Barefoot Republic Camp

Our mission at Barefoot Republic is to facilitate Christ-centered relationships between individuals from diverse racial, cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds through an equally diverse platform of artistic, athletic and team-building programs. We strive to reflect God’s pursuit of His children through interests, passions, interpersonal relationships, and equipping students with tools for exploring and discovering God’s presence in their lives.

OUR VALUES

• CHRISTLIKE We are Kingdom-minded servants resembling the spirit of Jesus Christ in our thoughts, words, and actions.
• COMPASSIONATE We consider what others may be going through and love them unconditionally
• DIVERSE We pursue uncommon fellowship because our differences make us better.
• EVANGELISTIC We trust the seeds of the Gospel planted can change our communities and ultimately the world
• HOSPITABLE We are welcoming to all guests, presenting warmth and generosity toward everyone we serve.
• JOYFUL We create environments to be a kid and experience joy in everything we do.
• RELENTLESS in our pursuit to change lives through our mission.
• UNITING We are intentional in responding to Jesus' prayer that we may be one body of believers.

OUR NAME

Being barefoot is a sign of our humanity, vulnerability, and brokenness. It is only when we admit that we are barefoot, that we are able to comprehend our need and to receive God’s provision. We consider our cabin groups 'republics' – small communities comprised of campers from all nations who come together as a united family. During each session, each republic decides on its own name, working together to find common ground and quickly forging a new, common identity. Barefoot Republic Camp is a vehicle of hope. We want to offer a glimpse of Heaven to a population of kids in need of the ability to dream... to dream of what God can do with their lives by uniting them with their parents, community and the church. And, to help define His eternal purpose for each one of them.

STATEMENT OF FAITH

Barefoot Republic Camp and Retreat Center seeks to honor God and share the good news of Christ’s reconciling love with the world. We are 'inter-denominational,' looking to the Bible as our source for teaching, and addressing the basics of the Christian faith that will positively impact students from all backgrounds. As an interdenominational ministry, many of our partners and families inquire into more details about our theological beliefs. Barefoot Republic Camp feels that the Apostles Creed is an excellent source and explanation.

Barefoot Republic exists to create spaces where people of all backgrounds can come together, build meaningful relationships, and grow in faith, character, and confidence through shared experiences. We serve families, children, and young adults through two unique locations and year-round programming:

In Nashville (Community Center): Our community center is a hub for connection and growth. We offer fitness classes, gym access, and exercise equipment for individuals and families, along with after-school programming for students. During the summer, we host six weeks of day camp for Kindergarten through 6th grade, giving kids a safe, active, and engaging place to learn, play, and build friendships.

In Kentucky (Camp & Retreat Campus): Our 150-acre campus in Kentucky is home to our overnight and retreat experiences. We host family camp, father-daughter and father-son weekends, winter camp, and six weeks of overnight summer camp for students in 3rd–12th grade. This campus is also home to our Gap Year Program for young adults, as well as retreats for churches, schools, and organizations throughout the year.

Counseling Services: We also operate a counseling center, providing professional counseling services to support the emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being of individuals and families in our community.

Across all of our programs, we focus on building strong relationships, fostering belonging, and helping people grow — spiritually, socially, and personally — in environments that are welcoming, active, and Christ-centered.