Danish Youth Nature, Adventure & Culture Camp

Come explore with us

Welcome to an exciting and enriching experience like no other!
Join a group of adventurous youth from diverse backgrounds for an unforgettable experience in Denmark this summer. We promise it will be 10 days filled with friendship, fun, and new experiences.

Apply for this campSee the invitation

Location & Dates

Our camp, scheduled from July 29th to August 8th, 2024, offers an incredible array of activities aimed at exploring the nature around Zealand as well as visiting cultural, historical, and natural treasures of Denmark.

The camp is centered in and around Ringsted, Denmark, where nature is at our doorstep. We have planned day trips to various places like Copenhagen, Stevns Klint, Roskilde, and Sorø.

Location: Based in and around Ringsted, Denmark

Dates: July 29 – August 8, 2024

Email: camp@dynac.dk

Who Can Attend?

The camp is open to youth aged 15 to 17 years old who are keen to immerse themselves in Danish culture, explore natural landscapes, and partake in group activities. No prior experience in camping or canoeing is necessary, as we aim to be inclusive and accommodate all skill levels. A reasonable physical fitness is required.

The deadline for applications is April 14, 2024.

What is included?

  • Accommodation with local Rotarian host families, one night will be spent in a primitive outdoor camp (tent or shelter)
  • All planned activities and entry fees to museums and other attractions
  • Transportation to and from day-trip locations
  • Meals
  • New friendships
  • A unique camp t-shirt

Costs

  • Camp fee of €250 per person
  • Personal travel expenses to and from Ringsted train station (accompanied by a representative from Rotary)
  • Pocket money

We can’t wait for you to join us for what promises to be an unforgettable experience!

A message from DYNAC’s Coordinator

Program

Join Us for 10 Unforgettable Days!

Monday

29

July

Arrival

Arrival and settling in with your host families. This is your chance to get a firsthand experience of local culture.

Tuesday

30

July

Getting to know you

Participant presentations and group activities in Ringsted. This day is designed for everyone to get to know each other and create lasting friendships.

Wednesday

31

July

Natural history at Stevns Klint

Visit to the Stevns Klint Experience Museum, a geological marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage site that tells the story of the Earth’s history.

www.southzealand-mon.com/stevns-klint

Thursday

01

August

Culture in Copenhagen

Day trip to Copenhagen, the capital city of Denmark, known for its historic architecture and vibrant culture. Explore Tivoli, the world famous amusement park.

www.visitcopenhagen.com
www.tivoli.dk

Friday

02

August

Hiking in Ringsted

A guided hike along the Ringsted Experience Trail, where you’ll get to explore the beauty of the Danish landscape.

www.visitringsted.eu

Saturday

03

August

Cultural history in Roskilde

Day trip to Roskilde, featuring visits to the Roskilde Cathedral and the Viking Ship Museum. Sail the fjord on Havhingst, an authentically reconstructed viking ship.

www.vikingeskibsmuseet.dk

Sunday

04

August

Canoe & Camp – Day 1

We embark on a canoeing and camping trip on Suså river. Enjoy paddling in one of the most scenic tributaries in Denmark and spend the night under the stars.

www.southzealand-mon.com/canoeing

Monday

05

August

Canoe & Camp – Day 2

We hop back in our canoes and continue our trip down Suså. Later, enjoy a free evening with your host family.

www.southzealand-mon.com/susaen

Tuesday

06

August

Academy in Sorø

Cultural and educational trip to Sorø monestary Church, and the Sorø Academy, one of the oldest educational institutions in Denmark. Afternoon golfing at Sorø Golf Club.

Sorø Akademi on www.lonelyplanet.com

Wednesday

07

August

“Hygge” and Farewell Party

A day dedicated to spending quality time with your host families. We will also host a farewell party to celebrate our new friendships and memories.

Thursday

08

August

Departure

It is time to say goodbye and travel home to your families. Safe travels!

Come make memories for life!

Info for Participants

Prerequisites

Reasonable physical fitness. The camp will to some degree challenge the participants’ physical condition (see the program).

Presentations

On Tuesday, July 30th, each participant will be expected to hold a short presentation (5-10 minutes) about themselves and where they come from.

Clothing

Casual wear. This includes clothing for sightseeing, informal social functions, and walking in the Danish nature.

The Danish weather in the summer can be from 18-25°C during the day and down to 15°C at night. The summer month typically have 3-8 days with rain showers, so it is essential to pack accordingly, as activities will not cancelled due to weather conditions.

Bring swimsuit, rain clothes and sleeping bag.

Camp rules and guidelines

Rotary has an excellent reputation worldwide. Participants at Rotary events are expected to uphold the image of the organization. Please be aware that you are an ambassador of Rotary!

A Rotary Camp’s main goal is to build friendship and international understanding among the participants. Behave as a valuable, open-minded, and helpful member of the camp group.

Camp leaders have a great responsibility. Follow their instructions and assist them in their efforts.

Participants should have open and honest communication with camp leaders. Report any concerns or issues promptly.

If you have any allergies, medical conditions or require medication, inform camp leaders, and follow prescribed treatment plans. It is very important to mention these and any dietary restrictions in your application.

Treat fellow participants and camp leaders with kindness, respect, and consideration. Bullying, discrimination, or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.

Ensure that everyone feels included and valued regardless of their background, abilities, or beliefs.

Active participation in the activities is encouraged. Participants should be engaged and respectful during group discussions, workshops, and outings.

When participating in cultural visits, respect local customs, traditions, and rules. Be culturally sensitive and open-minded.

Respect the environment and follow Leave-No-Trace principles. Do not harm plants, animals, or natural resources during nature activities.

Be on time for all scheduled activities, including meals, workshops, and excursions.

Participants may be asked to limit or avoid the use of electronic devices to encourage interaction and engagement with nature and fellow participants.

The use of alcohol, illegal drugs, and tobacco products is strictly prohibited during the camp.

Since you are privately hosted with Rotary families, actively inquire about the rules of the house and follow them. Keep your surroundings clean and tidy.

Respect designated quiet hours to ensure everyone can rest peacefully.

Participants are responsible for their personal belongings. Secure valuable items and be mindful of other’s property.

Offences against these essential rules and guidelines will be reprimanded, and in the case of repeat or severe infringements, participants can be immediately removed from the camp.

 

Info for Parents

Arriving and departing

The participant is responsible for the transportation until Ringsted, where the organizers or host families will pick them up.

Rules and guidelines

Parents should ensure that the participant understands all rules and guidelines, and the importance of adhering to these.

Parents should also understand the consequences in case the participant does not obey and respect these rules and guidelines.

Parents should encourage the participant to engage actively in the camp, keep an open mindset, and stay curious.

Safety during the camp

During the camp, the organizers are responsible for ensuring the safety measures. We expect the participants to adhere to all safety measures and demonstrate good judgement as we are otherwise not able to fulfill our responsibility.

Insurance

The participants must be insured against illness, accident, and third-party damages according to Rotary International recommendations.

Info for Host Families

 

Host families are your family while you participate in our Dynac camp. They are Rotarians or local families with close bonds to Rotary.

Furthermore, are all our host families approved by Rotary.

You will meet them when you arrive to Denmark and they will take care of you outside camp activities. You will be staying either alone og with another participant in the families.

Your host family will bring you, or arrange for transport, to and from camp activities in the mornings and evenings. We hope you also will enjoy spending time with the families as well the meals outside camp activities.

All the families are looking forward to your visit and should you have any questions don’t hesitate to ask the families to help you.

See you soon.

Vision & Mission

Our Vision

To create an unforgettable and transformative experience for young participants at the DYNAC Camp in Ringsted and Sorø, Denmark. We envision a camp where the natural beauty of the area and the rich cultural heritage of Zealand come together to inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of global citizens.

Our Mission

To provide a dynamic and enriching 10-day program that inspires:

Connecting with Nature

Immerses participants in the natural landscapes of Ringsted, Sorø, and its surroundings, fostering a deep appreciation for Denmark’s biodiversity through outdoor adventures.

Cultural Exploration

Offers a window into Denmark’s rich cultural tapestry by facilitating visits to historical sites, museums, and interactions with local communities. Participants will gain insights into Danish traditions, history, and customs, promoting cross-cultural awareness and appreciation.

Youth Empowerment

Empowers young participants with leadership skills, self-confidence, and a strong sense of responsibility to become active and engaged global citizens. They will leave the camp with the knowledge and motivation to make positive changes in their communities and beyond.

Rotary Values

Instills the core values of Rotary International, including service above self, integrity, and fellowship, within the camp’s activities and interactions, encouraging participants to embrace these principles throughout their lives.

Inspiration and Friendship

Inspires lasting friendships and a lifelong commitment to preserving our planet and promoting peace and understanding among all people. The camp experience will serve as a catalyst for personal growth, cultural appreciation, and global awareness.

 

Through these principles, we aim to create a memorable and impactful Rotary Youth Camp in Ringsted, Denmark, that equips young leaders with the skills, knowledge, and values needed to shape a better future for themselves and the world.

A message from our local President in Ringsted

A message from our local President in Sorø

Ringsted

Ringsted Rotary Club

The Ringsted Rotary Club was founded on October 12, 1942. However, the occupation of Denmark by Nazi Germany and a consequential ban on forming such associations delayed its official charter until February 15, 1946. The club’s first president was Major General S.G. Callisen.

The core principles of Rotary were adopted by the Ringsted Rotary Club, emphasizing the privileged nature of its membership. Regular attendance was a requirement, with the possibility of exclusion for consistent non-attendance.

The club saw substantial growth in its initial years, reaching 57 active members in various professions by 1978.

In 1989, Rotary International allowed the inclusion of female members. This inclusion has continuously strengthened and benefited the Ringsted Rotary Club.

www.rotary.dk/clubs/ringsted

About Ringsted

Ringsted, an old market town founded around the year 1000, has a significant history and a vibrant present. In the Middle Ages, Ringsted was the most important town on the island of Zealand.

In 2023, there were 35,906 residents in Ringsted Municipality. The total area of the municipality is 295 sq. km, with a total forest area of 44 sq. km, equivalent to approximately 17% of the municipality. Additionally, there are 170 km of public watercourses and 54 lakes over 1 hectare in size. Ringsted and Køge are connected by a 44 km long trail system with campfire sites, shelters, and more. It is an ideal place to connect with nature.

Contacts at Ringsted Rotary

COORDINATOR
Steffen Wied
ORGANISER
Tine Kildal Brogaard

camp@dynac.dk

Sorø

Sorø Rotary Club

Coming soon.

www.rotary.dk/clubs/soro

About Sorø

Coming soon.

Contacts at Sorø Rotary

COORDINATOR
Steffen Wied
ORGANISER

Else Kathrine Friis

camp@dynac.dk

About us

Rotary International logo

Rotary is a worldwide, strong network with approximately 1.4 million members spread across over 35,000 clubs in 172 countries. Rotary International is headquartered in Evanston, Illinois, USA, and has several regional offices.

Rotary has projects that focus on important topics such as:

  •  Peace and conflict resolution
  • Health for mothers and children
  • Education and the development of literacy skills
  • Economic development for communities
  • Disease prevention and treatment
  • Water and sanitation

One of Rotary’s major projects since 1983 has been the global eradication of the disease Polio. As part of this project, Rotarians, their families, and friends vaccinated approximately 150 million children in one day.

Rotary International also has a worldwide youth movement, Rotaract, for those aged 18-30.

Rotary International oversees a large exchange program for teenagers aged 16-18 for high school stays in foreign countries. This exchange program is widely utilized, and in our district alone, we annually exchange approximately 30-35 young people. In this way, 8,000 to 9,000 young individuals globally experience a year of education abroad. An invaluable project for promoting understanding between people and cultures.

In Denmark, there are approximately 11,000 members in 252 clubs.

Fun Facts

1. On 6 Continents
Only 16 years after the founding of Rotary in Chicago, the organization had clubs on six continents.
2. The Four Way Test
In 1943, Rotary adopted The Four Way Test, which is one of the world’s most printed and quoted statements on business ethics: a. Is it the truth? b. Is it fair to all concerned? c. Will it build goodwill and better friendships? d. Will it be beneficial to all concerned? The test was developed in 1932 by Rotary member from Chicago, Herbert J. Taylor.
3. Rotary & UN
Rotary played a role in the formation of the United Nations (UN) and currently holds the highest consultative status granted to a non-governmental organization by the United Nations Economic and Social Council, overseeing many specialized UN agencies.
4. Eraticating Polio
Rotary began the fight against Polio in 1979 with a goal to vaccinate 6 million children in the Philippines. Today, Polio is only endemic in two countries, compared to 125 countries in 1988. The project will continue until Polio is eradicated.
5. Famous Rotarians
Neil Armstrong, Roald Amundsen, George W. Bush, Max Cointreau, Winston Churchill, Walt Disney, Pope Francis, Raymond Firestone, John F. Kennedy, Richard Nixon, Luciano Pavarotti, Franklin Roosevelt, Ronald Reagan, and Claude Vuitton all have in common that they are/were Rotarians.

Rotary Clubs worldwide

Countries with Rotary clubs

Annual Youth exchanges

Rotary Clubs in Denmark

Sponsors

Meet our sponsors

The following sponsors are proud to support DYNAC camp and wish all participants and their host families and unforgettable experience.

FAQ

Do you have questions?

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions. If you can’t find the answers you are looking for here, please contact us at camp@dynac.dk.

We will update this FAQ list with additional information as required.

Can I arrive before the camp starts or leave some days after it ends?

It is up to you and your family when you arrive in and leave Denmark, but we cannot guarantee accommodation before or after the camp dates. However, please contact our camp coordinator, Steffan Wied, at camp@dynac.dk to discuss the possibilities.

How is the weather in Denmark?

Daytime temperatures in late July/August are an average 21°C, with an average 13°C at night. However, it commonly swings up to 10°C warmer or 6°C cooler.

August has, on average, 6 rainy days. An updated weather forecast can be found here: Danish Meterological Institute.

My brother, sister or best friend would like to come along, is it okay?

No. Participants must be from as many different places as possible.

I do not speak much English. Can I use a translation app on my phone?

We expect you to speak and understand English well enough to socialize, interact, communicate, receive instructions, and understand guides on cultural tours.

Can I have a room for myself?

Not necessarily. All students will be hosted with families of Rotary members, and some families may host more than one student. Of course, if sharing a room, it will be with someone of your own gender.

Will my mobile phone work in Denmark?

You need to ask your phone provider in your country. If they tell you, that your phone will not work, you will have to find another phone. If it is only the SIM card giving problems, we may help you to obtain a Danish SIM card. Ask at least one month before you arrive and note that it will be at your own expense.

Participants from the EU should be able to enjoy their normal usage plan whilst in Denmark, as dictated by EU legislation, but check with your provider to be sure.

See you in...

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Get In Touch

Camp Coordinator: Steffen Wied

Email: camp@dynac.dk

Camp Dates:  July 29-August 8, 2024

Application Deadline: April 14, 2024

Camp Location: Ringsted and the surrounding area of Zealand, Denmark