Agape Farm Camping Retreat Offers Music, Community, and a Taste of “Good Nature”

On June 20, a group of BRIDGES students traveled to Pennsylvania for an overnight camping trip. Agape Farm is a large, privately owned property located about three hours away in Shirleysburg, Pennsylvania. Known for hosting music festivals and retreats, the farm has welcomed thousands of visitors over the years for concerts, camping, and spiritual gatherings. Its expansive open fields, wooded areas, and peaceful rural setting make it an ideal location for outdoor events and community experiences. For some students, this was their first time camping, which added a sense of novelty and excitement to the weekend.

Upon arrival, the group was greeted with a warm meal prepared by a local friend who hosted them throughout the trip. The weekend coincided with a music festival, so students were surrounded by the sounds of live concerts, which added a unique cultural layer to the experience.

Friday evening concluded with a campfire gathering beside the tents. The weather dropped into the low 60s, creating a perfect atmosphere for stargazing. Being away from the city lights gave students a rare opportunity to enjoy a clear night sky and quiet moments in nature.

Saturday began with another home-cooked meal. The rest of the day was casual and flexible. Students relaxed under canopies, played frisbee, went on a short hike, and used water guns to cool off as daytime temperatures rose into the 90s. Staying hydrated was a priority given the heat, and the group made sure to take care of themselves throughout the afternoon.

In the evening, students attended one final concert, enjoying the peaceful energy of the music and open space. But what is a road trip without a bit of drama? As they prepared to return home, a tire pressure warning came on in one of the vehicles. The group returned to camp and waited for their local host to arrive. While they waited, a car with concerned residents pulled over after seeing the emergency lights. The driver, suspected to be a member of the farm owner’s family, offered assistance. Given the welcoming atmosphere and the genuine concern shown, the group felt comfortable accepting the offer of help and appreciated the kindness extended to them.

The family led the BRIDGES group to a safe location and helped repair the tire at no cost. Because it was evening, they stayed throughout the process to ensure everyone was safe and ready to travel. During the drive back, the group had to stop two more times to attend to the faulty tire, and each time, a good Samaritan stopped to check on them.

While the weekend offered music, open skies, and a break from routine, it was not just the setting that made the experience meaningful. Acts of kindness, like the ones this group experienced, leave a lasting impression. In today’s global climate, it was heartening to see how the local community continues to embody a spirit of togetherness, generosity, and genuine support for others. This trip served as a quiet yet powerful reminder that generosity can be found in everyday moments, and that connection can flourish in places far from home.