Business Details
41 Years
experience
Premier Hockey Training Camp in Minnesota
Heartland Hockey Camp has been inspiring hockey players worldwide for over 40 years. Founded in 1985 by Steve and Sandy Jensen, we provide an unparalleled training environment on our 164-acre campus in Brainerd Lakes, Minnesota. Our state-of-the-art facilities include two private ice arenas, a roller rink, and 7,600 feet of lakeshore property. With a 6:1 camper-to-coach ratio and a team of elite instructors, we combine rigorous on-ice training with personal development programs.Our 52 lodging units and family-friendly amenities create a holistic experience that fosters growth, teamwork, and lifelong memories. We maintain Steve Jensen's legacy through daily six-hour ice sessions, innovative off-ice training, and a commitment to nurturing both athletic and character development. Over 39 seasons, we've built a reputation as North America's premier hockey camp through our focus on safety, skill-building, and creating a distraction-free learning environment.
Services
Youth Hockey Camps
Goalie Training
Family Lodging
Off-Ice Training
Waterfront Activities
Private Lessons
Summer Camp Programs
Skill Development
Team Building
Hockey Clinics
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of hockey training expertise since 1985
- 6 hours daily ice time with elite instructors
- 6:1 camper-to-coach ratio for personalized instruction
- Private 164-acre campus with two ice arenas
- Family-owned tradition trusted by professional athletes
What people say
World-class coaching staff
Personal growth opportunities
Unforgettable experience
Positive environment
Family tradition
Services
Youth Hockey Camps
Our youth hockey camps offer comprehensive skill development for players aged 6-18. With 6 hours of daily ice time, campers receive personalized instruction in skating, shooting, and game strategy. The program emphasizes both technical skill-building and character development through team activities and mentorship from professional coaches.
Goalie Training
Specialized goalie camps focus on position-specific techniques including puck tracking, saves, and recovery movements. Instructors with professional playing experience provide one-on-one feedback during drills that simulate real-game scenarios. The program includes video analysis and mental preparation components for competitive goalies.
Family Lodging
Our family-friendly lodging options include cozy rink-side condos and dormitory units that sleep 4-6 people. All accommodations feature modern amenities and convenient access to camp facilities. Families enjoy shared spaces like the lakeside recreation area and communal dining hall with chef-prepared meals.
Off-Ice Training
The off-ice program includes strength training, agility drills, and sports psychology sessions in our 4,464 sq ft fitness center. Certified trainers design age-appropriate regimens to improve endurance, speed, and injury prevention. The curriculum integrates mental focus exercises and team-building activities.
Waterfront Activities
Campers enjoy supervised lake activities including swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding on our 7,600-foot shoreline. The program includes land-based games like mini-golf, tennis, and bonfire events. These activities promote physical fitness while creating opportunities for social interaction and stress relief.
People
Sandra Jensen
Owner & Director
Sandra Jensen co-founded Heartland Hockey Camp in 1985 with her late husband Steve. She oversees all operations while maintaining their original vision of combining hockey excellence with character development. With 39 seasons of experience, she ensures every camper receives personalized attention.
Steve Jensen
Founder
The late Steve Jensen established Heartland Hockey Camp after his professional career with the Minnesota North Stars and Los Angeles Kings. His Olympic experience shaped the camp's rigorous training philosophy. Though he passed in 2022, his coaching legacy continues through the staff he mentored.
Chris Brown
Head Coach
Head Coach Chris Brown brings 20+ years of experience mentoring NCAA athletes. As University of Alaska-Fairbanks hockey coach, he emphasizes technical skill development and leadership training. He personally supervises coach training programs that maintain Heartland's high instructional standards.
Josh Lopina
Alumni Coach
NCAA champion Josh Lopina returned as a coach after his successful playing career. He specializes in advanced skating techniques and game strategy. His experience winning at the highest collegiate level provides valuable insights for aspiring elite players.
David Boreanaz
Camp Parent
Hollywood actor David Boreanaz has attended as a parent for six consecutive summers. His family's tradition of father-son participation highlights the camp's unique bonding opportunities. He advocates for the program's balance of athletic development and character education.
Questions
What age groups do you accept?
We accept campers aged 6-18 across our youth hockey programs, with specific divisions for Mite, Squirt, Peewee, Bantam, and High School levels.
What's included in the camp fee?
The all-inclusive fee covers lodging, meals, coaching, ice time, and recreational activities. Equipment rentals are available at additional cost.
Are parents allowed to attend?
Yes! Our Parent-Child Camp allows families to participate together, and parents can stay in our family lodging units during regular sessions.
What safety measures are in place?
We maintain 24/7 staff supervision, secure campus access, and emergency medical protocols. All staff complete safety training and background checks.
How do you develop players' skills?
Our 6:1 coach-to-camper ratio enables personalized instruction across 6 daily ice hours, complemented by off-ice training in our fitness center and classroom sessions.
Can goalies get specialized training?
Yes, we offer dedicated goalie camps and position-specific drills during regular sessions with instructors experienced in professional goaltending.
Videos
Reviews (6)
Gary B.
Jan 31, 2022
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I do not recommend this camp for goalies. There was almost zero goalie specific training. They had a goalie coach attend the ice sessions yes - but he literally ran skating dills for the outskaters. The rationale was "there are a lot more skaters here so we need to focus on them".
Years ago this camp was very good. It has certainly not been the same the last few years. It was so bad that we left half way through last time.
Steve was aware of the goalie issues and did not fix the issue. If you want your kid to be a shooter tutor for a week this is for you.
Years ago this camp was very good. It has certainly not been the same the last few years. It was so bad that we left half way through last time.
Steve was aware of the goalie issues and did not fix the issue. If you want your kid to be a shooter tutor for a week this is for you.
Kristy Lamoureux
Jul 25, 2021
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Thank you for two great weeks for my Peewee. Quality goalie instruction while gaining independence. He went up there alone both weeks and came home with great friends from around the country. And asked to go a third week.
Daniel Hemmerich
Jul 19, 2021
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Our son had an amazing time at Heartland Hockey Camp! He attended 2 weeks (back to back) and loved it. He wants to go even longer next summer. Thank you to the incredible staff that does an amazing job combining hockey improvement with additional fun activities!
Mark & Kara Rittenhouse
Jul 15, 2021
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My son Keanu, my husband and myself were first timers last week and he is still talking about it! The coaches were great and I was very impressed with their dedication and working with the younger kids. I also want to thank the kitchen staff for helping us celebrate Keanu's 10th birthday while we were there! We will definitely be back next year!
Rima Antoon
Jul 15, 2021
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My nephew recently attended this camp and the response I received from him and his parents were shocking. While the hockey camp activities are well run, the administration to ensure children are safe, understand the rules, and arent verbally attacked are an issue, specifically pointing to the owner who lacks professional communication skills and empathy towards children. If you like old school verbally abusive discipline, dont mind registering for one thing but getting another, enjoy not knowing if theres something wrong with your kid until you pick him up at the end of the week, and your
Sergiy Vlasik
Jul 05, 2021
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My daughter has attended several camps in past years, and this year we even brought her hockey friend to stay in Studio room with us. Everybody greatly enjoyed the camp, the food and all the activities. When camp options were limited last year we received credits that we were able to spend on personal training instead. We are already planning our visit for next year.