Camp Luther is a unique setting that fosters the development of young people for service to Christ and His church. It is literally a life-changing place, where spiritual, emotional, and physical growth have no limits. We encounter God through our worship, prayer, cabin devotions, music, crafts, recreation, and our special relationships with each other.
The members of the camp staff are all volunteers who give unselfishly of their time, energy, and talents because they care so much for our young people and this ministry. Most take valuable vacation time and many travel hundreds of miles. Because most of them return to camp year after year to serve, they have a combined experience of hundreds of years as counselors, teachers, deans, and office staff.
Our educational programs are an extension of your congregation’s ministry, plus some important added dimensions. Bible stories are brought to life. Confirmation instruction is provided. Current world issues, as well as the tough questions, challenges, and concerns faced by all young people, are discussed and addressed from a Christian viewpoint.
Care of God’s beautiful creation is emphasized. There is instruction inside and outside the classroom, with hikes and “creek stomps” led by the nature teacher being among the most popular educational activities. Besides Christian instruction, there are various other educational opportunities provided, such as music, drama, and crafts. Campers who wish to exercise their writing skills may elect to be a member of the staff of the camp newspaper, The Camp Luther Beacon.
A wide variety of sports and games is available at camp, including swimming, soccer, basketball, badminton, kickball, 4-square, shuffleboard, fishing, and boating. There are skits, scavenger hunts, talent shows, relays, and tie-dying. There is ample free time for these activities during the afternoon, while the evening hours are filled with organized events in each of the three programs. There are pizza parties and an all-camp picnic. And there is plenty of time to “hang out” with friends.
The friendships that are created at Camp Luther are lifelong, and among the strongest bonds that can be found among people anywhere on earth. Just ask any repeat camper or staff member, for whom spending a week at camp is among the absolute highlights of the year. And it’s not only the making of new friends, but also the reuniting with old friends that makes camp week so special.
Camp Luther is divided into three programs:
- Junior, for those who have completed grades 3 – 5
- Intermediate, for those who have completed grades 6 – 8
- and Senior, for those who have completed grades 9 – 12.
In each program there is a counselor for every 8 – 10 campers.
Camp Luther is set in beautiful natural surroundings at an altitude of over 2,400 feet in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia. Picturesque woodlands surround the main camp, and rhododendron, laurel, and wildflowers abound. There is a breathtaking lake within walking distance, and a beautiful creek cascades through the camp.
Camp facilities include heated cabins with hot and cold running water, showers, electric lights, and beds. The centrally located dining hall has a modern kitchen and an experienced staff. The camp has a large swimming pool, several athletic fields, volleyball and basketball courts, and a wide variety of athletic equipment for both team and individual use.