Registration open for three camp sessions in Virginia, Maryland, and New Jersey
Camp Good Shepherd, the summer youth program of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of New Jersey, will return in 2026 with three week-long sessions across Virginia, Maryland, and New Jersey.
The program is open to young people from across the Metropolis and surrounding communities, including the greater Philadelphia region.
Each session combines daily Orthodox Christian life with outdoor recreation and group activities, creating an environment where campers can build friendships while deepening their connection to the Church.
Three Camp Locations in 2026
- Virginia Session
- July 5–11
- Ages: 8–18
- Camp Piankatank, Hartfield, Virginia
- Maryland Session
- July 12–18
- Ages: 8–18
- Camp Wo-Me-To, Jarrettsville, Maryland
- New Jersey Session
- July 12–18
- Ages: 8–18
- YMCA Camp Linwood MacDonald, Sandyston, New Jersey
Faith at the Center of Camp Life
The Orthodox Christian faith is central to the Camp Good Shepherd experience. Each day begins and ends in the chapel with morning and evening prayers.
Campers also participate in daily Orthodox Life sessions built around an annual spiritual theme. These discussions give young people the opportunity to explore the teachings and traditions of the Church in a way that connects with their everyday lives.
During the week, campers also have the opportunity to participate in the sacrament of Holy Confession, and each session includes the celebration of the Divine Liturgy.
Activities and Summer Camp Traditions
Alongside the spiritual program, Camp Good Shepherd offers kayaking and canoeing, swimming, archery, ropes courses, zipline challenges, and team-building exercises, with activities varying by location.
Daily elective sessions also allow campers to explore creative and cultural interests, including arts and crafts, athletics, Byzantine music, and Greek dancing.
Evenings typically include group activities led by the counseling staff, followed by cabin devotionals that conclude each day.
Registration and Contact Information
For more information about Camp Good Shepherd 2026, families can contact:
- Fr. Symeon Williams
- 908-301-0500
- frsymeon@nj.goarch.org
or visit: https://www.nj.goarch.org/camp-good-shepherd
Featured image: Campers canoe on the lake during a summer activity at Camp Good Shepherd. Photo courtesy of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of New Jersey.
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