On a cold winter day, there’s nothing better to think about than a warm summer day at 4-H Camp. According to a National Parks and Recreation article “Children in Nature” children are devoting minutes outside compared to spending an average of seven hours in front of a screen. On the latest community needs assessment that UK Cooperative Extension hosted a top priority identified for Nelson County was strengthening youth-adult relationships. 4-H camp is an experience like no other. Youth travel outside of their home county for an entire week to meet new friends, enjoy time outdoors, and learn new skills without their electronic devices. They are provided with opportunities to swim, spend time at the lake, practice shooting sports, start a fire, and much more.

232 campers attended Nelson County 4-H Camp at the Lake Cumberland 4-H Camp in Nancy, Kentucky. These were all youth that live or go to school in Nelson County. In addition to campers, 61 teen and adult leaders volunteered their time to ensure the campers had the best experience. 4-H camp would not be possible without the leadership from the teen and adult leaders. 197 of the 232 campers said they met a kind and caring adult during their time at 4-H camp.

Based on an evaluation that campers took at the end of the week, 197 campers stated they spent more time outside than they normally do. Campers mentioned that their favorite activities were fishing, playing gaga ball, challenging themselves on the high ropes course, and sallying down the alley, which is an exciting way to culminate a day at camp. A parent that took a post-camp survey stated, “She made new friends, and it was a week w/o phones! Quality, outdoor time and she had the BEST time!”. A lot of times when campers find out they cannot take their electronic devices they suddenly do not want to go, however those that are pushed outside of their comfort zone by not taking their electronic devices often have different feelings when they return from a week at 4-H camp.

The donations and support from the Nelson County community make this happen for the youth. A heartfelt thank you is necessary! Over 45 campers went to camp utilizing the scholarship program that pays for half of their registration cost. Many youths would not be able to attend without the opportunity to participate in this scholarship program. Thank you to the community partners and sponsors for their generous and continued support of the Nelson County 4-H camping program.