ABOUT US

Our History

New Life Camp began in 1950 under the leadership of Robert Johnson, Sr. A fantastic summer camp program grew through his passion for children. In 1955, a beautiful 72-acre wooded campsite near Raleigh, complete with recreation area, large tabernacle, dining room, cabins, swimming pond and other camp facilities, was purchased. The original cost of the camp was $35,000, but it was offered to our ministry for $12,000, an incredible bargain.

Our Leaders

Bob & Debbie Johnson

In 1961, Bob Johnson, Jr. and his wife Debbie began their ministry at New Life Camp. Bob assumed the role of executive camp director in 1976. For over fifty years, this couple faithfully served the children and families of Raleigh. They continue in local ministry to this day.

Program Expansion

Starting in 2000, New Life Camp expanded its programs beyond that of a summer camp in the areas of Next Level sports and training, a homeschool enrichment program, Saturday evening events for children, and New Life Storm Athletics. As the programs grew, so did the staff and the facilities.

Greg Burton

In 2010, Greg Burton was appointed as the executive director, serving until 2018, when the Lord led his family to an overseas missions opportunity. Under Greg’s leadership, a revitalization of our physical campus was initiated with the goal of extending the New Life ministry for decades to come. Greg’s heart for people and their personal relationships with Jesus was a constant encouragement to our staff and programs.

John Dorman

In 2018, John Dorman became the executive director. Previously, John and his family were involved with New Life Camp for twenty years. The work he did as director was a reflection of his desire to see more campers and families come to know the Lord as their personal Savior.

Bo Roberts

In 2019, Bo Roberts became the interim Executive Director. Bo spent his career working in and developing summer camp programs, mostly with the YMCA. He shared a great love for New Life Camp, the staff, and the community.

Jeff Beckett

In March 2020, Dr. Jeff Beckett, a longtime pastor and church planter, was selected as the new Executive Director. Jeff played an instrumental role in helping New Life Camp navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Jeff also made significant contributions to the site plan build-out for New Life.

Brad Wingo

In May of 2025, Brad Wingo began serving as Executive Director. Brad brought with him over 25 years of high-level leadership experience from the higher education and nonprofit sectors. Brad’s heart for loving on and discipling youth and his deep belief in the truly transformational nature of the New Life mission is what pulled him into this ministry.

Our Passion Never Changes

New Life Camp has been through many changes through the years, but our passion for sharing the love of Jesus Christ with children and youth remains constant. With such a rich legacy full of individuals who have served Christ here, we will continue making Jesus Christ known to all who come.