Why Winnataska?
Are you wondering how your child will grow by being a camper at Winnataska? Do you want to read more about how we fulfill our Christian intent? How about learning what kinds of kids will thrive in a Summer Camp environment? All that information can be found below. If you need more information, please use the contact form found at the bottom of the page.
Is Camp Winnataska right for your child?
Children who thrive in a dynamic and energetic environment are well-suited for Camp Winnataska.
A typical day at camp involves campers actively participating in 5-7 different activities, starting early in the day and concluding late in the evening. Camp Winnataska is designed for those who enjoy a fast-paced schedule filled with diverse and exciting activities, ensuring a vibrant and fulfilling session.
Children who find joy in building friendships are well-suited for the vibrant atmosphere at Camp Winnataska. Those who embrace connections and relationships, whether in small or large groups, will be able to join in the fun. Campers spend all day with their cabin mates and leaders, and we encourage children to gradually engage with fellow campers, allowing them to find their comfort level. We prioritize creating a positive and friendly atmosphere, ensuring that both naturally outgoing or initially shy campers feel welcomed and valued in this dynamic setting, allowing everyone to have a wonderful and enriching experience.
Children with a genuine love for the outdoors are well-suited for Camp Winnataska.
Our campers delight in outdoor adventures, and we encourage those who enjoy nature to join us. Families introducing children to the beauty of outdoor activities before camp enhances the camper's overall experiences. While embracing the sunny summers of Alabama, our camp provides a wonderful opportunity for children who appreciate the adventure that comes with outdoor living.
Children who love trying new activities and exciting experiences are well-suited for Camp Winnataska.
We celebrate the spirit of exploration and curiosity at Camp Winnataska. Our goal is to create an environment where campers enthusiastically dive into a diverse range of activities, fostering personal growth and creating lasting memories. It's important to approach the camp experience with an open mind and a willingness to explore. For children who thrive on the joy of discovery and are excited about new challenges, Camp Winnataska is the perfect destination for a positive and enriching journey filled with adventures.
How do campers grow at Camp Winnataska?
Since its beginning in 1918, Camp Winnataska’s mission has always been four-fold. Camp Winnataska's symbol is the Maltese cross, which has four arms. These arms represent Winnataska's guiding mission for campers to grow in four ways.
Spiritually, campers grow by attending Morning Bible lessons, Evening Vespers services, and other opportunities for worshipping together. But more than that, the light of Christ shows in the words and actions of our staff and volunteers, enveloping each camper in the love of God and neighbor.
Physically, campers grow by trying new activities that stretch the limits they normally set for themselves. They also learn valuable skills of managing their own needs independently, in a caring and safe environment.
Mentally, campers grow by working to solve problems in new ways, both individually and in groups. Not only do we see this in organized activities like our Low Ropes course. We also see it as they navigate new skills that make up our day to day camp life - folding the flag, helping cook their camp-out meals, or learning the rules for a new game.
Socially, campers grow by making new friends and deepening old camp relationships. But this arm of the cross also represents emotional growth, which we see in navigating homesickness (with support, of course), experiencing complete joy at mastering an element in High Ropes, or overcoming a life-long fear of horses.
Most of all, our campers come home with a deep appreciation of Camp Winnataska for teaching them who they can be when they live as their best selves - spiritually, physically, mentally and socially - enabling them to be the person that God has called them to be.
How do you fulfill your Christian intent?
Camp Winnataska was operated after its founding in 1918 by the Birmingham Sunday School Council. The camp has always been run as an interdenominational camp. The Birmingham Sunday School Council was composed of Presbyterians, Episcopalians, Methodists, and Baptists. The camp, and its leadership, has always included Catholics, Lutherans, and other Christian denominations. The camp is open to anyone who wishes to attend. Because Winnataska is interdenominational, we are careful not to compel campers to agree to any religious or denominational doctrine. We teach all participants to respect the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of race, gender, culture, ability, religion, or other factors. This is accomplished by promoting respectful communication and honorable actions at all times.
The intent is fulfilled explicitly in the following ways during Camp Winnataska's summer sessions: Sunday morning church (for leaders and staff), morning Bible study, Hillside inspirational vespers & hymns, evening hut Bible devotions, and singing Christian songs. Our staff members are trained to intentionally share the gospel through conversations and interactions with campers.
Do you have a question that wasn’t answered? Please contact us via the form linked below.