Caitlin had her earliest camping experience at Covenant Harbor when she was only three months old! John, Caitlin and I decided to spend our first family vacation amid the tranquil setting and beautiful surroundings of Geneva Bay Center at Covenant Harbor – Family Camp 1995!

Since then, family camp has been an annual summer tradition for us. We have enjoyed the opportunity to feel God's presence, unwind from the hectic pace of our sometimes overscheduled lives, and spend a glorious week with friends and fellow believers enjoying the beautiful camp in Lake Geneva. We have been blessed to get to know Covenant Harbor as a family, with numerous activities for us to share together, as well as some time for quiet reflection.

There are so many fun things to enjoy at Family Camp. Among these are the delicious food; the wonderful opportunity for water sports, tree climbing, and the ropes courses; the occasions to connect with old and new friends; and the chance to get to know the camp staff that does such an awesome job of making every family feel welcome.

John enjoys the waterfront and the zip line. Caitlin loves banana boating and tubing. I love no cooking, no cleanup, and no meal prep – just wonderful meals to enjoy!

A typical morning at Family Camp begins with water skiing at 6 a.m. for early risers. Early morning coffee is also provided; sitting out on the deck sipping coffee and listening to the birds is an awesome way to experience God's presence. Breakfast is served from 8 until 9 which allows for flexibility for those sleeping in!

Morning activities begin around 9:30. After group get-together, kids go with their counselors and adults gather together for a group and then some time by ourselves. We pick up the kids at 11:45 in anticipation of lunch. (We do a lot of eating during the week!) Afternoons are free; families can participate in a variety of activities including ropes courses, climbing wall, arts and crafts, archery, waterfront, hikes, etc. Supper is at 5 followed by a group activity. Late night activities are offered for those still awake!

There are opportunities to do as much or as little as you like; the counselors encourage everyone to do what feels right for their family, be it attending all the activities, or skipping everything and just enjoying CH as a family. While there are ample opportunities for participation, there is never any pressure to attend events. The camp also provides opportunities for adults to have some child-free moments; the always-helpful family buddy assigned to your family keeps the kids occupied at your request.

Family Camp is a very special place and time for our family. It gives us a chance to reconnect with each other away from the routine of daily living. It enables us to sit back, relax, and enjoy the beauty of God's earth amid the tranquil woodsy setting and beautiful waterfront of Lake Geneva. It allows us to enjoy each others company, reconnect with Christian friends, and gives us time to reflect and be thankful for God's many blessings and His wonderful gift of family. We strongly recommend Family Camp, and encourage all families to give it a try – you'll be so glad you did!