Parents looking for a camp for dads need to look no further. Fathers brought their daughters to Gallatin National Forest over the weekend to have fun and strengthen the bonds they share with their beloved kids.
Clydehurst Christian Ranch was the site for Dad Camp this weekend, and the place was bursting with excitement. Dad Camp participant Todd Wilson said the camp was really for them and taught them how to be better dads.
Wilson loves attending this event as he has been to Dad Camp for the past four years. It was the second year that he was able to bring his eight-year-old daughter Emily. She also loved the experience, saying that they went on a hike and sat down and just talked. She added they hung out and spent a lot of time together.
Dad Camp wants to strengthen fathers and daughters' bond
That kind of bonding between father and child is the goal of Dad Camp. It was founded in Indiana in 2006 and was later brought to Montana through Harvest Church in Billings.
Alex Falder, the adult ministries pastor at Harvest Church, said that it is specifically designed to build stronger fathers because they believe they will build stronger families and communities.
Dad Camp hosts weekends for dads and their children, with the program running for five weeks throughout the summer. Falder said they give dads context through a weekend experience. He added that they pour into the fathers, and then the dad pour into their daughters during the weekend.
At least 36 fathers were given resources and tools this weekend to work on being more present and engaged with their kids, allowing them to spend more time with their children without the distractions of their jobs or phones.
Fathers and daughters share their Dad Camp experiences
Dad Camp participant Toby Hill told KTVQ they had an hour this afternoon wherein they just had one-on-one time. He got to ask his daughter good questions, and he thinks it opened the door to communication.
Hadley agreed with her dad, with Toby's seven-year-old daughter saying she would not have it any other way. She said that she likes that they get to do fun things and spend time together.
Fathers and daughters who attend Dad Camp leave with a tangible memory of the weekend as they make each other plaques that express the importance of their relationship. Wilson said it reminds them of the time they had together and helps remind each other that they are number one.
It is incredible to see the work these fathers put into camp shows, especially for their children. Emily echoed that sentiment, saying that her dad is amazing.
