Camp Kaleo sees 17 salvations in first year of independent operation

FORSYTH, Ga. — In its first year of operation under Friends of Kaleo, the camp saw increased attendance in both day and overnight campers. During the 2025 season, Camp Kaleo hosted 693 day and overnight campers, supported by a staff of 30. The year included 17 first-time professions of faith, four rededications, and at least 15 faith discussions with campers.

The Georgia Baptist Mission Board reached an agreement in December 2024 with Friends of Kaleo, Inc. for the organization to take over the operation of the camp. Friends of Kaleo is a nonprofit formed by former staff members, campers, churches, pastors, missionaries, and families committed to sustaining the camp’s ministry.

Friends of Kaleo is responsible for camp operations and liabilities, including summer camps, retreats, staffing, and capital improvements, while the GBMB retains ownership of the property. The three-year agreement includes an option for the board to sell the property to Friends of Kaleo at the conclusion of the term.

Camp Director Hope Castillo said the 2025 season demonstrates God’s faithfulness as well as renewed momentum under the new operational model. “As we look back on 2025, our hearts are overflowing with gratitude,” she said. “God is strengthening His Kingdom here in middle Georgia through Camp Kaleo. What began nearly 40 years ago through the Georgia Baptist Convention, and continued this year through Friends of Kaleo, is a step of faith.”

Day camp participation reached 326 campers, a 13% increase from the previous year, while overnight camp attendance grew by 33% to 367 campers.

With one year of independent operations complete and another summer of ministry ahead, Castillo pointed to Ephesians 3:20–21 as a reminder of God’s ability to do “far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think.”

"This year in particular has been far more abundant than we expected and full of momentum and meaningful growth,” said Castillo. “We were able to invest in the generation God is entrusting to us.”

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Registration is now open for Summer Camp 2026 via this link: www.campkaleo.org. For those who are interested in joining Friends of Kaleo in supporting the ministry of Camp Kaleo, the website is www.friendsofkaleo.com.