May 11, 2026

Gilmont Receives Summer Camp License for 2026

Slingshots at Gilmont Summer Day Camp in Gilmer Texas

We are grateful and excited to share that Gilmont has officially received our Youth Camp License from the State of Texas to operate for Summer Camp 2026.

Following the tragic flooding in Texas last summer that devastated camps and communities across our state, new legislation was passed to strengthen camp safety standards. We support these efforts wholeheartedly. Every child deserves a safe environment where they can grow, explore, and experience the joy of camp.

The new law introduced many additional requirements, procedures, and safety protocols for camps throughout Texas. We are deeply thankful for the guidance and support of state officials, emergency management professionals, healthcare trainers, and fellow camp leaders who worked together to help camps navigate this new process.

At Gilmont, safety has always been foundational to our mission:

to cultivate a safe, sacred space where all are invited to grow closer to God, creation, others, and themselves.

As an American Camp Association-accredited camp, Gilmont has long been committed to upholding high standards of care, preparedness, and camper well-being. This year, we have continued building on that commitment with additional investments and improvements, including:

  • New backup generators
  • Redundant internet systems for improved communication reliability
  • Expanded emergency lighting
  • An upgraded PA and communication system

We have also continued our extensive staff preparation process. Before campers arrive, our Summer Staff complete 12 days of intensive training that includes:

  • Red Cross CPR/AED/First Aid training and certification
  • Stop the Bleed training
  • Red Cross Lifeguard training and certification, and aquatic safety
  • Emergency response procedures
  • Trust-Based Relational Intervention 
  • Camper supervision and care practices
Gilmont Summer Staff Stop the Bleed Training

Just as important as our systems and training is the way we structure camp life itself. At Gilmont, campers move through the day with their cabin group and trusted camp staff. Campers are never navigating camp alone. This approach not only supports safety and accountability, but also helps foster deep relationships, belonging, and the “camp family” experience that makes Gilmont so meaningful for so many young people.

We know parents place enormous trust in us when they send their children to camp and we do not take that responsibility lightly.

We are excited for another summer filled with worship, laughter, adventure, friendship, and faith formation. We cannot wait to welcome hundreds of campers back to Gilmont Day Camp and Overnight Camp for what we believe will be the most fun, faith-filled, and formative week of their summer.

Thank you for being part of the Gilmont community. We look forward to sharing this summer with you.