What to Expect at the Ranch

Thank you for your interest in sending your camper to Pine Cove for summer camp. We consider it a privilege to be used by God to bring Christ-centered change in your camper’s life. It is our sincere hope that the following information will help you properly complete registration and feel confident about entrusting Pine Cove with your camper.

We know that the many details involved in the registration process may seem overwhelming to you. Please be assured that we are always working to simplify it while continuing to comply with required standards. This informational page should answer most of your questions regarding your camper’s registration process and week at camp.

Before You Come

Register: The first step of coming to camp is to sign up your child. You can register online or call one of our friendly registrars at 1-877-4PINECOVE. (more)

Forms: In mid-January, log in to your registration account and fill out all of your important forms. This includes the camper profile and health form.

Cabinmate Request: Kids love to go to camp with their friends! We offer the option to request that your child be housed in the same cabin as a specific friend or up to 3 friends (for a group total of 4). Beginning March 15th, you can submit Cabinmate requests online in your registration account.

Activity Request : At the Ranch, campers rank their favorite activities to complete an activity schedule that is completely unique to them.  We will take your favorites and select a program that consists of 10-15 different activities, each designed with off the charts fun in mind. So log in to your registration account today and begin the Total Ranch Experience. All activity requests are due two weeks prior to your Ranch camp session.

Camp Store/FLAC Packs: Every day during free time Ranch campers have the opportunity to head over to "the trough" (Camp Store) to get a snack and some Pine Cove Gear. We have T-Shirts, hats, and of course, the famous Slush Puppie! Each camper has an account that is pre-paid before they arrive at camp that can be used to purchase items. Our Camp Store also offers care packages that can be bought before a camper arrives and delivered to them while they are at camp. Login to your registration account to buy care packages or add money to your camper's store account.

What to Bring: Everyone needs to know what to bring to camp! We have a suggested list of items with your Ranch camper in mind. (more)

Theme Nights: Evenings at the Ranch are not like the rest of the day. Everyone dresses in their craziest themed clothes and fun adventures abound. Check out our theme nights for this summer! (more)

How To Get Here: Your final step is to head on your way. Get a map (PDF 1.2 MB) and hit the road!

When You Arrive

Arrival Time: Campers will be warmly welcomed by our spirited staff on Sunday afternoon. Gates will open at 3:30pm sharp. Campers may not be dropped off before 3:30pm Registration tables will be stationed near the parking areas of each camp until 5:00pm to collect any camper medications, packages and mail, and answer any last minute questions.

Medication: If your camper has to take medication at camp, please bring it with you when you arrive. All medication is turned in to the Health Center Staff during Registration on Sunday afternoon. The Health Center Staff will be responsible for administering the medication to your camper. Please check in all medications with them. Please note that all medication, over-the-counter and non-prescription drugs MUST REMAIN IN THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER. ALL PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS MUST BE IN A PHARMACY-LABELED CONTAINER WITH THE CAMPER’S NAME ON IT. Loose pills will not be accepted.

Mail: Want to make sure that your packages and letters get here on time? We will be the post office for you! Bring packages on Sunday when you drop off your camper and we will deliver them. Please label each package with your camper's name and the day (ex: Monday) which you would like it delivered. All packages are delivered at lunch.

During Camp

Drive Time CDs: You have dropped off your camper and now it is time to head home. The car is quiet, the chattering stopped and we have just the thing to fill the silence! As you are leaving camp, a friendly summer staffer will be waiting with a CD for you. It has some announcements from camp, a message from your child’s counselor, and more! Enjoy your drive time!

Contact Your Camper: Want to send your camper mail? Here’s how. (more)

Closing Celebration and Departure: Camp sessions end Saturday morning after the Closing Celebration. The Celebrations involve singing, camper awards, a video presentation of your child’s week at camp, and a message from the Director. Parents are encouraged to be a part of this special event.

To ensure your child’s safety, only the camper’s parent/guardian may pick him/her up at the end of camp or for an early departure. If you desire a friend or relative to give your child a ride, Pine Cove must receive (by mail or fax) a letter—signed by the camper’s parent/guardian—stating the name of the adult who is authorized to pick up the child and when the child should be released into his/her care. To find out about other closing celebrations and for more information check out the Ranch camp details.

After You Leave

Pre-Register:  Want to guarantee your spot for next summer? Pre-register online in your registration account by paying the required non-refundable / non-transferable deposit as early as June 1.

Current Campers