ABOUT US
Deer Run is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nondenominational Christian ministry. The operational budget is covered with user fees, so all donations go towards scholarships or capital improvements (new facilities and purchase of property). Donations are tax-deductible. Deer Run gives back by providing scholarships for campers and families in need of financial assistance — ensuring no one is ever turned away because of an inability to pay.
Deer Run provides day and overnight summer camp experiences for children ages 5 to 18 plus family camp experiences for all ages.
Throughout the year, Deer Run provides family events: married couples romance weekends, parent-child weekends (father-son and mother-daughter) and a family day.
And year-round, Deer Run provides customized day and overnight retreats with accommodations, meeting spaces, recreation, team building, 5-star meals and staff who personally serve our guests while on site.
OUR MISSION
To provide excellent camps and retreats that inspire a transformational relationship with Jesus Christ and strengthen relationships with family and friends.
OUR VISION
To transform as many lives as possible for Christ through the growth of staff, facilities and programs.
OUR VALUES
The Deer Run Way is to serve the Lord with integrity, stewardship, servanthood, excellence and community.
Colossians 3:23-24, HCSB — Whatever you do, do it enthusiastically, as something done for the Lord and not for men, knowing that you will receive the reward of an inheritance from the Lord. You serve the Lord Christ.
OUR FOUNDERS
Deer Run was founded in 1998 by David and Liz Gibson. After 15 years of marriage — while in their mid 30s — they believed God was calling them to do something more significant with their life. Two years of prayer confirmed that He wanted them to start a retreat center and summer camp ministry. David walked the property on a Sunday morning in August 1996, and God gave him a clear vision about what His plan was for this property — property which had been sitting dormant for more than 15 years.
OUR LOCATION
Deer Run is located on 100 private wooded acres of scenic, Tennessee rolling hills just 10 miles southwest of historic downtown Franklin. Located just 35 miles south of Nashville, Deer Run is strategically located within 4 hours of 9 major metropolitan areas making it easily accessible to families, churches, ministries, schools, universities and community organizations.
