Discovery Camps: Finding the Right First Step
Ferncliff offers multiple Discovery Camp options designed to meet campers where they are. For 1st–3rd graders, there are two different ways to experience camp for the first time. You can choose:
- Day Camp Discovery – This is a 5-day + 1 overnight option. Campers spend all week having fun at Day Camp and spend one (1) overnight on Thursday night.
- Discovery Camp – This is a 3-day/2-night overnight camp option. Discovery campers have the same exciting camp experience as week-long campers, Sunday through Tuesday.
For 3rd–5th graders, we’ve expanded Day Camp Discovery to offer an age-appropriate next step toward overnight camp called:
- Day Camp-Pathfinders – This is a 5-day + 1 overnight option. Campers spend all week having fun at Day Camp and spend one (1) overnight on Thursday night.
Why We Call Them Discovery Camps
We call them Discovery Camps because they’re designed to help campers discover something new—about camp, about themselves, and about what they’re ready for next. These camps are a perfect in-between step for kids who love Day Camp and are curious about Overnight Camp.
What Makes Discovery Camps Unique
- A gentle first overnight: Discovery Campers can choose a stay full day-camp + one-night or 3-day/2-night, giving them an exciting and supportive introduction to cabin life.
- Special evening experiences: Campers enjoy evening games, worship, and nighttime fun that aren’t part of regular Day Camp.
- Confidence-building: The overnight experience helps campers practice independence and prepares them for future Overnight Camp sessions.
- Trusted staff support: Our trained counselors guide campers every step of the way, keeping the experience safe, encouraging, and fun.
What Stays the Same
- Daily outdoor adventures
- Swimming, crafts, games, and nature exploration
- Family-style small group structure
- Christ-centered programming with caring role models
Still have questions? Reach out to us anytime at (501) 821-3063 or summercamp@ferncliff.org. We are happy to answer any of your questions. You can also check our FAQ page.
Discovery Camp
Dates: June 21-23, July 5-7, July 12-15 Grades: 1-3
3-Day Overnight Camp
This camp is perfect for first-time campers! Spend 3 days and 2 nights (Sunday-Tuesday) experiencing many of our traditional camp activities, from swimming and campfires to the Shady Chute! And don’t forget worship and Bible Exploration in the great outdoors, and making all kinds of new friends! Our staff will provide your kiddos with plenty of love, attention, and guidance as they experience camp for the first time.Rates: $519 | $449 | $399
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Day Camp Discovery
Grades: Entering 1st–3rd
Dates: June 21–26, July 5–10
Full Day Camp Week + 1 Overnight
This hybrid camp experience gives younger campers a fun mix of day camp and a first taste of overnight camp. For most of the week, campers enjoy classic Day Camp—daily drop-off and pick-up, outdoor activities, and time with their family group. At the end of the week, they stay at camp for one night on Thursday, where they get to try out evening activities, worship, and sleep in a cabin! It’s a gentle yet exciting way for campers to build confidence and discover what overnight camp is all about.Rates: $419 | $379 | $339
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Day Camp - Pathfinders
Dates: July 13-17 Grades: 3rd–5th
Full Day Camp Week + 1 Overnight
This camp is perfect for campers who are ready to try out overnight—but not for the whole week. Monday through Wednesday, follow the familiar Day Camp routine, full of outdoor fun and group activities. On Thursday, Pathfinders will stay overnight in the Belden Pond Cabins. They join Overnight Campers for dinner in the Dining Hall, evening activity, energizers, and Vespers before settling in for the night. It’s a great step up for campers who love Day Camp and want to experience just a taste of Overnight Camp!Rates: $419 | $379 | $339
Get More Info RegisterWhy three prices?
Recognizing that families have different abilities to pay, Ferncliff has a voluntary fee program. You choose the price that is most suitable for your family. No matter what price you choose, the amenities, activities, and camp experience are the same. It’s a way to make camp more affordable for more families. Tier 1 represents the true cost of camp, Tier 2 is the partially-subsidized cost, and Tier 3 is the subsidized cost of camp.
