Frequently Asked Questions

On this page you can find answers to many of the commonly asked questions about Birch Bay Ranch and our Summer Camps. If you are in need of more information, please contact us!

 

General Information

Where are you located and how do I get there?
Birch Bay Ranch is located 45 minutes southeast of downtown Edmonton, on the shores of South Cooking Lake.  For a map to the Ranch, click the number 2 above or click here.

How many people can you accommodate at once?
We can sleep a maximum of 112, and our dining hall has a capacity of roughly 130-140 people.

Is there Internet access?
No, there is no Internet access for guests or campers.

Is there phone access?
If necessary, there is a phone in the office that campers may use if supervised by a staff member.

Are pets allowed?
Sorry, no pets allowed.

Can I bring alcohol or drugs?  Is there somewhere for me to smoke?
Birch Bay Ranch is an absolutely alcohol- and drug-free environment.  There is also a no smoking policy during summer camps.  However, for groups that book throughout the year, you may smoke only in designated areas, providing that you do not litter your cigarette butts.

Can you accommodate allergies and special dietary needs?
Yes.  Just tell us ahead of time if you have a food allergy or are a vegetarian, and we will be sure to tell our cook.

Summer Camps

How can parents be in contact with their kids during summer camp?
Call the office and we will deliver the message to your child.  Children are allowed to phone home if they ask - we will encourage them to wait until an appropriate time.  Remember, most campers are having too much fun to remember to call home.


What happens if my child is homesick?
We do our best to take their minds off of the homesickness.  If homesickness is becoming a problem for the child, we will call home and devise a plan with the parents to help the child fully experience their week of camp.

Are there emergency personnel on site during summer camp?
All of our fulltime staff members are trained and certified in First Aid and CPR.  We also have a Camp Nurse on site at all times.  Additionally, we are on the triage list for emergency (ambulance) services.

What is the staff-to-camper ratio?
The staff-to-camper ratio is 1 to 6.

Other Thoughts

Is this a religious camp?
Yes. We follow the teachings of Jesus Christ in all of our activities, including praying before meals. During summer camp, the kids will all attend morning chapel, and they will also end their day with a small bible study.

Do I have to belong to a church or be religious to use the facilities or send my child to camp ?
No, not at all. We hope to foster an open environment and we invite guests of all walks of life to experience the fun to be had out at Birch Bay Ranch!

To ask your question, get directions or find out more on what to expect on a Summer Camp, please see our conveiently placed numbers above!