For many, Christian youth camps have played a very special part in their lives.  Some of the best memories of growing up are made at summer camp, and many Christian young people have drawn closer to God because a camp counselor or youth pastor spoke life giving words and offered genuine friendship. 

If you have ever worked with young people, you know the power of getting them away from the stress of school and busyness.  It’s always amazing to watch how a young person can change within a week, if they unplug, and let their hearts connect with God.

One way to find the right Christian youth camp is to ask friends and families for their recommendations and their own experiences.  People who have great memories of summer camp love to tell their stories and even send their own children to the same camp they loved as a kid.  Ask them why they loved it and find out why their kids loved it, too.  Though Christian youth camp websites and brochures are really helpful, getting first hand recommendations from the people you trust says a lot.

Another good way to choose the right youth camp is to check with your own church or churches in your community to find out what youth retreats they hold during the year.  Many churches put on really fun and enriching retreats for children and teens, and since they are local, they usually use a youth camp that’s not too far away or provide the transportation needed to get the campers there.   Even the bus ride to camp can be quite an adventure!

Finally, knowing that a Christian youth camp is accredited with a reputable association tells you they are committed to excellence by upholding standards above state licensing.  Search online for Christian camping associations to find Christian youth camps in your area and to find out if the camp you are considering is affiliated.

There are many Christian youth camps, and choosing the right summer camp for your children is important to every parent.  There are many different types of Christian youth camps that vary in such things as mission, focus, size and values.

Below are three areas to consider as you begin your research to choose the one of the Christian youth camps that is right for your child.

Things to Consider

1. What Does Your Child Enjoy?

There’s probably no one who knows your child better than you do, so ask yourself (and your child) the following questions. 
- What do they love?  Are they a lover of the outdoors?  Do they love sports?  Do they love music or the arts?
- Would they enjoy residential Christian youth camps where they stay for a week and sleep in a cabin? 
- Would they do better with a day camp where they come home each night? 
- How far from home do you feel they would be comfortable being? 
- How far from home would YOU be comfortable with them being?

2. What is the Spiritual Tradition/Church Affiliation/Approach of the Camp?

If your Christian faith is an important factor for your child’s camping experience, learn about the spiritual and faith traditions of the Christian youth camps you research.  Also, it is great to know how each camp approaches spiritual teaching and formation with their campers.
- Are their times of teaching or fun speakers that will present to campers? 
- Does the camp build in times where the campers get together for songs and worship? 
- Do any of the Christian youth camps schedule times for young people to get alone with God or together in a small group?

Related to the questions above, you should also find out what church association or religious tradition the Christian youth camps are affiliated with or has been influenced by.  This is a very important question.  If you don’t know a lot about the camp or its religious beliefs, ask lots of questions about any church association they may have, the camp’s mission, and the core beliefs that hold to and hope to share with their campers.  You can also get online and research the tradition or church tradition by doing online searches.

3. What Are the Costs and Fees of the Camp?

Most Christian youth camps are non-profit organizations, and they try to keep costs.  It’s important to find out what the total costs for camp are, and what is included in these costs.  You should also find out if there are any other fees that may be charged for crafts or other activities. 

If you are part of a local church or other religious organization and finances are tough, find out if there are scholarships or financial assistance available.  You can also ask the Christian youth camps you are researching if they have reduced cost programs or scholarships for their campers.

For many people, attending Christian youth camps have been the most powerful, enjoyable, and formative experiences of their lives.  Take the time to do your research, ask good questions, and make sure you involve your child in your decisions.  You and your child will both be very glad you did.