This past weekend was another one for the books as we welcomed over 100 families from Whitefield Academy down in Smyrna, GA. The campout has become a highly anticipated annual event for the Whitefield crew of dads, their sons, and daughters. The time spent away at Camp Highland is meant to be relaxed, unscheduled, very intentional, and of course a lot of fun.

Dads and their kids began rolling into camp on Saturday afternoon. Once settled into their cabins they hiked their way around the property as a handful of activities such as the Mammoth rock wall, zip lines, the Drop Zone, and swimming down at the lake were available and staffed for the families to enjoy with their kids. Not only was this fun and exciting, but proved to offer some good challenges as well.

At Camp, we encourage everyone who steps foot into our gates to put away all distractions such as cell phones and work-related tasks, and to be fully present with each other. As always this never disappoints and allows for something incredible to unfold – Engaging the heart!

All of the dads embraced our counter-culture ideas and in turn got to be fully present with their kids. As the day’s activities winded down, everyone made their way to the wrap around porch for a feast of delicious local bbq from the one and only Pooles BBQ. After good conversation and bellies full of pork and mac and cheese, what better thing to do than play an intense game of kickball on the field – kids vs dads! An hour or so of competitive, heart pounding plays and close calls, the dads came out on top with the win. As laughter filled the air, the real win was realized with joy on every kid’s face as they embraced their dads with hugs and smiles.

The night concluded with a BANG as a spectacular fireworks display (one that rivals the likes of Stone Mountain and even the city of Atlanta!) lit up the beautiful north Georgia sky. One of the dads whose kids are too old now for the campout, actually still comes back each year just to serve the group with his amazing explosions in the sky.

After a long night’s rest, a gorgeous Sunday morning welcomed everyone with coffee, breakfast and even some worship. We hope everyone who came up to the campout was refreshed and renewed and can take home with them some great memories.

You know, sometimes there’s nothing better for the soul than a weekend away with some of the ones you love the most. Thanks Whitefield Academy for another wonderful weekend!