The Pines Catholic Camp

Accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA), The Pines seeks to “give youth the confidence and the strength they need to continue their faith journey and to help them foster healthy vocations.”[1] Although not affiliated with any diocese, The Pines has a close relationship with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Dallas and follows their Safe Environment Guidelines.

Around 3,500 campers participate in the summer camp program, which begins in late May and runs until early August.

Many Catholic Schools from the Dallas and Tyler Dioceses send their 5th grade students to participate in the Environmental Education Program, where they study Archaeology, Orienteering, Limnology, Entomology, Forestry and Meteorology.

The curriculum for this program is focused on the Texas TEKS Most groups also participate in activities on the Challenge Course which consists of high and low elements and is facilitated by certified staff.

Camp Natowa, a Campfire Girls and Boys property in East Texas, was purchased and in June 1989 the first group of campers entered the gates.