Local church ground gears up for July summer camps

BENTON, Mo. — Parents looking for something enjoyable and important for their children to do this summer may consider attending church camp.

The Charleston Baptist Association in Benton, located on Highway 77 across from Unity Baptist Church, will hold its annual church camps again this summer.

This July, the Charleston Baptist Association Camp Grounds will host four camps: day camp, overnight camp, kids camp and youth camp.

According to Heather DeWitt Couch, director of the overnight camp this year, all four camps have the same theme: “Christmas in July.”

Day camp will be held July 6 at a fee of $25. Registration begins at 9 a.m., and pickup is at 3 p.m. Ages range from 4 years to kindergarten. 

Overnight camp runs from July 12-13 and costs $40. Registration starts at 1 p.m. Friday, and pickup is Saturday at 11 a.m. Ages range from first to third grades.

Kids camp will be July 17-20 and will cost $80 to attend. Registration for grades fourth through sixth is at 2 p.m. on Wednesday with pick-up on Saturday at 11 a.m.

Youth Camp will be July 22-27, with a cost of $80. Registration for grades seventh through 12th will begin at 2 p.m. on Monday, with pickup on Saturday at 11 a.m.

According to Couch, the purpose and goal of church camp is to teach children about Jesus’ love and how God is the source of hope and salvation.

Perry Harper, the director of this year’s kids camp, agreed. 

“Church camp is just an awesome way for kids to come and hear the gospel of Jesus Christ,” Harper said. 

Couch said church camp benefits the children tremendously. 

“They learn about Jesus and also get to have fun,” Couch said. “They get to escape the influences of the outside world while they are here and focus on God. They build friendships and make memories for a lifetime.”

Harper said one of the exciting things for the kids and youth camp this year will be the arrival of the Sports Crusaders, and swimming will also be a highlight.

“We have a team from Sports Crusaders coming in to lead multiple rec activities that we are excited for,” Harper said.

For overnight camp, Couch said there are also many highlights this year.

“The swim pool, beach party, water games, rec time and snack shack are big highlights,” Couch said. “Overnight camp is like a giant sleepover party with your friends.”

According to Harper, camp fosters connections with local children and churches.

Couch agreed with Harper, and said churches should be involved in church camp.

“Children are our future and if we can help them build their foundation in God now, they will then grow up to serve God and his church,” Couch said. 

Harper said pre-registration is available for all camps and is encouraged. Those who register 11 days in advance are guaranteed a camp shirt.

Harper said anyone interested in registering should go to the Charleston Baptist Association for the camp forms: https://www.charlestonbaptistassociation.org/camp