Camp Mary Orton is a popular choice among area schools, scout groups, and other similar programs. They bring their students to our facility for a refreshing change of pace. Our Initiatives and High Ropes activities are a great way to help students get to know each other, develop cooperative problem solving skills, learn about leadership, and just have fun!

Initiatives are cooperative activities where the group is faced with some challenge or obstacle to overcome and given time to problem solve together. Initiatives require the effort of all group members to succeed. After each activity, time is spent to process the activity and relate aspects of the discussion to life outside of Camp Mary Orton. In processing, the group members are provided an opportunity to identify strengths and areas where growth is needed. Then, groups can work to develop and practice skills in these areas.

High Ropes are designed to provide opportunities for personal challenge in an atmosphere of group support. The High Ropes course at Camp Mary Orton has over 25 obstacles set on poles that are 20 to 50 feet in the air. Proper safety equipment and instruction are used during our courses. Obstacles are designed so participants may choose their own level of challenge and their own path on the course. The High Ropes course helps us learn about how we face the challenges and obstacles in our life, and reminds us of the importance of support of others. Many times, participants leave stating they "did more than they thought they could."

Adventure Academy
Our summer camp program hosts approximately 300 children each summer. For more information, please click here.

Summer Youth Empowerment Program (SYEP)

This four-week summer camp (offered 2 times during the summer) is designed to help youth age 5-15 work on social skill development. Social skills include decision making, self-concept, conflict management, impulse control, self-esteem, and appreciation of differences. Youth from the Godman Guild's service area (43201 zipcode) work on these skills through activities offered at Camp Mary Orton. Transportation is provided to and from Camp. This camping program is made possible by the Friends of Godman Guild.


Wilderness Bond

Outdoor adventure based programs that use experiential activities to facilitate individual and team growth. Essential skills that develop include self-esteem, problem solving, communication, trust, and conflict resolution. Wilderness Bond provides a creative learning environment that combines adventure education and social work facilitation to improve the essential skills required to achieve success at home, in school or work, and throughout life. The National Association of State Boards of Education reported in 1992 that a holistic view that is attuned to a student's nonacademic needs must be included as part of his/her instructional programming. This includes social, emotional, and interpersonal skills training (Taylor, 1997).

Multi-day programs are custom designed to meet the needs of middle school and high school classrooms as well as teen and adult therapeutic groups.

Find out more by contacting us at 614-885-1023 or e-mail us at camp@godmanguild.org.