What to Know about My Weekend Event

Click on the tab below for info about what to pack and a sample schedule for your weekend event.

There is no age minimum. However, boys under the age of 6 may not be able to participate in all activities; participation is based on their own ability.

Absolutely! This weekend is about guys bonding together while having fun — father-son, grandfather-grandson, uncle-nephew or mentor-mentee.

There are plenty of scheduled activities as well as time to enjoy your choice of recreation, father-son project or to just simply relax.

TIMBER RIDGE CABIN

  • personal toiletries
  • flip flops or sandals for the shower
    *Linens, pillows, towels & soap are provided


LAKEVIEW CABINS & CEDAR POINT CABINS

  • sleeping bags or twin sheets and a blanket plus pillow for each person
  • towel, washcloth and personal toiletries including soap
  • flip flops or sandals for the shower
  • tote to carry items to the shower house (for those in Cedar Point Cabins)

Yes, you are more than welcome to bring snacks & drinks.

CEDAR POINT CABINS & CREEKSIDE CAMPSITE FOOD STORAGE
Store food in a tightly closed plastic container to avoid insects and critters.

LAKEVIEW, TIMBER RIDGE & CEDAR POINT CABINS 4-8
These cabins have a kitchenette with small refrigerator, microwave and Keurig coffee maker.
Label items since others may be sharing the refrigerator with you.

No. ONLY registered participants, persons involved in the event, or Deer Run staff are allowed on the property during the Father-Son Adventure Weekend.

Only catch-and-release bank fishing is allowed.

No fishing is allowed from the docks or in the swim area.

Bring fishing equipment and bait for both you and your son(s).

A limited supply of fishing bait and tackle — poles, hooks, sinkers — is available for purchase at the Camp Store.

Fish include large mouth bass, catfish, hybrid striped bass, carp and bluegill.

Deer Run provides all archery equipment needed and our staff provides training on how to use the equipment. 

You may bring your own equipment, however CROSS BOWS ARE NOT ALLOWED.

A life jacket (provided by Deer Run) is required to be worn by EACH participant for ALL lake activities including kayaking and canoeing — regardless of swimming ability. Bank fishing does not require a life jacket.

WHAT TO PACK

CLOTHING

  • Casual clothing
  • Closed-toe athletic shoes, or hiking boots, for recreational activities (flip flops and open-toe shoes are NOT allowed on the climbing tower, giant swing, zip line adventures, pedal karts, axe throwing, laser tag, or Aerial Quest)
  • Waterproof shoes for lake activities
  • Swimwear (cannot have metal or plastic zippers, grommets or metal of any kind since they damage the vinyl coated polyester fabric on the slide. Guests with these items will not be allowed to go down the slide. No exceptions.) 
  • Rain gear, if necessary


OTHER

  • Fishing pole, bait and tackle if you plan to fish — A limited supply of fishing bait and poles are available for purchase at The Camp Store. A few fishing poles are available to rent.
  • Camera or phone to capture memorable moments
  • Insect repellent (for wooded archery tournament and bank fishing)
  • Sunscreen
  • Beach towel
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • Earplugs (to help you sleep at night)
  • Bible and notebook — Or purchase a notebook at The Camp Store
  • Keurig pods if staying in Lakeview Cabins, Timber Ridge and Cedar Point Cabins 4-8
  • Sleeping bag or sheets, pillow, towel and toiletries if staying in Lakeview Cabins and Cedar Point Cabins

Father-Son Adventure Weekend Sample Schedule

Activities & Times are Subject to Change

FRIDAY

4:00 p.m. Check-in Begins

  • Father-Son Photo
  • Included Recreation & Activities


5:00 p.m. Fishing Tournament

6:00 p.m. Dinner 

7:00 p.m. Welcome followed by …

  • Door Prizes & Announcements
  • Games
  • Devotion
 
8:00 p.m. Evening Activities

  • Derby Car Construction
  • Wiffle Ball & Flag Football Games
  • Self Guided Night Hikes 
  • Lighted Included Recreation & Activities
  • Campfire, S’mores & more!
 

10:00 p.m. Lights Out

SATURDAY

6:30 a.m. Fishing Tournament

7:30 a.m. Personal Devotion Time

8:00 a.m. Breakfast followed by … 

  • Carpetball Tournament
  • 3D Archery Tournament
  • Scheduled Guided and Included Recreation & Activities


12:00 p.m. Lunch followed by …

  • Father Son Project (Derby Cars)
  • Home Run Derby
  • Carpetball Tournament
  • Fishing Tournament
  • Scheduled Guided and Included Recreation & Activities


5:00 p.m. Check-In Derby Cars

5:30 p.m. Dinner followed by …

  • Door Prizes
  • Devotional
  • Special Guest Program


8:15 p.m. Evening Activities

  • Lighted Included Recreation & Activities
  • Self-Guided Night Hikes
  • Ice Cream Sundaes
  • Wagon Rides
  • Campfire, S’mores & more!


10:00 p.m. Lights Out

SUNDAY

7:30 a.m. Breakfast followed by … 

  • Personal Devotion Time with Your Son(s)


8:30 a.m. Deer Run Racing Derby

10:00 a.m. Closing with …

  • Door Prizes
  • Worship
  • Father-Son Blessing
  • Awards Presentation


11:00 a.m.  Pack-up & Check Out
See you next year!

grandmother mother daughter at Mother Daughter Getaway Weekend at Deer Run Camps & Retrats

Absolutely! This weekend is about women and girls growing in their personal walk with Christ and in their relationship to each other. We also recommend this weekend for grandmothers-granddaughters, aunts-nieces, foster moms-daughters and mentors-mentees.

There are plenty of scheduled activities as well as time to enjoy your choice of recreation, crafts or to just simply relax.

TIMBER RIDGE CABIN

  • personal toiletries
  • flip flops or sandals for the shower
    *Linens, pillows, towels & soap are provided

 

LAKEVIEW CABINS & CEDAR POINT CABINS

  • sleeping bags or twin sheets and a blanket plus pillow for each person
  • towel, washcloth and personal toiletries including soap
  • flip flops or sandals for the shower
  • tote to carry items to the shower house (for those in Cedar Point Cabins)

Yes, you are more than welcome to bring snacks & drinks.

CEDAR POINT CABINS FOOD STORAGE
Store food in a tightly closed plastic container to avoid insects and critters.

LAKEVIEW, TIMBER RIDGE & CEDAR POINT CABINS 4-8
These cabins have a kitchenette with small refrigerator, microwave and Keurig coffee maker.
Label items since others may be sharing the refrigerator with you.

A lifejacket (provided by Deer Run) is required to be worn by EACH participant for ALL lake activities including kayaking and canoeing — regardless of swimming ability. Bank fishing does not require a lifejacket.

No. ONLY registered participants, persons involved in the event, or Deer Run staff are allowed on the property during the Mother-Daughter Getaway Weekend.

WHAT TO PACK

CLOTHING

  • Sat Night Dress-Up: This year’s theme is Glow Dance Prom, so be creative with your outfits and dress in casual prom attire! 
  • Warm clothing for chilly nights (depending on weather)
  • Casual clothing
  • Closed-toe athletic shoes, or hiking boots, for recreational activities (flip flops and open-toe shoes are NOT allowed on the climbing tower, giant swing, zip line adventures or pedal karts)
  • Waterproof sandals for lake activities or creek wading
  • Swimwear (cannot have metal or plastic zippers, gromets or metal of any kind since they damage the vinyl coated polyester fabric on the slide. Guests with these items will not be allowed to go down the slide.) 
  • Rain gear, if necessary

OTHER

  • Blankets for night activities
  • Yoga mat or beach towel — if you plan to attend a mother-daughter yoga session
  • Fishing pole, bait and tackle if you plan to fish —A limited supply of fishing bait and poles are available for purchase at The Camp Store. A few fishing poles are available to rent.
  • Camera or phone to capture memorable moments
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen
  • Beach Towel
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • Bible and notebook — Or purchase a notebook at The Camp Store
  • Keurig pods if staying in Lakeview Cabins, Timber Ridge and Cedar Point Cabins 4-8
  • Sleeping bag or sheets, pillow, towel & toiletries if staying in Lakeview Cabins and Cedar Point Cabins
  • Optional: small items to decorate your cabin space such as a lamp or rug

Mother-Daughter Getaway Weekend SAMPLE Schedule

Activities & Times are Subject to Change

FRIDAY

4:00 p.m. Check-in Begins

  • Mother-Daughter Photo
  • Included Recreation & Activities


5:30 p.m. Dinner 


7:00 p.m. Welcome followed by …

  • Door Prizes & Games
  • Mini-session
 

8:00 p.m. Movie Night Under the Stars

10:00 p.m. Lights Out

SATURDAY

8:00 a.m. Personal Devotion Time with Your Daughter(s)

8:30 a.m. Breakfast followed by … 

  • Mother Session
  • Daughter Craft Session with weekend leaders
  • Guided Rec, Included Recreation, and Activities


12:00 p.m. Lunch followed by …

  • Scheduled Guided Rec, Included
    Recreation, and Activities


6:30 p.m. Mom/Daughter Photos and Dinner followed by Special Guest


8:30 p.m. Evening Activities

  • Glow Dance Party
  • Wagon Rides
  • Campfire & S’mores
  • Stargazing on the Game Field
  • And more!


10:30 p.m. Lights Out

SUNDAY

8:00 a.m. Personal Devotion Time with Your Daughter(s)


8:30 a.m.
Breakfast followed by … 

  • Prayer Hike (on your own or guided hike)


10:00 a.m. Closing with …

  • Door Prizes
  • Worship
  • Mini-session
  • Mother-Daughter Blessing

 

11:00 a.m.  Pack-up & Check Out
                      See you next year!

Married Couples Weekend at Deer Run Camps & Retreats

The weekend is designed to offer new insights and renewal to even the best marriages and relationships. The weekend gives you time away from everyday stress and schedules and provides time for you to focus on each other. It is also a weekend for couples who are struggling and are seeking hope for restoration of their relationship. The speakers, worship and other elements of the weekend give you a foundation to rekindle your love and start anew.

Deer Run Married Couples Weekends are designed specifically for couples already in a marriage relationship. Stay connected to Deer Run for information about upcoming Pre-Marital Retreat Weekends!

Yes, rooms are not shared. All accommodations are private rooms with a private bath.

Yes, couples have time on Saturday afternoon to relax together and choose to stay at Deer Run or spend time off site. Nearby options are historic Leiper’s Fork or downtown Franklin, each only 15 minutes from Deer Run.

Many of the activities are not physically challenging, but rather help you with communication and trust. For the more physically challenging activities, it is participation by choice. Most couples who attend comment that this is one of the best parts of the weekend experience.

Sorry, but no, childcare is not available.

Wear whatever is comfortable for you; there are no dress requirements. However, this is an opportunity to dress up if you would like to.

WHAT TO PACK
  • An open heart and mind to where God leads you this weekend
  • Notebook (if you are a note-taker)
  • Feel free to bring your Bible.
  • Casual clothing for sessions and free time
  • Loose-fitting pants and sturdy shoes or hiking boots are recommended for the couple relationship-building activities. Do not wear open-toe or open-heel shoes, sandals or flip flops.
  • Saturday night romantic dinner — dress up or dress casual, whichever is most comfortable for you
  • Warm clothing (depending on weather) for outdoor activities: jacket, gloves, scarf, hat/beanie, long johns

Married Couples Romance Weekend Sample Schedule

Activities & Times are Subject to Change

FRIDAY

5:00 p.m. Check-in Begins

6:15 p.m. Welcome & Prayer followed by…

  • Dinner
  • Session 1
  • Campfire with S’mores

SATURDAY

8:00 a.m. Breakfast followed by…

  • Session 2
  • Couple Photos
  • Session 3


12:15 p.m. Lunch followed by…

  • Relationship Building Activities
  • Couple Date Time


7:00 p.m. Candlelight Dinner
with Music & Dancing

SUNDAY

8:00 a.m. Breakfast followed by… 

  • Worship
  • Session 4

 

11:00 a.m. Pack Up & Check Out

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Deer Run is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit nondenominational Christian ministry that teaches fundamentals of God’s Word from The Bible. Deer Run is not owned, governed, or funded by a church or church organization. Deer Run has a volunteer board of directors and is funded through user fees, individual donations, monthly supporters and grants.

Deer Run staff has your safety in mind. Normally, all scheduled recreation and activities take place regardless of weather conditions. In case of
heavy rains or thunderstorms, our staff may need to make adjustments to the schedule or facility to accomplish scheduled activities.

To best accommodate food allergies or dietary restrictions, please communicate your needs to our office by calling (615) 794-2918 or by emailing Contact@DeerRun.camp no later than 2 weeks prior to the event start date. Our food service team will make every effort to accommodate certain food allergies and dietary restrictions, but doing so is at the discretion of our food service director and may require an additional fee for special food purchases. Individuals with extreme allergies are encouraged to bring their own food. Deer Run cannot accommodate ALL allergies and dietary restrictions; and we cannot prevent, nor guarantee, a cross-contamination-free environment.

TN state law bans smoking inside buildings. We ask that guests who smoke do so in designated smoking areas with smoking towers that are provided outside the buildings.

For safety purposes, absolutely no smoking is allowed in grassy or wooded areas including trails.

No, Deer Run Camps & Retreats is no alcohol facility.

  • chewing gum or bubble gum since it damages property
  • alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, firearms or fireworks
  • anything of value; Deer Run is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Camp Bucks make it easy for you to make purchases (drinks, snacks, merchandise, apparel, and more) at The Camp Store without having to carry around cash or a credit card.

Add Camp Bucks to your account when you register, or log in and add after you register. Purchases are charged against the total of Camp Bucks in your account. If you do not have enough money in your account, you will need to have cash or a credit card.

After the event, any unused Camp Bucks in the amount of $10 or more will be refunded to the credit card or e-check we have on file within one week. Or during registration, you may choose to donate any unused Camp Bucks above $10 to the Deer Run Scholarship Fund. Any unused Camp Bucks in the amount of $9.99 and under are automatically applied as a donation to the Deer Run Scholarship Fund.

Volunteers are vitally important to this ministry! They help us meet the needs of our guests and with property upkeep and improvements. Volunteers help throughout the year in areas such as serving meals, landscaping, cutting firewood, construction, summer camps, fund raising events plus community and family events. For more information about serving, call Sheila Brown at (615) 550-4093. For a Volunteer Application, text DeerRun Volunteer to (615) 701-4918 or go online to DeerRun.camp/volunteer.