Camp Lake Stephens

Overview

In the 1930’s, Methodist Minister Dr. John Ellett Stephens developed and implemented several outdoor camping experiences for children and youth around North Mississippi. These camps were held at various locations around Mississippi, including Pickwick Lake. Dr. Stephens believed that a permanent camp should be established within the bounds of North Mississippi.

He shared this dream with the Junior Chamber of Commerce of Oxford and received enthusiastic support for this special project. Shortly afterwards, the Oxford Chamber of Commerce purchased 87 acres of land and donated it for the formation of a summer camp. Dr. Stephens, along with several other Methodist ministers and lay people, immediately began work preparing for the first summer of campers. The first camp was held in July of 1946 and named Camp Lake Stephens, in honor of Dr. Stephens’ leadership in establishing the camp.

Camp Lake Stephens is one of the oldest camps in the state of Mississippi and a vital ministry for churches and individuals across the country. Camp Lake Stephens has provided quality camping experiences for children and youth every summer for over 75 years. For the last 20 years, Camp Lake Stephens has built on the summer camp foundation and expanded its ministry to be a year-round camp facility for people of all ages.