The Importance of Choosing a Summer Christian Camp with a Good Reputation
Many parents have enjoyed years of spending summers at Christian campgrounds, and now they want that same experience, and all the great memories that went with it, for their children. These parents remember making important decisions about their lives with God and making great relationships they forged, so they realize the importance of formative spiritual experiences for young people.
As you research your options, you'll learn about a lot of different camps, but personally speaking with people who know the current reputation of a particular Christian program is one great way to know if that one is right for your kids. Even if you had the summer of your dreams at a particular facility years ago, things can change over time, including leadership, program philosophy, values and the quality of hired staff.
Ideas About How to Find Christian Youth Summer Camps with Good Reputations
It’s really helpful to find individuals or groups who use the camp you are researching. This is also helpful because getting feedback from people who have actually taken advantage of activities coordinated by a particular organization will provide you with unbiased opinions and will present details camp staff may not share.
It’s fine to begin by visiting websites to view pictures and gather other facts and information, but if you have friends or family members, or can find others in your community, who have recently attended events at the camp recently, the feedback they can give you can be enlightening.
You can also contact the camp and ask for references and organizations that have used their facilities. Knowing the church association they may be affiliated with is also helpful. This information will help you understand the religious emphasis the camp has, and contacting the church may also let you know how they feel about this particular camp.
Knowing the reputation that a summer Christian camp has with local churches, individuals who have attended the camp recently, local community members, and the association they are a part of, is essential information that will really help you decide as you work to make the best decision on which camp will best fit your child’s and your family's needs.
The Importance of Formative Spiritual Experiences at Summer Camp
Knowing your children may very well have a life-changing week with God at summer camp is a wonderful reason to take the time to research what options are available to you. Spend a little effort to find out as much as you can about the reputations of the camps you're considering.
CampPage.com can help your family choose the right summertime activities that support your faith.
Mark Dubler has been a leader, host, and participant in camps and retreats for the last 20 years. He holds an M.A. in Educational Ministries from Wheaton College and is the Executive Director of Otyokwah Camp and Retreat Center, a Christian facility with a rich history of providing personal, life-changing experiences.