Campership (financial aid) — Richland County residents, nonprofit mission
Since the inception of The Peoples Mission in 1894 and when our organization became the Friendly House Association in 1912, we have been striving to help Richland County residents. Friendly House offers financial assistance in the form of a 'Campership' for those families that reside in Richland County, Ohio, and are in financial need. Camperships are available on a first come first serve basis and as funding is available. Camperships are typically only available for one week of camp so we can help as many families as possible.
KP program — stepping stone to counselor, 40 hours community service
The Hidden Hollow KP Program is designed so a camper, both boys and girls, can see what it is like to work at camp. Those applying to be a KP should be interested in being a counselor in the future. There are only 5 spots available each week. KPs also earn 40 hours of community service credit that they can use toward school requirements.
Hidden Hollow Camp is located in Bellville, Ohio at 5127 Possum Run Road. With 572 acres of streams, woods and scenic hills, camp is an ideal natural classroom.
HHC traditions — what returning staff looks forward to
We look forward to the warm sun, the big hill, campfires, skit night, a hike to Horse Thief Jack's cave, Chicken Deluxe, HHC chocolate chip cookies, the Hidden Hollow Hop and of course, to see all the campers again.
Weekly themed Special Days — Pirate Day through Cabin Challenge Week
Each week at Hidden Hollow has its own Special Day theme: Week 1 is Pirate Day, Week 2 is Jurassic (Dino) Day, Week 3 is Wizard of Oz Day, Week 4 is Minecraft Day, Week 5 is Medieval/Fairytale Day, and Week 6 is Cabin Challenge Week.
One of the best parts of Hidden Hollow is that campers get to learn how to be independent! Campers get to choose which activity they would like to go to at each activity period. They can go to an activity with their new friends or their bunk mates.
With 572 acres of streams, woods and scenic hills, camp is an ideal natural classroom. Every camper can participate in the Nature Program, learning about local plants and animals as well as environmental topics in a hands-on setting. They walk our wooded trails, learning about local flora and fauna, go fishing, learn about the importance of water, and have even been known to whip up treats.
Pool — swimming lessons, ALL SWIM, waterfront safety
All of our campers can participate in swimming lessons with qualified instructors and lifeguards. Our Waterfront staff focuses on safety, skills, and confidence in the water, so whether campers swim competitively or are jumping in for the first time, it's guaranteed to be a blast. The Pool offers time in the water during activity time as well as the twice per day ALL SWIM!
HHC allows for the request of ONE cabinmate, and both campers must ask for each other in the registration system. Large groups of requested campers may be split up. Older campers will be placed with younger campers.
Food allergies — no peanuts in meal service; not allergen-free; vegan policy
Hidden Hollow Camp is NOT an allergen-free facility, but we will take the necessary precautions to eliminate cross-contamination. No peanuts or nuts are served through our kitchen meal service line. If your child has severe food allergies and/or needs special food or food preparation, please contact the Camp Director. Any camper who is VEGAN must bring their own food and snacks.
Health screening at check-in; health history required
HHC recommends that every camper have a physical within one year prior to attending camp and be in good physical and mental health. All campers will complete a basic health screening at check-in on Sunday before going to their cabins. Hidden Hollow Camp requires a full Health History on every camper and staff member.
Horseback riding — included in tuition, open to all, safety requirements
The riding program is included in tuition and is open to all campers, regardless of experience. Campers that sign up for the week will ride at least once during the week. Instructions and trail rides are given from our qualified staff, and all riders are required to wear safety helmets, long pants and closed-toed shoes.
