Joy El Camps and Retreats
Private
Christian camp ministry on 20 acres in south-central Pennsylvania near Greencastle (since 1974), offering summer day camps for grades K-5, Energizer camps for grades 2-5, and Jumpstart camps for grades 6-9. Programming blends chapel and devotions with recreation including archery, go-karts, a climbing wall, and a pool.
The practical details
We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact Joy El Camps and Retreats directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
Camps nearby
Accreditations & licensing
As stated by the camp or listed in the accrediting organization's directory — confirm current status with the accreditor.
Google Reviews
Powered by Google
★★★★★Chae ShiaoWe had a wonderful experience at Joy El for our High School Spring Retreat! We brought almost 200 people and everyone had a blast. The staff was incredibly hospitable and made sure everything got taken care of. Kaleb and I were in communications for several months before the retreat and he was extremely helpful, always responded promptly, and made things very clear and easy to understand even though it was my first time organizing a retreat at Joy El. Regina was also super helpful once we got there, I could always ask her for anything I needed throughout the whole weekend and I knew I could reach her easily. Chef Justin was very courteous and professional and the kids loved him. He made sure we all knew what was happening for meals and that all the people with special dietary needs were taken care of. I had several people say to me that they want to always come to Joy El for our retreats from now on, and I couldn't agree more. Thank you Joy El staff for a wonderful and unforgettable experience!
★★★★★JaydenI'm one of 4:12 LTS Member at Joy el and everyone that works there are amazing. The new CEO is really cool as well. Also the retreats and camps are really kind, when you go to Joy el you feel like you are surrounded by God and brothers and sisters.
★★★★★Scot DrummondMy daughter went to a weekend retreat here. She had the most amazing time. She made so many new friends. She loved the activities, chapel, and the counselors. She tried new foods and loved it. She raved about how beautiful it is there and begged to go back. She is now going to another weekend retreat and summer camp. The staff is phenomenal and they will work with you and your needs. I highly, highly recommend Joyel!!
★★★★★Megan BoydOur kids just got back from Joy El’s overnight Energizer Camp, and we’re so happy with the experience they had. They were all smiles when we picked them up and couldn’t stop talking about everything they did—nonstop fun, games, and activities all week long! The staff did a fantastic job keeping everything running smoothly and making the campers feel safe and welcomed. You can really tell they care. The buildings and grounds were also in great shape—clean, comfortable, and well-kept. It’s always a good sign when your kids are already asking to go back next year. Highly recommend Joy El for any family looking for a fun and meaningful camp experience!
★★★O-EZ OfficialCame to the Joy camp for a church event and I had a great time with Kids and spouse. Everything was fun and wonderful Except the food was not that great. We had a hard time with the food. Staff needs to hire a better food service. The rooms weren't that clean and the bathrooms where really small. We enjoyed a variety of sports football, basketball, baseball, volleyball and soccer. We had a ton of fun with the go carts that was so much fun!!! The pool was very clean and also had great swimming fun at the camp!! We went canoeing on the lake, and we ziplineed also annoyed everything on this camp!!! Over all we enjoyed our selves!!! Thanks for reading my review, please hit like if you like my reviews!!!