2026 Summer Camp Series
Camp Gifford has attained accreditation by ACA
Counselors deploy soap-bubble 'snow' for kids to play in. photo courtesy of Camp Gifford
For more than 100 years, Camp Gifford on Deer Lake has provided life-changing outdoor experiences for youth who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend summer camp, according to Captain David Cain of The Salvation Army.
This year marks a milestone for Camp Gifford: accreditation by the American Camp Association (ACA), a nationally recognized organization that sets rigorous standards for safety, staffing, programming and camper care.
"ACA accreditation reflects our commitment to providing not only a fun and meaningful camp experience, but one that families can trust," said David. "The standards cover everything from staff training and emergency preparedness to health care, age-appropriate programming and activity safety."
ACA standards include areas such as appropriate staff-to-camper ratios, trained first-aid personnel, emergency transportation availability and developmentally focused activities. Camps are also evaluated in specialized activity areas such as waterfront recreation, adventure programming and travel experiences.
This summer, Camp Gifford will offer several camp experiences for children and teens from June 22 to July 31: four five-day sessions of Discovery Camp for ages 7 to 12, and four five-day sessions of Wilderness Camp for ages 13 to 17.
The Salvation Army camp experience fosters seven core goals: 1) deepening faith and a relationship with Jesus, 2) cultivating new friendships, 3) growing socially and emotionally, 4) experiencing new adventures, 5) building self-esteem by discovering their God-given potential, 6) developing skills and 7) experiencing those values in a safe, supportive environment.
One way Camp Gifford encourages connection and personal growth is by asking campers to leave electronics at home.
"This gives them the opportunity to build friendships face-to-face, try new activities and engage with the camp experience," David explained.
Because Camp Gifford exists to serve youth who may not otherwise have access to summer camp, scholarships play a critical role. While all families contribute a registration fee, about 90 percent of campers receive partial or full tuition scholarships.
"We never want finances to be the reason a child misses out on camp," David said.
Many campers come from families facing financial hardship, while others are in foster care or navigating difficult life circumstances. Through donor support and scholarships, Camp Gifford works to ensure every child has the opportunity to experience the encouragement, adventure and belonging camp provides.
For information, call 233-2511 or visit campgifford.com
