St. Christopher Day Camp Out

Join Orthodox Christians from across Florida (and beyond) for a spiritually enriching and nature-immersed weekend at the St. Christopher Day Camp Out! This faith and family-oriented primitive camping event celebrates the Holy Martyr Christopher of Lycea, the Christ-bearer and protector of travelers, whose memory is honored in the Orthodox Church on May 9.

Event Details:

• Dates: Friday, May 8 – Sunday, May 10, 2026
• Location: Lake Shore Group Camp, Ocala National Forest, 8340 N E 147th Avenue Rd, Silver Springs, FL 34488

This primitive camping weekend invites Orthodox and Orthodox-seeking adults, children, and families to step away from modern distractions, pitch tents under the stars, and experience God's creation in simplicity while growing closer to Christ and one another. Perfect for anyone seeking faith and fellowship in the outdoors.

Highlights Include:

• Primitive tent camping: bring your own tents, sleeping bags, and gear—no hookups or cabins; group facilities include a covered pavilion, picnic tables, a grill, and restrooms with showers.
• Campfire gatherings: for Orthodox storytelling, family sharing, and reflections on how we bear Christ.
• Outdoor activities: such as hiking, lake exploration (fishing permitted in designated areas), nature walks, stargazing, and games.
• Shared meals: potluck style -  bring food to share.
• Special highlight: On Saturday, May 9 (the feast of St. Christopher), we will celebrate the Divine Liturgy outdoors (weather permitting) or in a suitable covered area.

All of the proceeds and support from this event will go toward Camp St. Christopher, the beloved Orthodox Christian youth camp in Central Florida. For a decade, Camp St. Christopher has nurtured the faith of young people ages 8-18 through week-long summer sessions filled with prayer, worship, adventure, and fellowship all in the beautiful settings of Florida's natural landscapes. By participating in this camp-out, you're helping sustain this vital ministry that introduces Orthodox youth to a deeper life in Christ amid God's creation. An offering will be collected at the liturgy to support Camp St. Christopher.

Come experience the joy of praying, playing, and camping together as an extended Orthodox family!

Registration & Info: 

Space is limited to 50 people for camping at the group site. Early registration is recommended! 

Reach out to contact@campstchristopher.com with any questions.

Those not interested in camping may join us on May 9 for the outdoor liturgy and fellowship. We ask that you register so that we can get a head count of who is planning to come. This will also allow us to share any updates and information with you as the event approaches.

If you were not able to make it into the group camp site, additional camp sites are available 15 minutes down the road at Salt Springs Recreation Area.  Reservations for their campsites can be made at: recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233920

All campers must be packed up and out of the group campsite by 10:00 AM on Sunday. We encourage everyone to attend Sunday services at one of the Orthodox churches in the area on their way home.

Come bear Christ with us in the beauty of His creation at Lake Shore Group Camp and help carry forward the legacy of Camp St. Christopher. We look forward to seeing you there! 

Glory to Jesus Christ! Glory forever! ☦️