After being closed for a year due to COVID-19, Camp Echoing Hills reopened last month. Although there was limited capacity, there was no limit on fun!

Individuals and team members from Echoing Hills of Southwest Ohio were the first campers for the 2021 season. Coming to Warsaw to escape the city and spend a couple of days in nature, those who participated walked away with many memories made.

Camp provided choices in what individuals would like to do; excitement, laughter, and happiness leading to a sense of personal fulfillment; and an opportunity to grow closer in their relationships with one another and God.

What did they do while they were here? Let’s look at just one of those days!

FISHING

With a few hotdogs and a lot of patience, individuals threw cast after cast. Each fish caught led to many cheers and upholding the tradition of kissing the fish before placing them back in the pond. Afterward, individuals used their hands to demonstrate how big the fish they caught were.

ARTS / CRAFTS

Some individuals skipped fishing poles and bait, opting instead for beads and charms. Making bracelets and necklaces, individuals created beautiful jewelry, each as unique as the person that made it.

SWIMMING

The afternoon began with one of the most anticipated activities – swimming. The initial shock of the cool water led to many screams, quickly replaced with squeals as individuals swam and played with pool toys. Team members looked in awe as they witnessed one individual who doesn’t walk taking steps within the water. The joy she experienced quickly spreading to others.

HAYRIDE

After dinner, it was time to take a hayride. A tractor-pulled wagon provided a peaceful opportunity to experience a glimpse of God’s beauty on campus. There were the sights – fields of wildflowers, ponds, trees, the countryside. And, there were the sounds – laughter, birds chirping, conversations, and singing which had everyone dancing in their seats.

DEVOTIONS

A fire welcomed campers to devotions after the hayride. Camp Administrator Lauren Unger led the group reading scriptures, followed by a conversation. After which, it was time to pray together. Camper Chris felt called to lead prayer, quickly jumping up to the front. When his prayer ended, he returned to his seat excited and exclaiming, “I can’t believe I just did that!”

CAMP FIRE TREATS

No day at camp would be complete without s’mores. Many of the campers were quiet, tired from the day’s activities. Trying hard to keep their eyes open, they waited patiently for a gooey, chocolatey treat. One camper fell asleep while waiting, leading someone to say jokingly, “S’mores? He thought you said snores!”
What did some of those who participated in camp think of their experience?

Samia / Camper
Favorite Part: Hanging out with friends, swimming, arts and crafts, and making s’mores
Favorite Meal: Cookout – especially the hot dogs
Advice for Others: “You should come to camp – it’s awesome!”

Anna / Activities at Echoing Hills of Southeast Ohio
Favorite Part: Everybody coming together at one time. “It was like a family reunion.”
Favorite Meal: Brownies (I want the recipe!)
Advice for Others: “Come! You will enjoy yourself!”

Derek / Camper
Favorite Part: The people here, the quiet location, paintball
Favorite Meal: Pizza
Advice for Others: “Come to camp – everyone is so nice!”

Chris / Camper
Favorite Part: Fishing
Favorite Meal: Bacon Chicken Club Pasta
Advice for Others: “Look into it!”

Elandria / DSP at Echoing Hills of Southwest Ohio
Favorite Part: Hayride
Favorite Meal: Bacon Chicken Club Pasta
Advice for Others: “It is an experience, come try it! You are away from the city and in nature. You experience God here!”