EDMOND—Herbert W. Armstrong College students, faculty and Philadelphia Church of God members participated in the 18th annual campout at Robbers Cave State Park (March 5-9) for those at the Oklahoma campus and the sixth for the England campus, held this year at the Peak District (March 4-8).

Since the first campout in 2002, hundreds of students and faculty have spent the midterm break relaxing, chatting by the fire, taking walks with their classmates, playing board games, drinking hot chocolate, reading and studying, playing sports, dancing and participating in other activities and pastimes. This year, the weather allowed for hiking cliffs, exploring a cave, walking by the waterside and even, for some, jumping into the frigid water for a swim. On the final night, while many talked around the fire pit and melted s’mores, those who felt energetic continued the tradition of a grand game of night-time capture the flag.

Meanwhile, 4,500 miles across the Atlantic Ocean, 10 students and 41 faculty and families visited the Peak District, playing sports, exploring the Poole Caves, touring Buxton and the Museum and hiking “Kinder Scout,” the area’s highest mountain, turning back prior to summiting due to poor weather. Instead they returned to camp for board games, s’mores and fellowship beside the fireplace.

Evangelist Stephen Flurry, who attended the Peak District campout with his family, said, “This year’s campout was physical, mentally and spiritually rejuvenating. Having all of the college and staff under one roof at the Peak District only added to the family atmosphere. The only downside was that it went by too fast!”