Frequently
Asked
Questions
Here are FAQs Camp Onomia gets about our summer camp programs. If your question isn't on the list, please contact the office at 320-532-3767 or email camponomia@gmail.com.
How much does camp cost, and are scholarships available? We believe camp should be accessible to every family. Camp Onomia offers need-based scholarships, and many congregations also have campership funds available. We encourage families to apply early and to contact our office if you would like help exploring financial support options.
How does Camp Onomia handle health needs and medications? Camper health and safety are a top priority. Health forms are reviewed in advance, and medications are securely stored and administered according to family instructions and camp protocols. Our trained staff work closely with families to support each camper’s specific needs. In the event of severe illness or injury, parents will be notified. Camp Onomia is within 10minute drive to Urgent Care and Emergency Care. If you have concerns about your camper's specific needs, email onomiaprogram@gmail.com
How are food needs, allergies, and dietary restrictions handled? We take food safety seriously. Families are asked to note all allergies and dietary needs on health forms. Our kitchen and program staff work to accommodate these needs whenever possible and will communicate with families if additional planning is required. If your camper has strict dietary restrictions, you can supplement Onomia's offerings with your own food and snacks. Email onomiaprogram@gmail.com for more questions.
How do you keep campers safe while still encouraging growth? Camp is designed to help children grow through new experiences that may feel challenging at times. Camp Onomia provides a physically and emotionally safe environment with trained staff, clear supervision, and established safety procedures, while encouraging campers to build independence, confidence, and resilience. Summer staff are vetted, background checked, and receive 2 weeks of extensive training. Onomia's year-round staff have vast experience in outdoor ministry, mandated reporting, safety procedures, and pastoral care. Questions on Camp Procedures? Contact onomiaexec@gmail.com
What are pick-up and drop-off procedures? Check-in and pick-up times are based on the program and are clearly communicated before each session. Authorized adults must check campers in and out to ensure camper safety. Most Youth Overnight Programs: Check in: Sundays, 3 -4:30 pm Check Out: Fridays, Noon Check-in stops include: Admin, Cabin Assignment, Health Office, and the Camp Store. Check out is preceded by a short worship. Lost and found, medication pick up, and the camp store will be available.
What should my child pack for camp? A detailed packing list is sent to families before camp and includes clothing for outdoor activities, bedding, toiletries, Bibles, backpacks, flashlights, and comfort items. We recommend packing simply, labeling belongings, and leaving valuables and electronics at home. Included on the packing list are items prohibited at Camp Onomia, including: non-prescribed drugs, alcohol, weapons, and explosives. Camp Onomia is a tech free enviroment.
What if my child feels homesick? How do families communicate with campers? Homesickness is normal, especially for first-time campers. Counselors are trained to support campers by keeping them engaged and connected. For this reason, camper-family communication is limited during sessions. If there is a significant concern, our leadership team will contact you directly. You are encouraged to write your camper letters! See this helpful article on homesickness and coping strategies you can start at home: https://www.acacamps.org/press-room/how-to-choose-camp/homesickness
What happens if the weather doesn’t cooperate? Camp Onomia operates rain or shine, with flexible programming plans to adapt to changing weather. In cases of severe weather, staff follow established safety protocols to keep campers safe and comfortable. Once all campers are safe, staff will communicate updates to parents/guardians.
What if I need help with CampBrain or registration questions? If you have questions about registration, forms, payments, or CampBrain access, please contact the Camp Onomia office. Our staff are happy to assist and ensure everything is in place before your camper arrives.
What is your cancellation, refund, or program switch policy? Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. Refunds are granted only for illness or a family bereavement, with a $25 administrative fee deducted. All other cancellations result in forfeiture of the deposit. Remaining balances may be refunded upon written request to the camp office. If a camper checks in and needs to leave early due to illness, emergency, or homesickness, a pro-rated refund (minus the deposit) may be issued with a written request. Campers sent home for behavioral reasons are not eligible for any refund. Campers who leave early or miss part of the week for sports, travel, or other activities will not receive partial refunds. If families notify us in advance, we will do our best to reschedule the camper to another week during the same summer season, subject to availability.
What if my camper needs to arrive late or leave early? For the best experience—for your child and for their cabin mates—it is strongly encouraged that campers attend the full week. Full participation helps children fully engage in activities, build friendships, and experience the rhythm of camp life. That said, we understand that life happens. If your camper needs to arrive late or leave early, please notify the camp office in advance. We will work with families to accommodate the schedule change whenever possible
Camp Onomia is a screen-free environment. Campers do not have access to phones, tablets, or other electronics during their time at camp. This helps children fully engage with peers, counselors, and activities while reducing overstimulation and encouraging creativity, social connection, and presence in the moment. Tip for families: A short technology detox in the week before camp can help campers adjust more smoothly, supporting their focus, mood, and overall camp experience. For more on the benefits of unplugging and preparing your child for a screen-free week, see the American Camp Association article: “Pulling the Plug: https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/pulling-plug-why-teaching-campers-how-detach-their-devices-critical-summer-success
How are cabin mates assigned? Can my child request a friend? Campers may request one cabin mate. Cabins are grouped by age, and dorms are connected to allow for large-group activities. Program activities encourage interaction across cabins so campers have opportunities to make new friends while honoring requests when possible.
What should I know about the first day at camp? The first day is structured to help campers settle in comfortably. Staff greet campers, show them their cabins, and introduce daily routines. Campers meet counselors, make new friends, and begin participating in small-group and program activities. Even our first meal together is planned with comforting campers in mind. Families can expect a smooth transition into camp life.
What is the policy on photos and sharing? Camp Onomia prioritizes camper safety. We share photos through a private album for families, and only post social media photos the following week after permission is granted. Remember: if you don’t hear anything, your camper is doing great—“no news is good news!”
Lost and Found All items found at camp are collected and stored. Families are encouraged to label belongings. Lost items can be recovered by contacting the office, and unclaimed items are donated or discarded at the end of the summer session.