2023 program changes — responsive to camper needs post-pandemic
Planning and designing summer camp is one of the great privileges of my life. Each year we spend a good portion of our time before the schedule comes out evaluating each program and camp that we offer. Because of the shutdowns from Covid, children are timider about spending a week away from home at camp. Sensory issues are real and many of our staff and campers have them, and we need ways to honor this. Kids need camp as much as if not more than they did before the pandemic. Camp Horizon has been here for 75 years largely in part to its leaders who are willing to watch and innovate as needs arise.
— Darci Utt, Program Director
Arkansas City, Kansas; grounds include Arkansas River views, hiking and bike trails, and multiple lodging facilities.
Founded
1947
Enrollment
Coed
Activities
Waterfront
Swimming
Canoeing
Land Sports
Archery
Outdoor Adventure
Hiking
Rock climbing
Zip line
More activities
arts & crafts
campfires
disc golf
gaga ball
high ropes challenge course
low ropes challenge course
slip n' slide
splash pad
worship / praise & worship
Clues to fit
Community and belonging — Horizon as a place for everyone
Camp Horizon is more than a location — it's a community. A place where kids and youth grow in confidence and faith, friendships are formed that last far beyond the week, leaders are developed and encouraged, and guests find rest, renewal, and connection. From high-energy adventure to meaningful worship and quiet reflection, every experience is shaped by care, purpose, and a deep belief in the value of each person who comes here.
First-time campers — cabin assignments and arrival support
Even if a parent is not present at drop-off, our staff works hard to make sure every camper feels supported from the moment they arrive. We have plenty of trained staff available to help campers unload belongings, escort campers to cabins, introduce them to counselors and cabinmates, and help first-time campers feel comfortable and welcomed.
Cabin life — assignments, bunk choice, and what cabins include
Campers stay in cabins with campers of the same session and age group. Cabins are supervised by trained counselors and include bunk beds, electricity, air conditioning/heating, and nearby restroom facilities. Campers are assigned cabins by session. If your camper and their friend are attending the same session, they will typically be housed together. Campers choose their bunks after arriving at camp.
Setting — Camp Horizon location and Arkansas River
Camp Horizon is located at 30811 Horizon Drive, Arkansas City, KS — a natural setting along the Arkansas River. Inspiration Lodge features a covered deck with a stunning view of the Arkansas River. The camp has more than 3 miles of bike trails and multiple campfire rings.
Campers may participate in a wide variety of activities including swimming, hiking, crafts, games, worship, outdoor adventures, campfires, and more. The High Ropes Challenge Course is available for campers entering 5th grade and older. All ropes activities are supervised by trained facilitators and follow strict safety procedures. Participation is always encouraged, but campers are never forced to do activities they are uncomfortable with.
Counselors are responsible for the 24-hour supervision of our campers, leading devotions, and Bible studies, and preparing and leading camp activities. Our summer staff members are hired primarily for their love of working with children and their passion for outdoor ministry. Our counselors are trained in basic counseling skills, as well as at least one of the following skills: ropes-course facilitating, lifeguarding, playing in the praise band, canoeing, archery, and arts and crafts.
Encouraging campers to try new things — growth and confidence
One of the best parts of camp is discovering new interests and abilities. Some campers arrive excited for every activity. Others feel nervous about trying something unfamiliar. Camp staff work hard to create an encouraging environment where campers can step outside their comfort zone, build confidence, learn independence, develop friendships, and experience success in new ways. Whether it is climbing the high ropes course, leading a skit, swimming for the first time, or making a new friend, camp creates opportunities for growth every single day.
Each day has a theme, accompanied by a scripture. Both the theme and scripture set the stage for all that happens that day. Also, a specific time is spent each day in Bible study, worship, and discussion about the daily theme.
Cabin groups and counselor involvement throughout the day
Many activities happen in cabin groups so campers can build friendships, learn teamwork, feel supported, connect with counselors, and experience camp together. Campers are never expected to navigate camp alone. Counselors stay actively involved throughout the day to encourage participation and help campers feel included.
Financial aid — Angel Tree Grant for children of incarcerated parents
Angel Tree Camping is for children of incarcerated parents to get away from daily challenges and have fun in the great outdoors, making new friends and meeting caring adult counselors. At camp, children encounter the love of Jesus and discover hope for the future. This grant covers everything but the deposit ($25–$50 depending on the session). To apply, fill out the form or call the Camp Office at 620-442-5533.
Financial aid — Cowley Campership Fund and church scholarships
The Cowley Campership Fund was created by local businesses — including KanPak & Ark City Kiwanis — to make camp available for their employees' families and the community. It is available to anyone who lives in Cowley County, KS, and typically covers 25–50% off camp fees. In fact, the majority of camper scholarships come directly from the church in the camper's own hometown. Many congregations and youth groups host fundraisers throughout the year to raise funds so kids can experience camp. If cost is a concern, we encourage you to reach out to a nearby church.
At Camp Horizon, we believe every child deserves the chance to experience the joy, growth, friendship, and faith formation that happen at camp. We never want finances to stand in the way of a life-changing week. If cost is a concern for your family, we invite you to apply for financial assistance. Thanks to the generosity of donors and partner churches, scholarship funds are available to help make camp possible for every child. The Horizon Scholarship typically covers 25–50% off camp fees, based on family need and available funds. Applications are confidential and evaluated case-by-case. Preference is given to families who qualify for free and reduced lunch, first-time campers, and families with multiple children attending from the same household.
