COVID-19 UPDATES
We are working diligently to prepare for an amazing summer season of camp; however, we continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation carefully. Here in northern Michigan, we are all very eager to get outside and enjoy the warmer weather, as well as have time away with friends and with God. For over 85 years, Higher Ground at Lake Louise has provided a setting of safe fun in a Christ-centered environment for campers of all ages. Please know that we are intentionally planning for another safe and enjoyable camp season for all.
In the situation where we do not feel we can provide an environment that is safe and enjoyable for campers, you will be notified. If canceling camp this season were to become necessary, all fees would be refunded or credited to your account.
HEALTH & SAFETY
In anticipation of summer camp, we are developing the following practices to keep our campers and staff safe.
- Carefully monitoring federal, state, and local information related to Covid-19
- Providing ongoing training for staff on safe and effective cleaning practices
- Posting information onsite at camp regarding recommended handwashing procedures
- Increased frequency of cleaning high-touch areas
- Use of CDC recommended cleaning products throughout our campus
- Requiring a negative rapid test result prior to check-in
OUR DECISON-MAKING PROCESS
Higher Ground at Lake Louise continues to closely monitor local, state, and national statements regarding the coronavirus cases and follow the directives of these agencies. The health and safety of our staff and those we serve is our highest priority. To do all we can to ensure that, we will be following:
- Federal, State, and MDHHS mandates
- CDC, State, and local health department recommendations
- Proper mitigation process that can realistically be implemented
If there comes a point that we do not feel like we are able to provide you with a safe and meaningful experience, we will notify you of any changes on this page.
PRE-ARRIVAL HEALTH SCREENING
& CHECK-IN PROCEDURES
- Screen your camper at home for symptoms of COVID-19 prior to arrival to camp. Symptoms include:
- Temperature of 100.4° Fahrenheit or higher
- Sore throat
- Cough (that differs from what is seasonally normal for the camper)
- Difficulty breathing (for campers with asthma this would be for those who are experiencing symptoms different from what is typical)
- Diarrhea or vomiting
- New onset of severe headache (especially with a fever)
- Loss of taste or smell
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Campers with a fever or other COVID-19 symptoms should stay home, and the Camp Director should be notified.
- Campers will complete a health screening upon arrival to camp, which includes a non-touch temperature check.
- Parents/ guardians will complete a Health Screening Questionnaire upon arrival for each camper.
- Higher Ground at Lake Louise is requesting that all campers have a negative result on a diagnostic COVID-19 rapid test within two to three days prior to their arrival at camp.
- For example, if your camper arrives on a Sunday, they should be tested Friday, Saturday, or upon arrival on Sunday.
- Campers who have not taken a diagnostic COVID-19 test prior to arrival will receive a rapid test on-site. The cost for this test is $5.
- A negative test result will be required even for those campers who have been vaccinated.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT CAMP
CAMPER CABIN GROUPS
DAILY HEALTH MONITORING
- Each cabin group, including campers and their cabin leaders, will be considered a “household.”
- Cabin households will remain together throughout the week, including dining together at each meal.
- When cabin households are indoors or outdoors, they will not be required to wear masks.
- Campers sleeping arrangements will be spaced in such a way to allow for a 6-foot head-to-toe distance to maximize separation.
- Campers and staff will be monitored daily with non-touch temperature checks.
- If a camper becomes sick during the session with symptoms related to COVID-19, Higher Ground at Lake Louise will notify parents/guardians immediately.
- The camper will be required to isolate in the Health Center until we know if the camper needs to be picked up.
We thank you for your cooperation and adherence to these guidelines. With these policies and procedures put into place, we believe that we will be able to have a safe and fun summer that leads campers to know the Father heart of God.