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High School Programs

Compass - entering 11th & 12th grade

Compass invites rising juniors and seniors to navigate faith, leadership, and independence as they prepare for life’s next chapter. Living together on a houseboat, participants explore what it means to lead with integrity, build meaningful relationships, and live out their faith in everyday life.


Days are filled with on-water living, teamwork, and moments of reflection surrounded by God’s creation. Campers take part in hands-on leadership and service projects and have opportunities to share their passions and skills with others. Compass equips young leaders to find their direction, anchor their faith, and move forward with confidence and purpose - ready for the journey ahead.


2026 Dates: June 14-19

High School Housing

Waypoint - 10th to 12th graders

Waypoint campers return to the Village cabins, providing a comfortable and familiar homebase for reflection and growth. Each cabin includes 5 bunks, housing 8 campers and 1 counselor. The cabins have electricity, traditional windows, and concrete floors to help keep campers cool. Located near the Village Showerhouse, there is easy access to the bathrooms and showers.

General FAQs about Camp Shalom
  • What will my camper be doing at camp?

    Campers enjoy a full schedule of outdoor adventure, classic camp activities, and faith-centered experiences. Activities include canoeing, archery, crafts, nature exploration, high and low ropes courses, swimming, hikes, field games, campfires, Bible study, worship, and cabin time. Each day is intentionally structured to help campers grow in confidence, build friendships, and experience God’s presence in creation.

  • What does being faith-based mean for Camp Shalom?

    Camp Shalom is a Christ-centered, eccumenical camp that welcomes campers from all Christian backgrounds and families with little or no church experience. Faith is gently woven into each day through devotions, Bible study, worship, prayer, and staff who model Christ-like love and community. The goal is to help campers experience God in a supportive, joyful way.

  • What does it mean that Camp Shalom is ACA-accredited?

    ACA accreditation means Camp Shalom meets or exceeds the national standards of the American Camp Association, one of the highest marks of excellence in camping. Accreditation covers staff training, safety, health care, emergency procedures, program quality, risk management, and facility standards. Only a small percentage of camps earn this recognition—your camper is in safe, well-run hands.

Registration and Logistics FAQs
  • How do I register my camper?

    To register your camper, click any of the "Register" buttons to go to Campwise, our registration portal. Simply create an account, choose your session, and fill out the necessary forms. To secure your spot for summer, pay the $75 registration fee and you’ll receive confirmation and reminders as your session approaches. 


    For any registration questions, call 563-323-2790 or email campshalom@gmail.com.

  • When does camp begin and end?

    Our week-long programs run Sunday - Friday. Drop off is between 6:00 pm -7:00 pm on Sundays, and pick up is 5:15 on Friday following the Closing Worship. 


    For our Discovery Program, Session A drop off is Sunday 6:00-7:00 pm, and pick up is Tuesday at 5:15 following Discovery Closing Worship. Session B drop-off is Wednesday at 6:00-7:00 pm and pick up is following Closing Worship at 5:15 on Friday. 

  • What does my camper need to bring to camp?

    A packing list will be provided before your session begins. Items typically include clothing for all weather, bedding or sleeping bag, toiletries, sturdy shoes, water bottle, Bible, swimsuit, towel, and any medications. Campers should leave electronics, valuables, and unnecessary items at home.

  • Can my camper be in the same cabin as a friend?

    Yes! While cabin culture will grow strong to create new friendships, we do allow cabin buddy requests for current friends to stay in the same cabin. This will be through the Campwise portal, once you have registered your camper.

  • What are the drop off & pick up procedures?

    Clear drop-off and pick-up times and instructions will be emailed before camp. Parents will follow staff direction for check-in, health screening, and luggage drop-off. At pick-up, families will sign out their camper to ensure everyone leaves safely.

  • How can I communicate with my camper?

    Letters are a great way to stay connected while at camp! Because of potential delays or errors that may occur, families can give letters to staff on Sunday to be handed out throughout the week. To support independence and reduce homesickness, campers do not have regular phone access. Staff will contact parents if any concerns arise, and guardians may call the camp office 563-323-2790 in case of necessary communication. 

  • Can my camper bring a phone to camp?

    At Camp Shalom, we are "A Time and Place Apart", which means we are screen-free for campers! Phones and electronics are not allowed, helping campers stay present, build relationships, and fully enjoy the camp experience. 

  • Is there a Lost and Found?

    Yes! Labeling belongings & checking the Lost and Found table at pick up greatly increases the chance they are returned! Any labeled items will be returned to campers when possible. Unclaimed items will be held for two weeks after the summer season. 

  • Is there financial assistance available?

    Yes! Camp Shalom offers campership assistance for families who need support. 


    Please click HERE to fill out a campership application.

Safety, Health, and Dietary FAQs
  • What screening and training does summer staff receive to be prepared for campers?

    All staff complete thorough background checks and receive extensive pre-camp training that includes safety procedures, child protection policies, first aid/CPR, emergency response, activity leadership, and how to support campers emotionally and spiritually. Staff are chosen for their maturity, faith, leadership, and love for working with kids.

  • What happens in severe weather?

    Camp Shalom follows strict safety protocols for storms and severe weather. Staff monitor conditions closely, and campers are moved to safe indoor locations or storm-shelter spaces when needed. Activities may pause or adjust, but camper safety is always the priority.

  • What if my camper is homesick?

    Homesickness is normal, especially for new campers. Staff are trained to comfort, encourage, and redirect campers with care and patience. We focus on helping each camper feel included, supported, and confident. 

  • What if my camper is sick or needs medications?

    All medications are checked in with our healthcare staff at drop-off and administered as directed. All rescue medications (epi-pens, inhalers, etc) will stay in the first aid kit of the staff member with the camper. If a camper becomes ill, injured, or needs medical attention, families will be notified. Our health care team provides basic first aid and coordinates care with local providers if needed.

  • Can you accommodate special dietary needs?

    Yes. We regularly accommodate food allergies, intolerances, and dietary restrictions. Please note all needs during registration so our kitchen and healthcare staff can prepare safely. Parents are welcome to contact us with questions before arrival.

  • What will my camper eat at camp?

    Meals are kid-friendly, nutritious, and served buffet-style. Campers enjoy a variety of options, including hot meals, fresh fruits and vegetables, and fun favorites like cookout. Our kitchen team can adjust menus if needed for dietary concerns.

Additional FAQs
  • What age groups can attend Camp Shalom summer camp?

    Camp Shalom serves campers from second grade through senior year of high school. All summer camp sessions vary from 3 days to week-long sessions, designed for youth at different developmental stages. We also offer Family Camp so younger campers can attend. At Camp Shalom, we structure activities and faith formation experiences to meet each age group where they are. 

  • How long are the summer camp sessions at Camp Shalom?

    Discovery sessions are 3 days long, while our other sessions at Camp Shalom are one week long, giving campers the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in outdoor adventure, community building, and faith-centered experiences. The format helps campers develop deeper friendships and meaningful spiritual growth. 

  • What does ecumenical Christian camp mean?

    An ecumenical Christian camp welcomes campers from different Christian denominations and traditions. Camp Shalom became an independent ecumenical ministry in 1996, opening to the wider community beyond its founding Lutheran church. We're Christ-centered while honoring diverse faith backgrounds and fostering unity through shared spiritual experiences.
  • What activities are included in a typical camp day?

    Camp Shalom offers a variety of activities including archery, crafts, nature exploration, low ropes courses, swimming, hikes, field games, and campfires. Canoeing and high ropes are available for campers who meet the age and safety requirements. Each day also includes Bible study, worship, and cabin time. At Camp Shalom, we intentionally structure activities to help campers grow in confidence, build friendships, and experience God's presence in creation.

  • What does purposeful faith formation mean at summer camp?

    Purposeful faith formation means intentionally nurturing spiritual growth through outdoor experiences, community, and teaching. Camp Shalom creates structured opportunities for campers to deepen their relationship with God through worship, Bible study, and reflection. Activities are designed to help youth move from passive participation to active, meaningful faith.
  • Can churches or youth groups rent Camp Shalom for retreats?

    Yes, Camp Shalom operates as both a summer camp and retreat center year-round. Churches, youth groups, families, and other organizations can use the facility for retreats and gatherings. The camp's outdoor ministry setting in Maquoketa, Iowa provides a peaceful environment for spiritual renewal and community building.
  • How does outdoor ministry help with spiritual growth?

    Outdoor ministry removes daily distractions and allows individuals to connect with God through creation and community. At Camp Shalom, campers experience faith through hands-on activities like hiking, nature exploration, and campfires that reveal God's presence. The natural setting in Maquoketa fosters reflection, relationship-building, and deeper spiritual awareness.
  • What are high and low ropes courses at camp?

    High ropes courses are elevated challenge activities that build courage and trust, while low ropes courses focus on teamwork and problem-solving closer to the ground. Both help campers develop confidence and reliance on their peers. At Camp Shalom, these activities complement faith formation by teaching trust, support, and perseverance.
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