CAMP LAKE STEPHENS
ABOUT US
Since 1946, tens of thousands of lives have been positively impacted while participating in the various ministries that Camp Lake Stephens has to offer. While summer is the time of year when more people explore the grounds than any other, we are also open throughout the non-summer months for retreats, church groups, school field trips, college organizations, community events, and much more. As a camp staff, it is our hope and our prayer that those who enter our gates will experience the transformative love of Jesus Christ while immersed in God’s Creation.
You are invited to come and be a part of the Camp Lake Stephens story!
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
Former Camper & Staff Member
“My experiences here changed my life for the better. This place created some of my fondest memories and gave me some of my most favorite friends. I am forever grateful and blessed.”
Summer Camp Parent
“Amazing camp. My kids love this camp and can’t wait to go every year. Fantastic counselors that know how to let the kids have fun but keep them safe at the same time.”
Summer Camp Parent
“The cherished friendships that are made are life long. Love the staff and all they do for the campers!”
OUR HISTORY
In the 1930’s, United Methodist Minister, Dr. John Ellett Stephens, developed and implemented several outdoor camping experiences for the children and youth of north Mississippi. These camps were held at various locations including Castalian Springs (old hotel and resort near Durant, MS), Greenwood Springs (old hotel and resort near Amory, MS), and Pickwick Lake. Dr. Stephens believed that a permanent camp should be established within the bounds of the North Mississippi Annual Conference. He shared this dream with the Junior Chamber of Commerce of Oxford and received enthusiastic support for this special project. Shortly afterwards, the Oxford Chamber of Commerce purchased 87 acres of land and donated it to the United Methodist Church for the formation of a summer camp. Dr. Stephens, along with several other United Methodist ministers and lay people, immediately began work preparing for the first summer of campers. The first camp was held in July of 1946 and named Camp Lake Stephens, in honor of the Dr. Stephens’ leadership in establishing the camp. Camp Lake Stephens is one of the oldest camps in the state of Mississippi and a vital ministry of the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church. Camp Lake Stephens has provided quality camping experiences for children and youth every summer for over 70 years. Over the past 20 years, Camp Lake Stephens has built on the summer camp foundation and expanded its ministry in an effort to be a year-round camp facility for children, youth, and adults of all ages.