Peniel Bible Camp

Hello, Ohio residents! Are you seeking a unique retreat that combines outdoor adventure with spiritual growth and a welcoming community atmosphere? If you've been wondering about "camps near me" or "retreat centers in Ohio" that offer more than just a typical getaway, then it’s time to learn about Peniel Bible Camp in Fredericktown. Nestled in Chesterville, just a few miles from the entrance for some locals, this camp is a vibrant hub that offers a truly distinct experience for all ages.

Peniel Bible Camp is not just a place to stay; it's a ministry of the Ohio Bible Fellowship, dedicated to providing a Christ-centered program for "spiritual refreshment and relaxation." As one first-time visitor to a ladies' retreat enthusiastically shared, "We had a marvelous time! The grounds are beautiful, with a huge lake, walking trails, canoeing, paddle boats, a zip line, and an axe throwing area just to name a few of the things to do." This highlights the wide array of activities available, ensuring there's something for everyone.

The camp prides itself on its welcoming environment and nurturing atmosphere. Guests consistently praise the staff, noting, "The staff were all very nice and helpful," and expressing a desire to "definitely go back." Whether you're attending a youth camp, a family retreat, or a specialized event, Peniel Bible Camp aims to create a memorable and impactful experience where guests can truly "enjoy meeting God face to face." Let's explore the various facets that make this Fredericktown gem a remarkable option for your next Ohio adventure.

Peniel Bible Camp is situated at 3260 OH-314, Fredericktown, OH 43019, USA. For Ohio residents, this location offers a convenient and accessible retreat, making it an ideal choice for various events and getaways. The camp is described as being "just north of Columbus and centrally located between Cleveland, Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Detroit, and Pittsburgh," emphasizing its strategic position for visitors across Ohio and neighboring states.

The camp is set on an expansive "360 acres of forest and field along with two large lakes," providing a sprawling and natural environment. This extensive property ensures plenty of space for outdoor activities and quiet reflection, truly immersing visitors in the Ohio countryside. Being on OH-314, a well-maintained state route, means that accessing the camp is straightforward, typically involving easy drives from major population centers.

For those living within a few miles, as one reviewer mentioned, the camp is an ever-present, intriguing landmark that, upon visiting, reveals itself as an unexpected haven. This balance of central accessibility and a vast, natural setting allows Peniel Bible Camp to serve as a convenient yet deeply immersive destination for individuals, families, and groups looking for a spiritual and recreational experience in Ohio.

• Diverse Lodging Options: Accommodates various group sizes and preferences with:
  • 8 rustic cabins (sleep 16 each)
  • 6 lakefront cabins (sleep 2-6 each, two with bathrooms)
  • 5 A-frame cabins (sleep 6-12 each, all with bathrooms and varying kitchen capacity)
  • 1 staff cabin (sleeps 10, five bedrooms with central bathroom)
  • Future plans for new cabins with indoor bathrooms.
• RV Hook-ups: Offers 5 RV hook-ups with water and electric, though no dump capability is mentioned.
• Dining Services: Provides "breakfast, lunch, and dinner" with "plentiful and delicious" food, served in Ashbrook Hall, an 8000 sq. ft. dining/meeting hall with a commercial kitchen.
• Meeting & Worship Spaces: Includes Ashbrook Hall, a Recreation building (game tables, fellowship area, snack shop, camp store), a Rustic Chapel (seating for ~200), and multiple Outdoor Devotional Spots.
• Extensive Activities & Recreation: A wide array of on-site activities, including:
  • A huge lake for swimming (with attractions like a Blob, Slide, Trapeze), canoeing, paddle boats, and fishing.
  • 700' zip line.
  • Axe throwing area.
  • Walking/Hiking trails (e.g., Lakeside Nature Trail, Sunset Lookout).
  • Soccer field, multi-purpose court (basketball, volleyball, tennis), sand volleyball court, disc golf course, foot golf course, human foosball, gaga ball, 9-square.
  • Rifle and archery ranges.
  • Challenge course, Low Ropes.
  • Pedal kart track, Bikes, Tubing (likely for lake).
  • Rock wall, Crate Stacking, Gym Swing (High Adventure).
  • Tractor rides.
• Snack Shop/Camp Store: On-site shop selling "shirts, sweat shirts, hoodies, books," snacks, and providing a large area for board games.
• Clean Bathhouses/Shower Houses: Individual bathrooms/shower houses are available, located "a very short walk away" from older cabins, and are noted as being "clean" and "nice."
• Craft Activities: Organized crafts, such as a "door hanger, with paint and lots of stencils, flowers etc.," are part of retreat programming.
• Fire Pits: Several outdoor areas with fire pits and seating (chairs or swings) for communal gatherings.
• Benches by the Lake: Designated spots for relaxation and enjoying the water views.
• Speaker/Chapel Messages: Regular "chapel messages" and "wonderful," "encouraging and uplifting" speakers are a core part of the camp's Christ-centered program.

• Christ-Centered Mission: At its core, Peniel Bible Camp focuses on "encouraging believers to be like Christ, evangelizing the lost to know Christ, and edifying one another as we magnify Christ," providing a unique spiritual emphasis.
• Vast and Beautiful Grounds: Situated on "360 acres of forest and field along with two large lakes," the camp offers a sprawling, scenic, and immersive natural environment.
• Extensive Range of Activities: From water sports like canoeing and zip-lining to land-based fun like axe throwing, disc golf, and a variety of sports courts, there's an impressive array of options to keep all ages engaged.
• Delicious and Plentiful Food: Guests consistently praise the meals, noting that "the food was plentiful and delicious."
• Supportive and Friendly Staff: The staff are highly regarded for being "very nice and helpful," contributing significantly to a welcoming and positive experience.
• Diverse Lodging Options: Caters to various needs with rustic cabins, lakefront cabins (some with bathrooms), A-frame cabins (all with bathrooms), and RV hookups, with plans for new cabin construction.
• Community and Fellowship Focus: Designed to foster connections, with "fellowship areas," "board games," and opportunities to "meet God face to face."
• Adaptable for Different Groups: Hosts a wide range of programs including youth, teen, junior, family camps, ladies' retreats, couples' retreats, and various school and leadership events.

Based on the provided information, Peniel Bible Camp does not explicitly list ongoing promotional discounts for individual bookings. Their fee structure is designed to be "reasonable rates help to cover camp operational costs," with rates varying based on "peak or off season, and whole or partial camp use."

However, as a camp deeply rooted in its mission and community, they do offer ways to get involved that indirectly support affordability or future improvements:

• "Adopt a Cabin" Program: This initiative allows individuals, churches, or groups to donate resources or volunteer time to repair, improve, and maintain cabins, which helps keep overall costs down for campers in the long run.
• Volunteer Opportunities: The camp relies on a "volunteer staff" who are vital to its ministry, which helps them keep operational costs manageable.

For specific pricing for various camps (Junior, Teen, Family, Retreats) or facility rentals, it is best to consult their official website or contact them directly. Their staff can provide detailed schedules, fees, and any current availability.

Ready to experience the enriching environment of Peniel Bible Camp? Here’s how you can get in touch:

Address: 3260 OH-314, Fredericktown, OH 43019, USA

Phone: (740) 505-5621

Mobile Phone: +1 740-505-5621

For Ohio residents seeking a meaningful and active outdoor experience, Peniel Bible Camp in Fredericktown offers a truly unique and highly suitable option. Its core identity as a Christ-centered ministry provides a distinct focus on spiritual growth and fellowship, appealing to those looking for a retreat that nourishes both body and soul. The welcoming and "very nice and helpful" staff consistently receive high praise, ensuring a supportive and comfortable environment that many Ohioans will appreciate.

The camp's expansive "360 acres of forest and field along with two large lakes" creates a beautiful and immersive natural setting, providing ample space for exploration and relaxation right in our own state. What truly sets Peniel Bible Camp apart for locals is the sheer breadth of activities available on-site. From exhilarating options like a 700' zip line and axe throwing to more serene pursuits such as canoeing, paddle boating, fishing, and extensive walking trails, there's an activity to suit every interest and energy level. This means families and groups can enjoy a full, engaging itinerary without ever needing to leave the property.

While some cabins are older and currently lack indoor plumbing (a "true camp" experience as one reviewer noted), the clear communication about upcoming renovations and the convenient access to "clean" and "nice" bathhouses ensure that comfort is still a priority. The provision of plentiful and delicious meals, along with a snack shop and various communal areas, further enhances the overall experience, fostering a strong sense of community.

For Ohio families, youth groups, or individuals seeking a break that combines outdoor adventure with an uplifting spiritual component, Peniel Bible Camp offers exceptional value. Its central location, diverse amenities, and dedicated staff make it a compelling destination for creating lasting memories and finding refreshment close to home. It's a place where you can experience the beauty of Ohio's outdoors while also benefiting from an encouraging and supportive environment.

Peniel Bible Camp

3260 OH-314, Fredericktown, OH 43019, USA