A.R.E. Camp Rural Retreat,Virginia | Register
Children's Camp Programs Camp Calendar

Children's Sessions
(Ages 10-16)

Children's Sessions are the heart of the A.R.E. Camp. Throughout the summer we provide three two-week sessions specially designed to give children an opportunity to laugh, sing, and play together; to explore talents, interests, and abilities; to challenge self-imposed limitations and expand self-awareness; and to develop a closer relationship with God through nature.

Through everyday activities, such as hiking, swimming, arts and crafts, music, drama, sports and games, staff members and campers create a positive environment based on cooperation and loving acceptance. Emphasis is on the campers' creativity, imagination, and well-being through activities that bring about a balance of body, mind, and spirit.

One of the unique aspects of A.R.E. Camp is a sensitivity to children's spiritual lives. Through dream exploration, prayer, meditation, and just being quiet together, children are supported and nurtured in their spiritual journey.

Staff members are encouraged to see that their own thoughts and actions are well grounded in spiritual truth and that they teach primarily through example and the role model they present. Counselors are encouraged to view children as mature souls and to use love, reason, prayer, and emphasis on the positive as the backbone of their approach. The powerful effects of living simply and close to nature's beauty are vehicles to aid the staff in their goal of awakening the campers to their deeper selves and to the reality of a loving way to live.

Cabin spaces are limited, so please be sure to register early.

"I loved my experience at Camp; the people are awesome, the food is great and it is really relaxing. A home away from home." - Children's camper

"I loved the atmosphere and met a lot of new friends." Children's camper