Camp Asbury

For Ohioans seeking a place to connect, learn, and grow in a natural and supportive environment, Camp Asbury stands as a distinguished year-round camp and retreat center. Located in Hiram, Ohio, this facility operates as a ministry of the East Ohio Conference of the United Methodist Church, yet warmly invites people of all faiths to utilize its extensive facilities and participate in its diverse programs. Since its establishment in 1957, Camp Asbury has been a cornerstone for youth summer camps, congregational retreats, family reunions, leadership events, and outdoor education programs, making it a truly versatile resource for communities across Ohio.

Camp Asbury is accredited by the American Camp Association, underscoring its commitment to high standards of safety, quality, and programming. While it is not a traditional "campground" in the sense of offering individual, open-to-the-public campsites for nightly stays, it provides comprehensive accommodations and activities for groups, making it an ideal destination for organized retreats and educational experiences. Its mission is deeply rooted in connecting campers and staff to the natural world through direct experience, fostering personal growth, and building community. This article will provide a detailed overview of Camp Asbury, highlighting its location, array of services, unique features, and why it is a prime choice for Ohio locals looking for a structured and enriching outdoor experience.

Camp Asbury is officially located at 10776 Asbury Rd, Hiram, OH 44234-9702. While the provided initial address for the query was "34201 Eddy Rd, Willoughby Hills, OH 44094, USA," public information consistently indicates the Hiram address as its primary and correct location. Hiram is situated in Portage County, Ohio, offering a tranquil, rural setting that is nonetheless easily accessible from major population centers in Northeast Ohio. It's a convenient drive for residents from Cleveland, Akron, Canton, and Youngstown, allowing groups to reach the camp without extensive travel.

The camp's location provides a sense of peaceful seclusion, ideal for retreats and immersive programs, while still being within a reasonable distance of essential services and amenities in nearby towns. Access to Camp Asbury is typically via well-maintained state and local roads, making it manageable for buses, vans, and private vehicles transporting groups. The natural surroundings, including extensive woodlands and open spaces, contribute to the camp's appeal as an outdoor-focused destination. Its accessibility within Northeast Ohio positions it as a practical and appealing choice for local churches, schools, non-profit organizations, and families planning gatherings that benefit from a dedicated camp environment.

Camp Asbury offers a wide array of services designed to support group retreats, camps, and outdoor education programs:

• Year-Round Retreat Facilities: The camp provides modern retreat facilities capable of accommodating a total capacity of 140 persons. This includes various centers like Shaw and Otterbein Retreat Centers (each accommodating 20-50 guests with sleeping wings, modern restrooms/showers, and meeting rooms) and Epworth Retreat Center (accommodating 15-32 persons with common dorms, leader rooms, meeting room, and equipped kitchen).
• Food Service: Guests staying in Shaw and Otterbein retreat centers typically enjoy meals in the Asbury dining hall. Epworth retreat center offers the option of preparing meals in their own kitchen or utilizing Camp Asbury's year-round food service. The camp provides three nourishing meals per day plus an evening snack during summer programs. Special dietary needs and food allergies can be accommodated with advance notice.
• Program Activities (Staff-Led, by arrangement): With advance notice (minimum one month), Asbury staff can provide assistance for authorized program activities. These include:
  • Archery Range (Grades 4 and up)
  • Low Ropes Course (Grades 5 and up)
  • High Ropes Course and Giant Swing (Grades 7 and up)
  • Waterfront Activities (Swimming and Canoeing)
  • Fishing
  • Guided Day Hikes and Night Hikes
  • Wagon Rides
  • Team Building and Group Games
  • Rock Wall Climbing (32-foot tower with 6 routes)
• Self-Directed Activities: Guests can enjoy self-directed outdoor activities such as:
  • 18-hole Disc Golf Course
  • Open Meadow for large group games
  • Three grass Volleyball Courts
  • Five miles of hiking trails for nature observation and reflection (trail maps available)
  • Two miles of the Buckeye Trail on Camp Asbury property
  • Sledding in winter
• Christian Faith Formation: As a church-related camp, faith formation is a core component. Programs include daily interactive Bible study and opportunities for large group worship.

• Comprehensive Programming: Camp Asbury excels in offering a wide range of age-appropriate programs, particularly for summer youth camps (1st-12th grade), focusing on Christian values, community building, outdoor experience, and personal development.
• Diverse Facilities: The variety of lodging options, from dorms to self-contained retreat centers, along with dining halls and extensive outdoor program areas, makes it adaptable for groups of different sizes and needs.
• Accredited by American Camp Association: This accreditation signifies adherence to high industry standards for health, safety, and program quality.
• Leadership and Team Building: Special emphasis is placed on leadership and team-building events through challenge courses (low and high ropes, giant swing) and group initiatives, led by trained staff.
• Natural Immersion: With five miles of hiking trails and two miles of the Buckeye Trail on-site, plus waterfront access for swimming and canoeing, the camp provides ample opportunities for direct engagement with nature.
• Year-Round Operation: The ability to host retreats and events throughout the year, including winter activities like sledding, enhances its utility for Ohio groups.
• Community and Spiritual Growth: The core mission of the camp is to foster relationships with God, self, and others, promote good decision-making, and provide positive role models within a Christian community.
• Versatile Event Hosting: Beyond youth camps, Camp Asbury is an attractive setting for congregational retreats, family reunions, school outdoor education programs, college/university groups, and non-profit organizations.

As a ministry-driven camp and retreat center, Camp Asbury's "promotions" often come in the form of financial aid opportunities and special themed programs rather than traditional commercial discounts. Key opportunities include:

• Summer Camp Financial Aid: The camp actively offers financial aid to help ensure that all children, regardless of their family's financial situation, can experience summer camp. This is a significant "offer" for families.
• "Give the Gift of Camp" Program: This initiative encourages individuals and groups to donate towards camp scholarships, effectively creating a promotional opportunity for campers in need.
• Specialized Summer Camp Themes: Each week of summer camp features a unique theme (e.g., "The Great Movie Camp," "Under the Sea," "Wizarding Camp"), adding variety and specialized experiences that can be considered a unique offering.
• Leadership Development Programs: High school programming includes specialized camps like "Night Owls," "Up to the Challenge," and "Counselor In Training (CIT)," which offer unique developmental opportunities.
• Fall Family Camp: An annual "Fall Family Camp" (e.g., October 10-12) is often offered, providing a specific retreat opportunity for families of all ages.
• Open House and Summer Preview Events: Camp Asbury hosts open house events (e.g., April 7th) where prospective campers and families can visit, learn about programs, and meet staff, sometimes with light refreshments. This serves as a promotional event to engage the community.

For specific rates, financial aid applications, and detailed program costs, interested parties should contact Camp Asbury directly or visit their official website's "Summer Camp" or "Retreat Information" sections.

For inquiries regarding summer camps, retreat bookings, facility rentals, or any other information about Camp Asbury, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 10776 Asbury Rd, Hiram, OH 44234, USA
• Phone: (330) 569-3171 (General Office)
• Email: info@campasbury.org

For specific inquiries related to the dining hall or special dietary needs, you may also use (330) 569-7585. It is highly recommended to contact them in advance, especially for group bookings or summer camp registrations, as programs often fill up. Their website (campasbury.org) is also an excellent resource for detailed program guides, calendars, and online forms.

For Ohio locals, Camp Asbury is an invaluable resource that extends far beyond a typical campground. Its consistent operation since 1957 and accreditation by the American Camp Association speak to its long-standing commitment to quality and safety, making it a trusted choice for families and organizations across the state. Located conveniently in Hiram, it offers a peaceful, natural escape that remains easily accessible from major Ohio cities, minimizing travel time for groups.

What truly sets Camp Asbury apart for Ohioans is its dedication to comprehensive programming and robust facilities, designed specifically for group experiences. Whether it's fostering leadership skills through high ropes courses, offering immersive outdoor education, or providing a serene environment for spiritual retreats, the camp caters to a wide spectrum of needs. It serves as a vital hub for churches, schools, and non-profits looking for a well-equipped venue to host meaningful events. Furthermore, its commitment to financial aid ensures that more Ohio children can benefit from its enriching summer camp programs, fostering personal growth and connection to nature.

By choosing Camp Asbury, Ohio locals are supporting a deeply rooted ministry that contributes significantly to the development of our youth and the strength of our communities. It’s a place where faith, fun, and fellowship intertwine, creating lasting memories and valuable experiences right here in our own backyard. Camp Asbury is not just a location; it's a legacy of positive impact on the lives of Ohioans, making it an excellent and suitable choice for anyone seeking a purpose-driven outdoor experience.

Camp Asbury

34201 Eddy Rd, Willoughby Hills, OH 44094, USA