Things to Know
Before Camp
A valuable experience at camp is uninterrupted time away from one’s home and normal routine. Campers use of Good Earth Village's phones for incoming or outgoing calls is strongly discouraged.
If you have concerns, our staff will be glad to discuss your child’s experience with you and can relay messages to your child. Good Earth Village will contact parents and guardians in the case of an emergency or if there are any questions or concerns. We will ensure camper access to a phone in the case of an emergency.
Our goal for each camper attending a program is to provide an experience of Christian community within a safe environment that promotes spiritual and social growth. Because of this goal, campers are encouraged to participate in all camp activities to their ability. Likewise, campers are encouraged to treat one another and the staff with mutual respect.
We expect campers to:
- Abide by the rules and regulations of camp.
- Use language that is affirming and uplifting.
- Respect the rights, privacy, and property of others.
- Respect the property and facilities of the camp.
- Refrain from engaging in or threatening acts of physical, sexual, or verbal abuse.
Good Earth Village reserves the right to dismiss any camper. In this rare and unlikely event, registration fees may or may not be returned at the sole discretion of the camp director. If a camper is destructive to camp property (discharging a fire extinguisher in a non-emergency situation, graffiti, etc.), the parent will be contacted for appropriate reimbursement and/or dismissal from camp.
In the event that a camper is displaying hurtful and harmful language or actions, parents will be contacted immediately and the camper will be dismissed from camp.
Good Earth Village is a drug and weapon-free environment. If a camper brings drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, knives, weapons, or explosive devices (including fire crackers) to camp, parents will be contacted immediately, and the camper will be dismissed from camp.
Good Earth Village also reserves the right to store campers’ contraband items that may not be appropriate for their stay. Items will be returned at the end of the program.
Homesickness is a natural reaction to separation from familiar surroundings and routines. While our staff is prepared to work with campers who become homesick, there are a few very important tips you can do to help before your child comes to camp:
- Help your camper understand that feeling homesick is natural!
- Language makes a difference. Emphasize that your camper is “going” to camp; try to avoid saying you are “sending” them away to camp.
- Avoid statements like “I’m going to miss you so much. I can’t wait for you to come home.”
- Why? Camp will be a terrific experience, so be careful not to make your camper feel bad about going away. Instead, say things like “I’m so excited for you! You’ll have a great time!”
- Share your own positive camp experiences!
- Please avoid statements like “If you don’t like camp, you can come home.” Campers who experience difficulties adjusting to camp would then compound the situation by not giving it a fair chance. Instead, your camper is only focused on going home.
By preparing yourself, you can help your camper avoid homesickness and enjoy a fun, successful, and wonderful experience with caring friends and staff members at camp.
All prescribed and over-the-counter medications must be turned in at check-in to our Health Officer.
All medications must be in the original packaging, clearly marked with the camper's name and the dosage instructions.
Things to Know
During Camp
Parents are welcome to bring letters with them to check-in instead of mailing them; letters will be distributed at mealtime.
To support a positive and engaging camp experience for all campers, we ask that families limit letters to one per day of your camper’s session, up to a maximum of five total letters.
If there is an emergency outside of normal summer office hours of 9:00 AM-4:00 PM, you can call our on-call phone at (507) 438-7537.
To view photos of your camper:
- Log in to your Camp Portal
- Click the three lines in the top left corner of the screen to open the menu.
- Select “Photo Gallery”
- Albums will be organized by week and the program your camper(s) attended.
- Click the album to view that week’s photos, which are organized into daily albums.
You also have the option to purchase any photos you would like to keep.
We appreciate your patience as we take time to upload photos and capture the best moments.
If your camper needs to leave during any part of the camp program for any reason, prior notification is required. Please bring or send (info@goodearthvillage.org) written documentation of who will be picking up your camper, the time they will be leaving, and the time they will be returning to camp. If someone other than you will be picking your camper up from camp, we encourage you to notify us in writing. This ensures that we are releasing your camper to the appropriate person.
Things to Know About
Summer Programs
Onsite Day Programs
The Adventurers program is a day-long camp experience for your camper. They will get a taste of some typical Good Earth Village camp activities, including worship, Bible study, outdoor games, and water activities. The schedule may be adjusted to fit other camp programs and weather.
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
Check-in will be at Log Lodge between 9:00 AM – 9:15 AM. Please contact us in advance if you will be arriving after the registration time. Families are free to leave once their camper has met their counselor.
A brief CLOSING WORSHIP will be held at Three Crosses, located by Log Lodge, beginning at 4:00 PM, after which campers are free to leave once the parent/guardian signs them out with their counselor. Pets are requested to be left at home, but may be brought only to check out, and must remain outside and on a leash. Please clean up after your pet.
The CAMP STORE will be open after the closing program in the lower level of the Log Lodge.
The Village Kids program is a week-long day-camp experience for your child. They will get a taste of some typical Good Earth Village camp activities, including worship, Bible Study, hiking, and water activities. The schedule may be adjusted to fit other camp programs and weather. A note will be sent home at the beginning of the week with specific information for each day.
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
Check-in will be at the Family Camp Picnic Shelter each morning between 9:00 AM– 9:15 AM. Please contact us in advance if you will be arriving after the check-in time. Each day will conclude around 4:00 PM, after which campers are free to leave once the parent/guardian signs them out with their counselor. A schedule of the week’s activities will be sent home with your camper on Monday.
There will be a CLOSING WORSHIP on Friday beginning at 3:30 PM at the Three Crosses Amphitheater. Pets are requested to be left at home, but may be brought only to check out, and must remain outside and on a leash. Please clean up after your pet.
The CAMP STORE will be open during check-in on Friday in the lower level of Log Lodge. Please send money with your camper if they are signed up for transportation.
DROP-OFF PROCEDURES
- Children should be dropped off at the pre-determined location between 8:00 AM – 8:30 AM.
- The responsible parent/guardian needs to check in with their child before leaving. Please make sure to sign the check-in sheet and give any special instructions to the Good Earth Village staff member supervising your drop-off site. Under no circumstances should a child be dropped off without being checked in by his or her parent or responsible adult.
- Please make sure to follow all parking signs and pedestrian markings at your drop-off site.
- Per Minnesota Child Care Seat Laws, booster seats are to be used after outgrowing a forward-facing harnessed restraint; safest to remain in a booster until 4 feet 9 inches tall, or at least age 8, whichever comes first. If your camper requires a booster or forward-facing harnessed restraint, please make sure to label it and leave it each morning at check-in. If there are any special instructions for installing the seat, make sure the site staff are shown the proper way to install it.
PICK-UP PROCEDURES
- Children will return to the designated site at 4:30 PM or 5:00 PM and need to be picked up promptly. If something happens that prevents you from arriving on time, please call one of the following numbers to alert the camp so proper supervision can be arranged. This should be for emergency purposes only. Camp Office (507) 346-2494 or On Call Phone (507) 438-7537
- The responsible parent/guardian needs to check out their child by signing the check-out sheet before departing the site. Under no circumstances should a child be picked up without being checked out by his or her parent or responsible adult.
- Please make sure to follow all parking signs and pedestrian markings at your pick-up site.
- If your child requires an additional safety booster or car seat, please make sure to take it home with you each evening.
EMERGENCY TRANSPORTATION SITE CHANGES
If weather, traffic, or other unforeseen emergencies require that children be dropped off or picked up at an alternate location, parents will:
- Receive a phone call from a GEV staff person alerting them to the change, and
- If time/technology allows, an email alert will be sent to the email(s) we have on file.
RULES FOR VEHICLE TRAVEL
- Remain seated while the vehicle is in motion
- Wear a seatbelt while the vehicle is in motion. Only one seatbelt per passenger.
- All body parts shall remain inside the vehicle at all times when it is in motion.
- Nothing shall be thrown from the vehicle.
- Drivers and GEV staff have authority. Any further instructions given by them shall be followed immediately.
DROP-OFF/PICK-UP LOCATIONS & TIMES FOR VILLAGE KIDS DAY CAMP
Please allow 15 minutes for possible delays. Vehicles are scheduled to arrive at Good Earth Village at 9:00 AM and depart at 4:00 PM. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us: (507) 346-2494 or at info@goodearthvillage.org.
TRANSPORTATION FOR AUSTIN/GRAND MEADOW SITES
Austin
- Pick-up at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church (North End of Church) 8:00 AM
- Drop-off at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church (North End of Church) 5:00 PM
Grand Meadow
- Pick-up at Grand Meadow Lutheran Church 8:30 AM
- Drop-off at Grand Meadow Lutheran Church 4:30 PM
TRANSPORTATION FOR ROCHESTER/STEWARTVILLE SITES
Rochester
- Pick-up at Bethel Lutheran Church (Far End of Parking Lot) 8:00 AM
- Drop-off at Bethel Lutheran Church (Far End of Parking Lot) 5:00 PM
Stewartville
- Pick-up at Zion Lutheran Church 8:30 AM
- Drop-off at Zion Lutheran Church 4:30 PM
INTERGENERATIONAL PROGRAMS
Preschool Play Day is the perfect time for little legs to run and jump and for big hearts to grow and share. Silly and uplifting camp songs make it easy to bond over God's big love, while the games keep us laughing and taking in that fresh air. Napping on the ride home is almost certain.
While the schedule may be adjusted to fit other camp programs and weather, your day will look something like this:
- 9:00 AM – Check-In and Warm Welcome
- 9:30 AM – Bible Story & Camp Songs
- 10:15 AM – Outdoor Games
- 11:00 AM – Camp-Style Worship
- 11:30 AM – Lunch Provided
- 12:00 PM – Water Activities
- 1:00 PM – Outdoor Activites
- 2:00 PM – Wrap-Up and Send-Off
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
Check-in will be at Barr Lodge at 9:00 AM, with parking directly across from the building.
The CAMP STORE will be open at 1:00 PM in Barr Lodge.
Sharing a camp experience is the best way to spread your faith across generations. Intergen Family Camp is designed to give your family time to play, worship, and simply be together. Our summer staff have a weekend of fun scheduled for you, including intergenerational activities, crafts, games, songs, Bible studies, and plenty of hiking and outdoor activities. You’re invited to make this time special for your family, making the schedule work for you with rests and time away as needed. We hope that you will leave your time at Good Earth Village relaxed, refreshed, and renewed, both individually and as a family!
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
Check-in will be on Friday at Log Lodge between 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM. Please contact us in advance if you will be arriving after the check-in time. Good Earth Village is not providing dinner on Friday evening, we encourage you to check out the restaurants around the area or bring your own packed meal. There will be canteen/snack time on Friday evening.
A continental breakfast will be available on Sunday at Barr Lodge between 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM. Please have all of your belongings out of your lodging unit before closing worship begins.
CLOSING WORSHIP will be held at Three Crosses, located by Log Lodge, at 10:00 AM.
The CAMP STORE will be open after the closing worship in the lower level of Log Lodge.
Overnight Youth Programs
Trailblazers provides your young camper with a fun overnight experience. They will stay in Log Lodge, where campers can ease into camp life. Log Lodge is air-conditioned and offers young campers comfort for an easy introduction to outdoor ministry. Exploring, hiking, Bible study, large group games, a campfire with s’mores (weather permitting), worship, and songs are just a sampling of the activities that campers will enjoy.
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
Check-in will be on Sunday at Log Lodge between 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM. Please contact us in advance if you will be arriving after the check-in time. Families are free to leave once their camper has met their counselor.
A brief CLOSING WORSHIP will be held on Monday at Three Crosses, located by Log Lodge, at 1:00 PM. Campers are free to leave once the parent/guardian signs out their camper with their counselor. Pets are requested to be left at home, but may be brought only to check out, and must remain outside and on a leash. Please clean up after your pet.
The CAMP STORE will be open after the closing program in the lower level of the Log Lodge.
Discover Camp provides your young camper with a taste of a multi-night camp. They will stay in the very comfortable Log Lodge, easing into camp life and still having plenty of time in the outdoors. Log Lodge is air-conditioned and offers young campers comfort for an easy introduction to outdoor ministry. Crafts, hiking, water activities, Bible study, canteen, large group games, worship, fun music, and energetic counselors are some of the things that your camper can enjoy during Discover Camp. Weather permitting, they’ll also roast hot dogs over a campfire and make s’mores! We’re excited to see you soon for a fun time at camp!
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
Check-in will be on Wednesday at Log Lodge between 3:00 PM – 3:30 PM. Please contact us in advance if you will be arriving after the check-in time. Families are free to leave once their camper has met their counselor.
A brief CLOSING WORSHIP will be held Friday at Three Crosses, located by Log Lodge, at 1:00 PM. Campers are free to leave once the parent/guardian signs out their camper with their counselor. Pets are requested to be left at home, but may be brought only to check out, and must remain outside and on a leash. Please clean up after your pet.
The CAMP STORE will be open after the closing program in the lower level of the Log Lodge.
This program is a fun, safe, and memorable week-long outdoor ministry experience for young campers. Participants enjoy a variety of activities offered at Good Earth Village, including arts and crafts, Bible studies, worship, even a few campfire cookouts, and lots of camp songs! Seekers stay in the Hilltop cabins as they are introduced to week-long summer camping. Your camper will also enjoy creek splashing, campfires, nature activities, and many different camp games. Campers will travel by camp vehicles to swim at the local pool.
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
Check-in will be on Sunday at Log Lodge between 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM. Please contact us in advance if you will be arriving after the registration time. Families are free to leave once their camper has met their counselor.
A brief CLOSING WORSHIP will be held on Friday at Three Crosses, located by Log Lodge, at 1:00 PM. Campers are free to leave once the parent/guardian signs out their camper with their counselor. Pets are requested to be left at home, but may be brought only to check out, and must remain outside and on a leash. Please clean up after your pet.
The CAMP STORE will be open after the closing program in the lower level of the Log Lodge.
Campers will be transported via bus to a local pool.
ARTFUL CAMP I
A Creative Camp Experience Rooted in Faith
Artful Camp I is a unique, faith-centered camp designed for young creatives who are ready to explore the intersection of art and spirituality. Through hands-on experiences and guidance from guest artists, campers will see how creativity can be an expression of God’s love.
Created to Create
Campers will dive into a new art focus each day—whether it’s painting, photography, poetry, or another creative form. With each activity, they’ll be invited to reflect on what it means to be made in God’s image and how their creative gifts are a part of that.
ARTFUL CAMP II
Encounter God Through Art
At Artful Camp II, creativity becomes a spiritual journey. Designed for older campers, this week-long program provides space for reflection, imagination, and deep exploration of how we experience God in our lives.
Whether you're a painter, poet, sculptor, songwriter, or simply curious about expressing your faith through the arts, this camp is your canvas.
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
Check-in will be on Sunday at Log Lodge between 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM. Please contact us in advance if you will be arriving after the registration time. Families are free to leave once their camper has met their counselor.
A brief CLOSING WORSHIP will be held on Friday at Three Crosses, located by Log Lodge, at 1:00 PM. Campers are free to leave once the parent/guardian signs out their camper with their counselor. Pets are requested to be left at home, but may be brought only to check out, and must remain outside and on a leash. Please clean up after your pet.
The CAMP STORE will be open after the closing program in the lower level of the Log Lodge.
A Sky Full of Summer. Shine from Within.
Stargazers is a week-long adventure designed for older elementary campers who are ready for a deeper camp experience. With faith at the center and nature all around, this program invites campers to grow in confidence, community, and connection with God.
A Classic Camp Experience
This is what outdoor ministry is all about: cooking meals over the fire, telling stories under the trees, and singing by the campfire. Stargazers stay in the Main Street cabins, offering a balance of comfort and rustic fun.
Program highlights include:
- Campfire cooking and camp songs
- Arts and crafts, Bible study, and worship
- Creek-splashing, canoeing, and nature discovery
- Swimming trip to the local pool
- Hiking adventures and classic s’mores
- A variety of fun camp games to build community and confidence
Explore Faith and Friendship
Each day at Stargazers is filled with opportunity, time to laugh with friends, learn about God’s love, and marvel at the wonders of creation. Through small group discussions, creative activities, and worship, campers discover more about who they are and how they’re called to shine their light.
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
Check-in will be on Sunday at Log Lodge between 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM. Please contact us in advance if you will be arriving after the registration time. Families are free to leave once their camper has met their counselor.
A brief CLOSING WORSHIP will be held on Friday at Three Crosses, located by Log Lodge, at 1:00 PM. Campers are free to leave once the parent/guardian signs out their camper with their counselor. Pets are requested to be left at home, but may be brought only to check out, and must remain outside and on a leash. Please clean up after your pet.
The CAMP STORE will be open after the closing program in the lower level of the Log Lodge.
Campers will be transported via bus to a local pool.
Welcome to a program that brings Confirmation class into a community of everyday life and outdoor adventure. Learn about and experience God’s grace in a safe new environment. With your friends and classmates, you’ll do awesome team-building games, morning devotions, nature exploration, evening worship around the campfire, and epic large-group games. Weather permitting, Confirmation campers will have an opportunity to go canoeing as well! Campers will stay in cabins located in Hilltop or Main Street.
Campers must be registered with a congregation. Please check with your pastor or confirmation leader to register for Confirmation Camp.
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
Check-in will be on Sunday at Log Lodge between 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM. Please contact us in advance if you will be arriving after the registration time. Families are free to leave once their camper has met their counselor.
A brief CLOSING WORSHIP will be held on Friday at Three Crosses, located by Log Lodge, at 1:00 PM. Campers are free to leave once the parent/guardian signs out their camper with their counselor. Pets are requested to be left at home, but may be brought only to check out, and must remain outside and on a leash. Please clean up after your pet.
The CAMP STORE will be open after the closing program in the lower level of the Log Lodge.
Welcome to a program that brings Confirmation class into a community of everyday life and outdoor adventure. Learn about and experience God’s grace in a safe new environment. With your friends and classmates, you’ll do awesome team-building games, morning devotions, nature exploration, evening worship around the campfire, and epic large-group games. Weather permitting, Confirmation campers will have an opportunity to go canoeing as well! Campers will stay in cabins located in Hilltop or Main Street.
Campers must be registered with a congregation. Please check with your pastor or confirmation leader to register for Confirmation Camp.
*Please note that for the half-week program, campers will not do all of the advertised activities due to less time at camp. The half week gives a chance to try out camp and come back next year to enjoy all the fun of a full week.
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
Check-in will be on Sunday at Log Lodge between 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM. Please contact us in advance if you will be arriving after the check-in time. Families are free to leave once their camper has met their counselor.
A brief CLOSING WORSHIP will be held on Wednesday at Three Crosses, located by Log Lodge, at 1:00 PM. Campers are free to leave once the parent/guardian signs out their camper with their counselor. Pets are requested to be left at home, but may be brought only to check out, and must remain outside and on a leash. Please clean up after your pet.
The CAMP STORE will be open after the closing program in the lower level of the Log Lodge.
Get Ready to Play with Purpose
Sportsastic Camp is where fun meets faith. Through teamwork, sportsmanship, and spiritual growth, kids learn to play hard, lift each other up, and discover the joy of becoming the best version of themselves, on and off the field or court. This energetic week at Good Earth Village brings together sports, teamwork, and Christian community—helping campers develop skills in Volleyball and Soccer, grow in confidence, discipline, and friendship while keeping Christ at the center of it all.
Campers of all skill levels are welcome. Whether you’re an athlete or just want to have fun outdoors, you’ll find a place to learn, laugh, and play.
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
Check-in will be on Sunday at Log Lodge between 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM. Please contact us in advance if you will be arriving after the check-in time. Families are free to leave once their camper has met their counselor.
A brief CLOSING WORSHIP will be held on Wednesday at Three Crosses, located by Log Lodge, at 1:00 PM. Campers are free to leave once the parent/guardian signs out their camper with their counselor. Pets are requested to be left at home, but may be brought only to check out, and must remain outside and on a leash. Please clean up after your pet.
The CAMP STORE will be open after the closing program in the lower level of the Log Lodge.
Voyagers spend their week camping and hammocking in Voyagers Landing. There, they create a strong community, cook many meals over a fire, practice team building, and explore the amazing landmarks at camp. Campers enjoy a variety of activities at Good Earth Village, including arts and crafts, Bible studies, worship services, nature activities, water activities, and hiking to a cave. Voyagers also travel off-site for a canoe trip, high ropes at a local course, and a night of camping at a local state park.
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
Check-in will be on Sunday at Log Lodge between 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM. Please contact us in advance if you will be arriving after the registration time. Families are free to leave once their camper has met their counselor.
A brief CLOSING WORSHIP will be held on Friday at Three Crosses, located by Log Lodge, at 1:00 PM. Campers are free to leave once the parent/guardian signs out their camper with their counselor. Pets are requested to be left at home, but may be brought only to check out, and must remain outside and on a leash. Please clean up after your pet.
The CAMP STORE will be open after the closing program in the lower level of the Log Lodge.
Campers will be transported via bus to a local pool.
Welcome to the “Leaders in Training” (LIT) program! Get ready to learn and practice new leadership skills at camp. In this multi-week program, you will learn from our seasoned summer counseling staff how to make an impact as a role model with younger campers. During the first week, your group of LIT participants will spend time training, discussing, practicing, and sharpening each other's skills in leadership, youth ministry, outdoor living, and community life.
*Campers will need to be picked up on Friday and will then come back to Good Earth Village on Sunday.
The second week of the LIT program will be spent shadowing another staff member. We will interact with younger kids each day by teaching, being role models, leading games, and observing the behind-the-scenes work that makes the programs run smoothly. Each participant then has the option to sign up for additional weeks later in the summer to continue shadowing an experienced staff member while leading a cabin group together.
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
Check-in will be on Sunday at Log Lodge between 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM. Please contact us in advance if you will be arriving after the registration time. Families are free to leave once their camper has met their counselor.
A brief CLOSING WORSHIP will be held on Friday at Three Crosses, located by Log Lodge, at 1:00 PM. Campers are free to leave once the parent/guardian signs out their camper with their counselor. Pets are requested to be left at home, but may be brought only to check out, and must remain outside and on a leash. Please clean up after your pet.
The CAMP STORE will be open after the closing program in the lower level of the Log Lodge.