Situated along the New River near Fries, VA, Camp Dickenson is beautifully nestled on over 500 acres of land that is both welcoming and nurturing to its many campers. Once a working farm, the camp’s mission follows the lifelong dream of owner Bill Dickenson, who donated what he lovingly referred to as his “old home place,” so its presence could inspire folks of all ages to come together in “Christian fellowship and good company.” With that came the ongoing, heartfelt focus of creating the finest summer camps for children and teens.
What sets Camp Dickenson apart, says Camp Director Anthony Gomez, is a magical balance between the classic American summer camp experience, along with modern buildings and activities. With 60-80 people attending camp each week, the staff and campers truly get to know each other, and form what are often life-long bonds.
“Many of our campers will start coming to camp in elementary school and continue on through high school, all because of the close bonds they form,” says Anthony.
The Benefits of Summer Camp Can Be Life-Changing!
- Developing new skills and building competency without pressure on performance.
- Meeting children outside their schools and hometowns, creating new friendships.
- Learning to think for themselves and make their own choices, while still supervised by caring adults.
- Discovering their true, authentic selves while fostering confidence and healthy self-esteem.
“At Camp Dickenson we also give children a chance to experience components of a life of discipleship—prayer, Bible study, and worship—in a way that makes sense to young people,” says Anthony. “Participating in a Christian camp program gives people tools to walk their own faith journey, which happens over the course of a lifetime. At camp, everyone is simply part of a family of people seeking a relationship with God.”
While their resident camps are the most popular opportunities, Camp Dickenson also offers half-week programs for rising second and third graders; week-long programs for rising fourth through twelfth graders; and K-2 students have the chance to experience the camp atmosphere with the fun of attending day camp! All of Camp Dickenson’s on-site programs feature the classic camp activities such as swimming, archery, crafts, sports, large group field games, a climbing wall, and a variety of activities centered on exploring nature, thanks to the camp’s wonderful, scenic location!
“We continue to add new activities each year, including STEM activities, like model rocket building, and teamwork challenge activities,” says Anthony.
He also describes the Adventure Camp program, which this year will take a small group of middle school students to Fairy Stone State Park for canoeing and hiking, and the Senior High group is headed to Carolina Beach for fun in the sand and surf (including a professional surf lesson!). In addition, one of the most important opportunities at Camp Dickenson –Celebration Camp—is a week for teens and adults with special needs or disabilities, where campers take part in activities designed to meet their unique individual needs.
With a friendly reminder that all Camp Dickenson programs do have limited space, registrations close two weeks prior to the start of each camp, so reserve your camper’s spot early! Camp Dickenson is located at 801 Camp Dickenson Lane, Fries, VA. Reach the office at 276-744-7241 or, [email protected], and visit them online at campdickenson.com.
