![](https://manchesterumc.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Spirit-Camp-group-photo.jpg)
Spirit Camp
Who: Youth who completed 5th through 12th grade
Starting Date and Time: Saturday, July 19 at 12:30 p.m.
Ending Date and Times: Thursday, July 24 at 1:00 p.m.
Location: Camp Jo-Ota in Clarence, MO (2.5 hour drive from church)
Spirit Camp is a unique experience that many report is the highlight of their youth experience, shaping their Christian identity and making memories that continue well into adulthood. Students spend the week together in the midst of God’s creation playing, learning, and growing in discipleship. We do a little bit of everything – games, crafts, drama, music, Bible study, swimming, boating, worship, and so much more. We even take a field trip to a nearby water park! Some high school students will serve on the leadership team and plan and execute the majority of the activities. Adults serve as chaperones and of course have lots of fun.
FAQ’s:
- Youth sleep in air-conditioned cabins.
- Bathrooms are updated with good, hot, water pressure.
- Youth can bring friends!!
- Youth receive three hot meals a day in an air-conditioned dining hall.
- Youth can request specific friends for family groups and cabins.
- Camp begins at 3 pm on Saturday and we will return to Manchester at 1 pm on Thursday.
- Camp Jo-Ota is 2.5 hours away.
- Family Groups are split into middle school groups and high school groups.
- Packing lists and other important information are sent closer to date to those who register.
- We bus youth to and from camp, though parents can choose to drive their youth to camp.
The deadline to register for Spirit Camp is June 29, 2025. There are only 73 available spots for campers, so register early to guarantee your spot. Registration will open in January 2025.
High School Leader applications will be open in March 2025. High schoolers are very welcome and wanted as campers!
If your family is experiencing financial hardship, please know that half and full scholarships are available. When you get to the payment page, follow the instructions for scholarships. No additional forms are needed and no questions will be asked.