There are so many options available to any church wanting to take their people on a retreat and enjoy a little time in nature. These ideas can be used for both children and adults and can be fun and creative for both. The best way to start is to try and be as creative as you can possibly be. The more unique the idea it seems the more it will keep the interest of all participants.
First start of with creating unusual meals ideas. Do not just say we will just roast hot dogs on a stick and that will be a good meal. This is a tried and tired meal for campouts and can be avoided by trying something new. What about starting off with a little meat, potato and maybe an half an onion and make some kind of Kebob for everyone. You can use whatever ingredients you want and each person can make them to their flavor likings. Once everyone has their Kebob made you can cook these over a hot fire, be sure to turn over so they do not burn, and enjoy. You could also try using foods that are mentioned in the bible to eat on for one or two meals. This can be a fun and different experience for everyone.
Treasure hunts are a great way to be creative and have a lot of fun with a variety of people and age groups. You can treasure hunt for just about anything from snickers bars to real money. This will not only keep the interest of the people involved but also fill a lot of the time slot for the trip. This game can be played out throughout many hours to even a day or two depending on how big of an event you want it to be. You may want to draw up maps for each group to make it easier for them to navigate around the area, especially if this area is new to most the people participating.
You can take this time to learn and study one of the books in the Bible. For example you can take a little time each day to go through a chapter and discuss what it is trying to say. You can break down each verse and try to help everyone understand why this verse is so important. Everyone has a different way to explain what they are reading so each person can learn from the next. Your group may also want to find some good Christian based movies to enjoy on your retreat.
Taking the opportunity to visit a campground or park that gives everyone the chance to enjoy some canoeing and floating can make for a very exciting trip. Most people never get the chance to go floating so this will be a unique chance for them to try something new. There are many places in Missouri were your entire group can float along some of the best and beautiful areas in the state. Be sure to bring all the items you will need, such as life jackets, coolers and first aid kit, to name a few. This retreat can mean the beginning of new friendships for everyone involved. The most important thing to remember, as with any trip, is to be sure you plan everything ahead and bring all the things you think you will need. Be prepared for anything so that your whole group can enjoy a fun and memorable trip.
