Come be a part of the tradition

Since 1977, Sports Camp has provided an opportunity for youth from all round to enjoy their love of sports, teams, competition and being part of a family. Through groups called families, the youth develop sportsmanship, teamwork and cooperation, all while having fun through sports. An Olympic-style theme is adopted through the week, culminating in a competition between the families in events such as swimming, track and field, basketball, soccer, volleyball, softball, and ping pong among many others!

There is a place for you

If you are completing 6th, 7th, 8th or 9th grade in Spring 2026 and enjoy playing and trying sports, then Sports Camp is for you! Sports Camp is not just for the gifted athlete, but for the youth that enjoy playing sports at whatever level or proficiency. Both boys and girls, guided by adult counselors, work together as a family unit, practice, play and grow through their shared experiences. Using sports and athletics as a medium, Sports Camp helps youth keep a religious perspective on life, their relationship with God, as well as each other.

Join the Sports Camp Family

Sports Camp is a tradition of the Illinois Conference, United Church of Christ's Outdoor Ministry System. Offered at Pilgrim Park in Princeton, Illinois, hundreds of youth over the past 45+ years have joined the Sports Camp Family.

KEY FACTS

Dates: Sunday June 21st to Saturday June 27th, 2026

Age of Campers: Kids who just finished 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th grade.

Size & Makeup: Co-Ed, with separate cabins. Historically max capacity is approximately 64 campers.

Price: The normal price is $525, but if you sign up your child before July 1 st the all-inclusive cost is $325 ($50 dollar deposit required, fully refundable if camp does not happen).

Staff: There are 2 Adult Directors, and 12 – 16 volunteer College-aged Counselors (a vast majority have been Sports Camp alumni)

UCC Affiliation: While the camp is affiliated with the United Church of Christ, is has and always will have open arms to all kids and staff, regardless of religious affiliation. Historically, onaverage, 50% of campers and staff have been members of the UCC church.

References: If you or your child would like to speak directly with someone who has attended camp in the past, please contact us.

Location: UCC Sports Camp takes place at Pilgrim Park Camp in Princeton, IL, ~2hrs southwest of Chicago. 26449 1340 N Ave, Princeton, IL 61356, United States