While camp brochures often promote the high-energy programming (rock-climbing, Ziplines, extreme sports) that comes with camping, the real purpose behind camp is much more compelling... with effects that are eternal, further reaching, and extend right to your very soul.

Here are ten reasons why Christian camping is more important than ever in today's Christian walk.

1. Camping Changes Lives For Christ - According to the Christian Camp and Conference Association, each year more than 250,000 individuals start a new relationship with Christ while attending a camp. To put this in perspective, more than a quarter million people will have their eternities changed forever because of their Christian camping experience.
2. Tomorrow's Leaders Are Developed Today - Many of Christian camping's common elements, including ropes courses and sports, promote critical leadership qualities. Campers are often placed in charge of tasks, small groups, and events to build leadership skills.
3. Camping Impacts Our Families And Communities - "A variety of programs and facilities have led many individuals to have life-changing experiences and, in turn, make a difference in their families and communities" --CCI President, Bob Kobielush.
4. Campers Know God through His Creation - Rarely does one experience the depth and fullness of God's love than in the midst of His creation. The power of nature is a perfect setting for meaningful conversation with the Creator.
5. Relationships Are Built With God And With Others - The close, intense nature of cabin life and camping fosters deep, life-long friendships. In Christian camping, a relationship with God is shown to be the most important relationship of all.
6. Camps Develop the Next Generation of Church Leadership - More than half the people in full-time Christian ministry today had made life-changing decisions at camp, according to CCI/USA.
7. Valuable Life Lessons Are Taught Every Day - By engaging in games or activities such as rock-climbing or crafts, counselors have teachable moments to plant the Biblical truths into the soil of every camper's life.
8. Camping Strengthens the Church - Christian camps are important to the well-being of the church; studying the Word, sharing ideas, and allowing a place for reflection and refreshment apart while apart from church homes.
9. Serving Opportunities Move Christ-Followers from the Sidelines to the Frontlines - Christian Camping opens up serving opportunities for ordinary people to witness first-hand the extraordinary work of God changing human lives.
10. Camping Builds Character - Bible study, skill building, outdoor recreation, creative competitions, musicianship and other character-building activities are the hallmarks of Christian camping. These activities shape campers for a life-time of positive Christian influence.