April is here and camp is so very close now and we want to fill it up! It’s not too late to register for this summer.
Rambo and I have been in summer camping for 35 years now and are about to have our 22nd at Strong Rock. We’ve seen A LOT of societal change in that time, and it occurred to me recently that maybe Christian camps “were created for such a time as this.” In Esther 4:4, Esther’s uncle, Mordecai, used this phrase to encourage her to step in and intervene on behalf of her people, suggesting she was positioned by God for a specific, difficult, and crucial moment.
There are many reasons they need to be here.
It’s a gift for their future. A session at camp is more than just a break from routine: it’s an antidote to the stress and anxiety kids face. Strong Rock is a safe, supportive space where campers can grow in faith, build resilience, and rediscover the joys of face-to-face connection and God’s creation. I’m amazed every single summer at the testimonies staff who grew up coming to camp tell us about how it was a stable, reliable experience every summer in what sometimes felt out of control at school, in friend groups, or even at home. It shaped them, most importantly, in their faith and walk with the Lord. When they would get to know Strong Rock’s carefully chosen staff, watching them live out faith, seeing it work, and being discipled in their own, the impact was permanent.
They make friends for life. All parents want their kids to thrive in healthy friendships. Camp is a created experience where friendship is promoted, and putting down others, speaking rudely, gossiping, and bullying are counteracted as they happen. Kids are taught there’s a better way to live, and that “the tongue is like a fire” (James 3:5-6) and our words matter. Friendships thrive when we are kind, resolve conflict quickly, and spend a lot of time together having fun. Camp friends are the best friends!
They touch A LOT of grass! Being outdoors is great for mental and physical health. We get sunshine, fresh mountain air, and clean rain. We are tired at the end of every day because we did real things, not virtual things, all day long.
Skills grow so confidence grows. It feels awesome to learn something new and discover that you might be good at something you’ve never had the opportunity to try before. Our staff have daily lesson plans for classes and teach and coach each class. At Strong Rock we’re not just watching kids kick a soccer ball around, we’re teaching new skills and using drills and equipment to get better. We’re giving kids skills in Outdoor Living class so they can enjoy the outdoors safely on a camping trip. We’re teaching kids to ride horses independently and with correct form, so they are effective riders, not just passengers. Each skill class has a purpose and doesn’t just pass the time playing at the skill or sport until time is up.
I can easily name 20+ more reasons to send your child to camp without even having to think about it. By sending your child to camp – even encouraging them to bring their friends – you are giving them an experience that will shape their hearts and minds for years to come. This isn’t just about unplugging from technology; it’s about plugging into a deeper sense of joy, purpose, and community.
Please let us know if we can give a tour to you and any families you know who would love to get in on this vital experience. We enjoy showing people around and love talking about camp! See you soon!