The Continuity of Good at Camp

By Christine Bailey, Sky Valley Camp Director, and Summer Wright, Round-Up Camp Director

Alone with Your Thoughts… rodeos… kayaking… inspirationals… bunkhouse nights… When you picture camp, what first comes to mind? As we gear up for the summer, we have been thinking about all those big and little moments that make summer at the A/U Ranches so special.

It might feel like there’s a lot of “new” at camp this year — new directors, new Hub — but that newness is building on continuing goodness! We are excited to jump into camp this summer and fold ourselves into the existing culture of joy, love and adventure. To set the stage for summer, we reached out to returning campers and staff to share what they love about the A/U Ranches.

For many respondents, it’s the friendships that keep them coming back — Aberlyn, Rowan, Hanna, Tristan and counselor Syd all highlighted the friendships they have built and new friends they know they will meet. Holden appreciates the counselors, too!

Some can’t wait for the fun challenges, like 3-day horse trips (Gigi), 14er peak climbs (Zachary, Afton and Assistant Camp Director Katie), Polocrosse (Tristan) and the ropes course (Afton). One Sky Valley camper also mentioned they love the free choice activities, where they have a chance to mix with other campers. Cabin activities hold a special place for others (Josh, Micah). And even little (but important!) things stand out – one camper is excited for the food! Matthew and Mike have been experimenting with new recipes, like grilled burritos (yum!), and you can also expect old favorites, like grilled cheese.

Of course, opportunities for spiritual growth keep us all coming back. As one camper shared, “I love the morning Christian Science meeting when we read together and talk about God.” And Matthew, a returning Program Head, is excited to serve the community he says has given so much to him!

As the new camp directors, we are ready to share our unique qualities with camp, too. Christine is excited to deepen the loving, supportive community at Sky Valley, witnessing God’s grace in each camper, staff member and