Camp Lake Stephens

Since 1946, Camp Lake Stephens has been a place where countless lives have been positively impacted through its various ministries. While summer is the busiest time of year, the camp is also open throughout the non-summer months for retreats, church groups, school field trips, college organizations, community events, and much more. As a camp staff, it is our hope and prayer that all who enter our gates will experience the transformative love of Jesus Christ while immersed in God's Creation. You are invited to come and be a part of the Camp Lake Stephens story!

What People Say

Here's what some of our former campers and parents have to say about their experiences at Camp Lake Stephens:

"My experiences here changed my life for the better. This place created some of my fondest memories and gave me some of my most favorite friends. I am forever grateful and blessed." - Former Camper & Staff Member

"Amazing camp. My kids love this camp and can't wait to go every year. Fantastic counselors that know how to let the kids have fun but keep them safe at the same time." - Summer Camp Parent

"The cherished friendships that are made are life long. Love the staff and all they do for the campers!" - Summer Camp Parent

Our History

In the 1930s, United Methodist Minister, Dr. John Ellett Stephens, developed and implemented several outdoor camping experiences for the children and youth of north Mississippi. These camps were held at various locations including Castalian Springs, Greenwood Springs, and Pickwick Lake. Dr. Stephens believed that a permanent camp should be established within the bounds of the North Mississippi Annual Conference. He shared this dream with the Junior Chamber of Commerce of Oxford and received enthusiastic support for this special project. Shortly afterwards, the Oxford Chamber of Commerce purchased 87 acres of land and donated it to the United Methodist Church for the formation of a summer camp. Dr. Stephens, along with several other United Methodist ministers and lay people, immediately began work preparing for the first summer of campers. The first camp was held in July of 1946 and named Camp Lake Stephens, in honor of the Dr. Stephens' leadership in establishing the camp. Camp Lake Stephens is one of the oldest camps in the state of Mississippi and a vital ministry of the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church. The camp has provided quality camping experiences for children and youth every summer for over 75 years. Over the past 20 years, Camp Lake Stephens has built on the summer camp foundation and expanded its ministry in an effort to be a year-round camp facility for children, youth, and adults of all ages.

Mission Statement

Camp Lake Stephens, a United Methodist Camp and Retreat Center, is committed to being a place where children, youth, and adults can encounter God and respond in faith to God's call to transform the world.

Russ Polsgrove, Executive Director

Russ grew up in Memphis, but has spent most of his life in Mississippi. He's been involved at CLS as a camper, counselor, chaplain, retreat speaker, camp parent, and is now our Executive Director. He even married his wife at CLS. He and Anna have four children (Lucy, Rivers, Grace, and Zuri). Before joining our staff in the spring of 2022, Russ worked in youth ministry for over 20 years in various United Methodist Churches and as the Mississippi Conference Youth Coordinator. He is passionate about helping people of all ages experience the life-changing love of Jesus Christ.