Pine Cove’s newest program, Springs Pro, is set to launch at the Springs camp in the summer of 2025, and we couldn’t be more excited! This new initiative brings a fresh approach to the Springs—one specifically designed for high school-aged campers. We sat down with camp director Ben ‘Digs’ Gasaway to dive into all the details!
What brought on Springs Pro and what makes it different from the Springs?
We’re incredibly humbled by all that God has done at the Springs in its first three summers. It’s been an amazing journey watching a new youth camp thrive five states away from Texas! Now that we’ve built a strong camper base and established a seasoned team, we feel it’s the right time to take the next step: separating campers by age to better cater to their unique needs and experiences.
Springs Pro is designed specifically for high school students, while the original Springs program will focus on elementary and middle school campers. By creating tailored programs, we can maximize the fun, deepen campers’ intimacy with God, and ensure every age group has an unforgettable experience. From activities to teaching, every detail of Springs Pro is geared toward making camp meaningful for older students.
Will Springs Pro have their own schedule?
Springs Pro will have its own distinct schedule, activities, free times, Clubs, worship experiences, and meal times. While campers from both programs may cross paths occasionally, each program is designed to stand alone!
To achieve this, we’re thoughtfully hiring separate teams for both programs. The staffers working closest with campers—counselors, senior counselors, and program directors—will be selected specifically for their ability to inspire and connect with their designated age group. This intentionality ensures that every camper, whether they’re in Springs or Springs Pro, is cared for by staff who understand and relate to their age and stage of life. Program staff and leadership will support both programs, but the core teams are specialized to make the experience incredible for every camper.
What new activities can Springs Pro campers look forward to?
We’re adding some amazing activities to Springs Pro! High school campers can look forward to:
The Slick Track: A brand-new go-kart course, bringing high-speed fun to the Southeast region.
The Thrasher: A giant swing named after Georgia’s state bird.
The Mock: A hammock village—affectionately named after the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga mascot—offering a unique space for campers to relax and connect.
The Blob: A classic, thrilling water activity available during activity class.
These additions are designed to enhance the high school camper experience and provide opportunities for fun, fellowship, and unforgettable memories!
Are there any new buildings or structures being created for Springs Pro?
Yes! While some exciting updates are planned for future summers, here’s what’s happening for summer 2025:
The Slick Track and The Thrasher will both be ready for campers!
We’re repurposing our large “Cave” building into a multi-use indoor space for the Springs program, complete with Club worship, skits, dodgeball, indoor soccer, and more.
Looking ahead to 2026, we’re planning to build new cabins near the water for Springs Pro campers and add even more activities designed specifically for this program.
What would you say to parents who might be nervous about this new change?
We want parents to know that what makes Pine Cove unique hasn’t changed. It’s not the activities or facilities that define us—it’s the presence of Jesus in our staff. Our college-aged counselors are dedicated to loving campers and pointing them to Christ.
Whether your camper is at the Springs or Springs Pro, they will encounter the same spirit-filled staff, life-giving community, and Christ-centered programming that make Pine Cove special. While the details may differ, the heart of Pine Cove remains the same.
What are you personally most excited about for Springs Pro?
We’re thrilled to provide older campers with a program tailored just for them. Ecclesiastes reminds us that there’s a time and place for everything, and high school campers need something designed to meet them where they are. From deeper Club talks to activities that match their interests and abilities, we’re excited to see how God uses Springs Pro to create meaningful, age-appropriate experiences that help them walk intimately with Him.
Is there anything else you’d like to share as we look ahead to the coming summer?
We can’t wait to see all that Jesus will do through Springs Pro. Proverbs 21:31 reminds us, “The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the Lord.” Our team is working diligently to prepare for summer 2025, but we know the true transformation and impact rest in God’s hands.
From the operations team to our incredible counselors, everyone is investing their time and talents to ensure Springs and Springs Pro campers have the best week of their lives. We’re praying for an unforgettable summer and can’t wait to see all that He has in store!
Posted Jan 28, 2025
Categories: Inside the Cove (Browse all)
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Tags: springs, springs pro
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