Why Summer Church Camp?

Recently my husband & I drove a group of middle school kids to church camp. The kids had a great time together singing and goofing off in the van on the way down and were so excited to be at camp when we arrived. I looked around & thought of the fun activities – the water blob, the rock climbing, the zip lines, the paintball, etc., - that they would enjoy this week and almost wished I were staying to enjoy it with them! Of course I then had to reminisce about my own summer camp days as a kid!

I’m a big advocate of church camp. I know I was challenged spiritually at camp as a child. Not only is camp incredibly fun for those who attend, but campers also receive many spiritual benefits. Every day there is concentrated exposure to the Word of God, presented in different ways, and relevant to what kids need to learn at this time in their lives. The kids look up to their camp counselors, who are able to spend a week mentoring them and modeling (not just discussing) biblical truths to the campers each day all day for a week. Kids get to know other Christian kids and realize that they are part of something bigger than their own church group. Kids are away from the TV and video games, and are given time to spend alone with God and focus on spiritual things.

In my opinion, there is much value in sending children to a sound, biblical church camp. I’m sure other types of camps are also enjoyable, but the eternal value of a full week of learning solid Biblical truth is hard to beat.

What do you think? Is camp worth the cost in time and money? What experiences did you or your children have as a child at church camp? I’d love to know everyone else’s opinion!