In September 1949, upon recommendation from the Youth Board, the state ministers recommended a committee of five to study the possibilities of youth camps. The committee consisted of Youth Board members Archie Luke, A. A. Padgett, and Floyd Timmerman, as well as appointed members Wade H. Horton and Frank Petracelli. The plan and formulation committee for holding youth camps on the campground consisted of H. D. Sustar, D. R. Robinson, T. W. Day, Frank Petracelli, and S. D. Martin. They had $1,000 set aside for the camp budget.

The first camp opened in 1950, just for the boys. The camp director was Wade H. Horton.

In 1951, the camp became coed. Alice (Mrs. E. C.) Thomas became the director of the girls, and Wade H. Horton became the director for the boys.

From this beginning, youth camps have grown from one camp to seven in 1977. There were three camps in Charlotte, two in Kenly, one in Whittier, and the newest camp in Pembroke. The total attendance reached 1661 with 340 Conversions, 202 Sanctifications, 85 baptisms with the Holy Ghost, and 180 baptisms in water.