staff member will also review the formal and informal ways a child may report misbehavior by another camper or staff member. We want campers to feel safe and empowered to stand up for themselves, and to know they have options for dealing with difficult situations.
One-on-One Meetings and Daily Checks
We conduct “Camper Evaluations” once per week, during which members of the Top Staff meet with the counselors in their assigned cabins and documents a formalized report for each camper. The primary purpose of this meeting is to identify any behavioral issues that might be causing problems in the cabin. These reports are then reviewed by members of the Permanent Staff. In addition, Top Staff members are tasked with informally checking with each of their assigned cabins each day. Again, this helps keep us informed as to how the campers in a cabin are getting along, and if the counselors are having any difficulty managing behavioral issues.
Camp Moms, typically former Ozark staff members, serve as a mom away from home and strive to help make the experience of sending a child to camp as smooth and worry-free as possible for both the camper and parents. Camp Moms have a network in place that enables them to meet camper’s needs, and address issues such as homesickness.
Cabins at Camp Ozark are arranged by age group and gender, and are strategically located throughout Camp Ozark. The Summit and Pines are areas set apart for our older campers and are serviced by a separate dining facility and Health Center. The typical cabin arrangement is 9-12 campers with 2-3 counselors. The cabins are rustic (screen doors, screen windows, ceiling fans), and campers sleep in bunk beds. Each sleeping area has a shelf and access to an electrical outlet (for fans or clocks). Most campers use bath houses, although some cabins do have their own facilities.
We love birthdays at Camp Ozark! Campers with birthdays while at camp are celebrated in many ways. They start their day with an announcement and celebration at the Morning Show and their entire cabins gets a birthday bag with decorations, hats, and other fun items. The birthday boy or girl receives a Mish Mash Fast Pass and a cake at lunch to share with the cabin while the whole camp sings “Happy Birthday” to the camper! Additional birthday packages to send to your camper on their special day are available for purchase via the Camp Ozark Store.
WAITLIST
Your My Ozark dashboard has a feature to check your camper’s current place on the waitlist. You may use the feature at any time.
We will call you once a spot becomes available. If we are unable to reach you, we will follow-up with an email. You will have 2 days to accept the spot. If you choose not to accept the position, you may stay on the waitlist or choose to cancel.
We are actively filling spots when they become available due to cancellations and session switches. The longer you stay on the waitlist the better chance you have of getting offered a spot.
Getting into a waitlisted session is dependent upon session switches and cancellations and may differ from year to year as some camp family’s plans change. Ultimately, there is no guarantee that a spot will become available, but movement off our waitlists can occur as the start of the summer approaches, possibly even up until the day the session starts.
It varies from year to year based on cancellations, session switches, or family schedules.
People are signing up for camp as early as possible.
We value the loyalty of long-time camp families. To that end, we offer priority registration to enrolled and waitlisted camp families. We also try and communicate in various ways about registration and whether spots are filling fast. However, we always try to be fair and want to provide an incomparable camp experience to all kids so we operate with a first come first serve method.
You would receive your registration fee back less the $50 reservation fee. You would also have the option to rollover your deposit to the following summer.
No. As spots become available, we call the first person on the waitlist. Should you choose not to accept a position, to wait for another camper to get off the waitlist, you may choose to stay at the top of the waitlist until spots become available for multiple campers.
Our waitlists are not based on camper age or cabin. Waitlists are based on gender and the time and date of your campers’ registration.
No, only one deposit is required.
We suggest you sign up as early as possible. Generally, registration for the next summer opens in the spring. Many camp sessions will likely fill before the end of the summer.
Yes. Getting into a session off a waitlist is dependent upon session switches and cancellations which is different from year to year.
Registration is open TODAY and can be accessed through your My Ozark dashboard.
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