Camp Countdown: How Prayer Built a Summer Camp from Impossible to Ready

Camp Wawona is preparing for a spirit-filled summer camp season! Delinda Hamilton, the summer camp director, states that thirty-five staff members have arrived at Camp Wawona. Laughter is filling the air, preparations are in progress, and smiles are growing as the summer camp staff prepare music, skits, a challenge course, a pool, and most importantly, their hearts for the way that God is going to make a difference this summer through Camp Wawona.

Divine Recruitment

Staff members are currently in training, which for several staff members includes certifications to lead the challenge course and rock-climbing wall.

"Most camps do a lot of recruiting and some praying," Delinda observed. "This summer, we haven't had any time to do recruiting, so we've done a lot of praying."

The power of the prayer team praying for Wawona has brought some of the most incredible summer camp staff to Wawona this summer.  One staff member turned down offers from five different camps, saying simply, "I feel like God wants me at Camp Wawona." Another declined a high-level leadership position at another camp without knowing her salary or role at Wawona.

"I think God is calling me to be at Camp Wawona this summer," she told Delinda after praying about the decision. We are forever grateful for the staff that God has brought to Camp Wawona this summer.

A Cook Returns Home

The most challenging position to fill proved to be food service director — a demanding role requiring someone to prepare three meals a day for campers and staff throughout the summer. After months of dead ends and declined offers, the prayer team's persistence paid off.

Paulette Bair, who served as food service director during Wawona's thriving years a decade ago, initially declined the position due to other commitments.

"Wawona has my heart," she had said, but her schedule made coming to Wawona seem impossible.

A month later, she texted Delinda: "Be praying. I think there might be a chance."

Two days later, Bair committed to the entire summer, traveling from Ohio to help restore the kitchen to its former glory.

"God really wanted me here," Bair reflected. "Not just to help you, but it's for me too. I've already been so blessed."

Looking Ahead

Camp Wawona represents more than a summer destination for many families. Multiple generations have walked its grounds, formed friendships, and deepened their faith among the pine trees and mountain air.

"Wawona is truly sacred ground, and we take our job very seriously," Delinda said. "We're grateful for people who still support Camp Wawona and want to send their kids to experience nature, God, and friendship."

Registration remains open through the start date of each camp session. While last-minute registration is possible, staff recommend early enrollment to complete required medical forms.

Major renovations are transforming buildings, the pool is up to working condition, and clean cabins await young occupants. The camp that seemed impossible to revive just weeks ago, stands ready for a summer of ministry.  After numerous problems with leaks and broken pipes, Brian Simmons, the year-round camp director, spent countless hours fixing and patching leaks. Camp Wawona now has a working pool with 175,000 gallons of water waiting for campers to come and enjoy.   

"God is making a way when there seemed to be no way," Delinda said. "He's truly opening doors."

The Camp Wawona community asks for continued prayers as they prepare to welcome youth from across the country, including staff from Ohio, Michigan, Washington, Oregon, Mexico, and California who have answered God's call to serve.

For a camp that appeared to face insurmountable challenges, the 2025 summer season promises to be one of renewal, growth, and answered prayers.

Written by Justin Kim