The Backyard

Are you searching for a unique and welcoming space in Van Buren, Arkansas, where community thrives and outdoor fun is always on the agenda? Look no further than The Backyard. More than just a traditional campground, The Backyard is a special initiative by Van Buren First Assembly of God, designed to serve as a vibrant community hub for kids, youth, and families across the River Valley. It's a place where laughter echoes, friendships are forged, and lifelong memories are created, all within a safe and engaging outdoor environment. Whether you're looking for an exciting summer camp experience for your children, a venue for a group gathering, or simply a spot to enjoy the great outdoors close to home, The Backyard offers a refreshingly different kind of campground experience. For locals, it's a testament to community spirit and a fantastic resource right in the heart of Van Buren.

The concept behind The Backyard is deeply rooted in its mission: to provide a welcoming and transformative space for everyone, regardless of background, beliefs, or social status. In spring of 2019, Van Buren First Assembly of God acquired 13 acres of land directly across from their main campus on Fayetteville Road. This piece of land, despite being centrally located in town, surprisingly offers a feeling of being in the middle of nowhere, providing that perfect blend of accessibility and natural seclusion. The vision for this land quickly crystallized into creating a community summer camp and outdoor space, driven by a recognized need in the area for engaging activities for kids and youth. This dedication to community enrichment sets The Backyard apart from many other camping facilities; it's not just about pitching a tent or parking an RV, but about fostering connections and providing meaningful experiences. The warm and inviting atmosphere is often highlighted by visitors, making it a highly recommended spot for family-friendly enjoyment.

The commitment to creating a positive environment is evident in the feedback received, with parents noting that their children consistently have a good time here. This emphasis on fun and positive engagement for younger generations underscores The Backyard's foundational purpose. While it may serve as a campground in the broader sense of offering outdoor space for temporary stays, its primary identity leans heavily towards being a dynamic community center with camping facilities as a component of its offerings. This duality makes it an incredibly versatile and valuable asset for the Van Buren area, providing a unique blend of recreational opportunity and community outreach.

The Backyard is conveniently located at 1014 Fayetteville Rd, Van Buren, AR 72956, USA. This prime location places it directly across the street from Van Buren First Assembly of God's main campus, making it incredibly easy to find and access for residents of Van Buren and surrounding communities. Van Buren itself is a historic city in Crawford County, Arkansas, situated just east of Fort Smith and on the banks of the Arkansas River. Its position along major transportation routes, including Interstate 40, ensures that The Backyard is highly accessible for locals traveling from various parts of the state.

Getting to The Backyard is straightforward, whether you're coming from within Van Buren or from nearby towns. Fayetteville Road is a key artery in Van Buren, connecting to other main roads and making navigation simple. The centralized location means that essential services, such as grocery stores, restaurants, and other community facilities in Van Buren, are just a short drive away. This convenience is a significant advantage for families utilizing the camp or attending events, as it minimizes travel time and maximizes opportunities for engagement. The ease of access, combined with the feeling of being in a more secluded, natural setting once inside the property, creates a perfect balance for a community-focused outdoor space. For those traveling from greater distances within Arkansas, Van Buren's strategic location in the western part of the state makes it an accessible destination, providing a refreshing outdoor experience without venturing too far off the beaten path.

While The Backyard operates as a community-oriented facility, its services are tailored to support its mission of providing a positive and engaging environment, particularly for youth and community events. Based on its mission and typical offerings of such community-driven campgrounds, expected services may include:

• Dedicated Spaces for Youth Activities: Facilities designed for various youth programs, including summer camps, retreats, and day activities, are central to The Backyard's operations.
• Camping Accommodations: While not specified as traditional RV or tent sites with full hookups, the nature of a "campground" implies areas suitable for group overnight stays, potentially including rustic cabin options or designated tent areas for youth groups.
• Recreational Facilities: Spaces for outdoor games and activities, catering to children and youth, would be a core component. This could include open fields for sports, play structures, or designated activity zones.
• Restroom and Shower Facilities: Essential for any extended stay or camp, clean and accessible restrooms and showers would be expected to support campers.
• Meeting and Gathering Areas: Common areas, possibly including a pavilion or multi-purpose building, would be available for group meetings, meals, and indoor activities, especially during inclement weather.
• Supervised Programs: For structured camps and events, the presence of trained staff and volunteers to oversee activities and ensure safety is a key service.
• Community Access: The very essence of The Backyard is to be a resource for the local community, implying open access for various church or community-led events and programs.

The Backyard's unique focus as a community campground offers several distinctive features and highlights, particularly appealing to local families and organizations:

• Community-Centric Mission: Its primary highlight is its dedication to serving the local community, especially kids and youth, by providing a safe and inspiring outdoor environment for personal growth and social interaction.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Designed with children and families in mind, The Backyard creates an inviting atmosphere where kids can thrive, as evidenced by positive parental feedback.
• Versatile Outdoor Space: The 13 acres offer ample room for a variety of outdoor activities, from open play to structured camp games, making it adaptable for different group needs.
• Strategic Location: Despite being "in the middle of town," the property manages to feel like a secluded natural retreat, offering the best of both worlds – convenience and an immersive outdoor experience.
• Youth Program Focus: This is a standout feature, as it specifically addresses a community need for engaging and positive summer activities and youth development programs.
• Supported by Van Buren First Assembly of God: Being an initiative of a local church, it implies a foundation of care, values, and community support, which can be a significant draw for many families.
• Potential for Group Gatherings: Beyond structured camps, the space is likely well-suited for various group gatherings, such as church picnics, family reunions, or organizational retreats, fostering community bonds.

As The Backyard is a community initiative by Van Buren First Assembly of God with a primary focus on youth and community programs, specific commercial "promotions or special offers" in the traditional sense of a public campground might not always be advertised. However, their mission often translates into accessible and affordable programming for the community. For instance, summer camp fees are likely structured to be as inclusive as possible. It is highly recommended to contact The Backyard directly to inquire about their seasonal programming, camp registration fees, potential scholarships or financial aid for families in need, or any community event schedules that might involve free or low-cost participation. Being a church-led effort, they may also offer special rates or arrangements for church groups or non-profit organizations. The best way to learn about any upcoming opportunities or specific offers is to reach out using their contact information.

For inquiries about programs, registration, availability, or general information regarding The Backyard, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 1014 Fayetteville Rd, Van Buren, AR 72956, USA
• Phone: (479) 474-7573
• Mobile Phone: +1 479-474-7573 (This number is likely the same as the main phone, reinforcing direct contact.)
• Email: info@thebackyard.camp (This is a specific email provided on their website, indicating a dedicated contact for The Backyard operations.)
• Website: It is highly recommended to visit their official website, thebackyard.camp, for the most current information on their mission, programs, schedules, and any registration details.

Direct communication is the best way to understand how The Backyard can serve your family or group's needs and to learn about any specific events or opportunities being offered.

The Backyard is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals in Arkansas, particularly those residing in and around the Van Buren area, due to its unique blend of accessibility, community focus, and dedication to youth development. For families with children, it offers a readily available and trusted venue for engaging outdoor activities and memorable summer camp experiences, fulfilling a genuine need for structured, positive programs. The convenience of its location right within Van Buren means less travel time and more opportunities for participation in its various offerings. Beyond structured programs, its very existence as a community hub provides a valuable local resource for fostering social connections and a sense of belonging, which is crucial for healthy communities. It’s a testament to local initiative providing quality recreational and developmental opportunities that are often difficult to find. Whether it's for a child's summer adventure, a group event, or simply to support a local endeavor that enriches the lives of Van Buren's youth, The Backyard stands out as a truly beneficial and cherished asset for the Arkansas community.