Deer Crossing Camp

Overview

Deer Crossing Wilderness Camp is owned and operated by Doug Fischer (Camp Director) and John Ellis (Director of Operations). Deer Crossing was founded in 1983 by Jim Wiltens, who served as Co-Owner and Camp Director through 2022, and his family. Jim’s wife Ellen McNeil ran the camp office from 2013 through 2022. Camp’s original mission—to help children build resilience and independence while having fun and learning new skills in an outdoor environment—still drives camp today. Jim has written several articles that reflect camp’s philosophy.

Since 1985, Deer Crossing has been accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA). We adhere to a rigorous set of standards that covers virtually everything we do before, during, and after camp. ACA standards range from staff hiring and supervision to lifeguard training, from bus transportation to kitchen cleanliness, and from backpacking safety to parent communications.

Deer Crossing has attracted campers and staff from around the world since 1983. We’re proud to offer an experience where so many different talents come together each summer. We foster an atmosphere that encourages leadership qualities in all campers, starting with techniques for leading themselves. Many campers enter camp’s Counselor-in-Training (CIT) and Leader-in-Training (LIT) courses, which offer more focused and intensive practice of leadership skills.