Location and Facilities
Riverside Bible Camp operates in rural Iowa, with the primary site near the Des Moines metro area, offering easy access for central Iowa families. The camp is situated on a property that includes wooded trails, open fields, and a riverfront setting, supporting both outdoor recreation and structured programming. The facility is maintained by a nonprofit organization, and its operations are supported by a mix of camper fees, donations, and local church partnerships. For broader context on nonprofit financial reporting standards, the Internal Revenue Service provides guidance on Form 990 filings here.
Accommodations include dormitory-style cabins and shared bunkhouses, with separate facilities for boys and girls. The camp features a dining hall, indoor meeting spaces, and outdoor areas for worship and team-building activities. Safety protocols follow state guidelines for youth camps, including staff-to-camper ratios and background checks for all adult personnel. The camp's location in Iowa positions it within a network of similar faith-based camps across the Midwest.
Program Structure and Costs
Riverside Bible Camp Iowa offers week-long sessions during the summer, with daily schedules combining worship, Bible study, outdoor recreation, and small-group discipleship. Programs are typically divided by age group, with separate tracks for elementary, middle school, and high school attendees. The camp also hosts shorter retreat weekends and family camps outside the peak summer season. For financial planning, families can find current fee schedules on the camp's official registration page here.
Session fees for 2025 generally range from several hundred dollars per week, with early-bird registration discounts and sibling rates available. The camp accepts payments through online portals and offers limited financial assistance for families with demonstrated need. The registration process includes medical forms, emergency contacts, and a code of conduct agreement for both campers and parents. These fees cover lodging, meals, programming materials, and supervised activities.
Registration and Key Details
Registration for Riverside Bible Camp Iowa typically opens in early spring, with priority given to returning families and early applicants. The camp maintains an online portal for registration, payment, and document submission, and spaces fill on a first-come basis for each session. Families can contact the camp office directly for questions about availability, age requirements, and specific program details. The camp's leadership team includes full-time staff and seasonal volunteers, many of whom have completed certified training in child safety and youth ministry.
Riverside Bible Camp Iowa is part of a wider network of Christian camps, and its programming aligns with evangelical Protestant traditions. The camp does not operate under a single national denomination but works with multiple local churches to support its mission. For an overview of the broader summer camp industry and market trends, the American Camp Association provides data and accreditation resources here. The camp's operations are subject to state inspections, and it maintains liability insurance coverage for all participants.