Our founder Jim Rayburn had this to say about camping: “We want to create an atmosphere in which the Gospel of the grace of God can be clearly communicated to each guest.”
 
As a young man, Jim Rayburn quickly realized that when young people were in the midst of God’s creation, they were more open to thinking about who they were and what their life meant. It wasn’t long before Jim suggested that Young Life buy its own piece of property where groups of kids could come to hear the Gospel. The success at that first property inspired the purchase of more than 27 other camps and facilities around the country and is the core of the Young Life ministry.
 
Creating an environment where Christ’s message can be heard involves stretching kids and giving them new experiences that open their bodies and minds to the spirit of God. Camp is not solely for recreation or entertainment’s sake, but to break down barriers, to show kids that “Jesus followers” can have fun.
 
Camping is not an end in itself, but a means to an end. We want to communicate in word and deed the person, work and love of Jesus Christ and to lift Him up, not ourselves.