The Station’s Backpacking Camps: Bearing Fruit That Will Last

How JSAW’s Matching Grant Helped Launch a Summer of Life Change

This summer, something incredible happened in the mountains of California.

With the help of a matching grant from JSAW, our friends at The Station hosted two backcountry backpacking camps, and they were absolutely transformative. The grant not only helped fund the camps, but it also doubled The Station’s local support and kickstarted their fundraising efforts for the year.

Two Trips, Twenty-Four Young Adults, Countless Life-Changing Moments

Across two week-long trips, 24 young adults ages 19–27 strapped on their backpacks, laced up their boots, and stepped into something far more meaningful than just an 18-mile hike through the mountains.

For many, this was their very first time backpacking. They pushed through steep climbs, heavy packs, and high altitude. They learned how to set up tents, filter water, cook meals on jetboils and even celebrated at the end with kayaking on a pristine alpine lake.

But the most powerful moments weren’t just about outdoor skills. They were about encountering Jesus.

Trip One: Everlasting Fruit

The theme for the first trip was “Everlasting Fruit” from John 15:16. Campers discussed what it means to live lives that produce fruit that will last, and shared about the people groups God has placed on their hearts to reach.

One young woman who had left the Mormon faith this past year shared how this trip helped her realize she needs the Lord in her life and she has since started meeting regularly with a leader for discipleship.

“This trip helped me see that I need the Lord in my life. I want to follow Jesus now.”— Backpacking Camp Participant

Trip Two: Soaring

The second trip centered on “Soaring” from Isaiah 40:28–31, learning to run the race of life without growing weary. The group talked about how God carries our heavy burdens and increases our capacity mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

This trip became a time of healing and restoration. Campers processed disappointments, found fresh rhythms with the Lord, and experienced deep encouragement from one another.

“I came in feeling weighed down, but I left knowing God is helping me carry it all — and giving me strength to soar.”— Backpacking Camp Participant

Why This Matters

JSAW’s Action Sports Ministry Fund provided a small matching grant to The Station, providing the financial foundation they needed to step out in faith and the response has been overwhelming. These backpacking camps have sparked new discipleship relationships, sparked their fundraising initiatives, and opened doors for even more ministry.

Pete, Rachel and the team at The Station are already praying about expanding to 5–6 weeks of camp next summer, and are searching for a property to host them.

Thank You

This is the kind of impact your giving makes possible.

Because of your generosity, young adults are finding healing, discovering purpose, and beginning to follow Jesus in the quiet beauty of the mountains.

Thank you for helping us transform action sports culture by making riders into disciples.

If you'd like to give toward supporting more action sports ministries around the world you can GIVE NOW