All four Eastern PA Camp & Retreat Centers are hoping and preparing for a record-breaking Summer Camp season, as they register eager young campers and recruit dedicated staff and volunteers to ensure a socially and spiritually sensational summer for all. Camp directors are urging churches in EPA and Greater New Jersey to send children and youth their way to enjoy fun adventures, grow in their faith and make friendships and memories that may last a lifetime.
Registrations are well underway at all sites, with almost 2,000 children, youth, and adults already signed up for summer camp. Want to know what kids love about Summer Camp? Hear it in their own voices. Watch Gretna Glen’s new Summer Camp video.
Meanwhile, registration is also underway for the 10th annual Gretna Gritty, on Saturday, May 13, at Gretna Glen Camp & Retreat Center. The camp’s super-popular, classic 5K mud run fundraiser includes 20-plus obstacles in the beautiful, rugged, hilly terrain of the Mt. Gretna area. Gritty runners and walkers, and even “Nitty Gritty” kids under 12, can get in on the messy action, win medals and enjoy lunch and souvenir t-shirts.
Gretna Glen’s goal is to raise $50,000 and finally eliminate its 18-year-old mortgage debt. “We are so confident in our support of this event,” says Dan Kirby, Race Director, “we are planning the ‘burning’ of the mortgage celebration for the same day.” Learn more at www.gretnaglen.org/gritty.
But before getting deep into its mud, Gretna Glen will first host its annual, weekend Confirmation Retreat for church confirmands, April 21-23, and its annual Spring Work Day on Saturday, April 22, a great opportunity for families, youth and groups to work together on service projects. RSVP to camp@gretnaglen.org.
Later, the camp will welcome back old friends for its very active Spring Fling: Senior Adults Day on Tuesday, May 16. And it will welcome current and future friends to its annual Open House on Saturday, May 20, featuring tours, games, a cookout, boating, fishing and plenty of activities for young visitors.
Pocono Plateau Camp & Retreat Center will host its Summer Camp Open House May 20 to offer a preview of its camp life and activities. Their Summer Camp promotional video can be found here: Summer Camp Promo Video. See their website for details on camp registration: Pocono Plateau Website
The Plateau is looking for volunteer camp counselors for weeklong stints this summer. See their website for information. “This is a powerful way to demonstrate God’s love for all, share your faith story, and shape the weekly experience for children and youth,” said director Carmer O’Shea.
Matt Klein, current volunteer and former program manager, co-leads Senior High Youth Adventure Camp, notes, “I owe so much to the volunteers serving when I was a camper. Their encouragement, listening ears and endless patience allowed me to feel God’s love and to be myself. I want to give back in the same way to today’s youth.”
There is still space for the Plateau’s “Dangerous Retreat for Boys Father/Son Retreat on April 21-23. Come and explore “the wild and dangerous side of boyhood” with fun experiments and adventurous activities.
Also upcoming is the Plateau Puppy Palooza, June 2-4, a camp for dogs and dog lovers. Rent a rustic cabin, eat at the Adventure Lodge, and enjoy God’s creation with your furry friend. Get more details at Plateau Puppy Palooza
Carson Simpson Farm Christian Camp is getting busier, starting with a Camp Info Night, April 12, 5- 7 p.m., to introduce visitors to camp staff and activities and offer tours. It will repeat that introduction at Its own Open House May 6, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., and include registration for Summer Camp with an Early-Bird discount.
The annual Little Critters Preschool Camp Visit, May 13, 9:30-11:00 a.m., will offer 3-5 year old children accompanied by adults a preview of what a camp day is like. Included will be a Bible story, craft and nature activities, ending with a site tour. Call 215-659-0232 by May 6 to reserve a spot.
For adults, Carson Simpson will offer the Mind Body Spirit Wellness Retreat May 20, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Cost: $75. Rejuvenate and reconnect with yourself, others, nature, and God through restorative activities that promote introspection and fellowship. Sessions include yoga, nature walks, meditation, art therapy, mindfulness, and sound-bath meditation. A delicious and healthy lunch will be provided. Register Here.
Finally, while also preparing for Summer Camp, Innabah Camp and Retreat Center is catching its breath no doubt from hosting its annual 5K Race April 3. While the Saturday rain may have dampened spirits and limited participation, the race proceeded nonetheless, as runners and walkers weathered the wet conditions. The camp thanks the Wellness Center of Chester County for cosponsoring the event, along with the North Wales Running Company, and for giving massages to all participants.
For those who find wellness in worship, the camp will repeat by popular demand its successful WorshipFest September 23, welcoming an impressive variety of Christian music bands and choirs, along with ambassadors of churches and community service groups The rain date is October 7. Look for an article by Carson Simpson Farm director Jonathan Curtis on our website next week.
Finally, while also preparing for Summer Camp, Innabah Camp and Retreat Center is catching its breath no doubt from hosting its annual 5K Race April 3. While the Saturday rain may have dampened spirits and limited participation, the race proceeded nonetheless, as runners and walkers weathered the wet conditions. The camp thanks the Wellness Center of Chester County for cosponsoring the event, along with the North Wales Running Company, and for giving massages to all participants.