There are two Bible camps within 20 minutes of our home and several others (6? 8?) within a two-hour drive. Here in Central Minnesota, there are many great choices when it comes to Bible Camps. While each Bible camp desires to minister to children and youth, each camp has its own unique style and resources which changes the camp experience. There is no one camp that is perfect for everyone. Here are the things we considered when we explored Bible Camps in our area:
1. The Camp’s Statement of Faith.
Some Bible camps are affiliated with a denomination and some are not. Either way, their statement of faith should be clearly stated on their website. All of the spiritual teachings that happen at camp will align with this statement of faith. Make sure you agree with the teachings your child will hear at camp. If you don’t agree, find a different camp. The camp’s statement of faith is the criteria we consider first and foremost because we desire our children to be taught the truth.
Why we chose MBC: We agree with MBC’s statement of faith. We also appreciate that MBC is a non-denominational camp and our children will experience the unity of the Body of Christ.
2. The Size of the Camp and the Activities that are Available.
The size of the camp can also influence its atmosphere. Some kids enjoy the energy and noise that large camp activities bring, but some children would be overwhelmed by this and would enjoy smaller groups. However, there are many large camps that keep camper in smaller groups for the entirety of their camp experience, giving them a small camp experience at a big camp.
Different camps focus on different activities. Don’t plan on going horseback riding if the camp you choose doesn’t have horses! Generally, the larger the camp, the more variety of activities that will be offered. This is simply because activities such as horses, high ropes courses, and rock climbing walls involve employing more and specialized staff. Some camps may specialize in a specific activity. Many smaller camps will offer a wide variety of “traditional” camp activities such as hiking, swimming, archery, and crafts.
Why we chose MBC: MBC is a small camp. Here our children are known, not just by their counselors, but by the other staff as well. Because of the small full-time staff and small summer staff, these summer staff members are known well by the full-time staff. They are communicated with throughout the year and interacted with closely on a daily basis during the summer camp session. We also enjoy the smaller camp setting with more traditional camp activities with an emphasis on relationships as opposed to “stuff” and “activities”.
3. How Close is the Camp to Home? Can You Make the Drive Easily on the Check-In and Check-Out Days?
While this may seem an overly practical criterion, it is a valid one! You want to have the time to take your child to camp, see their cabin, meet their cabin leader, and leave them in a happy and relaxed state. You also want to be able to pick up your child from camp and enjoy the closing chapel and hearing (and maybe seeing) all the fun they did that week.
4. Ask for Recommendations from Friends.
If you are not sure where to start when finding a Bible camp for your kids, ask others for their recommendations. Ask the following questions:
- Why did they choose this camp?
- What has been their experience?
- What was good? What would they change?
Listen to their answers and then use those answers to help further inform your camp search!
Why we recommend MBC:
- A focus on relationships.
- My children have become close friends with other campers they attend camp with each year.
- Most MBC campers are from small towns/cities and a more rural environment. This impacts the atmosphere of camp.
- MBC loves evangelism while not neglecting discipleship.
- MBC has a high percentage of returning summer staff members. This is very unusual and speaks to the relationships that develop and focused discipleship that happens at MBC.
5. Try Out Camp First. Meet the Staff.
Once you’ve done all your research, give camp a trial run! Most camps offer community days and weekend retreats. These are great opportunities to introduce your kids to the idea of camp AND to see if the camp is one you like. You will get to meet the full-time staff and experience their housing, food, activities, and teachings first-hand.
Sending your child to an overnight camp can be a stressful experience, but it can also provide amazing growth and development (for you and for your child)! Take the time to do the research and make the best choice for your child!
Do you have more specific questions about Miracle Bible Camp? Check out the Parent Info Page or email camp at admin@miraclebible.com.
