FAQ

What is Ferncliff’s mission?
Ferncliff creates positive change in the world by opening eyes, minds and hearts to God’s transforming love.

What is unique and distinctive about Ferncliff?
Ferncliff sees its hallmarks as: (1) creativity, (2) outreach, and (3) affecting positive change.

How is Ferncliff doing?
Over the past 10-12 years, Ferncliff has been one of the fastest growing of the 140 Presbyterian camps in the U.S. Its operating budget has grown from $250,000 in 1997 to over $800,000. Camper registrations have gone from 100 in 1985 to 600 in 2008 and conference center occupancy continue to grow.

What is Ferncliff’s vision?
Ferncliff aspires to continue growing in programming excellence. In addition to a growing Disaster Assistance Center, in partnership with Synod of the Sun, Ferncliff will add a Solar Mission Training Center in 2010. Ferncliff is also working on the development of an experiential education program for youth in the area of disaster response.

How and when was Ferncliff started?
Ferncliff became a Presbyterian camp in 1937, in large part, due to the vision of Bill & Helon (He-lon) Williams and E. Grainger & Frances Williams.

Who owns Ferncliff?
The property is owned by the Presbyterian Foundation of Arkansas who in 1983 leased it to the Ferncliff Board of Trustees for 99 years.

How is Ferncliff governed?
A 15 member Board is elected by the Presbytery of Arkansas. Board members can serve up to two consecutive 3-year terms.

Where does Ferncliff get its operating income?
Of Ferncliff’s $800,000 annual operating budget, about 75% is “earned income” from fees charged to user groups and camp registrations. The other 25% is “unearned income” raised from churches, donors, grants, endowment and annual operating support from the Presbytery of Arkansas.

Can individuals book a room at Ferncliff?
Generally, no. Ferncliff makes reservations with churches, non-profits and other organized groups.

Are Ferncliff facilities and camps only for Presbyterians?
No. Anyone can register for camps and any organized group can make a reservation.

Does Ferncliff do weddings and family reunions?
Only on a case-by-case basis, and if the event can be held at a time of the year compatible with Ferncliff still being able to serve its primary mission.