Each July, youth from Coppell and the surrounding area travel with the First United Methodist Church to the Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp, located in the beautiful Pike National Forest at the base of Pike’s Peak in Colorado. The week long event is known as Camp Pike and is an annual Christian hiking and outdoor camp for youth in grades 6 through 10. It is a lay led ministry of the church and over the past 21 years, Camp Pike has provided mountaintop experiences for hundreds of youth — both physically and spiritually.
During this incredible week the outdoor activities include rock climbing, water sports, and daily mountain hikes. The older campers also enjoy rafting and tent camping, while arts and crafts, games, skits, talent shows and dances round out each day for everyone. All of these activities culminate into a daylong climb up America’s Mountain — the 14,110 foot Pike’s Peak.
The fantastic chaperones and counselors for Camp Pike play an integral part in making the week such a great experience for the campers. Deb Kreneck, an adult staff member says, “I love Camp Pike for many reasons. I really enjoy watching and interacting with the kids all week. It's so cool to witness this huge group of kids coming together and becoming so close to each other, to nature and to God. For me personally, Pike is a place where I find amazing peace. It's an opportunity to shut off all of the technology and forget about all of the schedules and just be.”
Maci Nichols reflects on her time as an experienced Camp Pike counselor saying, “Camp Pike is a place that I have come to call my second home. The relationships I have made with the campers, fellow counselors and staff are ones that I will remember for a lifetime. Being in the mountains, close to God's incredible creations is something that I wish everyone could experience.”
Another tribute to the impact this amazing camp has on our youth is from veteran Ryan Sapp. “Most everyone who goes to Camp Pike, be it camper or staff member, has returned saying that they just visited the most amazing place ever. Pike is more than just camp it's an escape. An escape from the hustle and stress of everyday, and allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty that God has created. There's a reason why I return every year and that is because Pike is the most special and inspiring place to me. I have found myself and God there, and every time I return to I feel so incredibly blessed.”
Camp Pike takes place this year from July 11 to July 19 and is filling up quickly. It is not a requirement to be a member of the church to attend, just a desire to experience the beauty of nature, the opportunity to challenge yourself, and the joys of old and new friendships. The church’s youth website offers more information at www.camppike.com, or call the church office at 972-462-0471. Come join us for an experience you won’t forget!