Why Campers Return to Camp Starrigan Year After Year

Nearly 500 campers travelled down the bumpy, gravel road leading to the beautiful grounds of Camp Starrigan this summer, arriving at a place many consider a home away from home. Nestled in the woods near the small town of Musgravetown, Newfoundland and Labrador, Camp Starrigan has long been a place of retreat for children, youth, and even adults.

Throughout the 2026 camping season, programs such as Adventure Camp, Teen Camp, music-focused camps, and family camps took place. These experiences gave campers a chance to reconnect with friends through new experiences, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

“I come to camp because I’ve been coming here since I was a baby; it’s my happy place and I get to learn a lot about God,” says Payton, who has attended Camp Starrigan for 10 years.

Payton’s experience speaks to why many campers come back year after year. Beyond the day-to-day activities, camp offers a strong sense of community and belonging, where young people can grow, learn, and build meaningful relationships.

For Jeremy, the reason for returning is simple. “I come to camp just for the fun of it,” he says. Now in his second year, Jeremy says he can’t pick just one favourite thing because he loves “everything.”

The impact Camp Starrigan has had on the lives of the campers, both this summer and all the ones before it, is immeasurable. Being at camp allows campers to disconnect from the distractions of daily life and immerse themselves in nature and community, an increasingly rare experience in today’s world. On top of this, campers are encouraged to build confidence, try new things, develop skills, and explore their faith in a welcoming and supportive environment.

As another summer comes to a close, Payton and Jeremy’s comments serve as a reminder of what makes Camp Starrigan so special: a place where every camper can find joy, belonging, and adventure.

By Janessa Hynes