We're looking forward to the coming year.
Registration Opens January 2027!
Registration Opens January 2027!
St Francis Camp on the Lake provides both residential and day camps to children and adults with developmental disabilities. We have 10 separate one-week camp sessions beginning in May 30 and running to August 6 with a maximum of 21 campers per week. We maintain a 3:1 camper-to-staff ratio and provide 1:1 care for those in need.
On hot days, adequate breaks and cooling periods are provided to insure campers are safe and can enjoy their time with us.
Each week, St. Francis Camp on the Lake welcomes a new group of campers. During their 5 night stay, campers reside in one of our two modern lodges with a group of their peers. Throughout their week at camp, campers have the opportunity to try a variety of activities and choose the activities they are most interested in participating in.
Throughout the summer, St. Francis Camp on the Lake offers camp sessions tailored to the specific interests of our campers.
Youth camp is packed full of high-energy activities guaranteed to get your 8-17 year-old camper outside with peers and engaging in sports, aquatics, games, and other educational programs. While providing a week of fun, staff work with campers to improve personal hygiene habits, independent living, social, and decision-making skills.
If your camper is over the age of 18, enjoys the relaxing side of camp, and is looking to make new memories with friends old and new our Adult camp might be just what they are looking for. Some activities of the week include fishing, paddle boating, canoeing, jewelry making, crafts, nature education, cooking, music, and games.
Day campers have the same opportunity to experience all the joys of camp as our residential campers. This 9 am-5 pm camp option is perfect for those campers that are new to camp or working towards spending their first night away from home. Lunch is the only meal provided for Day Campers.
Week 1: May 30 - June 4
Adult Campers (Ages 18+)
Week 2: June 6-11
St. Louis Center Campers Only
Week 3: June 13-18
Adult Campers (Ages 18+)
Week 4: June 20-25
Adult Campers (Ages 18+)
Week 5: June 27 - July 2
Youth Campers (Ages 8-17)
Week 6: July 4-9
Youth Campers (Ages 8-17)
Week 7: July 11-16
Adult Campers (Ages 18+)
Week 8: July 18-23
Adult Campers (Ages 18+)
Week 9: July 25-30
Adult Campers (Ages 18+)
Week 10: August 1-6
Adult Campers (Ages 18+)
Residential Camp
(Sun. 3pm - Fri. 10am)
3:1 Staffing = $950/week
1:1 Staffing = $1400/week
Day Camp
(Mon. - Thurs. 9am-5pm)
3:1 Staffing = $500/week
1:1 Staffing = $700/week
Deposit = $250
Returned Check = $100
Please be honest about your campers needs, disabilities, and/or behaviors this helps us place them with the correct staffing modality which is either 3 campers with 1 counselor modality or 1 camper with 1 counselor modality. If your camper arrives registered as a 3:1 camper however, his behaviors and/or medical care needs make them a 1:1 you may need to come pick them up early without a refund or if we have enough staff to cover a 1:1 they may stay however you will be charged an additional $250.
At St. Francis Camp on the Lake, we prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment for all campers. To effectively meet the diverse needs of our campers, we have established two distinct staff-to-camper ratios: a 3:1 staff ratio and a 1:1 staff ratio. Below is a detailed determination of each level.
3:1 Staff Ratio
Definition: A 3:1 staff ratio means that for every three campers, there is one staff member assigned to provide support and supervision.
Target Campers:
Campers who are generally independent but may require some assistance with daily activities.
Campers who can communicate their needs and participate in group activities.
Campers with mild to moderate disabilities who can engage in social interactions and follow directions with minimal support.
Ideal Environment:
Group settings where campers can benefit from peer interactions.
Activities that promote independence while still providing a supportive framework.
1:1 Staff Ratio
Definition: A 1:1 staff ratio means that each camper has one dedicated staff member assigned to them for personalized support.
Target Campers:
Campers with significant disabilities or complex medical needs who require constant supervision and assistance.
Campers who may have behavioral challenges that necessitate individualized attention.
Campers who are non-verbal or require help with communication and social interactions.
Ideal Environment:
Structured and predictable settings to help reduce anxiety and promote comfort.
Activities designed for individual engagement, allowing for personal growth and skill development.
Conclusion
By implementing a 3:1 staff ratio for generally independent campers and a 1:1 staff ratio for those with more significant needs, St. Francis Camp on the Lake ensures that all campers receive the appropriate level of care and support. This structured approach allows us to create a nurturing environment that promotes safety, growth, and inclusivity for every camper.
Fishing
Boating
Games
Tubing
Music
Dancing
Sports
Swimming
Low Climbing
Arts & Crafts
Nature Activities
Outdoor Cooking
Pontoon Rides
…and Much,
Much More!
Stephen J and His Mom:
We want to thank you and if no one told you, you all are worth your weight in gold!
Olivia H and her family:
We received a friendly greeting by you and your team who seemed excited about engaging
with all the campers. We thank you and your team!
Cherry, a 16 year-old camper:
“Everyone was so nice. They are amazing people. The place was clean and beautiful”
Earl S and His Mom:
"Thank you, Earl had an awesome time! He had a smile telling family about his week at camp!"
Nancy S a 68 year-old camper:
"Thank you for everything! I miss you, I like you!"