Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Christian Summer Camps & Retreats in Alabama
Ponderosa Bible Camp & Retreat Center has been dedicated to fostering spiritual growth through Christ-centered experiences since 1947. Nestled atop Lookout Mountain in Mentone, Alabama, we specialize in summer camps and retreat programs for children, teens, and church groups. Our mission is to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ by creating opportunities for individuals to experience God's power, presence, and peace through immersive outdoor adventures and Bible-based teachings. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit ministry and affiliate of Children's Bible Ministries, we operate with a commitment to non-denominational Christian values while serving over 84,000 individuals annually across our network.With decades of experience in youth ministry, our team combines professional expertise in camp operations with deep theological knowledge to deliver programs that promote spiritual, moral, and educational development. We maintain authoritativeness through our long-standing reputation as one of the Southeast's premier Christian camps, evidenced by our 45+ year history at our current location since 1976. Our trustworthiness is demonstrated through transparent financial practices, safety-focused operations, and a proven track record of transforming lives through faith-based outdoor education.
Services
Summer Camp Programs
Retreat Center Rentals
Bible Correspondence Lessons
Foster Kids Camp
Angel Tree Camping
Youth Ministry Training
Group Retreat Planning
Counselor Training Programs
Outdoor Adventure Activities
Christian Education Programs
Details
- Year established: 1947
Highlights and features
- We offer over 75 years of combined camping ministry experience since 1947
- Our programs combine outdoor adventure with Bible-based spiritual development
- We maintain a 45+ year history of successful operations at our current location
- Our staff includes trained professionals with expertise in youth ministry and camp safety
- We partner with Prison Fellowship for Angel Tree Camping outreach programs
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization
Services
Summer Camp Programs
Our week-long summer camps provide immersive Christian experiences for children and teens aged 5-17. Programs include age-specific activities, Bible teachings, and outdoor adventures. Sessions start at $195 for day camp and $425 for overnight options.
Retreat Center Rentals
We offer year-round facility rentals for church groups and organizations seeking spiritual retreat experiences. Packages accommodate 25-130 guests with catering options starting at $27.50 per person per night.
Foster Kids Camp
This free program provides a dedicated summer camp week for children ages 7-12 in foster care. Includes all activities and accommodations at no cost to participants through donor support.
Angel Tree Camping
Partnering with Prison Fellowship, we offer free camp experiences for children of incarcerated parents. This program includes full scholarship coverage for one week of summer camp activities.
Bible Correspondence Lessons
Our free through-the-mail Bible lessons serve students grades 1-12. Age-appropriate materials focus on Christ-centered teachings and include interactive elements to engage young learners.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve children and teens aged 5-17 with specific programs for different age groups including special options for foster children.
Are scholarships available?
Yes, we offer free programs for foster children and Angel Tree campers, with financial aid options available for other participants.
What safety measures are in place?
We maintain comprehensive safety protocols including trained staff, emergency procedures, and secure facilities for all camp activities.
Can groups rent facilities year-round?
Yes, our retreat center is available for group rentals throughout the year with minimum guest requirements varying by season.
How do I register for summer camp?
Registration details and online forms are available through our website with specific deadlines and requirements for each program.
Videos
Reviews (7)
Kaylee Powell
Jan 09, 2021
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Great getaway for our youth group winter camp! So much to enjoy and plenty of space to roam and enjoy the outdoors!
Taylor Ford
Dec 06, 2018
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It is a great bible summer camp! If you want something to do during the summer the go to Ponderosa Bible Camp.
Jasmine Danielle
Nov 01, 2018
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Ponderosa bible camp is somewhere good and fun for kids to go. All kids of all ages can go and they have teenagers that are very helpful the camp is really fun
Zachary Hill
Aug 16, 2018
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I was a camper here and boy was it fun. It is the experience of a lifetime mixed in with learning about God's word. There are many fun activities here and the food is amazing.
Tina Harper
Jul 01, 2018
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Beautiful camp and Miss Sherry and L WM always host an amazing experience for the children to be in the presence of the Lord!
Lenore Buchanan
Oct 28, 2017
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Beautiful camp with lots to do. There's hiking, swimming, zipping through the trees. There is good food and other activities to insure that everyone has fun and learns a lot.
Syd & Tay'S. Adventures
Jun 15, 2017
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The best camp for kids of all ages. They have my complete trust. My girls are finishing up their third time here this week. All camps in this area are in the $$$$ thousands. Here it is minimal in comparison and they truly care about each child.
