Our Story
Silver Birch Bible Camp has been serving families and sharing the message of Jesus Christ since 1973.
What began as a vision and prayer for a place where young people could encounter God has grown into a lasting ministry that continues to impact lives each summer.
Located in the beautiful setting of Makwa Lake Provincial Park, our camp was established as a ministry of Cornerstone Community Church with a clear purpose: to create a place where kids and teens can grow in their faith, build meaningful relationships, and experience the truth of God’s Word.
How It Began
Silver Birch Bible Camp was founded when Pastor Arnold McIvor sought the Lord for a place to hold camp. That vision became reality on July 19, 1973, when the first week of camp was held.
Over the years, the camp grew from simple beginnings into a fully functioning camp with cabins, a chapel/dining hall, and spaces for activities—all surrounded by the natural beauty of the boreal forest.
While many things have developed and improved over time, the heart behind camp has remained the same.
A Unique Ministry
Silver Birch Bible Camp is unique in that it is fully owned and operated by a single local church - Cornerstone Community Church.
Rather than being part of a large organization or network, the camp is directly connected to and supported by the life and ministry of the local church. This allows for a clear, consistent mission and a strong sense of community throughout everything we do.
Camp is also made possible through the generosity of the Silver Birch camp community - families, volunteers, and supporters who give their time, energy, and resources to make each summer possible.
What Has Always Been True
From the very beginning, Silver Birch Bible Camp has existed with a clear focus:
- Sharing the message of Jesus Christ
- Creating a place where each camper is valued and loved
- Providing a safe, positive, and encouraging environment
- Building meaningful relationships with others
At its core, Silver Birch has never just been about activities - it has always been about pointing young people toward a relationship with Christ and helping them grow in their faith.
More Than Just a Camp Experience
Each week of camp is intentionally designed to care for the whole person:
- Spiritual growth through chapel, devotions, and teaching from God’s Word
- Physical care through safe facilities, meals, and supervision
- Social connection through friendships, teamwork, and shared experiences
- Personal development through activities, challenges, and encouragement
This intentional, whole-person approach continues to shape everything we do.
Camp Today
Today, Silver Birch Bible Camp continues to welcome campers ages 7-18 for a week filled with:
- Chapel and Bible teaching
- Outdoor activities like canoeing, archery, and wide games
- Campfires, friendships, and team experiences
- A supportive environment led by dedicated staff and volunteers
While the programs and facilities have grown, the mission remains unchanged.
Why We Do What We Do
Silver Birch Bible Camp exists to extend the ministry of the local church into a camp setting - providing a place where young people can come to know Christ and grow in their relationship with Him.
Our desire is that every camper leaves camp knowing they are valued, loved, and invited into a lifelong relationship with Jesus.
To learn more about our beliefs, view the Statement of Faith of Cornerstone Community Church.
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