Good Friends Church Camp is more than a retreat; it's a place where a lifetime of bonds and memories are made. Jesus placed his trust in his good friends to spread the word of the Lord, and our camp serves the same purpose. We welcome youth from all walks of life and, through the teachings of the Good Word, encourage them to find their path to peace and everlasting friendship.
Good Friends Church Camp was founded in 1919, made possible through the posthumous donation of land to Good Friends Church from Archibald Tingle. The Tingle family has always been a pillar of Good Friends Church and we received a great blessing in Brother Tingle's generosity, a blessing that made our community even stronger. Upon consideration of many suggestions of what to do with the land, the congregation decided it would be best utilized as a campaign to bring youth to the church. Originally intended as a meeting place for youth groups and family events, the camp eventually became a retreat, allowing parents to fully immerse their children in the teachings of the Lord for weeks at a time.
After a vicious tornado attack in 1953, much of the original retreat was demolished. However, one building remained by all the power of God's might: the original hall of dining and worship that was erected on the site in 1919. It has since become the centerpiece of the new retreat, and stands as a beacon to the strength of God's eternal love.
Our camp counselors are trained to focus on physical and emotional safety, skill development, and age-appropriate programming that is exciting, educational and enriching. In addition to training, our leaders have a heart for ministry and kids and a love of summer fun that they are eager share with the campers. And if your child has visited before, don't assume they've seen everything we have to offer! A progression in programming makes each summer at Good Friends Church Camp more exciting and challenging than the last. Take a tranquil walk through our wilderness and prairie area where wildlife surprises you at every turn! Feel the warmth of His presence as you sit on the shores of John The Baptist Lake. Enjoy magnificent sunrises and sunsets. Enhance your prayer life in this sacred place. Drink in the healing balm of the Spirit as your being is restored to wholeness by the delightful sights and sounds of creation in its natural state. All of this and more are yours as you retreat at beautiful Good Friends Church Camp. Good Friends ...Good Fun ...God God!