Church camp a community tradition in Russellville

More than 50 people attended the annual church camp at Clodfelter's Pond near Russellville in the last weekend of June.

RUSSELLVILLE -- The last weekend of June brings together young and old for church camp at Clodfelter's Pond.

For one weekend in June every year, community leaders, parents, grandparents, friends and relatives come together to learn, to make new friendships and renew old, to worship and to share and enjoy the beauty of nature.

For many, this hidden paradise is called a"'little piece of heaven." Some recall this place as their first experience at attempting to swim or that first night spent camping under the stars.

For 52 years, Clodfelter's Pond has greeted one generation after another. Each generation brings new energy and life to this place.

This past weekend more than 100 friends and family gathered on Sunday morning to share friendships, families and food. This year the community was surprised by the donation of a newer gas cook stove for the kitchen and hot and cold water to the cook station. This primitive setting has only the basic necessities to feed the hungry campers.

The group gathered around the "Peace Pole" for one last time on Sunday before leaving Clodfelters Pond.

Many thanks to Gene and Phylis Clodfelter and family for hosting the weekend retreat.