The Toadally Awesome Marsh – A Christian Day Camp in North East, Maryland
Registration for Summer 2013 is now open!
fun, challenge, excitement, and opportunities for learning and spiritual growth
The Marsh, A Day Camp at Sandy Cove offers an environment designed specifically for kids with a ratio of one staff member for every six campers. We will get to know your child personally!
- Our programs are designed for boys and girls ages 4 to 14.
- NEW! KinderCamp for 4 and 5 year olds.
- The Marsh will operate 8 weeks in 2013, June 17 to August 16. (Closed the week of July 1-5)
- Each five day session is a great value! We provide lunch and snacks each day.
- Campers of all ages are welcome during all weeks! Campers are divided into three units: KinderCamp (4-5 year olds), Junior Camp (6-9 year olds), Senior Camp (10-14 year olds).
- Wacky Wednesdays are back at The Marsh! A giant inflatable waterslide, pool games, a picnic lunch and lots of fun.
- Thursday is “Late Night” for senior campers, ages 10 to 14.
- We offer FREE extended care for multi-week campers! (4-week minimum per camper required)
- We hire young Christian men and women who truly desire to work at The Marsh and have strengths and abilities that allow them to be effective leaders for your children.
Your child’s exciting journey of exploration will take place in North East, Maryland at Sandy Cove Ministries. At The Marsh, boys and girls are grouped by age for a dynamic, fun-filled week in our non-profit, non-denominational Christian day camp. In a child’s eyes, The Marsh is a place where every day is filled with making new friends, learning about God’s amazing love, discovering new interests and playing until they are worn out!
From thrilling activities to creative adventures, Bible teaching to unique games, campers are sure to have a blast and grow in their relationship with Christ! Our staff will provide instruction, supervision and encouragement in a Christ-centered fashion.
Accredited to Demonstrate Camping Excellence
For over 60 years, Sandy Cove Ministries has been providing “Christian camping at its best!” Since 2001, The Marsh has continued this same tradition of excellence. Our accreditation by the American Camp Association (ACA) and membership with the Christian Camp and Conference Association (CCCA) demonstrates our commitment to providing quality programs for your child. All children are welcome to attend our programs regardless of race, religion or national origin.
“My son LOVES the Marsh! He is there this week again because he has been asking his mommom to help contribute. I feel so blessed for him to have had this experience and this is something I will save for during the year. I am so happy I sent my son to the Marsh!!. Thanks again.” – Crystal
“I love The Marsh because it’s adventurous!” – Sydney, age 14
Every day at The Marsh is filled with excitement!
Wacky Wednesday fun and games, dress up days, unique games and creative activities make each week exciting for campers of all ages. But that’s not all…
All weeks are geared for boys and girls ages 4 to 14. NEW for 2013! KinderCamp for 4-5 year olds!! Ages for special programs are noted.
June 17 to June 21
Wipe Out Week
Splash into the fun this summer with Wipe Out Week! Water balloons, squirt guns, pool games and more wet and wild craziness than you can imagine!
June 24 to June 28
Super Hero Week
It’s time to Hero Up! Grab your super suit, throw on your cape and join us for Super Hero Week. Battling super villains and saving the world has never been so much fun!
Special Program: Outdoor Adventure Camp
Looking for a little more adventure this summer? Campers will be involved in canoeing, kayaking, tubing, geocaching, rock climbing, outdoor cooking, and other “adventure” activities instead of participating in the regular camp program. For campers 12 to 14 only. Additional $30 fee.
July 1 to July 5
The Marsh is CLOSED this week.
July 8 to July 12
Wipe Out 2: The Sea-quel
Wet and wild and so much fun we’re doing it again… but this time with an “under the sea” twist! Water balloons, pool games and more!
July 15 to July 19
As Seen on TV Week
It’s all of the REALITY with none of the TV! Wacky games and crazy competitions based on some of your favorite reality shows… and it’s all commercial free!
July 22 to July 26
Pirate Adventure Week
Aargh Mateys! Hoist the sails, it’s time to sail off in search of treasure, adventure and lots of fun! Yo ho, it’s a pirate’s life at The Marsh!
July 29 to August 2
Circus Week
It’s an adventure under the big top! Clowning around has never been so much fun! Lion tamers, elephant trainers and carnival lovers welcome!
August 5 to August 9
Marsh Madness Week
There’s no telling what could happen during Marsh Madness – we’re inside out and upside down and full of fun and games! Always a favorite, you’re sure to love this classic week!
Special Program: Junior Outdoor Adventure Camp
Looking for a little more adventure this summer? Campers will be involved in canoeing, kayaking, tubing, geocaching, rock climbing, outdoor cooking, and other “adventure” activities instead of participating in the regular camp program. For campers 10 to 11 only. Additional $30 fee.
August 12 to August 16
Wipe Out 3: End of Summer Splash
It’s a week long beach party at The Marsh! Make sure you join us for one last week of wet and wild fun before heading back to school!
“I love EVERYTHING about The Marsh!” – Julia, age 12
“Elianna attended ALL summer! We LOVE the Marsh. She grew social/emotionally and spiritually. I feel GREAT leaving my children with you each day. They get mad at me if I pick them up too early and want to be dropped as early as possible in the morning. There is NO greater testament to the quality of your program than the satisfaction and LOVE that my children get from being participants. THANK YOU! Your program is a true blessing to our family! As a full time working parent, it makes me feel good to provide such a wonderful summer experience to my children!”
Fun and Games and So Much More!
Our staff work hard to ensure that every day is filled with fun at The Marsh. Daily Bible Learning and Scripture Teaching (BLAST), weekly themes, special guests, dress up days, talent shows, special meals, unique games and creative activities make each week exciting for campers of all ages.
Sample Daily Schedule
| 7:00 – 8:30 am | Morning Extended Care ($) |
| 9:00 | Camper Arrival & Morning Welcome |
| 9:15 – 11:25 | Morning Activity Sessions |
| 11:30 | Lunch at the Cattail Cafe – served fresh daily, no extra cost! |
| 12:15 pm | Supervised Free Time |
| 12:45 | BLAST (Bible Learning and Scripture Teaching) |
| 1:30 | Fun Program or Camper Clubs |
| 2:30 | Free Swim* |
| 3:30 | Afternoon Snack |
| 4:00 | Camper Pick Up |
| 4:30 – 6:00 | Afternoon Extended Care ($) |
*Modest swimsuits are required (one-piece for girls, baggy shorts for boys).
Thursday is “Late Night at The Marsh!”
Each Thursday, campers ages 10 and older will have an opportunity to stay late at The Marsh. Have a great time making Marsh Stew, playing fun games and hitting the pool (don’t forget your modest swimsuit – one-piece for girls, baggy shorts for boys) for an evening swim. Campers must be picked up at 9:00 pm. Please note: Late Night will be cancelled due to storms or excessive heat.
Extended Care
Child care is available 7:00-8:30 am and 4:30-6:00 pm if your schedule does not allow for arrival and pick up during regular camp hours. Choose each week based on your needs. Pre-registration is required – sign up when you register for the week. FREE for campers registered for at least 4 weeks.
“I love Late Night at The Marsh. Chief Andrew taught me how to build a campfire!” – Ryan, age 10
“Cavender had such a wonderful time he can’t wait to come back. He loved everything about it and wants me to sign him up for more weeks next year! Thank you. Also, I am really impressed with the level of attentiveness given to protect the campers. This is appreciated!”
“The Marsh is EPIC!” – Kelly, age 6
Daily Creative Learning & Fun-filled Adventure!
Our activity schedule is designed to give campers an opportunity to try new experiences and have a great time!
These activities may include:
- Archery (ages 6-14)
- Badminton
- Boating
- Crafts
- Canoeing* (ages 10-14)
- Cooking (ages 4-9)
- Indoor Rock Climbing (ages 10-14)
- Miniature Golf
- Mini Archery (ages 4-5)
- Nature Activities
- Outdoor Cooking (ages 6-14)
- Paddle Boats* (ages 4-9)
- Palmer Auditorium (with Ping-Pong, Pool, Air Hockey & Foosball)
- Pool Games*
- Soccer
- Sports
- Swimming*
- Volleyball
- Zip Line and Big Swing (ages 12-14)
- and more!
Note: Not all activities will be available during all weeks.
*Modest swimsuits are required (one-piece for girls, baggy shorts for boys).
CAMPER CLUBS – NEW!!
Can’t get enough of archery? Not scheduled for crafts this week? Dreaming of some extra paddling time in you canoe? That’s what Camper Clubs are all about! Campers will have the opportunity to choose a club in which to participate on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons for a more in-depth learning experience (aka, more fun)!
Campers will select their clubs on Monday of each week. Note: Not all Clubs will be available during all weeks.
- Archery (ages 6-14)
- Arts & Crafts
- Canoeing (ages 10-14)
- Competitive Sports
- Drama and Theater Games
- Fishing
- Geocaching
- Outdoor Cooking (ages 6-14)
- Outdoor Living
- Nature Explorers (ages 4-9)
- Service Club
- Table Games (chess, checkers, Ed’s Alley)
- Zip Line & Adventure Games (ages 12-14)
- Special Clubs that coordinate with each week’s theme
- and more!
“I love Wet, Wild & Wacky Wednesdays!” – Sarah, age 11
“You get to swim every day!” – Jacob, age 6
“I loved going kayaking!” – Robert, age 12
“I selected this camp because even though it was about 30 minutes away, it was a full day, of fun for my child, with activities I knew he would love to experience. Matt had started going to Sunday school with in the last 6 months, and reinforcement is great.”
“Gaga!!” – Garrett, age 8
Summer 2013 Rates!
2013 Rates – same rates as 2010!
Basic Camp Fee $199
Your basic camp fee includes 5 days of day camp, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, packed with fun and adventure, a daily kid-friendly lunch and snack, constant supervision and mentoring by caring trained staff and great learning opportunities!
Register online or call 443.674.9478!
Optional Fees…
Extended Care
Child care is available 7:00-8:30 am and 4:30-6:00 pm if your schedule does not allow for arrival and pick up during regular camp hours. Choose each week based on your needs. Pre-registration is required – sign up when you register for the week.
• $25 per week – AM and PM Sessions
• $15 per week – AM Only or PM Only
• FREE for campers registered for at least 4 weeks
Special Programs
Special programs are only available certain weeks for certain age groups. See weekly theme tab for options.
• $30 per session
Counselor In Training (CIT)
Registration for this program is not available online and can only be completed after your application has been accepted. See CIT tab for more details and forms.
• $375 per person for three week session
The Marsh Scholarship Fund
All available finances for Summer 2013 Scholarships have been awarded
Gifts to The Marsh Scholarship Fund are received from individuals who recognize the valuable impact a camping experience at the Marsh can have on the life of a child. If you would like to provide monies for the scholarship fund, please send your tax-deductible gift to: The Marsh Scholarship Fund, 60 Sandy Cove Road, North East, MD 21901.
Registration Instructions
1. Register online
2. Pay a $50 deposit per week per child online
3. Upon registering you will receive an e-mail confirmation and the necessary forms:
• Health History Form to be completed and returned to The Marsh by June 1
• Parent Handbook with important information about camp
4. Payment in full is required by June 1, 2013 and will be scheduled for automatic payment when registering online.
5. When registering after June 1st, full payment is due at the time of registration.
The Marsh Parent Handbook 2013
The Marsh Release Cell Phone Sunscreen Forms 2013
The Marsh Medication Authorization 2013
The Marsh Immunizations or Objection 2013
Cancellation Policy
If you cannot attend the week for which you are registered, please notify The Marsh immediately. All camp fees are fully refundable and transferable up to four weeks before your child is scheduled to arrive at The Marsh. Cancellations after that time will not receive a refund of camp fees, nor a transfer to another week.
“My daughter loves going to The Marsh. She gets to interact with kids her age that she does not see in her school and do fun things with them. We will be back next year and our 4-year-old is already begging to go next year as well when she is 5.”
“I met a lot of friends here!” – Emily, age 9
“Cali continues to tell me how much fun she had and how she would love to come back next year! She is still singing the songs she learned even after several weeks. It was a perfect way for her to start her summer.” – Laurel
Counselor In Training Program at The Marsh
July 8 – July 26, 2013
The purpose of the Counselor In Training Program at The Marsh is to offer boys and girls who are 15 years old and/or entering 10th grade the opportunity to grow and be challenged as they work, play, and minister to the campers of The Marsh. There will be time set aside for CITs to be involved in personal spiritual growth through Bible study and scripture memorization, as well as opportunities to develop their abilities in working with children in a Christian day camp environment.
By completing and returning the Counselor In Training Application, you are not only showing an interest in becoming a Marsh CIT, but will also be providing evidence of your desire to serve the Lord in life and at camp. (Please note that completion of the CIT program does not guarantee a future staff position at The Marsh.)
If you genuinely desire to be part of what God has in store for The Marsh Day Camp this summer, please complete the CIT application and return it to The Marsh. Please be aware that CIT spaces are limited.
The fee for the three week CIT session, July 8-26, is $375 per person. Registration for this program is not available online and can only be completed after your application has been accepted.
“If I could afford it my daughter would stay all summer. She enjoys learning about God (since we pulled back from the church years ago) and I am pleased that she has an interest in growing spiritually and has been reading the Bible since she came home. She enjoys being with other kids and seemed to take to the younger ones and wants to be a counselor in training CIT next year! Thank you for taking such care to nurture parts of my child’s life I feel I have avoided.”
Meet the Chiefs!
The Marsh strives to hire young men and women who have the skills and desire to work with children. These are individuals who want to see kids have fun, acquire new skills, and learn and grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ. All of our staff take part in an intensive week long training program that includes certification in CPR and First Aid.
Chief Jenny Welte – Director of The Marsh
I am so excited to be gearing up for our 13th summer at The Marsh! I started working at Sandy Cove’s children’s camps in 1988 at Camp Sandy Hill, then Camp Sandy Cove in the Poconos, Hill Top Ranch, Camp Sandy Cove in West Virginia (in the off season) and I was the founding director of The Marsh in 2001. I’ve been married to my husband, Josh (who I met at Sandy Cove), for almost 10 years and we have two sons, Samuel (6) and Will (3), and a very wiggly Boxer named George. I like sunshine, the beach, splashing in puddles, shopping, reading, taking pictures, and spending time with my family. I love my job as the Director of The Marsh because it means I get to spend my summer hanging out, playing games, and learning about God with some of the coolest, most fun people you’ll ever meet – your kids! Thanks for entrusting them to us summer after summer!
Chief Brad Robertson – Assistant Director
Hello all! I am so excited to be returning to the Marsh this year. My wife, Chief Jaime, and I starting working at the Marsh in the summer of 2005 and have spent a total of six summers ‘waking up the birdies’. We now have two beautiful daughters, Annabelle, 2 and Ellia, 1. During the other (less exciting) months of the year I am the Lead Special Education at an elementary school in Lynchburg, Virginia. I also enjoy serving in our church worship band, hiking, camping, snowboarding, and spending time with my beautiful wife and two girls. We have had the honor of watching campers grow from young first year campers all the way to mature seasoned counselors. Now I am excited to be part of growing the next generation of Marshians!
Chief Katie Barbor – Activities Specialist
Hi! My name is Katie and I’m from Fair Hill, Maryland. I am 18 years old, the youngest of my siblings, and this will be my 3rd awesome summer working at The Marsh. In addition, I spent my childhood as a Marshian, learning to love Sandy Cove! I am just about to graduate from St. Elizabeth High School and will be attending University of Maryland to study engineering in the fall. I love summertime, boating, water sports, camping and kids with a passion 
I am also a sports fanatic – basketball, ice hockey, field hockey and soccer player. I can’t wait to meet the campers this year and help them grow in their faith – and watch them help me grow in mine!
Chief Michelle Eirhart – Camp Counselor
Hello! My name is Michelle Eirhart, and I can’t wait for a third summer of toad-ally awesome fun at The Marsh! I attend the University of Maryland, College Park, and I study early childhood education. When I’m home, I go to church at Immaculate Conception where I am sometimes lucky enough to see past campers. In my down time, I love to read, hike, scrapbook, and volunteer. After working at The Marsh last two summers, I knew I wanted to return for another summer of fun. I’m especially excited to see old faces as well as meet new campers and chiefs. Can’t wait to see everyone this summer!
Chief Mikala Koenig – Camp Counselor
Mikala (aka Chief Sassy) is back for her third summer as a Marsh Chief, after spending lots of summers at The Marsh as a camper. She lives in Chandler, Arizona where she will be starting her senior year at Hamilton High School. Chief Mikala plays basketball, swims, and is an amazing pianist!
Chief Ross Libby – Camp Counselor
2013 will be my second summer working at The Marsh and I’m excited to come back! I am from Salisbury, Maryland. I am the third of seven children in my family and I am currently studying Computer Science at Salisbury University. My favorite Bible verse is 2 Corinthians 5:17 – “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
Chief Jacob Austin – Camp Counselor
This will be Jacob’s second summer on staff at The Marsh, but he was a camper for many years! He previously worked on staff at Sandy Cove as a lifeguard and in the dining room. Jacob will be graduating from North East High School where he played football, ran track, participated in pole vaulting, and is a member of FBLA. He also plays with the worship team at True Life Community Church. Jacob will be attending Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee in the Fall.
Chief Andrew Johnson – Camp Counselor
I am from Greenfield Massachusetts, and have three brothers and an elegant cat named Betsy. I am 21 years old. This is will be my second summer working at the Marsh. I love kids, and playing games and teaching them about Jesus. My favorite thing to do at the Marsh is to race down the huge waterslide! If I could have any superpower, it would be to fly. My favorite superhero is Spiderman (admit it, he isn’t the most powerful, but he has the most heart). I am looking forward to working another Summer at the Marsh with Chief Jenny and the other chiefs, and all campers, first-timers and veterans!
Chief Jason Donnini – Camp Counselor
Hi! I’m Jason and I’m the youngest of three boys and I live in a town called South Morang in Australia right near the country hills. I am loud, outgoing and love to have fun and I see everyone as a new friend! I currently work as an emergency roadside patrol man helping people whose cars have broken down. I am a youth director at my church and love being involved with youth, making a connection and being a positive influence. I am a very big outdoors person I love surfing, motorbike riding, 4-wheel driving and camping. I’ve been to Zambia and South Africa and worked with orphans and I just love where God is leading me! Absolutely Cannot wait for the summer at The Marsh!
Chief Melissa DeHaan – Camp Counselor
Hi there!! My names Melissa, almost everyone calls me Mel though, I am 20 years old and am from Australia!! I live in a small town called Whittlesea which is down south in Victoria. I have two younger sisters in my family, Caitlin(18) and Natalie (16). I am currently working at a bank in Melbourne but my real passion is working with people! I am a youth leader at my local church, I play piano and sing, I enjoy walking and I love God! I am so excited for the Marsh! Can’t wait to meet you all!!
Chief Laura Nolan – Camp Counselor
I am from Elkton, Maryland and this will be my 5th summer with Sandy Cove (my first summer with The Marsh). I love summertime, the beach, sunshine, laughter and of course, kids! This coming fall will be my senior year at Liberty University and I am studying Special Education. I hope to teach autistic children one day. I cannot wait to meet your kids and to have a blast with them this summer!
Chief Khirah Jackson – Camp Counselor
Chief Khirah is back for her third summer working at The Marsh. She is 19 years old and attends Morgan State University. Khirah is a nursing major and plans to become a pediatric nurse practitioner. Her home church is Griffiths AUMP church and is involved in youth ministry. Khirah travels to Jamaica twice a year and plans to start a ministry there one day.
Chief Bethany Lepp – Camp Counselor
I’m a 22 year old from a small country town called Whittlesea in Victoria, Australia. I am the 3rd of four children in my family, and I have three gorgeous nieces and a nephew that I absolutely adore. I currently work for a local hospital in Melbourne, but my passion is working with children and youth from all over the world. I have travelled numerous times to Africa, specifically South Africa and Zambia, to run camps for orphans with groups from my local church. I am also a youth and young adults leader at my church. I love music, drawing/painting, shopping, movies, the outdoors, travel and most of all spending time with my family and friends. I am so looking forward to working at The Marsh this year as it has been something that I have wanted to do for many years. I hope and pray that God works in everyone on this camp as we have fun together and learn more about Him.
“My Chief taught me that God made us all the way we are. He loves us the way we are and I don’t need to change.” – Abby, age 12
“The Staff were always energetic and polite to me, but most importantly, my children LOVED them!”
“Julia continues to thrive at this camp. She always comes away with songs that stick in her mind and I feel leaves her spiritually energized! Thanks for doing such a great job!”
“The chiefs make the time for the children memorable and fun. It is amazing how much they talk about them and what they’ve taught them. Thank you!”
“Chief Sophie and Chief DaShawn made my week so much fun!” – Coleman, age 11