Church camps are closing because of declining use, according to a recent AP story, but not so in Holston Conference. This year's summer camp attendance was down only slightly -- 3,050 compared to 3,200 in 2008. At the same time, Holston's four camps are re-energizing with birthday celebrations and capital fundraising campaigns that reveal church members' steadfast commitment to camp ministry. Here's part 2 of a progress report series:

THIS YEAR Camp Lookout celebrates a half century of service as a summer camp. The camp has changed in the past few years with the addition of a lake, a lakeside worship center, a new road, a new director’s residence, an on-site horse program, a new bathhouse, a game court, and a connecting handicap accessible walkway. Churches in the Cleveland and Chattanooga Districts along with many individuals have given generously to improve the camp’s grounds and facilities in order to better serve the children and youth of the area. New cabin construction and renovations on Lookout Lodge are next on the horizon as funds become available. The next half century offers many opportunities and challenges as Camp Lookout continues to offer Christ.

Coming next: Camp Dickenson and Camp Wesley Woods. Read Buffalo Mountain's report.

For more information about Holston Conference camps, contact Charles Maynard.