July 21 – 24, 2025– Camp dates
July 19 – 26, 2025 – Volunteer dates including travel
About the Camp
The Sisseton Learning Camp on the Lake Traverse Reservation started in 2008 and was held at the Goodwill Presbyterian Church. The camp moved to the Tiospa Zina Tribal School in 2010 and was held in conjunction with the school’s summer school program. This camp was put on hiatus at the end of the 2012 camp season. The camp restarted in 2018 as the Sisseton Family Learning Camp (SFLC) which allowed families to be part of the camp as campers and staff members. However, the camp was put on hiatus after the 2019 camp until 2023 when First and Franklin Presbyterian agreed to be the new Baltimore Presbytery partner.
Camp Format
The 2025 Sisseton Learning Camp will be held at the Christian Outreach Center in Sisseton, SD. The camp is four days long, Monday to Thursday, from 10:30 AM until 2:00 PM. Campers are divided into three age groups, depending on their school grade: Kindergarten – 2nd grade, 3rd – 5th grade, and 6th – 9th grade. Camp Counselors and Station Leaders are comprised of youth in High School through Adult.
Opportunities for Building Fellowship and Mutual Understanding
There are many opportunities for fellowship and education during the week. The Baltimore staff members will worship with the members of one of the Dakota Presbytery partner churches (Long Hollow, Good Will, Ascension, Mayasan, Buffalo Lake, and Lake Traverse Presbyterian Churches) on Sunday morning then socialize after church at a potluck luncheon. At least one cultural presentation is arranged during the week, and Baltimore staff will share evening meals with their Dakota Presbytery partners. The final camp activity will be a Family Night that invites the Sisseton campers and their families to enjoy camp memories and a potluck supper with their new Baltimore and Dakota Presbytery friends.
Volunteer Requirements
New Staff Interviews – April 6th – 12:30 – 3:30 at First and Franklin Presbyterian or via Zoom
The Sisseton Learning Camp is seeking 14 staff members. Staff members will be comprised of a group of high school and college students, and other adults of all ages. Camp staff must have completed one year of high school (9th grade) by the end of the school year. Some background with children is helpful as camp staff members need to by comfortable around children and interested in forming relationships with campers and their families.
Mandatory Staff Training
- June 8 – 12:00 – 3:00 PM at First and Franklin Presbyterian
- June 22 – 12:00 – 3:00 PM at First and Franklin Presbyterian
Mandatory staff training is provided so that all staff members will feel prepared for a successful learning camp week. The training will include mandatory child protection training, required cultural sensitivity training, staff building experiences, and information regarding the camp. Lunch will be provided at each session.
Accommodations
Baltimore staff members will be staying at one of the Sisseton motels during their time in Sisseton. Motel information will be shared at the staff training.
Opportunities for Learning, Travel, and Fun
Various field trip opportunities are available for volunteers. Possibilities include visiting Nicollet Tower, swimming at one of the many nearby lakes, and hiking at Sica Hollow State Park.