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At N-Sid-Sen and Pilgrim Firs,
kids (and adults) can be kids and get dirty,
have fun, and make memories
that last a lifetime!
Camp is about connecting face to face
with cabin mates and caring leaders.
Camp is a safe place to try new things,
learn about God, and grow as a person.
Camp is a place to laugh, sing,
play and pray together!
N-Sid-Sen and Pilgrim Firs
These inspiring spaces are the camp and retreat centers of the Pacific Northwest Conference of the United Church of Christ (UCC). The UCC is a mainline protestant denomination, which
welcomes all God’s people, honoring each individual’s country of origin, race, age, abilities, gender expression, sexual orientation and religious background.
Both have a long tradition of serving children, youth and adults through summer camp and year-round retreat experiences. Each provides unique opportunities for exploration, growth, rest and renewal. Our guests and campers come from a wide variety of backgrounds, faith traditions and community groups.
N-Sid-Sen is nestled along the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene, Idaho amid nearly 300 acres of woodlands, creeks and meadows. This site can accommodate groups of 16 to 150.
Pilgrim Firs is located just outside of Port Orchard, Washington. With over three miles of trails meandering through fields, meadows and woodlands, and Lake Flora tucked inside its 120 acres, Pilgrim Firs is an oasis on the edge of suburbia. This site can accommodate groups of 15 to 135.
N-Sid-Sen Camp & Retreat Center
36395 S Hwy 97
Harrison, ID 83833
208.689.3489
director@n-sid-sen.org
Pilgrim Firs Camp & Retreat Center
3318 SW Lake Flora Rd
Port Orchard, WA 98367
360.876.2031
info@pilgrim-firs.org
Faith-Based Immersion Experiences
Life often seems to be moving at warp speed. In the rush of our daily lives, our faith, deeper connections with others, and moments to slow down and breathe in God’s creation can easily be left behind.
That’s why it is so important to embrace opportunities like summer camp at N-Sid-Sen and Pilgrim Firs where we are invited to slow down, connect with God and others, and seek more sustainable ways of living in our demanding world.
Leadership is Key
Our caring team, from managing directors to experienced volunteer event directors, trained cabin leaders, certified health care & waterfront staff, and the site hospitality teams are dedicated to creating safe and welcoming environments for our campers.
Our team provides positive leadership and guidance, and are screened and trained in accordance with our Safer Camp procedures. Additionally, they receive job-specific training and support appropriate for their position.
Activities
There is much to see and do at N-Sid-Sen and Pilgrim Firs! Depending on the ages and interests of the groups, these are just some of the options available at both sites.
Canoeing + Crafts + Basketball + Beach Fun
Silly Skits + Nature Discoveries + Goofy Songs
Team Building + Water Games + Camp-Style Worship
Paddle Boarding + Labyrinth + Swimming + Faith Chats
Campfires + Field Games + Hiking
N-Sid-Sen Extras: Volleyball + Tubing + Water Mat + 9-Square
Pilgrim Firs Extras: Pride Garden + Serenity Garden
Theme: Another Way
Jesus often challenged the world around him with another way of being. Through his example, we are reminded that God always invites us to examine who we are and how we do things. Being at camp, we are already experiencing another way of living, set apart in a natural setting, away from the demands and distractions of everyday living.
Together, we will explore how growing in different ways, and accepting and supporting others as they grow, can change the way we live our lives – not just at camp, but when we return to our often hectic and over-scheduled lives at home, school and work.
We will imagine how the changes we make in ourselves can contribute to the changes we seek in the world. Whether we are addressing unfair rules or dreaming of a time when all people belong, we know that God calls us to do a new thing and faithfully forge another way.
LODGING
Each site offers distinct accommodations. Youth campers stay in traditional cabins, while families are housed in a variety of lodging options that vary by session and location.
N-SID-SEN
Cabins: 12 cabins with a centrally located shower house. Each has bunkbeds for 8-12, windows, electricity, and a curtained changing area.
Ford Cabin: Built in 1926, this building includes beds for 4 (one twin, one double, one bunkbed), a great room, small kitchen and bathroom.
Spirit Lodge: 12 sleeping rooms – 8 with two twin beds, 4 with one double bed, one twin and two single top bunks. This lodge accommodates up to 32. Single-use bathrooms are located in the hallways and the first floor is fully accessible.
PILGRIM FIRS
Cabins: Eleven cabins with bathrooms in the cabin. Each has beds for 8-10, windows, electricity, and a common area.
Huckleberry House: This lodge includes a meeting space for up to 25, and 4 bedrooms with 4 twin beds and 3 restrooms.
South Lodge: 12 sleeping rooms – 9 with two twin beds, 2 with four twin beds, and 1 with three twin beds. This lodge accommodates up to 29. Bathrooms are located in the hallways. The first floor of South Lodge is fully accessible.
MEALS
Our meals are camper-friendly and include lots of fruit, vegetable and other healthy options. Daily snacks are also provided.
Partnering with parents, and with advance notice, we strive to accommodate special dietary needs whenever possible. Please double-check that the Allergy & Dietary sections of the camper’s online Health Form are completed in detail and are up-to-date at least three weeks prior to the camper’s session.
In addition to our standard fare, we strive to provide gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian, vegan, and any combination of these options. Please know we will also provide options for those with serious allergies (ex. nuts, shellfish), but we are unable to offer specific options related to other dietary choices.
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation to and from camp is the responsibility of each family.
We recognize that N-Sid-Sen and Pilgrim Firs can be a long drive depending on where you are coming from. We suggest:
- Carpooling with friends and family.
- Encouraging your congregation to organize carpools.
- Planning a get-away before, during or after your camper’s session
If heading to N-Sid-Sen, plan a getaway to Coeur d’Alene, Spokane or any of the many inviting towns and nearby recreational areas. If heading to Pilgrim Firs, there’s lots to explore in Gig Harbor, Port Townsend or the Olympic Peninsula.
Check out the About Us sections on our websites for directions.
Arrival & Pickup Schedules
N-Sid-Sen:
Kids Camp: arrive Wednesday at 4 pm – pickup Saturday at 11 am
Intermediate Camp: arrive Sunday at 4 pm – pickup Saturday at 11 am
Junior High Camp: arrive Sunday at 4 pm – pickup Saturday at 11 am
Senior High Camp: arrive Sunday at 4 pm – pickup Saturday at 11 am
You & Me Camp: arrive Sunday at 4 pm – pickup Wednesday at 10 am
Family Camp: arrive Sunday at 4 pm – pickup Saturday at 11 am
Camp Together: arrive Saturday at 4 pm – pickup Friday at 11 am
Pilgrim Firs:
Kids Camp: arrive Sunday at 4 pm – pickup Wednesday at 11 am
You & Me Camp: arrive Sunday at 4 pm – pickup Wed at 11 am
Cabin Details
Cabin Buddies
TWO campers may request to bunk together. However, they must be within one year of age AND both request each other when registering online. All written requests are considered, BUT NOT GUARANTEED.
It’s fun to share a week of camp with old friends. Campers are encouraged to recruit their friends, however, if numerous friends are recruited, not all can be in the same cabin. We avoid putting more than two friends together because it can be overwhelming for the rest of the cabin, especially for those who come without a buddy. We also avoid putting siblings together, allowing each to have their own unique camp experience.
Camp provides great opportunities to make new friends and build new relationships. It is our responsibility to assign campers in the way we feel is in the best interest of the whole camp family.
Optional Mixed-Gender Cabins
In line with UCC values, we honor each person’s right to define and understand their own gender identity. To that end, we are committed to creating a safe and positive experience for all camp and retreat participants, including transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming participants. In an effort to increase inclusivity, this year we are offering optional mixed-gender cabins.
What is a mixed-gender cabin?
A mixed-gender cabin is a cabin available for participants of all genders. These cabins are supervised by skilled, culturally-competent adult leaders.
Who can stay in a mixed-gender cabin?
Any participant, with permission of a parent or guardian, may stay in a mixed-gender cabin. This may be a great option for non-binary, gender non-conforming, and transgender participants and a binary friend. Be sure to complete the related question while registering.
What if I am not comfortable with my child staying in a mixed-gender cabin?
We understand that not all parents, guardians, or participants are comfortable with a mixed-gender cabin. When that is the case, we will assign your child to a single-gender cabin. We trust parents and guardians to make the best decision for their child. Be sure to complete the related question while registering.
We are passionate about the power of church camp and committed to ensuring that N-Sid-Sen and Pilgrim Firs are accessible for children and youth, no matter their family’s financial situation.
TIERED PRICING
We recognize that families are differently gifted and have different financial constraints. We seek to balance the cost of providing a quality camping experience with options for families to pay at the level that best fits their budget. To do this we have a three-tier fee program.
Each family chooses the rate that is most suitable for their circumstances. This choice is confidential.
Gratitude Tier
This higher tier more closely reflects the true costs of providing our camp experience, including facility maintenance, equipment repair and replacement, program development, and insurance. It addresses increasing costs for food, fuel, and staff. Even if you cannot afford to choose the Gratitude Rate in any given year, we hope seeing this higher tier helps to increase awareness of the actual cost of the camp experience – costs we must seek to make up throughout the year.
Direct Cost Tier
This tier reflects a payment that covers the direct costs of a week of camp for a camper: programming, food, and summer staff.
Subsidized Tier
This tier covers a portion of the direct costs, but not all of them. The balance of the fee is covered by general support donations to N-Sid-Sen and Pilgrim Firs, and other groups and individuals who pay higher rates throughout the year.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Please do not let finances prevent your child from attending camp this summer! If the Subsidized Tier is still too high for your family, there are several financial assistance options available.
First, we recommend checking with your church. Many UCC congregations pay a portion of the camp fee for their members.
If more support is needed, contact N-Sid-Sen or Pilgrim Firs.
Assistance is available for families receiving state aid and others with significant financial needs.
REGISTER & PAY ONLINE!
Online registration requires a minimum, non-refundable deposit of $100 per full-week camp per person, $50 per part-week camp per person. Registration links can be found on the tabs for Youth Camps and Intergenerational Camps below.
Payment Plan
When you register online, it’s easy to make partial payments to your account at your convenience. No special arrangements are needed.
Final Payment
The FAMILY SHARE of the camp fee is the portion of the fee paid by the family, as opposed to a share paid by a church or agency, or allocated from the scholarship fund. This FAMILY SHARE must be paid in full 14 days prior to the start of the camper’s session. Earlier payments are welcome. If your church pays a portion of the camp fee, we will bill them.
Registration Confirmations
You will receive confirmation of your completed registration within an hour or two of your online registration and payment of deposit.
Information Packet
Additional information to help you and your camper(s) prepare for camp will be available by April 1 on our websites. The Packet will include the Summer Camp Guide with directions to camp and a packing list.
Health Form
The Health Form is part of the online registration packet. It is required for every camper including adults. A physical exam is NOT required, but current health information, immunization dates, details about medication and current health issues and an authorization for treatment are required as part of the online form.
We highly recommend reviewing and revising the online HEALTH FORM form 7-14 days prior to camp. Changes to medications and health & dietary issues often occur between the registration date and the first day of camp.
If your camper has significant health or dietary issues or needs, please contact the appropriate camp office BEFORE registering.
CANCELLATIONS
The deposit is non-refundable.
If a registration is cancelled in writing at least 30 days in advance of the start of the camp session, the full camp fee (minus the deposit) will be refunded.
When written notification is received between 14 and 29 days, up to 75% of the total camp fee will be refunded. When less than 14 days of notice is received, no refund is given.
In case of sudden illness, accident, or emergency, we can transfer your registration to another age-appropriate session – if space is still available. If sessions are full, then a full refund will be considered.
Session Cancellations: If a session has ten or fewer registrations, we reserve the right to cancel that session up to ten days prior to the start date. In this case, the family may select a different session or receive a full refund.
EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT
Register by April 15 & SAVE
- Full-Week Youth Camps – $50 per camper, per session
- Part-Week Youth Camps – $25 per camper, per session
- You & Me Camp – $25 per camper
- Family Camps – $50 per camper
To receive this discount, online registration, with payment of non-refundable deposit, must be completed by Tuesday, April 15.
Bring a Friend and SAVE
We want to spread the Good News about N-Sid-Sen & Pilgrim Firs, and you can help! This is a special opportunity for Summer 2025, so don’t miss out!
When you bring a friend to camp who is NEW to N-Sid-Sen or Pilgrim Firs Summer Camp or has not attended since 2021, you save and your friend saves!
- Full-Week YOUTH Camps – $100 for returning camper & new camper
- Part-Week YOUTH Camp – $50 for returning camper & new camper
This special discount does not apply to Camp Together or Family Camp.
For You and Me Camp,pairs can bring friends and save $50 for a new camper or $100 for a new pair of campers. Each new friend saves $50.
What if we are ALL new to summer camp at N-Sid-Sen and Pilgrim Firs?
Two friends, both new to N-Sid-Sen and Pilgrim Firs summer camps, can register and each receive $100 off their full-week youth camp or $50 off their part-week YOUTH camp. This aspect does not apply to You & Me Camp.
What if I recruit LOTS of friends new to N-Sid-Sen or Pilgrim Firs?
GREAT! You receive the appropriate discount for the first friend and 50% of the appropriate discount for each additional friend.
Please be aware that if several friends are recruited, they will likely not all be in the same cabin. Please see the information under the “Arrival & Pickup Schedules, Cabin Details” tab. There will be opportunities for friends in different cabins to spend time together.
Sign up for the Bring a Friend discount when registering online.
NOTE: Some may opt not to take this discount, and that’s okay.
The discount will be applied after both friends/pairs are registered.
KIDS CAMP ~ OFFERED AT TWO LOCATIONS
Entering Grades 2-4 in the Fall
July 6-9 at PILGRIM FIRS, Port Orchard, WA
July 23-26 at N-SID-SEN, Harrison, ID
These shorter sessions with smaller group sizes are ideal for this age group. They are just stepping out in the world, and there is so much to experience! Making a new friend, exploring the trails, jumping in the lake – or even just wading – may seem like simple fun. In reality, they are gaining critical social skills, independence and a greater awareness of God and creation. Being away from home can present some challenges, but with gentle encouragement from our caring leaders, campers grow in confidence. Favorite activities include swimming, story times, crafts, campfires, lying on the dock and watching fish, worship… and of course, making s’mores. They also love spending time in their cabins with their bunk mates and cabin leaders.
Tier Rates per Person: $290 / $265 / $240
Half a week just not enough time?
At N-SID-SEN, You & Me Camp can be paired with Kids Camp for a full week of fun and adventures for appropriately aged younger buddies (those entering grades 2-4). You & Me pairs depart after breakfast and the closing on Wednesday, eat lunch on their own (Harrison and Coeur d’Alene have great options), and return in the afternoon for Kids Camp check-in. Find information about You & Me Camp in the “Inter-generational Camps” section.
INTERMEDIATE CAMP
Entering Grades 5-6 in the Fall
July 13-19 at N-SID-SEN, Harrison, ID
Explore and experience N-Sid-Sen for a full week; it’s a safe and welcoming space. New friends and lots of fun are just the beginning. Growing and playing together, exploring God’s creation, building a Christian community – that’s Intermediate Camp! There’s more time for our favorite activities and to take on new responsibilities – like cabin chores and hopper duties. Because they are older, and their gross motor skills are more developed, Intermediate Campers can try their skills at canoeing and paddle boarding. Favorite activities include the water mat, swimming, team building, crafts, campfires, worship, wacky games and star gazing. They, too, like spending time in their cabins with their new friends and cabin leaders.
Tier Rates per Person: $620 / $570 / $520
JUNIOR HIGH CAMP
Entering Grades 7-9 in the Fall
July 13-19 at N-SID-SEN, Harrison, ID
Jr High campers come together to rekindle old friendships and discover new ones in a safe and welcoming environment. In addition to meeting those in their assigned cabins, campers connect with folks in family groups for deeper conversations and outdoor fun. Jr High campers mix it up with choice time activities, cool crafts, the sports court, hiking, 9-Square, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, tubing, water skiing and more. They love spending time with their peers – just hanging out – so there are a variety of structured and less structured opportunities to do just this. Favorite activities include all-camp games, worship that they help to create, choice times, aqua Olympics, nightly campfires full of music and fun, and just hanging out with friends.
Tier Rates per Person: $670 / $620 / $570
SENIOR HIGH CAMP
Entering Grades 10-13 in the Fall
July 20-26 at N-SID-SEN, Harrison, ID
A week to be your authentic self, make good friends and have loads of fun. Sr High campers can get super crafty, spend extra time at the waterfront, or learn a new skill. The sense of community extends beyond family group times to epic volleyball games, choice times with new friends and inspiring God Times. Evenings include stargazing, a nightly campfire and dancing. It is a judgement-free zone where you can just be you. Favorites include the picnic in the meadow paired with an evening at the waterfront, creating amazing worship, the coolest cabin leaders, and hanging with friends at the lake, in the craft room, and while exploring camp. It’s also a lot of fun to interact with the younger kiddos attending You & Me and Kids Camp during meal times and special events.
Tier Rates per Person: $670 / $620 / $570
YOU & ME CAMP ~ OFFERED AT TWO LOCATIONS
Entering Grade 1-4 with Parent or Adult Buddy
July 6-9 at PILGRIM FIRS, Port Orchard, WA
July 20-23 at N-SID-SEN, Harrison, ID
You & Me Camp gives younger children the opportunity to experience camp with a trusted adult. The schedule includes many traditional activities like campfires, time in and on the water, arts and crafts, and games. There will be time to explore and have new adventures as well. Most of your days and evenings will be spent with your buddy, but there will be a scheduled time or two when adults will gather with adults and the younger buddies with each other and leaders. With this age group, flexibility is important. If your child needs a nap or quiet time away from the group, you are encouraged to do what works for you.
Tier Rates per Person: $265 / $240 / $215
Half a week just not enough time?
At N-SID-SEN, You & Me Camp can be paired with Kids Camp for a full week of fun and adventures for appropriately aged younger buddies (those entering grades 2-4). You & Me pairs depart after breakfast and the closing on Wednesday, eat lunch on their own (Harrison and Coeur d’Alene have great options), and return in the afternoon for Kids Camp check-in. Find information about Kids Camp in the “Youth Camps” section.
Family Camp
July 27 – Aug 2 at N-SID-SEN, Harrison, ID
Camp Together
Aug 2 – 8 at N-SID-SEN, Harrison, ID
Both sessions are open to all ages and all configurations of families – singles, pairs, nuclear or extended. Families participate in most activities together, however, there will be time for different age groups to gather, including adults.
Join families of every size and description from across the Pacific Northwest Conference and beyond. Gather and enjoy all that N-Sid-Sen has to offer. We’ll worship, play, create, and share campfires together. Be prepared for silly songs and significant conversations. We love playing music and there’s space for you to bring your instrument and join in – no matter your skill level. At the lake, options include swimming, pedal boating, canoeing, paddle boarding, tubing and skiing. Bring your sunscreen and enjoy the water! Our days begin with morning watch at the outdoor chapel and “officially” close with evening campfires. However, porches, decks and rocking chairs may call your name; many gather after campfire with other families just to visit.
Come on HOME to the lake!
Tier Rates per Person:
+ Young Child (under age 3): no charge
+ Child (3-7 years): $480 / $430 / $380
+ Youth (8-12): $550 / $500 / $450
+ Adults & Teens: $575 / $525 / $475