Summer Camp FAQs

Who will be with my camper all week?

At Sky Ranch, your camper is cared for by the same group of counselors all week long. We use a decentralized cabin model, which means your child stays with the same small group of campers and counselors for the entire session. Those counselors are with your camper day and night — sharing meals, activities, and everyday moments together. This consistency allows counselors to truly know each camper, notice their needs sooner, and provide thoughtful, personalized care throughout the week.

 

How do you vet and hire your staff?

Each year, Sky Ranch receives applications from more than 2,000 college students across the country and very carefully selects approximately 700 to serve on our summer staff. About 40% of these staff members are returning or have been trained through our leadership programs, bringing experience and consistency to our teams.   

Every staff member completes an in-depth interview, along with background and reference checks and national screenings, before being hired. Once on campus, staff participate in two weeks of on-site probationary training, during which only those who demonstrate strong character, maturity, and the ability to be outstanding caregivers and role models are invited to serve.

 

How do you prevent abuse?

Sky Ranch prioritizes abuse prevention through training, clear policies, and ongoing accountability. All seasonal and year-round staff receive annual abuse-prevention training in partnership with MinistrySafe, including instruction on recognizing warning signs, reducing risk, and reporting concerns in accordance with state laws. Campers are taught personal safety and communication through the Sky Way Commitments, encouraging them to speak up if something feels wrong. Throughout the summer, staff participate in regular accountability reminders about safety boundaries and expectations, supported by a zero-tolerance policy for violations. Sky Ranch also enforces strict communication guidelines between staff and minor campers outside of camp to maintain transparency and protect both campers and staff.

 

What is your staff-to-camper ratio?

Staffing varies by program, but overall, Sky Ranch maintains an average staff-to-camper ratio of approximately 1:6, which exceeds state requirements. For our younger campers, cabins are staffed with even fewer campers per counselor, ensuring they receive the extra attention and support their age group needs. Our staffing model is intentionally designed so every camper feels known, supported, and well cared for all week long.

 

Will my camper be alone with a counselor?

Campers are never alone with one staff member where other campers or staff are not present. Sky Ranch maintains a 1:6 staff-to-camper ratio, with 3 to 5 counselors per cabin. Counselors live with their cabins and hold one another accountable, creating a culture of constant supervision, safety, and trust.

 

What if my camper gets sick or hurt during the week?

If your camper gets sick or hurt while at camp, they will be cared for immediately by our on-site medical team, and you will be contacted right away. Sky Ranch has licensed and certified healthcare professionals on-site, including registered nurses, paramedics, nurse practitioners, and trained healthcare assistants, with medical staff available 24/7 at our Van, TX location. Daily health practices are built into camp life to help prevent illness, including strong hygiene routines, regular handwashing, and a full-time housekeeping team. Counselors also actively support healthy habits, such as staying hydrated and using sunscreen, so campers can stay well throughout the week.

 

What if my camper gets homesick?

Homesickness is a normal part of camp, especially on the first day or two, and many campers experience it at some point during the week. Our counselors are trained to recognize when homesickness is more than a passing moment and begins to affect a camper’s experience. In those situations, the counselor partners with the program manager to support the camper and will reach out to parents to talk through next steps. Together, you and the Program Manager will decide what's best for your child.

 

What if my camper has special dietary needs?

Our licensed kitchens and staff meet the same regulatory standards as public restaurants. We accommodate all nine major allergens, provide special diet lines, and offer menu alternatives when needed. While not peanut-free, peanut products are limited.

 

What if my camper is a picky eater?

We serve a variety of kid-friendly foods and have fruit and the classic PB&J available at every meal – as well as a salad bar for lunch and dinner. Our counselors monitor campers’ eating habits to ensure they’re eating as they should.

 

What if my camper wets the bed?

This is a common situation for many campers, and our counselors are well-trained to be discreet and respectful. Please let your child’s counselor know that this is a concern, and they will follow your direction regarding preventive measures. If an accident happens, our counselors will discreetly handle the laundry – ensuring bedding is back on the bed before campers return to the cabin. Packing an extra set of bedding can also be beneficial.

 

What do you do to prevent/address bullying?

We communicate clear camper behavior expectations and values that kids can easily understand. Through The Sky Way Commitments - Honor, Respect, and Respond, campers are taught how to interact respectfully with others, recognize when something feels wrong, and speak up. Campers hear a simple, empowering message: “If you see something, say something.” Disciplinary actions will be taken to address any behavioral concerns.

 

Can my child take their phone to camp?

Camp is a ‘no phone zone’ for campers and counselors. We believe a technology-free environment is one of the best gifts we can give our campers and summer staff. We have full-time staff available by phone and email for emergencies and communication needs.

 

What if there's an emergency at camp?

Sky Ranch maintains detailed emergency action plans for severe weather, fire, medical emergencies, intruders, missing campers, evacuation, and active threats. Staff are trained on these protocols, and campers receive age-appropriate guidance within the first 24 hours of camp.