Whether you’re leading a group for the first time or considering sending your student to camp this summer, you probably have a few questions. From what a typical day looks like to how registration works, here are clear answers to the top things parents and youth pastors are asking about BigStuf 2026 — one of the leading Christian youth camps in the U.S.
What Is BigStuf Camp?
BigStuf is a 5-day summer camp in Panama City Beach, Florida, created specifically for middle and high school students. It combines beach fun with powerful worship, engaging speakers, small group time, and meaningful community. Over the last 35+ years, BigStuf Camps have become a trusted experience for youth ministries across the country.
Where Is BigStuf 2026 Located?
All camps take place at the Boardwalk Beach Hotel & Convention Center in Panama City Beach, FL. The hotel is beachfront, fully reserved for BigStuf campers, and hosts all sessions, free time, and lodging on-site — making it a simple and safe camp experience.
What Are the BigStuf 2026 Camp Dates?
BigStuf offers multiple 5-day sessions throughout June 2026. Groups can choose the date that works best for their students. All sessions include:
- 4 nights of lodging
- 7 powerful sessions
- 10 meals
- Access to beach + rec activities
👉 View full camp schedule here
How Does Registration Work for BigStuf?
Students do not register directly with BigStuf. Instead, churches and youth groups handle registration for their group. If you’re a parent, the best next step is to check with your church’s youth pastor to see if they’re bringing a group to BigStuf this summer.
Once your group registers, a non-refundable $80 deposit per person is required to hold spots. Deposits must be made within 15 days of registering.
What Happens at BigStuf?
BigStuf is structured around morning and evening main sessions, where students hear from dynamic Christian speakers and worship with high-energy live music. But that’s just part of the experience.
Here’s what a student’s day at BigStuf might include:
- Morning Session: Worship, teaching, and fun
- Small Group Time: Processing the message in community
- Free Time: Beach, pool, volleyball, spikeball, guitar jam sessions, etc.
- Evening Session: High-impact message and worship
- Late Night: Themed parties, group bonding, and more
Can Parents Attend BigStuf Camp?
BigStuf is designed for student ministry groups, but parents sometimes attend as leaders, chaperones, or volunteers with their church’s group. All adult leaders must be approved and registered through their church.
Is BigStuf Camp Safe?
Yes. BigStuf partners with professional overnight security, has dedicated medical staff on-site, and enforces a detailed Code of Conduct to keep the environment safe, distraction-free, and focused on what matters. Students stay in secure hotel rooms alongside other group members and leaders.
What Should Students Bring to Camp?
Packing lists are available on the BigStuf Help Center, but the basics include:
- Bible + journal
- Beach towel, swimsuit, sunscreen
- Comfortable clothes for sessions and free time
- Reusable water bottle
- Bedding and towels (provided by BigStuf)
How Much Does BigStuf Cost?
BigStuf 2026 pricing is tiered:
- $514/person (Early Bird through Oct 6)
- $524/person (Oct 7 – Jan 19)
- $529/person (Jan 20 and beyond)
A deposit of $80 per person is required within 15 days of registration. The remainder of the balance is managed by your church group.
Who Will Be Speaking at BigStuf 2026?
This year’s speaker lineup includes trusted voices in student ministry:
- Gerald Fadayomi
- Stuart Hall
- Tega Taylor
- Marquise Cox
More speakers may be announced as camp approaches. BigStuf also features daily Leader Labs just for youth leaders — providing encouragement and practical tools to take back home.
Can My Student Come Without a Church?
BigStuf is built for groups and does not allow individual student registration. If you’re not part of a church, we encourage you to reach out to a local youth group to see if they’re planning to attend and if your student could join their group.
How Can I Learn More or Get Help?
Check out the BigStuf Help Center
for detailed answers, or contact the BigStuf team at hello@bigstuf.com or (770) 569‑0207.
Want to see BigStuf for yourself?
📸 Watch our 2025 Highlight Videos
📍 See what a day at camp looks like
💬 Share this post with any parent or leader who’s considering BigStuf for the first time!
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