The mission of Kentucky 4-H Camping is to enhance personal growth through intentional life skills development. This is achieved through collaboration with local, state, and national partners, utilizing research-based methods, educational programming, service-oriented practices, long-term strategic planning, and engagement with the participants' interests or "sparks."

The 4-H overnight camping program provides youth with a structured environment to learn independence, acquire life skills, develop self-esteem, meet new friends, and try new activities. The week-long camp creates a supportive atmosphere away from home where participants learn to make decisions, take responsibility, and work as a team. In 2025, Mercer County 4-H had 70 campers, eight junior counselors, and 12 adult leaders. The total camp attendance for Jessamine and Mercer Counties combined was 464.

At 4-H camp, campers experience a unique, almost "magical" environment. This magic does not occur spontaneously; it requires countless hours and the dedication of camp staff, along with volunteer adult and teen leaders, to provide youth with a safe, supervised, and positive atmosphere for growth. Teen and adult leaders prepare for their roles by participating in pre-camp training, where they help plan the camp program and learn their responsibilities to ensure a great camping experience for all. An overnight training session for junior counselors allowed them to gain a deeper understanding of their roles and enhance their communication and teamwork skills. All adult and teen volunteers are committed to the success of the campers, ensuring each youth feels safe and valued.

4-H Camp offers a space for youth to explore their interests and passions amidst Kentucky's beautiful natural resources. It provides a device-free environment where youth learn through classes that emphasize effort in learning rather than innate abilities. Campers experience engaging and progressive lessons that vary each day.