Ernest Goes to Camp

Long ago, a young warrior faced a critical test that would prove his courage. He became the target of three different weapons aimed at challenging his bravery in a life-altering initiation rite.

In present day, Ernest P. Worrell, a simple-minded redneck, works as a maintenance man at Kamp Kikakee. He dreams of becoming a counselor, and his ability to communicate in Plains Indian Sign Language makes him noticed by Chief St. Cloud.

A group of juvenile delinquents known as the Second Chancers arrives at Kamp Kikakee. They are assigned to the care of the strict Head Counselor, Tipton, who delegates them to the seasoned counselor Ross Stennis.

Ross Stennis treats the Second Chancers poorly, leading to resentment among the boys. The situation escalates when he nearly allows Moustafa Jones to drown, prompting Ernest to jump in to save him, demonstrating his bravery.

Angered by Stennis' treatment, the boys retaliate by toppling his lifeguard perch into the lake, causing him a severe leg injury. With Stennis sidelined, there’s an opportunity for change at the camp.

With Stennis out of commission, Tipton offers Ernest the role of camp counselor. Faced with the challenges of managing the Second Chancers, Ernest initially struggles to establish authority among the unruly boys.

During a campfire session, Nurse St. Cloud shares her grandfather's initiation tale, which captures the attention of the boys. In this tale, a warrior must face three projectiles, symbolizing courage and resilience.

As the campers bond and even build a tepee, they are sabotaged by Pennington, a rival camper. Ernest intervenes, urging Tipton not to expel the Second Chancers for their mischief, showing his commitment to the boys.

A shady mining corporation, led by Sherman Krader, seeks to seize Kamp Kikakee's land for petrocite extraction. Chief St. Cloud refuses to sell, but Krader tricks Ernest into signing away the camp’s future.

The closure of Kamp Kikakee sends shockwaves through the camp community. Confronted by Nurse St. Cloud, Ernest vows to rectify the damage he caused, revitalizing the spirits of the Second Chancers.

Determined to save their camp, the Second Chancers devise a courageous plan to confront Krader at the construction site. They rush to support Ernest, who faces a daunting challenge ahead.

The Second Chancers, led by Ernest, execute their plan to storm the construction site. They face Bronk, the foreman, who quickly overpowers Ernest, forcing him to retreat but igniting the boys' courage.

The Second Chancers recover their bravery and charge back to help Ernest. They engage in a tactical raid against Krader's men, leading to an exhilarating confrontation filled with unexpected allies.

In a climactic moment, Krader confronts Ernest with a rifle. With the spirit of the ancient warriors, Ernest faces Krader, deflecting three shots and blocking the barrel, demonstrating his incredible bravery.

With Krader retreating, the camp receives good news about an injunction against demolition. As Kamp Kikakee reopens, Ernest is celebrated as a true counselor, and despite a humorous mishap, the day ends joyously.