What a weekend! I didn’t know what to expect when over 350 alumni showed up to Illahee for a weekend of joy, but it far and away exceeded my expectations. Our 105th reunion was a smashing success. We had women who first came to camp in the 1930’s all the way up to women who … Continued
One of my most significant failures within my first few years as a pastor was my attempt to start a weekly youth group. Parents were asking for it, and so I tried all sorts of things: Morning Bible studies at Bojangles, after church lunches at various brunch spots, Sunday night movie gatherings, pool parties, cookie … Continued
The two-week August session came and left quicker than I could say “Chosatonga.” Two weeks is a long time, but in the grand scheme of a camp summer, it feels like I was just getting to know these great girls. While our director team meets in the office first thing every morning, campers often stroll … Continued
Gardner and I had a day off yesterday. It’s a gift to be able to step away from the well-oiled machine of camp, knowing that those in charge will keep everything humming along in the right direction. Our team is second to none. It takes a village to make camp happen. After watching bits and … Continued
Good evening from Laurie. Gardner and Lucas are enjoying a day off and they gave me the “microphone. ” My first time for this summer 2025- a far cry from the days that Gordon and I alternated nights reflecting on the day and visiting with camp parents. Gordon and I were camp directors for 34 … Continued
Just like that we arrived at the final day of Mini-1. I’ll miss these campers. I feel like I was just getting to know them. They were full of kindness, excitement, and in the two weeks they were here, made this place more joyful and whole. It was a great day; Made extra great by … Continued
This morning, our Pineview Campers helped lead worship. Time at the Woodland Chapel together is sacred for me. I took an extra moment today to pray. I’d be lying if I said the tragedy at Mystic hasn’t affected me. Whenever I saw a camper today, I gave thanks to the Lord that they are smiling … Continued
The final day always feels surreal. How did we get here? Where did the time go? Somehow, all the magic, the sliding rock trips, the campfires, the meals, the dance parties, the hikes, paddles, climbs, and more… everything went by like the blink of a firefly. The morning began with all the performances from our … Continued
Today began as all Sundays at Illahee do: A late wakeup bell, and hundreds of campers meandering their way to the dining hall for donuts, cereal, and breakfast casserole. Adorned in their PJs, some holding their favorite stuffed animal, they sat around tables, recounting stories from the first week of camp. Our bodies are tired, … Continued
One month until Opening Day! Camper forms, activity sign-ups, and store orders have been submitted and we are putting the final touches on summer planning. As we approach camp, we thought it could be helpful to share some FAQs and tips to help you prepare for THE BEST SUMMER EVER! Insider Tips-Packing for Camp Here … Continued
