The Salvation Army USA review: Disappointment with kings lake camp experience

I recently signed my two sons, ages 7 and 10, up for a week at Kings Lake Camp, run by the Salvation Army. This was my 7-year-old’s first overnight camp experience, and he was so excited after reading the welcome packet that promised fun activities like hiking, canoeing, swimming, and more.

I dropped them off Monday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. My 10-year-old had a baseball game that evening, and after checking with the camp captain, I picked him up for the game and returned him afterward with no issue. However, when he got in the car, the first thing he said was, “I am not staying at that camp.” He explained that he found it boring, that the counselors were using inappropriate language, and that another camper kicked sand in his face right in front of a counselor — who did nothing. I encouraged him to give it a chance, especially since his younger brother was still there, and he agreed to stay at least one night.

Then, early Wednesday morning, I received a call saying my 7-year-old was throwing up and needed to be picked up. When I arrived, I could immediately tell he was upset. He wouldn’t speak about what was wrong right away, but as soon as we got in the car, he began eating non-stop — granola bars, donuts, watermelon, spaghetti — which is very unusual for him. He’s normally a light eater, so I was surprised by how hungry he was. This raised serious concerns for me about whether he was actually being fed adequately during his stay.

Over the next day or two, he slowly began opening up. He said they did not go canoeing or hiking, and they were only allowed in the water once — and only up to their ankles. He mentioned playing GAGA ball frequently but very few other activities. My 10-year-old confirmed the same thing when I picked him up on Thursday. He also said they went to one Bible study that lasted about 30 minutes and made a poster, but that was it. Worse, he reported that one counselor was using the f-word, s-word, and even the c-word in front of campers — completely unacceptable. He also mentioned hearing from another camper that a boy had been seen on top of a girl in the girls’ cabin. I cannot confirm this, but the fact that it was even brought up is deeply troubling.

The food situation also left much to be desired. Breakfast was cereal every day, and one morning, they even ran out of milk. With the level of funding and donations the Salvation Army receives, I expected much more from a camp designed for children.

I had hoped for a memorable, positive first overnight camp experience for my youngest son — full of fun activities and meaningful connections. Instead, this was a stressful, disappointing experience for both my boys. Nothing they were promised in the registration packet came to life. I can confidently say we will never return to Kings Lake Camp, and I will not be recommending it to anyone.

I hope this feedback is taken seriously, as no child should have their first camp experience tarnished like this.