Introduction to Young Women Camp

“Yea, come unto Christ, and be perfected in him” (Moroni 10:32).

“A fountain of pure water” and “a thicket of small trees” (Mosiah 18:5)—Mormon used these words to describe the place where Alma hid after fleeing from King Noah. Those trees and that water became “beautiful . . . to the eyes” of the people who joined Alma there. Why? Because in that place, Alma and his people “came to the knowledge of their Redeemer” (Mosiah 18:30).

The location of your Young Women camp—whether it is in a forest, in a park, on a beach, or in a meetinghouse—can become beautiful to the eyes of all who gather there. Like Alma and his people, young women need a place where they can gather together, separate from worldly influences, feel the Spirit of the Lord, grow in unity and love, and strengthen their faith and testimonies of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

The Church encourages camp for young women. Under the direction of priesthood leaders and with consideration of the needs of families, ward and stake Young Women presidencies determine the frequency and extent of the camp program. A multiday camp is generally held each year on a ward or stake level. Other day or overnight camps may be held at the discretion of priesthood leaders to meet local needs and interests. The principles in this book should be applied in all planning.

Camp is for all young women eligible to participate in the Young Women program. Nonmembers who are willing to abide by Church standards may also be included. Leaders should determine which young women will be old enough by the date of the camp and invite them to participate. Parents and leaders may counsel together on any exceptions to the age guideline with consideration of maturity and peer relationships. (See Handbook 2: Administering the Church [2010], 10.8.6.)

Young Women presidencies, camp leaders, and youth camp leaders should use the principles in this guide to plan and organize camp. These principles will help adult and youth camp leaders plan a camp experience for the young women in each Church unit, regardless of location and circumstances. A camp that is planned and organized according to these inspired principles will help the young women grow in the gospel of Jesus Christ, develop friendships, and increase in self-reliance and outdoor skills.

Alma and his people did not stay at the Waters of Mormon, but their experiences at the Waters of Mormon stayed with them. Likewise, as the young women return to their homes, their experiences at camp will stay with and strengthen them because they have come to a greater knowledge of their Redeemer.