It’s Time Again for Camp Suwannee!

Did you attend camp as a child? If you did, I’m sure you have some great stories to tell. Whether you have kids or grandkids of your own, or know children from your area, an opportunity for them to create awesome camp memories awaits them in Dowling Park, Florida, at Camp Suwannee.

Attending camp can be a highlight of any child’s summer. Kids from all over the southeastern U.S. have been attending Camp Suwannee since 1935. While the facility is very different now than it was 82 years ago, the fun remains.

Camp Suwannee offers three age-specific, co-ed weeks. This year, Senior Camp, for those ages 14 to 18, is from Sunday, July 9, until Saturday, July 15; Intermediate Camp, for those ages 11 to 13, is July 16 through July 22; and Junior Camp, for 7- to 10-year-olds, is July 23–29. Registration begins at 2:00 on each respective Sunday and checkout is at 10:00 a.m. that Saturday.

Camp isn’t just about running around; each week is structured around a busy, age-appropriate schedule full of opportunities to learn together, to be self-reflective, to be crazy, to be messy, to work on a new skill, to exercise, to build relationships and to grow spiritually — all while having fun. You’ll want to make sure to pack some clothes to get messy in; you never know when you might spend a rainy day rolling around in puddles.

The thing campers mention most after attending Camp Suwannee is the spiritual atmosphere of each week, especially during services around the campfire at the Suwannee Bowl. In addition, each week includes Bible studies as speakers hold to the truth of the Bible. Worship services also feature contemporary Christian music led by worship bands.

Safety is of the utmost importance at Camp Suwannee. Many of the counselors and staff have worked many summers at Camp Suwannee; several grew up attending Camp Suwannee themselves. Because of this, administration knows these individuals personally. Still, all counselors and staff members go through background checks before they can work at Camp Suwannee.

The price to attend Camp Suwannee starts at $300 per person ($325 if paying at registration), but there are some discounts and financial assistance available. Log on to www.campsuwannee.net or call Director Doug Mabey at (386) 647-6624 for more information or for an application.

The Camp Suwannee facility is a beautiful location that is also available to rent to other groups. Call Doug for more information.