Health & Safety

Camp Horseshoe’s Health and Safety Policies

Updated: June 1, 2026

Camp Horseshoe is an ACA-accredited all-boys sleepaway camp in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, committed to camper health, safety, and well-being. Families can find information about required health forms, medication procedures, allergy and dietary needs, homesickness support, staff safety training, and how Horseshoe helps boys feel cared for, confident, and ready for camp.

Caring for your camper, every step of the way.

At Camp Horseshoe, health and safety are at the heart of a great camp experience. We want boys to feel adventurous, independent, and fully immersed in camp life, while parents feel confident knowing their camper is supported by caring staff, thoughtful systems, and clear communication.

From homesickness and allergies to medications, staff training, and everyday wellness, our team works hard to create a safe, healthy, and encouraging environment for every camper.

Recognized Standards. Real Parent Confidence.

Camp Horseshoe is accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA), a nationally recognized organization that evaluates camps on standards related to health, safety, risk management, staff training, emergency procedures, and overall camper well-being. ACA accreditation reflects Camp Horseshoe’s commitment to providing a safe, supportive, and high-quality camp experience for every camper.

For generations, Horseshoe has also earned a reputation as one of the premier all-boys sleepaway camps in the Midwest. Located in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, Horseshoe welcomes boys from across the country and around the world for a summer filled with athletics, waterfront activities, outdoor adventure, wilderness trips, traditions, friendship, and personal growth.

Families choose Horseshoe not only for its exceptional programs and facilities, but for its strong sense of community, experienced leadership, dedicated staff, and commitment to helping boys develop confidence, independence, resilience, and character. Many parents tell us that what stands out most is how well their sons are known, supported, and encouraged throughout the summer.

What Parents Say

“My boys are about to head out on their third summer at the shoe and they love it. Each year they return home steps ahead of their peers. I think it does them a world of good to break the environmental norms of the daily routine around home. Excellent staff, newer facilities, my oldest enjoys the tripping programs, my youngest the waterfront and climbing.”

“With out question, my kids home away from home.
-We have camp count downs
-It’s my kids happy place
-They can’t miss a summer at camp with friends
-Some of the best counselors around
-Good, old fashioned fun!”

“Was shipped off going into 4th grade and wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. Camp horseshoe is a place “where everybody knows your name” and everyone truly cares about each other. Going here for 10 years has changed and shaped my life for the better with experiences, friends, and memories I will never forget.”

Health & Safety FAQs

Is Camp Horseshoe accredited by the ACA?

Yes. Camp Horseshoe is ACA-accredited, meeting recognized standards for health, safety, staff training, and risk management.

How do I know my camper is safe at Horseshoe?

Campers are supported by trained staff, active supervision, health protocols, and a caring community where every boy is known and supported.

How should I mentally prepare my child for camp?

Talk positively about camp, encourage independence, and focus on the friendships, activities, and adventures ahead.

My child is shy! How can I prepare him/her for camp?

Remind your child that he does not need to change to fit in. Counselors help campers make friends, join activities, and feel part of the community.

How does Camp Horseshoe handle homesickness?

Homesickness is normal. Our staff help campers stay engaged, build connections, and gain confidence through daily camp life.

What health forms are required?

All families must complete required health forms before camp, including medical history, medications, allergies, and emergency contacts.

How does Camp Horseshoe handle medications?

Medications must be submitted according to camp guidelines and reviewed before arrival.

How does Camp Horseshoe handle allergies and medical concerns?

Please list all allergies, medical conditions, and special health needs on your camper’s health forms and contact camp with any concerns.

How does Camp Horseshoe handle food allergies and dietary needs?

Food allergies and dietary needs should be shared before camp so our team can plan appropriately and discuss any necessary accommodations.

What about lice, ticks, bed bugs, and everyday camp health?

During the summer, our team monitors camper wellness and responds to common camp health concerns such as bug bites, ticks, minor injuries, illness symptoms, and cabin health issues. Families can help by packing recommended items, checking forms carefully, and communicating any concerns before arrival.

What safety training does staff receive?

Camp safety starts with staff preparation. Before campers arrive, Horseshoe staff participate in training designed to prepare them for cabin life, supervision, activity leadership, camper wellness, emergency procedures, and the responsibilities of caring for children at camp.

What is Camp Horseshoe’s reputation in the camp community?

Camp Horseshoe is a respected ACA-accredited boys camp with a long tradition of helping campers grow through friendship, adventure, and personal development.

Still Have Questions?

Every camper is different. If you have questions about health forms, medications, allergies, homesickness, or your child’s individual needs, please reach out. We are here to help your camper have a healthy, happy, confidence-building summer at The Shoe.