Outdoor Day Camp for Local Kids

Since 1940, Gilmont Camp and Conference Center has been a place for people of all ages to gather, enjoy the outdoors, and grow in character, community, and faith. Gilmont’s mission is to cultivate a safe, sacred space where all are invited to grow closer to God, creation, others, and themselves.

At the heart of Gilmont’s mission is its summer camp program. Campers agree, saying, “Camp is the place you go to be free of the world and to worship God.” This upcoming summer, Gilmont is offering 5 weeks of Overnight Camp for campers in 1st-12th grade. Each year hundreds of children and youth gather to enjoy outdoor recreation and spiritual development with friends under the guidance of trained counselors.

In 2024, Gilmont is expanding its Day Camp program to four weeks. Space is limited and one week is already full. Spots are still available for July 1-5, July 8-12, and July 15-19. Day Camp is Monday through Friday, 9 AM-4 PM, and is open to local kids who completed 1st-6th grade.

Day Campers enjoy classic camp activities in small groups with at least 2 trained and vetted counselors. Camp activities include canoes, archery, slingshots, crafts, swimming, miniature golf, disc golf, nature hikes, group games, and more. A camper parent from last year described Day Camp as “an amazing investment in your children.”

Gilmont’s Summer Staff completed a 12-day training period that included learning and practicing how to facilitate developmentally appropriate faith conversations. In addition to learning how to lead camp activities and games, Gilmont’s staff are trained in risk management, conflict prevention and resolution strategies, and behavior management focused on connecting, empowering, and correcting.

One Counselor describes Gilmont Summer Camp saying, “I love how campers and staff can experience so many fun and exciting activities that you wouldn’t normally do, but also experience the slow and amazing qualities nature can show us. It’s freeing to be here. You can comfortably be yourself without worrying about being judged.”

Gilmont is a Camp and Conference Center located just Northeast of Gilmer, across from Barnwell Mountain Recreation Area on State Hwy 155. The camp sits on 400 acres and has 6 cabins, 3 lodges, several meeting spaces, and a great view from the second highest point in Upshur County.

Gilmont provides different retreats throughout the year: including a women’s retreat, men’s retreat, spiritual practices retreat, silent retreat, and more. Several times a year Gilmont hosts Circle of Friends: a weekend retreat for families who have children with developmental disabilities. The camp welcomes families, church groups, businesses, scout groups, craft groups, and others who want to enjoy camp property and amenities.

You can learn more at gilmont.org, by calling 903-797-6400 or emailing info@gilmont.org.