UMC Camp & Retreat Ministries Embark on National Effective Camp Research Project
Pittsburgh, PA, March 17, 2026
Backstory: In 2022, the United Methodist Camp & Retreat Ministries (UMCRM) Association led a nationwide research effort to measure the faith formation impact of United Methodist camp experiences. That study demonstrated measurable growth in campers’ self-confidence, belief in Christian teachings, and the relevance of faith in their daily lives as a result of their experiences in United Methodist camp programs.
View results from 2022 Study
New:
A new 2026 Effective Camp Research Project will build upon the 2022 efforts. Its purpose is not simply to repeat earlier findings, but to assess growth over time, measure progress in areas intentionally strengthened since 2022, and provide updated, rigorous data to guide the Church’s disciple-making efforts in the camp ministry setting.
This year’s research initiative is funded by a Kern Fund Grant through UMC Discipleship Ministries and conducted in partnership with Sacred Playgrounds, the research organization that led the 2022 project. The design includes a pre-camp and post-camp survey administered to campers aged ten through seventeen, along with an eight-week follow-up survey to measure lasting impact. A parent/caregiver survey will also be administered shortly after the camp session to capture observations from the home environment.
An Advisory Team representing multiple jurisdictions and backgrounds has met regularly to guide the selection process for participating camps. Using stratified random sampling, camps were selected to ensure representation across all five United Methodist jurisdictions, with careful attention to camper enrollment, program model, and geographic distribution. The team has carefully evaluated language and question framing to ensure theological clarity, inclusivity, and alignment with the United Methodist denominational vision. Particular attention has been given to measuring not only belief statements and faith relevance, but also bold expressions of love, joyful service, courageous leadership, and engagement in Christian discipleship and practices beyond worship attendance.
Data collection will occur during the 2026 summer season across twenty to thirty camps. Analysis will take place in early fall, with comprehensive reporting and resource distribution planned to follow.
UMCRM is grateful to Discipleship Ministries for its support of this valuable research, and to UMC camp ministry leaders, campers, and camper families for your participation. The powerful, real-world data from this study will inform decision-making, program design, staff training, and more as United Methodist camps continue to innovate to effectively serve the church and world for the cause of Christ.
About the United Methodist Camp & Retreat Ministries Association (UMCRM):
Mission statement: Committed to the mission of the church*, the UMCRM Association resources, advocates, inspires, and networks to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of United Methodist Camp and Retreat Ministries.
*Making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world
There are 176 United Methodist-affiliated camps and retreat centers in the U.S.
Call to Action:
To learn what’s new at your local camp, refer a summer staffer or prospective camper for the 2026 season, and join us in making a positive difference in the lives of children, youth, and adults, Find your United Methodist Camp/Retreat Center