On September 5, 2025, the State of Texas took significant steps to strengthen youth camp safety in response to the tragic flash flooding that occurred last summer in the Texas Hill Country. Senate Bill 1, collectively known as the Heaven’s 27 Camp Safety Act, and House Bill 1, the Youth CAMPER Act, were officially signed into law. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families and communities who suffered the heartbreaking loss of loved ones during this devastating event.

The updated statewide safety requirements are expected to be finalized in January. At T Bar M, the safety and well-being of our campers have always been our highest priority. We are grateful that our existing safety procedures and protocols already align closely with the draft legislation.

As part of our commitment to safety, we will be submitting our updated safety policies and emergency response plans to state and local authorities for final review and approval. Please know that we remain fully dedicated to providing a safe, healthy, and secure environment for every camper.

Thank you for trusting us with your campers’ hearts and well-being. It is a responsibility and privilege we hold with the utmost care.

It's hard to describe what the gathering of 400 plus people to celebrate 45 years of T Bar M was like.  But four words shared by Mike Goddard at our first Team Meeting together, sure do begin to paint the picture.

Make. Every. Day. Camp.

Sure, we all gathered inside the gates of the place we love. There were FUAGNEM skits, Alphas and Omegas competing, kids running wild and free across the sports field, and no fun wasted. Absolutely, the camaraderie was overflowing. 

But that wasn’t what made this weekend feel like Camp. Instead,

It was the greeting and embrace of an old friend as if no time had passed.

It was the way a conversation moved from “How are you?” to a deeper ask of the same question. 

It was the 'Remember when...' and the laughs and nostalgia that followed.

It was seeing our kids light up with the joy of purposeful play with new friends at camp.

It was connecting with God sitting on a swing, remembering His Word and the work He has done.

It was standing in the Sanctuary worshiping our Savior together.

It was celebrating the good and beautiful things in one another's lives...

And the locking of arms and hearts to recognize the really hard things, too. 

It was the lingering after a meal to listen longer and encourage one another.

It was looking into each other's eyes with so much gratitude.

And it was remembering God is indeed good... all the time. All the time… God is good.

And then, it was walking back out the gates we love, under the sign that reminds us of Christ's charge, our calling, our honor... to Love God, Love Each Other.

We delight in hearing how you continue to Make Ever Day Camp by the way you Love God and Love others in your homes, your jobs, your neighborhoods, your lives.  Don't grow weary in doing such good work!

As temperatures begin to rise again, the sun lengthens its stay in the sky, pollen graces the ground, and bluebonnets bloom along country roads, the evidence is clear that spring is upon us at last- and with it, new life all around. I can’t help but think that the rhythms of nature may be intended to draw our attention to a greater Truth that is available for each of us as well. Just as the trees and grass that once were dead are now springing to life with vibrant colors, so we once were dead in our sins but have now been given new life because Jesus died for us and powerfully defeated death through His resurrection.

I don’t know when the Gospel message first transformed your life - maybe it was through a colorful beaded bracelet, or while gazing at stars on the Sports Field, or sitting around a campfire at Lake Travis. Whatever the moment or season may have been, the power of the Gospel is just as impactful and necessary for you today as it was then. You see, the Gospel isn’t just our power for salvation. It is the daily sustenance by which we are strengthened, sanctified, and anchored in hope.

If we really believe that the Creator of the World loved us enough to live the life we were incapable of living and willingly die the death we deserved to die on our behalf, we get to live forgiven, not ashamed of our past. And if we really believe that He rose again from the grave... Well, that changes everything. 

Yes, the death of Jesus paid the penalty for our sins, so we can live forgiven! But what’s even more remarkable is that His resurrection defeated the power of our sin! We are free to live with Him, now and forever! 

The resurrection hope reshapes how we live, how we forgive, how we lead, and how we trust God with what we cannot control. It anchors us in truth when life feels uncertain. 

In 1 Corinthians 15 Paul explains that if Christ had not been raised, we would have no hope, our faith would be in vain, and we would be pitied. But indeed, Christ has been raised! Death was not the end. In His glorious might, He came back to life and is now living inside each of us who would believe! 1 Corinthians 15 finishes with the declaration, “Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting? The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin sin the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ”! (1 Corinthians 15:54-57).

If this same power that rose Jesus from the dead is not only available to us, but actually living in us, what shall we fear? If Christ has forgiven all of our sins and given us new life, how shall we withhold grace from our neighbor? If Christ overcame death and the grave, who are we to hesitate in trusting Him with any detail of our life?

You may not be sitting on the sports field gazing at the stars this Easter, but wherever you find yourself, may you be refreshed as you reflect on the power of the resurrection and the hope it infuses in everyday life. As calendars fill up, both celebrations and griefs abound, and fear fights for your attention, pause for a moment to remember: the tomb is still empty. And our Savior isn’t finished. The one who paid the penalty for sin through the cross and defeated the power of sin through his resurrection, is coming back again to destroy the presence of sin forever with His glorious return. Until that day, we pray that the loving, almighty God of hope will “fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope” (Romans 15:13). 

Back in 1981

Each Monday, the T Bar M staff gathers in Buckboard for coffee. It’s a time we share announcements, what we have seen God do over the past week, alongside of reading “a good word from The Good Word". After that, we gather in our Cov Groups to pray. This past week, it occurred to me that we were sitting in the first building ever built for T Bar M.

In 1981, when the world found themselves amazed at the first computer, captivated by a new thing called “music videos,” and watching every moment of Princess Diana’s wedding, something special was happening in New Braunfels. A couple of buildings were built, and a group of faithful people set out on a new adventure called T Bar M. They soon found themselves amazed at what the Lord could do, captivated by His Word and watching every moment of God changing people’s lives forever.

So much has changed in our world and at T Bar M since that first summer… but God changing people’s lives hasn’t wavered a bit, and we are so grateful.

Celebrate With Us

In the past 45 years, we have never grown tired of hearing how God changes folks' eternity… and therefore generations’ eternity. In fact, we celebrate it… big time… and want to share some of those recent stories with you. Read along and celebrate with us!

God Is Good

  • "My daughter had the best week of her life at T bar M! I wanted to reach out to you say thank you from the bottom of my heart. Kinley made a decision to invite Jesus into her heart at camp and we spent the weekend celebrating! " Another life, God rescues forever.

We have so much to Celebrate.  God continues to change people’s eternities, and we are so grateful to have a front row view to what He is doing!

“Heaven on earth” - that’s the name by which my mother, a self-professed T Bar M super fan, refers to camp. My wife and I often comment, somewhat in jest but mostly with sincerity, that everything in our lives is a result of camp. We both grew up at camp. Our siblings grew up at camp. We, separately, lived on sailboats in the Bahamas and set up camp in Peru with T Bar M. Then, we met… as campers at Camp Travis (parents…tell your kids to always keep their eyes open). We both worked multiple summers at Camp Travis as coaches and on leadership. Now, all three of our kids are T Bar M campers. It is generational. Camp is a place that has meant more to our family than I can possibly explain in this short post. Many of our most intimate experiences with Jesus have been at camp. His presence is palpable. The Lord used (and continues to use) camp to provide a brief glimpse of how a Christ-centered life - when stripped of everyday, worldly distractions - provides true joy, true fellowship, and true growth.

Camp tends to unlock a childish joy that many of us have lost along the way. The common phrase “life comes at you fast” becomes all too true as we age. Professional ups and downs, family life joys and sorrows, and the everyday stresses of being an adult in an increasingly crazy and confusing world can cause us to forget the beautifully simple escape that camp offers – a place for a quiet mind. Matthew 11:28-30 often comes to mind when reflecting on camp, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” We all know that camp certainly doesn’t provide physical rest, but I believe it does uniquely provide the mental and spiritual rest that Jesus is talking about in Matthew 11. That is why we “return to the well” year after year: to see God work, to re-center, and quiet the noise.

I’ve long believed, and increasingly so as the years go on, that camp is one of the most important places on earth. I think a common negative refrain is that camp is not real life. But maybe we’d all be better off if it were real life. Maybe camp (the simplicity, the joy, the stillness, the focus, the FUAGNEM) is what we should aspire for real life to look like.

I pray that generations of Vicks experience the life-changing, eternity-shaping growth that God continues to orchestrate through T Bar M. As far as I’m concerned, it’s the closest thing we have to “Heaven on earth.”

Overnight Camp is more than just a fun week of summer (and a break for busy parents), it’s a place where kids build confidence, form deep friendships, and grow in ways that stick with them long after camp ends. If you’re on the fence about sending your child to overnight camp, here are eight benefits that make it an experience worth saying “yes” to. 

  1. Independence 

The first night away can feel like a big step—but spending time away from home allows kids to spread their wings in a safe and encouraging environment. At camp, they learn to navigate daily routines, make decisions, and take ownership of their experiences, leaving with a deep sense of accomplishment and the confidence to take on challenges beyond camp. 

  1. Responsibility 

At camp, kids are expected to take care of themselves and their space—and they rise to the occasion! They make their beds, clean their cabins, clear their plates after meals, and follow a daily schedule. But responsibility at camp goes beyond just chores. It’s about learning to take ownership of their actions, respecting others, and seeing how small habits can make a big impact. 

  1. Teamwork 

At overnight camp, kids learn to be part of something bigger than themselves. From cabin competitions to ropes courses, campers quickly realize that working together gets them further than going solo. They practice communication, problem-solving, and learn how to encourage others along the way. And best of all? They build friendships in the process that often last for years to come. 

  1. Biblical Reflection 

Each day at camp, kids slow down and reflect on the truth of God’s Word. Through devotions, worship, and small group discussions, they explore their faith, wrestle with big questions, and discover what it means to follow Christ in their everyday lives. In a world full of noise and distraction, camp gives them the space to hear God's voice and respond with open hearts. 

  1. Stronger Social Skills 

In a world where so much communication happens behind a screen, camp brings kids back to real, face-to-face interaction. They learn how to introduce themselves, hold conversations, and make friends through shared experiences. From high-energy games to meaningful cabin discussions, every moment at camp is designed to help kids connect. Guided by caring counselors, they’re encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, initiate conversations, and build lasting friendships. 

  1. Resilience 

Camp is full of moments that challenge kids—but in the best way. Maybe it’s conquering the zipline, stepping up to lead a team, or simply learning to be okay with not winning every game. Whatever the challenge, kids quickly learn that setbacks aren’t the end of the world. With encouragement from their counselors and peers, campers learn to persevere, embrace challenges, and develop the resilience they will need to handle life’s ups and downs. 

  1. Perspective 

Sometimes all it takes is a change of scenery to see things in a new light. At overnight camp, kids step outside their usual routines and discover a world full of possibility. Whether it’s learning a new skill, meeting people from different backgrounds, or seeing how much they’re capable of, camp expands their view of what life can be. They come home with a greater appreciation for family, friendships, and the adventure of trying new things. 

  1. Lifelong Investment 

Camp is more than just a fun week of summer—it’s a foundation for the future. The lessons kids learn, the confidence they build, and the friendships they form don’t end when they pack up their bags and head home. Year after year, they return to a place that feels like home, growing in new ways each summer. And even when their camp days are over, they’ll carry the experience with them wherever they go. 

There is no doubt the Lord has been growing folks for the past 45 years within the gates of T Bar M. We have all grown in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men (Luke 2:52), as we have been campers and coaches. But it has been some time since we “added on” to T Bar M. Ten years since Discover took off, 29 years since Camp Travis’ first summer, and of course 45 years since Christ-Centered Adventure began. 

Well, it’s time! We are (physically) growing in some BIG WAYS! Just past the Outback, 20 acres are being developed for T Bar M’s new Family Camp and Retreat Center, and we couldn’t be more excited! In fact, we are FUAGNEM for more space for more people to grow in Christ and have fun while they are at it! 

While the buildings are amazing and the layout and flow of the property are something special, there are two areas we are really excited about: the fields and porches. 

The fields and porches are where the best conversations happen. Conversations with the Lord while staring at the stars, laying still for a change, sitting in a huddle. Conversations with a friend as you catch up on life, wonder about what the Lord is up to, laugh, cry, and pray. I imagine you had a few memories pop into your mind of great moments you have had on a field or porch. You can see why we get excited about them. 

We can’t wait to show you around the new property and share with you the things God is already doing through this project. Holler if you are around—we would love to give you a tour. 

Loving God, Loving Each Other, 

Kelli and Your T Bar M Family 

February always nudges us toward thinking about love, but around here, we see it as more than a holiday on the calendar. It’s a chance to live out the heartbeat of camp… the very message we repeat at Cabin Time, Team Meeting, and Think Twice: Love God, Love Others.

Some of you have been part of our annual Wear One Share One tradition—two simple bracelets that spark something bigger than a camp memory. One worn as a reminder of Christ’s love for us… and one shared to pass that love along. Even if your family isn’t receiving bracelets in the mail this year, the mission behind them is still yours to take hold of right where you are: because Jesus has loved us, we get to love boldly, generously, and purposefully.

This month, we’re inviting our T Bar M family to lean into that rhythm together. To make February a month where we open our eyes, slow our pace, and recognize all the places God gives us to show His love—at home, in car lines, across classrooms, on sports teams, in friendships, and even with strangers we pass by without meaning to.

Love God. Love Others.
It’s a simple call with a powerful ripple. And when families step into it together, hearts grow… conversations deepen… homes shift… and kids learn that faith is meant to be lived, not just talked about.

So whether you’re sharing a bracelet or simply sharing kindness, encouragement, time, forgiveness, or truth—join us in pointing back to the One who loved us first. Let’s make this month one big Wear One Share One moment… where camp’s heartbeat spills into everyday life and the love of Christ becomes something our families carry into every room we enter.

2026. The year we get to gather everyone back home at T Bar M! I don’t think it would be too hard to come up with 2,026 reasons why the 45th reunion makes us FUAGNEM. 

We imagine there are 2,026 of YOU, our Alumni! And that is reason enough to gather… YOU. 

But here are a few more reasons… 

There is something special about walking through those gates and into the place that changed so many college students. Whether you stayed in New Braunfels for the summer, traveled across the state, or landed in Spicewood, we can’t wait to see you come home to T Bar M for this special weekend! You can read more about it here, and don’t you worry—you will see more information in our newsletters, on Instagram, and any time we see you! 

Loving God, Loving each other, 

Your T Bar M Family 

Mark your calendars for March 20–22 and go ahead and reserve your spot here. While we look forward to hosting a whole lot of folks… we don’t have room for all 2,026 of you. So sign up now!

“Lord, it’s good to be alive.” — Ridgely, circa 1997

This is the heartbeat of the lyrics to a song that played every Wednesday morning in the summer of 2002, my first summer on the leadership team at camp. “It’s good to be alive.” I still believe this, but so much has changed in 23 years… or maybe not. Maybe it’s mostly me that has changed — me, my perspective, and my naivety. I didn’t think as much back then about this question, but I ask myself this a lot as I get older: what is good? Bear with me. Let’s go for a good ride.

If we were asking, “Who is good?” the simple answer I grew up with is a classic one-word answer for the Sunday school teacher — “Jesus!” You could say that, and you’d be right! Jesus Himself said, “No one is good except God alone” (Mark 10:18). And the Psalms tell us that “no one is good, not even one” (Psalm 14:3; Romans 3:12). Okay, so now we know who is good (Jesus) and who isn’t (people, including you and me, reader), but the answer to “what is good” is more complex.

When God created everything, He said it was good! He created people and said they were “very good!” (yes, this was before sin entered the world). These are tangible things that God called good, but let’s go a step further. What about some intangible things? “How good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1). “The commandment is holy and righteous and good” (Romans 7:12). Jesus knows that fathers know how to give good gifts to their children (Matthew 7:11). We are to do good works, and there is so much more good mentioned in Scripture.

So far we’re all good, right? It’s not too hard to think of those things listed above and agree that they are good, and with these things in mind, it’s easy to say, “God is good. I will rejoice!” But the complexity comes in when we experience — and hopefully learn and grow through — suffering. Is God still good then? And I’ll say the obvious… suffering is hard.

I don’t want to be a downer here, but as you get to know me, you’ll start to understand that I am authentic. It’s actually a core value in my family. As I reflect on 2025 and consider what is in store for 2026, I cannot escape some really difficult things. A friend of mine lost his life in an accident and left a wife and four kids without a husband and father. Two couples close to us have gone through divorce. In close proximity to our community, we have seen cancer diagnoses, miscarriages, layoffs, financially crippling medical bills, surprise relocations, mid-life crises and depression, wayward children, and tragic loss of life. Where is the goodness in all of this???

Please understand that most of me would much rather be writing this blog post about a really spectacular plan to stick to your spiritual disciplines this year, to really see sunshine and rainbows in God’s abundant material provision, to have all of our prayers answered in really happy ways. But I am feeling compelled to instead acknowledge that Jesus wept — and we will too. What will we do when our family, close friends, or our own selves come on hard times? Who will we trust? As for me, I cling to the hope that is ours for the taking in Scripture. Check this out:

Some who are reading these very words are in the depth of suffering and confusion. 2025 was tough, and 2026 might be tougher. I want you to know that (1) you are loved more than you can possibly imagine — last year, this year, the next, and for eternity after — and also (2) the suffering will not last forever. For those who trust in the saving work of Christ’s death on the cross and His power over death in His resurrection, this temporary life will close someday, and we will be resurrected, glorified, and united with Him in Heaven, and see Him as He is.

I am also praying for you tonight as I write, that you may have relief from your burden and be able to honestly and authentically say, “Not my will, but God’s will be done” (Luke 22:42). If you ever need a hug in 2026 — to mourn the hard or to celebrate the good — you can find me at T Bar M. Remember, when our life is hidden with Christ, even when it’s complicated, this is true: it’s good to be alive — abundantly alive.

- Joe Dalton, Senior Director of Camps