For six decades, Camp Rockfish has been a beacon of adventure, faith, and friendship drawing campers from near and far to the beautiful outdoors of North Carolina. Nestled along Lake Upchurch, the camp has cultivated a legacy of building Christian community, creation care and outdoor education, leadership, and Christian values. God has utilized Camp Rockfish in powerful ways since 1964. This year, Camp Rockfish proudly marks its 60th anniversary—a milestone that celebrates its long history of Christian impact and looks forward to continued outreach for years to come.
A History Rooted in Faith and Community
Established in 1964, Camp Rockfish was created as a place for children and adults to experience the joys of outdoor activities and build connections in a faith-centered environment. Initially serving as a small camp and retreat center, Rockfish has significantly expanded over the years, adding new facilities and outdoor program areas while its mission has always remained the same: to inspire and empower campers and guests in the Christian community.
The camp’s growth mirrors the dedication of its staff, volunteers, and the support of the surrounding communities. Counselors, who view their roles not just as jobs but also as opportunities to profoundly affect young lives, have guided generations of campers. From children experiencing summer camp for the first time to families and groups enjoying retreats, Camp Rockfish has welcomed tens of thousands of visitors over the years, each leaving with cherished memories and meaningful experiences for a lifetime.
Rockfish Camp & Retreat Center celebrated its 60th Anniversary on Saturday, September 28. Guests were treated to a Camp Celebration event during the day where they relived camp memories, reconnected with friends, and shared stories of impact and relationships. Rockfish staff and friends prepared dinner. Rev. Dr. Belton Joyner led the invocation. After dinner, guests enjoyed moving speeches from individuals who each had their own story to tell. Guest speakers included Rev. David Blackman, Gateway District Superintendent, and a video message from Dr. John Bergland, for whom the Bergland Adult Retreat Center is named. The evening concluded with a live auction and benediction offered by Rev. Sunny Limm, Fairway District Superintendent.
As Camp Rockfish enters its seventh decade, the ministry will continue to embody the spirit of Christian community, belonging, and adventure. The future is filled with broad possibilities for expanding connections across the NC Conference and the whole of North Carolina and beyond. For thousands of campers and guests, this 60th-anniversary milestone is a reminder of the transformative experiences and many memories made at Rockfish that will be available for future generations to come.
2024 Annual Fund
Rockfish Camp & Retreat Center is currently raising money through its 2024 Annual Fund. The 2024 Annual Fund seeks to nurture young hearts and deepen faith, offering scholarships, facility improvements, and program support to provide transformative, Christ-centered camp experiences for all children.