
Christian Camp & Retreat Center since 1976
Property Rules & Guest Agreement
🔐 Terms of the Agreement
Ponderosa Bible Camp (PBC) reserves the right to inspect any lodge or cabin at any time, without prior notice, to ensure compliance with this agreement.
Guests must vacate the premises by the date and time specified in the rental agreement. Failure to do so may result in immediate removal without due process.
If any terms of this agreement are violated, PBC management may terminate the stay immediately. Additional charges may apply as outlined in this agreement.
🛠️ Property Maintenance & Use
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Guests are expected to maintain all facilities in good condition and use them lawfully.
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Damages beyond normal wear and tear will be billed to the guest or group.
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Trash must be taken daily to the dumpster located beside the Maintenance Shop.
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Do not leave trash outside on porches or grounds, as it may attract bears, wildlife, or pests.
🛟 Lifeguard Requirements for Water Activities
To ensure safety, PBC requires the use of its contracted Lifeguards for all pool and river activities:
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Lifeguards must be reserved in 1-hour increments (no partial hours).
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Full payment is required for each hour booked, regardless of early exit or weather interruptions.
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Lifeguard-to-swimmer ratios are based on Alabama state guidelines and will be strictly enforced.
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River activities require a minimum of two (2) Lifeguards, no matter the group size.
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No refunds for Lifeguard fees will be issued once your reservation is confirmed.
(See our Pricing Page for current rates.)
🏠 Occupancy, Curfew & Conduct
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Maximum overnight occupancy is 130 people, unless otherwise approved in writing.
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Quiet hours begin at 11:00 PM. Please be respectful of other guests and neighbors.
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Disorderly or disruptive behavior may result in eviction without refund.
🍽️ Kitchen Use & Supplies
For groups choosing to self-cater, PBC provides basic kitchen equipment, cookware, and utensils.
Guests are responsible for bringing:
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All groceries and food items
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Paper products (plates, napkins, paper towels, etc.)
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Coffee supplies (filters, coffee, cups, stirrers, creamer, etc.)
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Any additional disposable or consumable items needed
Please maintain a clean kitchen. Before departure, all cookware, dishes, surfaces, and appliances must be cleaned and returned to their proper places.
🛒 Local Area Notes
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Foodland and Walmart are in Fort Payne (25–30 minutes away).
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Dollar General is in Valley Head (15–20 minutes away).
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Mentone Market, located just minutes from camp, offers limited basics (drinks, condiments, fuel) and serves lunch/dinner. Check their hours—they close early.
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Food delivery services (e.g., DoorDash, Uber Eats) are not available in this area. Please plan ahead.
⚠️ Safety & Security
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No firearms or off-road vehicles without prior written permission.
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No fireworks or hazardous materials are allowed on property.
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Guests may not access restricted/private areas.
🚪 Locked Areas & Owner Supply Closets
Certain areas on the property are restricted and secured for staff or owner use only. This includes, but is not limited to:
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Supply closets
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Maintenance rooms
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Pantries
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Locked freezers and refrigerators
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The swimming pool (when closed or locked)
Tampering with, forcing open, or entering any locked area is strictly prohibited.
🔒 Breaking and entering any of these locked areas will result in:
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Immediate eviction without refund
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Permanent ban from future rentals at Ponderosa Bible Camp & Retreat Center
Thank you for respecting our property and helping us maintain a safe and secure environment for all guests.
🎥 Security Cameras
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Security cameras are in use throughout the property for guest safety.
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Tampering with, disabling, or covering cameras is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate eviction and a permanent ban from PBC rentals.
📶 Utilities, WiFi & Maintenance
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PBC is located in a rural area. WiFi, internet, and cell service may be limited or unavailable.
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No refunds will be issued for outages or equipment failures.
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Please report any maintenance issues promptly.
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Thermostats: Do not set A/C below 70°F or heat above 72°F.
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Follow all checkout procedures, including cleaning, trash disposal, and resetting spaces.
🚭 Smoking, Alcohol, & Pets
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No smoking or vaping anywhere on the property. Violations will incur a $250 fee.
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No alcohol is permitted on-site. Violations will incur a $250 fee.
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No pets are allowed due to allergy, health, and property damage concerns. Unauthorized animals will result in eviction and a $250 deep cleaning fee.
📝 Indemnification & Hold Harmless Agreement
Guest Responsibilities & Liabilities
The Guest, including all members of their group and any individuals invited to the property, acknowledges and agrees to be solely responsible for any property damage, accidents, injuries, or personal losses—including loss of money, jewelry, or belongings—arising from use of the premises or property provided by PBC.
Inspection & Familiarization
Guests agree to inspect and become familiar with the proper use of all items and facilities before use.
Indemnification Clause
Guests agree to indemnify and hold harmless PBC, its owners, officers, employees, and homeowners from any claims (including those by third parties) related to their use of the premises or property.
Hold Harmless Clause
Guests agree to hold harmless and indemnify PBC and its representatives against any and all claims arising during or after the rental period as a result of acts or omissions by PBC, its agents, or property owners.
Assumption of Risk
Guests assume full responsibility for any risks associated with recreational activities and agree to hold PBC and its agents harmless from liability.
Insurance Disclaimer
Guests acknowledge that PBC’s property insurance does not cover personal belongings. Guests are encouraged to obtain their own insurance coverage if desired.
Governing Law
This agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Alabama. Any legal disputes will be handled in the Circuit Court of DeKalb County, Alabama.
✅ Agreement Confirmation
By signing our rental agreement, the Guest affirms they have read, understood, and agree to all PBC policies outlined above. The Guest agrees to communicate these policies to all members of their group and accepts responsibility for ensuring compliance. Failure to follow these policies may result in immediate removal from the property.