What are the best Christian summer camps in Missouri. How do these camps blend faith and fun for young people. Which Missouri Christian camps offer unique programs and experiences. Where can families find affordable faith-based summer camp options in Missouri.
Exploring the World of Christian Summer Camps in Missouri
Missouri, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes, is home to numerous Christian summer camps that offer unforgettable experiences for children and young adults. These camps provide a unique blend of faith-based activities, outdoor adventures, and personal growth opportunities. Let’s delve into some of the most popular Christian summer camps in the Show-Me State.
Camp Barnabas: A Haven for Campers with Special Needs
Camp Barnabas stands out as a Christian summer camp dedicated to serving individuals with special needs and chronic illnesses. This camp offers a life-changing experience for both campers and volunteers, fostering an environment of inclusivity and faith.
Health and Safety Measures at Camp Barnabas
Camp Barnabas prioritizes the health and safety of its participants. While they don’t require proof of COVID-19 vaccination or negative tests, they advise against attendance if exposed to someone who tested positive or if experiencing flu-like symptoms. The camp maintains a dedicated medical team on-site throughout the summer, ensuring proper care for all campers.
Accessibility and Support
Is Camp Barnabas wheelchair accessible? Yes, the entire camp is designed to accommodate wheelchairs, ensuring that all campers can participate fully in activities. Each camper is paired with a volunteer who stays with them throughout the week, providing one-on-one support and assistance.
Registration and Cancellation Policies
Camp Barnabas has implemented an online registration system for ease of use. They offer flexible cancellation policies, with full refunds (minus a $100 non-refundable fee) for cancellations made before March 1st. After this date, payments can be transferred to another week or the following summer.
Kanakuk Kamps: A Legacy of Faith-Based Summer Fun
Kanakuk Kamps, another prominent Christian summer camp in Missouri, has been serving young people for decades. This camp offers a variety of programs tailored to different age groups and interests.
K-Kountry: Adventure for Younger Campers
K-Kountry is Kanakuk’s program designed for younger campers, typically aged 7-13. This camp combines outdoor activities, sports, and biblical teachings to create a fun and enriching experience for children.
Faith-Centered Activities and Growth
How does Kanakuk integrate faith into its camp programs? The camp weaves Christian teachings into daily activities, group discussions, and evening programs. Campers have opportunities for personal reflection, Bible study, and worship, all within the context of summer camp fun.
The Impact of Christian Summer Camps on Youth Development
Christian summer camps play a significant role in the spiritual and personal growth of young people. These camps offer unique environments where children can explore their faith, build lasting friendships, and develop important life skills.
Building a Strong Faith Foundation
How do Christian camps strengthen a child’s faith? By immersing campers in a faith-centered environment, these camps provide opportunities for deeper understanding and personal connection with Christian teachings. Daily devotionals, group discussions, and worship sessions help reinforce and explore faith concepts.
Fostering Leadership and Social Skills
Christian camps often incorporate leadership training and team-building activities into their programs. These experiences help campers develop confidence, communication skills, and a sense of responsibility, preparing them for future leadership roles in their communities and churches.
Choosing the Right Christian Summer Camp in Missouri
With numerous options available, selecting the right Christian summer camp for your child can be a daunting task. Consider the following factors when making your decision:
- Age-appropriate programs and activities
- Camp philosophy and theological approach
- Safety measures and staff qualifications
- Location and facilities
- Cost and financial aid options
Evaluating Camp Programs and Activities
What types of activities should you look for in a Christian summer camp? Look for a balance of spiritual, physical, and creative activities. Many camps offer a mix of traditional camp experiences like swimming and hiking, along with faith-based activities such as Bible study and worship services.
Preparing Your Child for a Christian Summer Camp Experience
Sending your child to a Christian summer camp can be an exciting yet anxious time for both parents and children. Here are some tips to help prepare your child for their camp adventure:
- Discuss the camp’s schedule and activities beforehand
- Practice independence skills at home
- Pack appropriate clothing and essentials
- Encourage an open mind and positive attitude
- Pray together about the upcoming experience
Addressing Common Concerns
How can parents address homesickness and other common concerns? Open communication is key. Discuss potential challenges with your child and strategize ways to cope. Many camps have experienced staff trained to help campers adjust and thrive in the camp environment.
The Long-Term Benefits of Christian Summer Camp Experiences
Attending a Christian summer camp can have lasting positive effects on a child’s life. These experiences often lead to:
- Stronger faith and spiritual growth
- Increased self-confidence and independence
- Lifelong friendships and community connections
- Improved social and emotional skills
- A deeper appreciation for nature and outdoor activities
Nurturing Future Leaders
How do Christian camps contribute to developing future leaders? By providing opportunities for responsibility, decision-making, and teamwork, these camps help nurture leadership qualities in young people. Many campers go on to become counselors, mentors, or leaders in their churches and communities.
Virtual and Year-Round Programs: Extending the Camp Experience
Many Christian camps in Missouri have expanded their offerings to include virtual programs and year-round events. These initiatives help maintain the camp community and continue spiritual growth beyond the summer months.
Online Bible Studies and Devotionals
How do camps keep campers engaged throughout the year? Some camps offer online Bible studies, devotionals, and virtual meetups to help campers stay connected to their camp community and continue their spiritual journey.
Retreats and Family Camps
Many Christian camps in Missouri also host weekend retreats and family camps during the off-season. These events provide opportunities for families to experience camp together and for campers to reconnect with friends and counselors.
Christian summer camps in Missouri offer invaluable experiences for children and young adults, combining faith, fun, and personal growth. Whether you’re looking for a traditional camp experience or a specialized program for campers with special needs, Missouri’s Christian camps provide a wide range of options to suit various preferences and needs. By carefully considering your child’s interests and your family’s values, you can find the perfect camp to nurture their faith and create lasting memories.
As you explore the world of Christian summer camps in Missouri, remember that each camp offers its unique blend of activities, teachings, and community. Take the time to research thoroughly, reach out to camp directors with questions, and involve your child in the decision-making process. With the right preparation and an open heart, a Christian summer camp experience can be a transformative journey for your child, strengthening their faith and equipping them with valuable life skills that will serve them well into adulthood.
Camp Barnabas
Although we do not require proof of a negative COVID test or vaccination, we ask that you not attend if you have been exposed to someone who has recently tested positive for COVID or if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms. We hope you will be able to join us but understand if based on risk, now is not the right time and we look forward to having you attend future Barnabas events.
All Camper families will need to create a new username/password (this can be the same as their old one). If they have already registered for 2023, then they can click the “reset password” button.
Absolutely. Every Camper deserves to have a life-changing week at Barnabas! They also have a right to a safe and healthy week. In order to make sure your Camper is well taken care of we do have a few general extra medical care need protocols we have to follow:
First, contact our Health Services Director to discuss your Camper’s needs in detail prior to camp.
Second, if your Camper requires overnight medical care, we require Camper families to provide a private nurse during their time at camp.
Third, if your Camper has a trach or utilizes a vent, we require Camper families to provide a private nurse as well.
We have a dedicated team of doctors and nurses that stay on camp grounds at all times throughout the summer. Members of this team are in charge of administering daily medications, tube feedings, health checks, etc.
At this time, our registration process is done completely online. If you do need help with registering your Camper please feel free to contact our Camper Registrar.
You can email your request to our Camper Registrar. We cannot guarantee that your request will happen but we will do our very best to honor it.
Requests received prior to March 1st will result in a payment refund minus the non-refundable registration fee of $100. Cancellations occurring after March 1st will allow for payment transfer to another week within the summer or toward registration for the following summer less the registration fee of $100. We request that all cancellations are given at least 10 days before the start of the session.
Any Camper/Missionary who is a no-call, no-show for their session will not be eligible for a refund or transfer of funds. All cancellation requests must be in writing and sent to our Camp Registrar.
At Camp Barnabas, we strive to create a joy-filled week of fun for all of our Campers. To see that in action, visit our YouTube channel, where you’ll find weekly videos from previous years along with other camp-related content.
Each week that we have is geared to a specific age range and a set of diagnoses. The youngest we can serve is 7 years old, and some weeks you can not age out. If you have any questions about the ages served each week feel free to consult our summer schedule page on our website. If you have questions after going over that information feel free to contact our Camper Registrar.
Yes, Camp Barnabas is completely wheelchair accessible.
Every Camper will have a volunteer that stays with them throughout the entire week and is there to help meet all of their needs.
In addition to our one-on-one ratio we have a policy that states that no Camper will ever be alone with just one Volunteer or one Staffer. One number one priority is the safety of everyone who enters through our gates.
We strive to provide everyone at camp with the safest, most current medical practices. If able, Campers should bring medication in pre-packaged (multi-dose strip packaging or multi-dose blister packs) by a pharmacy. Doing so will minimize potential medication errors, and follow the best-practice standards set by the American Nurse Association (ANA). However, we understand that not all insurances and pharmacies are able to assist with this process. In this case, please send your child’s medication in the original pharmacy container with the pharmacy label intact, and no written edits on the instructions. Thank you for your support in making your child’s stay at Camp Barnabas as safe as possible.
As a reminder, liquid medications must also be in the original pharmacy container.
Pre-Packaging Definitions:
- Multi-Dose Strip Packaging – Each strip consists of individually sealed compartments containing all medications in pill form that are to be taken at a medicine pass delivery time (listed above).
- Multi-Dose Blister Packs – Each blister pocket contains all the medication, in pill form, that is to be taken at a medicine delivery time (listed above). These can often be ordered online.
Thank you for your support in making your time at Camp Barnabas as safe as possible. If you have questions, please contact our Health Services Director.
We strive to glorify Jesus Christ in everything we do. We especially want Campers to see our Staff and Missionaries as living examples of Christ. We have specific policies designed to allow you to understand what we believe is right and true in the eyes of our Lord. These policies are also designed for your safety and wellness during camp. If you have questions about these, please contact our camp office.
If you are an individual or family (siblings) flying and need transportation from the Springfield, MO airport, please input your flight information into our registration system or email [email protected] at least 20 days prior to
your flight. Pickup will be between 2-4:00 pm on Sunday (Camper Arrival Day) and drop off will be between 11:00 am to 12:30 pm on Friday (Closing Day). The fee is $50 for pickup and $50 for drop-off ($100 round-trip fee). The fee must be paid prior to camp and the individuals being picked up must be at least 18 years old or have written consent
from a parent.
Although we do not require proof of a negative COVID test or vaccination, we ask that you not attend if you have been exposed to someone who has recently tested positive for COVID or if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms. We hope you will be able to join us but understand if based on risk, now is not the right time and we look forward to having you attend future Barnabas events.
Counselors are 15-29 years old.
Barnstormers are 13-14 years old. Cabin Parents are 30 years old and up.
Yes, we do. For more information about missionary scholarships click here.
Click here for the different roles of camp.
Right here.
Click here
and get ready for a life-changing week at camp!
Contact our Missionary Coordinator.
If you are an individual or family (siblings) flying and need transportation from the Springfield, MO airport, please upload your flight information into our registration system at least 20 days prior to your flight. Pickup will be between 3-5:00pm on Saturday (Missionary Arrival Day) and drop-
off will be between 11:00 am to 12:30 pm on Friday (Closing Day). If your flight falls outside of these times, you will have to wait at the airport.
The fee is $50 for pickup and $50 for drop-off ($100 round-trip fee). The fee must be paid prior to camp and the individuals being picked up must be at least 18 years old, or have written consent from a parent.
That’s okay! Before you even get to camp, you’ll receive required e-learning materials to prepare you for your time at Barnabas.
Once you’re at camp, you’ll complete a full training in addition to the online training you already completed to get you ready to serve the Campers well.
YES, you are welcome and invited to serve more than one term!
*If you stay in between terms you must be 18 or over and have approval from our Missionary Coordinator prior to staying at camp. You will be responsible for your own personal food, transportation, and entertainment as our staff will be on break. You will be expected to follow the camp rules even during the break. We will have a place for you to sleep and people will be around for emergencies.
A core policy at camp, for the safety of our Campers, Missionaries, and Staff is that you can never be alone with your Camper. There will be a third person with you—always! The majority of the time, you will be with your whole cabin.
Yes! We strive to provide everyone at camp with the safest, most current medical practices. If able, Missionaries should bring medication in pre-packaged (multi-dose strip packaging or multi-dose blister packs) by a pharmacy.
Doing so will minimize potential medication errors, and follow the best-practice standards set by the American Nurse Association (ANA). However, we understand that not all insurances and pharmacies are able to assist with this process. In this case, please send your child’s medication in the original pharmacy container with the pharmacy label intact, and no written edits on the instructions. Please refer to the Medical Form included in the Barnabas Bound Packet for further instructions on medication packaging. Thank you for your support in making your child’s stay at Camp Barnabas as safe as possible.
As a reminder, liquid medications must also be in the original pharmacy container. Please refer to the Barnabas Medical Form in your Barnabas Bound Packet for our policy on topical creams, eye drops, ear drops, or anything that is not a pill.
Pre-Packaging Definitions:
- Multi-Dose Strip Packaging – Each strip consists of individually sealed compartments containing all medications in pill form that are to be taken at a medicine pass delivery time (listed above).
- Multi-Dose Blister Packs – Each blister pocket contains all the medication, in pill form, that is to be taken at a medicine delivery time (listed above). These can often be ordered online.
Thank you for your support in making your time at Camp Barnabas as safe as possible. If you have questions, please contact our Health Services Director, Bernadette Losh, at [email protected].
We strive to glorify Jesus Christ in everything we do. We especially want Campers to see our staff and missionaries as living examples of Christ. We have specific policies designed to allow you to understand what we believe is right and true in the eyes of our Lord. These policies are also designed for your safety and wellness during camp. If you have questions about these, please contact our camp office.
Requests received prior to March 1st will result in a payment refund minus the non-refundable registration fee of $100. Cancellations occurring after March 1st will allow for payment transfer to another week within the summer or toward registration for the following summer less the registration fee of $100.
We request that all cancellations are given at least 10 days before the start of the session. Any Camper/Missionary who is a no-call, no-show for their session will not be eligible for a refund or transfer of funds. All cancellation requests must be in writing and sent to [email protected].
“I credit Camp Barnabas for my confidence because it is a safe haven for Campers and Missionaries and anyone who is lucky enough to walk through those gates. Because of Camp Barnabas, I am now a certified and licensed interpreter and constant advocate for everything Camp Barnabas is and does.”
—Missionary
“When the camper’s faces light up… there’s nothing quite like that.”
—Missionary
“Camp Barnabas is an amazing place for people with disabilities to feel the love of God, and to see that in action through the Missionaries and the Staff.”
—Cabin Parent
“Camp Barnabas is a great place for joy, and for hope. Joy because of what the Campers get to experience, and hope for what we see happening in these young people’s lives.
”
—Cabin Parent
“You need to come. Everyone needs to come and experience what God is doing here. Everyone needs to come and experience something that will change your life.”
—Missionary
Although we do not require proof of a negative COVID test or vaccination, we ask that you not attend if you have been exposed to someone who has recently tested positive for COVID or if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms. We hope you will be able to join us but understand if based on risk, now is not the right time and we look forward to having you attend future Barnabas events.
With the support and guidance of our Director of Health Services, physicians care for the wide range of medical issues that can arise during camp sessions. Physicians are available around the clock to evaluate Campers, Missionaries and Staff, supervise medical procedures, and prescribe medications.
Camp nurses are responsible for the daily dispensing and documenting of Camper medications, providing treatments and procedures (infusions, nebulizers, feeding tube, urinary catheter and central venous catheter care, etc.
) and responding to Camper and Staff drop-in visits for everything from splinters, fevers, and tummy aches to other serious accidents or illnesses. Support and supervision are provided by the Well House and Health Services Director and volunteer physicians.
To learn more about what roles we have on our Medical Team, click here.
Medical Team members arrive on Saturday between 2:00 and 3:00 pm and leave on Friday at 10:00 am.
Not yet, but we promise that we are looking into it.
We’re located in Purdy, Missouri. Fun fact: Extreme Home Makeover came to visit Teas Trail in 2005. We’ve added even more cool things to our camp since then and we can’t wait for you to come check us out!
Healthcare staff accommodations are shared, air-conditioned bedrooms and suites with attached bathrooms. The Well House has laundry available.
By law, all medications must be stored in the Camp Barnabas Well House. Immunization status will need to be confirmed prior to attendance at camp.
While Camp Barnabas is a fun environment, all Medical Team volunteers should be aware of the intense and demanding nature of a camp session to ensure that personal health limitations will not interfere with camp responsibilities.
Physicians may bring spouses and family. However, due to the high level of medical care required for our Campers, we are not able to accommodate space for additional family members for nurses at this time. Thank you for understanding! Nurses are encouraged to enroll children ages 7+ years as sibling, Campers or Missionaries. These will require separate registration.
Please contact our Health Services Director for more information.
Nurses must have a Missouri license or an NLC (nurse licensure compact) license. Physicians must be licensed to practice in their state.
Yes, as long as they fit within our roles. To learn more about our Medical Team roles, visit here. We also have other serving opportunities for adults.
You can register here!!
We welcome paramedics, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, physician assistants and other healthcare professionals to join us in the health center too.
If you have lots of extra letters after your name, let’s talk. Camper check-in day is always a time that we can use help. If you can only give a couple hours of your time, this might be a great way to get involved.
“I loved every minute of serving as a volunteer nurse. It has been the most rewarding and fulfilling part of my life. The Campers have touched my heart and made me smile in so many ways. They have taught me more than a nursing textbook ever could.”
—Med Team Member
“Camp Barnabas is the most wonderful place in the world. Volunteers and staff work together to make the Camper’s week the best of the year… It is a life changing experience in a piece of heaven on earth.”
—Med Team Member
“Safe-haven is probably the best word I can use to describe Camp Barnabas, because my son can enjoy the things that I can’t offer and I don’t have to worry about it.”
—Camper Parent
“It just feels like a privilege, to have the trust of parents, who I’m sure have concerns and reservations.
Every parent of a kid with complicated, out-of-the-ordinary needs would want us to feel for their child. To be there for them, not just in some sort of sterile clinical capacity, but to be a part of a human encounter with a person that is loved and valued by God.”
—Med Team Member
“It is an opportunity for Christian formation for our whole family, and I see our children having known and loved their brother, bringing the empathy that they’ve been trained up with to camp. I love it, I just feel like Camp Barnabas makes our whole family more holy, more grounded, and more Christ-like.”
—Med Team Member, Camper/Missionary Parent
Although we do not require proof of a negative COVID test or vaccination, we ask that you not attend if you have been exposed to someone who has recently tested positive for COVID or if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms. We hope you will be able to join us but understand if based on risk, now is not the right time and we look forward to having you attend future Barnabas events.
Counselors are ages 15-29 years old. Barnstormers are ages 13-14 years old. Cabin Parents are 30 years old and up.
Yes, we do. For more information about Missionary scholarships click here.
Click here for the different roles of camp.
Right here.
Click here
and get ready for a life-changing week at camp.
First, if you are a first time Missionary watch this registration tutorial or if you are a returning Missionary watch this registration tutorial.
If you could still use some help, contact our Missionary Coordinator, Caleb, at [email protected] or 417-597-3223 for assistance with registration.
If you are an individual or family with siblings flying and need transportation from the Springfield, MO airport, please email your flight itinerary to [email protected] at least 20 days prior to your flight. Pickup will be between 3-5:00 pm on Saturday (Missionary Arrival Day) and drop off will be between 11:00 am to 12:30 pm on Friday (Closing Day).
The fee is $50 for pickup and $50 for drop-off ($100 round-trip fee). The fee must be paid prior to camp and the individuals being picked up must be at least 18 years old, or have written consent from a parent. NOTICE: We are unable to accommodate group transportation pick-ups and drop-offs at this time.
That’s okay! Before you even get to camp, you’ll receive required e-learning materials to prepare you for your time at Barnabas. Once you’re at camp, you’ll complete a full training in addition to the online training you already completed to get you ready to serve the campers well.
YES! You are welcome and invited to serve more than one term.
*If you stay in between terms you must be 18 or over and have approval from our Missionary Coordinator prior to staying at camp. You will be responsible for your own personal food, transportation, and entertainment as our staff will be on break. You will be expected to follow the camp rules even during the break. We will have a place for you to sleep and people will be around for emergencies.
A core policy at camp, for the safety of our Campers, Missionaries, and Staff is that you can never be alone with your Camper. There will be a third person with you—always! The majority of the time, you will be with your whole cabin.
Yes! We strive to provide everyone at camp with the safest, most current medical practices. If able, Missionaries should bring medication in pre-packaged (multi-dose strip packaging or multi-dose blister packs) by a pharmacy. Doing so will minimize potential medication errors, and follow the best-practice standards set by the American Nurse Association (ANA). However, we understand that not all insurances and pharmacies are able to assist with this process. In this case, please send your child’s medication in the original pharmacy container with the pharmacy label intact, and no written edits on the instructions. Please refer to the Medical Form included in the Barnabas Bound Packet for further instructions on medication packaging.
Thank you for your support in making your child’s stay at Camp Barnabas as safe as possible.
As a reminder, liquid medications must also be in the original pharmacy container. Please refer to the Barnabas Medical Form in your Barnabas Bound Packet for our policy on topical creams, eye drops, ear drops, or anything that is not a pill.
Pre-Packaging Definitions:
- Multi-Dose Strip Packaging – Each strip consists of individually sealed compartments containing all medications in pill form that are to be taken at a medicine pass delivery time (listed above).
- Multi-Dose Blister Packs – Each blister pocket contains all the medication, in pill form, that is to be taken at a medicine delivery time (listed above). These can often be ordered online.
Thank you for your support in making your time at Camp Barnabas as safe as possible. If you have questions, please contact our Health Services Director, Bernadette Losh, at [email protected]..
We strive to glorify Jesus Christ in everything we do.
We especially want campers to see our staff and missionaries as living examples of Christ. We have specific policies designed to allow you to understand what we believe is right and true in the eyes of our Lord. These policies are also designed for your safety and wellness during camp. If you have questions about these, please contact our camp office.
Although we do not require proof of a negative COVID test or vaccination, we ask that you not attend if you have been exposed to someone who has recently tested positive for COVID or if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms. We hope you will be able to join us but understand if based on risk, now is not the right time and we look forward to having you attend future Barnabas events.
That is completely okay, and this does not eliminate you from being a potential Barnabas staffer! We have a whole week of training before any Campers arrive to train anyone who has never worked with an individual with special needs before.
Camp Barnabas is located in Southwest Missouri, specifically Purdy.
To be on Summer Staff you need to be at least 18 years old, or have graduated high school. Not quite 18? We have other incredible serving opportunities! Learn more here!
All Summer Staff are paid per session. Email our Staff Director to find out deets.
As an added bonus, we can help you secure internship credit for your hours. See Internship FAQ below.
As long as you can still bust dance moves in it, yes.
Absolutely. All staff are required to attend a paid Staff Training Week.
Yes! We strive to provide everyone at camp with the safest, most current medical practices. If able, bring medication in pre-packaged (multi-dose strip packaging or multi-dose blister packs) by a pharmacy. Doing so will minimize potential medication errors, and follow the best-practice standards set by the American Nurse Association (ANA). However, we understand that not all insurances and pharmacies are able to assist with this process. In this case, bring medication in the original pharmacy container with the pharmacy label intact, and no written edits on the instructions.
Please refer to the Medical Form included in the Barnabas Bound Packet for further instructions on medication packaging.
As a reminder, liquid medications must also be in the original pharmacy container. Please refer to the Barnabas Medical Form in your Barnabas Bound Packet for our policy on topical creams, eye drops, ear drops, or anything that is not a pill.
Pre-Packaging Definitions:
- Multi-Dose Strip Packaging – Each strip consists of individually sealed compartments containing all medications in pill form that are to be taken at a medicine pass delivery time (listed above).
- Multi-Dose Blister Packs – Each blister pocket contains all the medication, in pill form, that is to be taken at a medicine delivery time (listed above). These can often be ordered online.
Thank you for your support in making your time at Camp Barnabas as safe as possible. If you have questions, please contact our Health Services Director, Bernadette Losh, at [email protected].
.
There will be a dance test. Please come prepared. JUST KIDDING! But do bring all the moves you’ve got.
We’ve got you covered here. Our camp Chef’s whip up delicious eats during the summer and you get to stay in our air-conditioned cabins all summer long.
During your weekly time off, many of our staff enjoy venturing into town to enjoy local restaurants, snacks, and other summer treats.
Of course! Rest is needed. You get roughly 24 hours off at the end of each week for R&R. If you work All Summer, you get an additional 6 days off to use as you choose.
You did! We are able to provide internship credit accepted by most college departments. Want more information on this? Email our Staff Director.
We are super pumped to hear that you are interested. You can find our position list here! Once you have submitted your application, our Staff Director or Staff Intern will contact you to set up an interview!
“This place is where the different becomes normal, and the impossible is obtained.
”
—Summer Staffer
“I think we model servanthood here. It’s gonna push you, it’s gonna make you uncomfortable. Camp is always pushing you past yourself where you are no longer capable of doing it, and that forces you to rely on God and rely on the people He’s put in your life.”
—Summer Staffer
“Our camp couldn’t exist this long if we weren’t all sharing the gospel and pursuing Christ, and I think that is truly what makes us different. It is a glimpse of heaven on earth. Each day, people are leaning on Christ and creating a space that is safe for anybody with a disability or just anybody at all to come to.”
—Summer Staffer
“This summer is going to change you in such incredible ways that you aren’t even expecting, and so you’re going to experience immense growth here. You will grow most in those places of un-comfortability.”
—Summer Staffer
“God’s love is very evident at camp. One of the things I love most about camp is that you get to love on people that don’t get to experience God’s love everyday.
”
—Summer Staffer
You can see the way we figure our prices here.
Our Teas Trail location can hold 500 people.
Yes! We are more than happy to cook for you and your group. Our price quotes always include us cooking and serving meals for you.
Absolutely. We want you to be able to keep your family happy, because that makes ministry or event planning ten times easier. See our lodging page for images of some our rooms that can accommodate families. We have a few mini fridges that we can move around to keep baby formula cold.
Yes, we have Wi-Fi access in our camp office. We try to limit the amount of time people spend on the internet because our Wi-Fi is naturally slow and gets slower as more and more people connect to it.
Cell phone service is available yet limited depending on your carrier. Most of the Barnabas staff have AT&T or Verizon and our service is fine. We also have landlines that you can use if needed.
Our Teas Trail Camp is located 15 minutes from Monett Missouri, which has basic conveniences.
We are a non-denominational Christian Summer Camp. We host, work with, and serve alongside many different denominations.
About LifeChange Camp — LifeChange Camp
The History
In 2003, 816 NE 350 P Rd in Clinton Missouri was nothing but 80 acres of Ozark timber that the old-timers called Pridgen Holler. Today it is the home of a unique youth and adult facility known as LifeChange Camp and Retreat Center.
LifeChange, owned and operated by LifeChange Foundation, Inc. is the fulfillment of a dream carried by Bill and Carol Anderson for nearly 25 years. Through persistence, prayer and lots of hard work, LifeChange Camp now caters to between 1500 – 2000 people every year. Volunteer workers from Kansas to Michigan and beyond have come to help build this beautiful, rustic facility equipped to host groups ranging in size from 20 to 140. Whether staying for one day, a weekend or a full week, churches, ladies, men’s and youth groups, scrapbookers and families all find LifeChange an ideal setting for fun and relaxation with friends new and old.
One of the main functions of LifeChange Camp is to offer fun-filled, meaningful Bible camp experiences for kids of all ages during the summer months. Children’s camps, Junior High and Senior High camps as well as family events are all a part of what LifeChange offers each year. Swimming in the pool, hiking, rappelling, basketball, soccer and much, much more all take on very special meaning when enjoyed in a Bible camp setting.
Through exciting speakers, excellent music and interactive small group cabin experiences, the lives of all who attend are enriched and changed.
The rest of the year is filled with retreat groups of all kinds coming from many different areas across the region. Great food, excellent service and unique, creative accommodations make every event at LifeChange Camp a memorable one.
Our Vision
To proclaim the life-changing gospel of Jesus Christ to children, youth and adults, raising up the next generation of spiritual leaders, using the means of high quality facilities and excellent service, intentional, age-appropriate ministry approaches and stimulating educational experiences.
Affiliation
LifeChange Camp and Retreat Center is an interdenominational 501(c)3 non-profit Christian camp and retreat facility serving groups of all types and sizes from across the midwest. We believe that a few days spent at our unique facility can make an eternal difference in lives young and old. Located near Clinton, MO in the northern reaches of the Missouri Ozarks, LifeChange Camp has been impacting lives since 2003. Growing steadily, we now offer hundreds of campers, retreaters, visitors and staff many opportunities to serve the Lord and grow in Him. LifeChange Camp is affiliated with the Fellowship of Evangelical Churches (FEC) and is a member of Christian Camps and Conferences of America (CCCA).
Statement of Faith
LifeChange Foundation exists to “Expand the kingdom of God through Christian camping.”
LifeChange Foundation believes…
The Bible to be the inspired, the only infallible, inerrant Word of God.
There is one God, eternally existent in three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. He has revealed Himself in creation, history and Jesus Christ.
In God’s creation of the world and humankind with humanity’s rebellion and subsequent depravity.
In the person and work of Jesus Christ, including His deity, His virgin birth, His sinless life, His true humanity, His miracles, His substitutionary death, His bodily resurrection, His ascension to heaven, and His personal return in power and glory.
That for salvation of the lost, sinful man, regeneration by the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential. Salvation is by grace through faith in Christ as one’s savior.
In the present ministry of the Holy Spirit by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a godly life and to grow in the knowledge of God and Christian obedience.
In the resurrection of both the saved and the lost — the saved unto the resurrection of life and the lost unto the resurrection of damnation.
In the spiritual unity of believers in the Lord Jesus Christ and in the importance of the church for worship, service and missions.
Statement of Faith
LifeChange Foundation exists to “Expand the kingdom of God through Christian camping.”
LifeChange Foundation believes…
The Bible to be the inspired, the only infallible, inerrant Word of God.
There is one God, eternally existent in three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. He has revealed Himself in creation, history and Jesus Christ.
In God’s creation of the world and humankind with humanity’s rebellion and subsequent depravity.
In the person and work of Jesus Christ, including His deity, His virgin birth, His sinless life, His true humanity, His miracles, His substitutionary death, His bodily resurrection, His ascension to heaven, and His personal return in power and glory.
That for salvation of the lost, sinful man, regeneration by the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential. Salvation is by grace through faith in Christ as one’s savior.
In the present ministry of the Holy Spirit by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a godly life and to grow in the knowledge of God and Christian obedience.
In the resurrection of both the saved and the lost — the saved unto the resurrection of life and the lost unto the resurrection of damnation.
In the spiritual unity of believers in the Lord Jesus Christ and in the importance of the church for worship, service and missions.
CORE VALUES
Our six core values are what defines who we are as a ministry. To depart from any one of these would undermine the very purpose and passion for our existence. These core values drive every action and decision made at LifeChange Camp.
1. Proclamation of the Gospel
The gospel of Jesus Christ as recorded for us in the Bible is the key to truly changing lives. That gospel proclaimed with power and in many different ways is the main reason we exist.
2. Multi-generational Ministry
We serve people of all ages. Children, teens, adults and families are all envisioned as we develop our facilities and programming.
3. Leadership Training
Our world has a great need for strong, Godly leaders. Our goal, through special learning sessions, faith-stretching service opportunities and hands-on experiences, is to raise up trained, motivated spiritual leaders. The future of LifeChange and the world depends on such as these.
4. Excellence in Facility and Service
Someone has said, “Christian shoddy is still shoddy.” We believe the Lord desires the very best possible from and for His people. We strive to do all we do with as much excellence as is possible.
Careless or sloppy results in any endeavor are not acceptable.
5. Age-focused Ministry
Since we choose to minister to all ages, we believe it is necessary to adjust our approaches to meet the specific needs and situations of the group being served at the time. Though this adds a challenging dimension to our programming efforts, we know it pays dividends through the enthusiastic responses of our attendees.
6. Fun and Meaningful Experiences
Experiences that excite the emotions through fun and adventure, “unplugged and hands-on,” open up the spirit of a person to respond more readily to the wonders of God and His creative power. This response is the ultimate goal of LifeChange Camp.
Founders and Directors
William J. Anderson
Bill and Carol Anderson have been married since 1974, and have three children and five grandchildren.
Bill, holding a Bachelor’s of Christian Education from Grace College, Omaha, Neb. and a Master’s of Business Administration from MidAmerica Nazarene University, Olathe, KS, is an ordained pastor having served churches in various pastoral roles since 1973 located in Nebraska,
Pennsylvania, Kansas, Iowa and South Dakota. During those years of pastoring, camp ministry was always a part of what he did. Bill was convinced that camp experiences provided spiritual growth opportunities unlike any other. As a result, he kept himself connected with the camping ministry through camp speaking, music-leading, counseling and other points of involvement. He is an experienced and gifted teacher of the Word having served as lead pastor of two churches and providing guest speaking and interim preaching in numerous other settings. Bill carries the lead role at LifeChange Camp, overseeing all administrative activities, financial matters, vision-casting as well as board development and leadership. He also swings a mean hammer, giving guidance to work teams as well as directing summer camp operation.
Carol A. Anderson
Carol, the mother of three, Grandmother of 5 and a true visionary. Along with Bill has held the vision of building a camp from the beginning back in the 80’s. Her creative spirit, energy and talent makes her a vital member of this camp development dynamic duo. She met Bill while attending Grace University in Omaha, Neb. seeking to follow the Lord’s will for her life. She had accepted Jesus as her savior several years earlier at a Bible camp in Kansas resulting in her conviction regarding the dynamic life-changing impact of a bible camp experience. She now applies all of her decorative gifting and development insight into doing everything possible to make LifeChange Camp a comfortable, beautiful and inviting atmosphere in which to experience the presence of God.
Summer Christian youth camp “Camp of spirit”
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June 30, 2023 camp of spirit camp
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This summer’s highlight for youth and teens aged 13 to 26: 12 days of deep immersion in the Spirit of God, fellowship and adventure! “Camp of spirit” is an opportunity to make new friends, express yourself in creativity and sports, test your will and endurance.
Organizer: Local religious organization of Evangelical Christians (Pentecostals) “Church of God in Tsaritsyno”.
When: July 9 – 21, 2023.
Where: Leningrad region, Priozersky district on the border with Karelia, in the center of a pine forest on the shore of an endless lake.
“Camp of spirit” is an opportunity to make new friends, express yourself in creativity and sports, test your will and endurance
What will happen in the camp?
Daytime and evening services, praise evenings, Olympic Games, extreme sports, unusual competitions, creative tasks, fun mentors.
All participants will be divided into squads. And each detachment has its own wonderful cheerful mentors, so that we can give everyone the necessary attention and care.
Registration via the link: https://cogmos.ru/camp-of-spirit/registration
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“Modern slavery” as it is: American corporate labor camps
InoSMI materials contain only assessments of foreign media and do not reflect the position of the editors of InoSMI
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healthy. However, citing the need to fight addictions, the courts sentence thousands of people to slave labor in the interests of corporations. These initiatives have many beneficiaries across the country, from Fortune 500 companies to small factories and local businesses.
Elizabeth Nolan Brown
Citing the need to fight addictions, courts sentence people to corporate slave labor.
Christian Alcoholics & Addicts in Recovery (CAAIR) is dedicated to recovering from alcohol and drug addiction. Instead, it has become a court-bound labor conduit for Oklahoma’s poultry industry, according to Reveal, a journal of the Center for Investigative Reporting.
Reveal’s journalists reviewed a huge number of court decisions, tax documents and workers’ compensation claims, and also spoke with court officials, judges and former participants in CAAIR programs.
CAAIR was founded in 2007 by the food industry, who faced a shortage of full-time workers willing to take poorly paid and risky jobs in chicken processing plants. At the same time, the claims of the center for the rehabilitation function are doubtful. It employs only one licensed psychological counseling specialist. He also has no certified treatment or recovery programs.
His philosophy suggests that addictions can be cured by Christian faith and hard work. Those who are being rehabilitated are required to attend church and Bible study groups. Conversations with a psychologist, retraining and support groups are not considered mandatory.
Oklahoma, Arkansas, Texas, and Missouri courts send about 280 people to CAAIR each year. According to Reveal, this is part of an ongoing “nationwide initiative to get non-violent offenders out of jail.
”
Alternative punishment options help relieve prisons – and this is very useful. However, they are often stupid and nonsensical, like the ten-week, $900 course on “toxic masculinity” that prostitute clients convicted in Seattle must take. And that’s not even the worst.
“In an effort to save people from prison, some judges send the accused to rehabilitation structures that are actually labor camps that serve private businesses and bring them profit,” says the Center for Journalistic Investigations.
“These programs promise to free clients from addictions. However, in reality, they turn thousands of men and women into virtual slaves.”
“Initiatives like this one have many beneficiaries across the country, from Fortune 500 companies to small factories and local businesses. The defendants work at a Coca-Cola plant in Oklahoma, construction sites in Alabama, and a nursing home in North Carolina.”
It’s not just alcohol and drug abusers that are referred to CAAIR by the courts.
Brad McGahey, 23, convicted of trying to buy a stolen trailer, was told by the judge he needed to “learn the work ethic.” “At the same time, the judge knew very well that McGahey had no addiction to anything other than Dr Pepper soda,” notes Reveal.
“Weeks later, McGahey was standing at the high-speed conveyor in the cold shop, cleaning off offal and feathers from chicken carcasses destined for supermarkets and fast food chains.”
“There was almost no addiction treatment in CAAIR. Basically, it all came down to working at a factory that belonged to one of the leading American companies specializing in the chicken trade … I had to work for free – the center received the money. “It was slavery,” McGahey recalls. “I couldn’t believe the court sent me there.”
Malfunction of McGahey’s mechanism smashed his arm. He was told by his superiors that the time spent on treatment and lighter work at the CAAIR camp would not count toward the one-year sentence. If he didn’t like it, he could go to jail.
McGahey chose prison. His hand suffered permanent functional damage. Due to chronic pain, he was forced to take hydrocodone, from which he eventually developed an addiction.
CAAIR members “mutilated their arms hanging chicken carcasses on metal chains all day,” writes Reveal.
“One worker, cleaning a trailer, suffered an acid burn. Many have been maimed by machinery or contracted serious bacterial infections.”
“[…] In some rehabilitation centers, the accused are at least paid. However, this does not apply to CAAIR and many of its analogues.
“According to lawyers, forcing the accused to work for free violates their constitutional rights. The 13th Amendment prohibits slavery and forced labor in the United States. The latter is allowed only as a punishment for convicts. This makes prison work programs legal. However, many are sent to CAAIR and similar structures even before they are condemned. Moreover, in some cases, cases are then terminated.
”
“Are you kidding me?” said UCLA labor law specialist Noah Zatz when Reveal showed him the information he had collected. “This is a flagrant violation of the 13th Amendment!”
When program participants are injured on the job, compensation is pocketed by CAAIR management. As clients of the center, employees sign a document in which they cede to him the right to compensation. As the magazine found out, the company still continues to receive these compensations from the injured workers and keep them for itself.
“People with chronic drug addiction…. have become a resource exploited by a growing network of drug and alcohol rehab centers,” writes the author of a recent Orange County Register article about the corrupt “rehab industry” in California. “A number of factors — the opioid epidemic, Obamacare, prison reform, the existence of many legal loopholes — are creating the conditions for thriving dishonest dealers who use drug addicts to squeeze insurance companies and collect hundreds of millions of dollars from public funds.
”
In February, three leaders of a teenage rehabilitation program in Alabama were sentenced to 20 years in prison for abusing minors in their care. “I can’t imagine how you can take a child out of the house at night like this, put him in handcuffs, take him to the other side of the state and put him to work,” said Judge Charles Graddick. “Some of the testimonies most closely resembled stories about the treatment of prisoners at Guantanamo Bay.”
In North Carolina, local journalists began investigating Corrective Solutions, “a rehab program for petty offenders outside of California.” As a result, the state suspended its cooperation with this program. Reveal also wrote earlier this year about Corrective Solutions and concluded that this ostensibly non-profit organization was making a decent amount of money working with the courts without actually doing anything.
CAAIR guidelines state that the center works for the benefit of society by providing people with the opportunity to “heal” by work instead of paying fines.
