Camp Woodland, United’s southeast teen camp, began this year on Friday, July 18 with a definite sense of excitement. Whereas in years past, Woodland was housed on the east side of camp, this year’s UYC camp mainly took place on Woodland’s west side. The move west afforded us numerous advantages for campers and staff that enhanced the Woodland experience.

From camper orientation forward, the 93 campers and 73 staff took advantage of the “new” opportunities of Woodland’s west side. In addition to new meeting rooms, new dorms and a larger campus, Woodland’s schedule capitalized on the new campsite in a variety of ways. Sabbath brunch was well received by campers and staff in that it allowed extra rest for those who’d traveled a longer distance to camp (for example, from Alaska). Woodland leaned into the Stand Strong Christian living theme from the start. Not only was the theme (from Ephesians 6:10) covered in morning Christian living classes, but it was also the focus of dorm Bible classes throughout the week.

God blessed us with an abundance of sunshine to enjoy Camp Woodland’s Grill and Chill, outdoor volleyball, basketball, cornhole, spikeball and swimming after a meal of grilled cheeseburgers and hotdogs.

Climbing wall, giant swing and zip line were once again favorites. Additionally, archery’s new spot near the center of camp made it a “can’t-miss” activity based on location and the “airhorn for a bullseye” could be heard throughout the camp. With the larger south athletic fields available for speedaway and ultimate frisbee, both activities were preferred camper and staff picks. In the evenings, campfire featured a range of mind-expanding skits from staff, Christian living lessons and a camp favorite, “News from Woodland: Camper Letters.”

Along with Woodland’s other “news,” staff placed special focus on camper skill development, active learning and dormmate support as well as proficiency mastery in most activities. To this end, a most improved boy and girl camper were recognized this year for each activity and across activities (Marvyn Robinson, Most Improved Boy Camper, and Lanelynn Howard, Most Improved Girl Camper), and proficiency achievements were publicly acknowledged. Our final camp dance, a “Safari Adventure,” completed Woodland’s week and brought out costumes that will not soon be forgotten. Friday morning, July 26, capped Woodland’s week of excitement, with campers and staff alike voicing approval for Camp Woodland 2024 and looking forward to Camp Woodland 2025.