Mission and History
By Don Brewster
Board Secretary and Historian

Our Mission: Rockford Christian Camp’s fundamental purpose is to HONOR GOD by bringing our campers and staff to a more MATURE LIVING FAITH. The goal of Christian Camping is to promote spiritual, mental, physical and social development. It is also our desire to grow in appreciation of God’s creative works and see his design in all that he has made. We believe in working with campers as individuals and encouraging definite spiritual decisions at a time appropriate for that camper.

Youth Oriented: The present emphasis is on youth programs, primarily summer camp sessions and holiday retreats. The camp is open to family camping the week of the Fourth of July. Congregational and adult groups can reserve the camp for retreats and special programs when youth camp is not in session.

A Well-Rounded Program: A balanced program of Christian Education, recreation and social interaction is offered. Christian principles are stressed as much on the field as they are in classes. Presently RCC offers three one week summer sessions. Children who have completed second grade through fifth may attend the Junior Session, those completing sixth through eight attend the Intermediate Session and those completing ninth through twelfth attend Senior Camp.

Organization and History: The camp was founded in 1954 as Tri-State Christian Camp and operated on the rented facilities of Camp Rotary south of Rockford, Illinois. In 1957 the present name was adopted. RCC is a registered Illinois not-for-profit corporation overseen by a board of 15 Christian directors elected from its general membership. These directors are all members of Churches of Christ. The camp also has a 501(c) 3 tax exemption from the IRS.

New Site Purchased: By 1975, high rent and limited dates led the board to purchase a 50-acre property on the Kishwaukee River just down stream from Camp Rotary. The site was heavily wooded with a cleared picnic area and playing field. To be operational for the ’76 camp session eight cabins were built and the open picnic pavilion was enclosed for use as a mess hall. All this was done with volunteer help. Since that time a modern shower house, a directors cabin, a basketball court and a pavilion have been added.