Absolutely not. Timber-lee is a place of discovery, not a sports clinic. We go to great lengths to ensure that children who prefer quiet, creative, or intellectual pursuits feel just as celebrated as the most athletic camper.

• The Science Center: This is a one-of-a-kind refuge for the curious mind. Housing over 60 species—from chinchillas to lizards—it allows kids to get hands-on with nature at their own pace.
• The Fishing Dock: For the child who enjoys quiet patience, the dock is a favorite. It’s a peaceful space where even a beginner can catch several fish in a single session, building confidence without the need for high-speed action.
• Quiet Nature Walks: We prioritize the fresh-air experience, but that doesn't always mean running. Many of our campers find peace in guided nature walks, learning to identify God's creation in the stillness of the woods.
• Reading and Crafts: We build rest into the daily schedule. Whether it's reading a book under a tree during free time or engaging in specialized crafts, there is ample space for the creative soul to recharge.
• Encouragement Over Pressure: Our staff is trained to meet kids where they are. In archery, for example, we start kids shooting at the back of the target so they aren't discouraged. We celebrate the win of trying something new, regardless of the athletic outcome.

Our high staff-to-camper ratio and the Rule of Three allow us to be strategic. Counselors are trained to facilitate horizontal relationships, meaning they help kids connect with one another in healthy, supportive ways. By being present and engaged, our staff can redirect negative social behaviors before they start, ensuring every child feels like they belong.

We want the lake to be a place of joy, not anxiety. Our waterfront is fully staffed by certified lifeguards who are trained to make every child feel capable and safe, regardless of their swimming ability.

• The Swim Evaluation: Every camper participates in a brief swim evaluation on their first day. This is not a high-pressure test to pass or fail; it is simply a way for our lifeguards to determine which areas of the waterfront are safest for your child.
• Supportive Environment: For children who are nervous or are still learning to swim, our staff provides gentle encouragement. We explain exactly what to do, and a lifeguard is always right there in the water or on the dock to assist.
• Safety Zones: Based on the evaluation, campers are given a color-coded wristband that indicates where they can swim.
• Shallow Area: For those who are still building confidence, we have a wonderful shallow area where they can play safely.
• Life Jackets: We have plenty of life jackets available and require them for many of our lake activities, such as canoeing and using the slides.
• No Embarrassment: At Timber-lee, there is no stigma attached to being a beginner swimmer. Many of our most popular waterfront activities, like the "cannon" slides and boating, are accessible to everyone because life jackets are worn by all campers anyway. Our goal is for your child to have a blast in the water while staying within their comfort zone.

To ensure every child has a safe and transformative experience, we maintain clear behavioral expectations rooted in mutual respect and safety. Our goal is to foster an environment where every camper feels welcome and secure.

• Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow all safety protocols and treat their peers and staff with kindness. While we understand that camp is a place of high energy and learning, we do not permit behavior that is repeatedly disruptive, exclusionary, or harmful to others.
• The Discipline Process: We believe in active mentorship. If a behavioral issue arises, our first step is a direct, supportive conversation between the counselor and the camper to redirect the behavior. If the issue continues, our leadership team will involve the parents in the conversation to find a solution together. We do not have a formal “strike” policy, but instead consider the needs of each child individually.
• Dismissal Policy: While we work hard to help every child succeed, we reserve the right to dismiss a camper for serious or repeated safety violations, or behavior that threatens the physical or emotional well-being of the camp community. In the event of a behavioral dismissal, tuition is non-refundable.

We strive to create a loving and supportive environment where all children can grow and thrive. Many campers with mild learning differences or neurodivergent needs find great success within our programs.

• Supportive Environment: Our staff is trained to lead with empathy and patience. For campers who may struggle with sensory overstimulation or need help navigating social cues, our structured daily rhythm and high staff-to-camper ratio provide a helpful framework for success.
• Specialized Needs: While we welcome all children, our standard summer sessions are not designed to provide the one-on-one, intensive, or highly specialized behavioral support required by some campers. We want every child to have a safe and positive experience, which is why we encourage parents of children with significant support needs to contact us during registration so we can discuss if our program is the right fit.

• 7:45 AM - Breakfast: Nutritious breakfast served buffet-style to fuel the adventure.
• 8:45 AM - Morning Chapel: Worship and a Bible lesson to set the tone for the day.
• 10:00 AM - Activities: Campers head out to participate in activities like archery, hiking, and rock climbing.
• 12:00 PM - Lunch: A wholesome meal to refuel and connect with friends.
• 1:00 PM - 4:15 PM - Afternoon Activities: Canoeing, ziplining, or horseback riding.
• 5:00 PM - Dinner: Another chance to relax and eat with the cabin family.
• Evening Chapel: A time to reflect on the day and worship together.
• Evening Activities: Campfires, games, and group bonding before bed.

At Camp Timber-lee, most of the day is spent outdoors, taking full advantage of our beautiful natural surroundings.

• Activities include: Archery, 900-foot ziplines (four parallel lines so buddies can go together), state of the art rock climbing tower, horseback riding, nature hikes, canoeing, swimming, water games, and so much more.
• Waterfront Highlights: We have two commercial-grade slides that go into the lake, including one that shoots campers out like a cannon.

All campers sleep in twin-sized bunk beds in their assigned cabins. Please note that bedding is not provided, so campers should bring their own sleeping bag, pillow, and linens.

Yes. Campers are allowed to request up to 5 cabin mates, but please note that all requests must be reciprocated by both parties in order to be honored. This ensures that both campers agree to share a cabin together.

A Connection Cabin is designed for campers who come on their own. These cabins are intentionally structured to help campers build new friendships and feel included from day one.

Faith is deeply woven into every aspect of the Camp Timber-lee experience:

• Morning and Evening Chapel Services: Times of worship and Bible lessons that encourage campers to reflect on their relationship with Christ.
• Bible Studies and Cabin Discussions: Dedicated times to dive deeper into scripture and learn about God's love.
• Staff Mentorship: Christ-centered staff serve as role models, praying with campers and modeling a Christ-like attitude in all their interactions.
• Spiritual Growth: We provide a space where kids can move toward a faith they can call their own, rather than just a reflection of their parents' faith.

This is a 100% narrated, immersive journey through the story of the world. It is an incredibly powerful experience that helps campers see the intentionality and beauty behind God's design. As an added bonus, the Creation Walk building is fully air-conditioned—a favorite destination for campers who are overheated from the afternoon sun, providing a cool environment where they can focus on the message.

At Camp Timber-lee, we prioritize real-world connections, which is why the use of phones and electronic devices is not permitted. By disconnecting from technology, campers can fully engage in activities and grow spiritually without distractions. Parents can contact the camp office in case of an emergency.

• Email Updates: We send updates and reminders before and during camp.
• Camp Photo Gallery: Daily photos are posted on SmugMug so you can see your camper in action.
• Emergency Contact: Our leadership team is available 24/7 if an emergency arises at home.

Yes! You can drop off mail upon arrival at camp, or mail letters and packages to:

Camper’s Name / Cabin Name

Camp Timber-lee

N8705 Scout Rd.

East Troy, WI 53120

Mail delivery schedule:

• Camp Start: Monday or Friday
• 4th-6th Grade Camp: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
• All Other Camps: Tuesday and Thursday

Bunk Notes are a one-way email service where you can send messages to your camper. These are printed daily and handed out. Note that campers cannot send emails back.

Clothing: Shorts, t-shirts, pants, hoodies, rain gear, pajamas, underwear, modest swimwear.

Footwear: Sneakers/hiking boots and flip-flops for the shower.

Bedding/Toiletries: Sleeping bag or twin-sized sheets/blanket, pillow, towel, beach towel, toothbrush, soap, shampoo, and deodorant.

Outdoor Gear: Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug repellent, and a labeled reusable water bottle.

Activity Gear: Small backpack, flashlight, and an optional Bible and notebook.

• Electronic Devices: Phones, tablets, video games, laptops.
• Weapons: Knives, firearms, or any items that could pose a safety risk.
• Valuables: Jewelry, large sums of money, or sentimental items.
• Substances: Drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products.

• Navigating the Post-Camp "Tech Detox": Your child has just spent a week free from the noise of screens. Many campers report feeling a sense of freedom they didn't realize they were missing. Use the return home as a chance to evaluate your family’s digital habits. You might consider a "Digital Sabbath"—one evening or a full day each week where phones are put away to reclaim the face-to-face community they found at camp.
• Nurturing a Love of Creation: If your child was inspired by the Science Center or the quiet of the woods, keep that wonder alive. Visit a local nature center, start a bird-watching list together, or designate a "fresh-air" hour on weekends. Encouraging them to keep a nature journal is a great way for them to continue documenting the beauty they see in the world around them.
• Practicing the "Lost Art" of Letters: The bonds formed in a cabin are unique. Encourage your child to exchange mailing addresses (with your permission) so they can become pen pals. Receiving a physical letter in the mailbox is a high-point for any child and keeps those healthy, supportive friendships growing throughout the school year.
• Meaningful Car-Ride Conversations: Rather than asking for a general report, try prompts that help them process their growth. Ask: "What was a moment this week when you felt really brave?", "What was the most interesting thing you learned in the Science Center?", or "What was something you heard in the chapel that you want to remember when school starts?"
• The Chain of Discipleship: We see our role as the spark that starts the conversation, but we rely on your local church to keep the flame burning. The most effective way to turn a high-energy summer experience into a mature, lasting faith is to ensure your child is connected to a local youth group or small group. We want to see them grow in their relationship with God alongside a community that supports them every day.

We understand that summer plans can shift! You may cancel your child's registration up to two weeks prior to their arrival date for a full refund, excluding any deposits paid. Please note that all deposits are non-refundable, and cancellations made within two weeks of the arrival date are not eligible for a refund.

Because life is unpredictable, many of our families choose to purchase third-party camp insurance to protect their investment. These policies, which are offered by providers like AMSkier, Travmark, or CampDoc, can often reimburse 75%–100% of non-refundable costs if your child gets sick, injured, or if a family emergency arises.

If you are considering insurance, it is a good idea to purchase it shortly after paying your first deposit (usually within 7–21 days) to ensure you are covered for pre-existing conditions or "Cancel for Any Reason" options. Always review the specific policy exclusions to ensure it meets your family's needs.

While your registration covers the core camp experience, including meals, housing, and most activities, there are a few optional, high-adventure experiences that require an additional fee. To ensure your child has a spot, we recommend booking these during the registration process:

• Trail Rides: One-hour horseback riding sessions ($40 for 2 days or $75 for 4 days).
• High Ropes: A two-hour challenge course experience ($30).
• Trap Shooting: A two-hour guided session ($35).
• Gellyball: A one-hour high-energy session ($20).

While we do not offer a direct discount for multiple children in the same family, we have several ways to help make camp more affordable:

Early bird pricing: 

$50 off full week camp sessions and $25 off camp start if registered by September 30

$25 off full week camp session and $15 off camp start if registered by January 31

Referral Credits: (Referral Valid only in April)

For every first-time Timber-lee camper your child refers, that registers, both campers will receive a $50 credit toward their registration, up to three friends.

How It Works:

- Invite a friend to camp

- Share promo code BAF-2640

- Your friend enters the code when registering

- They list your camper’s name in the referral section of the Camper Profile

- You both receive a $50 credit after which will be applied to your account after registration

Terms & Conditions:

- Friend must be a first-time camper

- Friend must register during April 2026, this does not apply to previous referrals.

- Promo code BAF-2640 must be used at registration

- Referral name must be included on the Camper Profile

- Credit is applied to your camp account and has no cash value

- Immediate family members do not qualify

- Limit of three referral credits per camper

Scholarships: Our heart is to make sure every child has the chance to hear about Jesus. We offer need-based scholarships through an application process to help families who might otherwise struggle to afford the camp experience.