Campground Canvassing
Steve Hughes

Purpose: To inform campers about ministry programs in a  positive way.

Campers come to the mountains, lakes, or wherever to escape  the normal routines and pressures of everyday life. This  may include being solicited by religious groups. Therefore,  ministry workers must be careful not to upset someone or  leave a bad impression. Generally, though, the majority of  campers are friendly and appreciative of your invitation.

The following guidelines should help you in your  canvassing: 

• Prepare ahead of time a brief and friendly verbal  invitation giving dates, times, location, etc. 
• If allowed, a small promotional flyer is good to hand  out. Larger promotional posters can usually be posted at  campground message boards. Always obtain permission to hand  out or post any promotional material. Never leave a flyer  at an unattended campsite. Do not conceal the fact that  your program is religious and Christian in nature and  purpose.
• Observe the campground to find out the best time to find  people in their campsites. Usually late afternoon is a good  time when at least one parent returns to start preparing  the evening meal. 
• Assign each person/couple canvassing a specific area.  This way you will not overlap and "upset" someone who twice  has had to say they're not interested. 
• Before you approach a campsite, appraise the situation to  see if it is appropriate to enter the campsite. For  example, if someone is quietly reading a book or taking a  nap do not disturb them. Do not enter any campsite where  there appears to be a family or domestic dispute occurring. 
• Youth and children should always canvass with an adult.  As a rule, never enter any car or RV with a stranger. 
• Respect campsite boundaries and privacy. Do not cut through or across the campsite. 
• Say "Hello!" and introduce yourself from a distance and then give the invitation to the closest individual to you. 
• Always leave the campsite with a positive atmosphere. 
• If  someone is not receptive to your invitation, leave by saying, "Have a great time riding your bikes!" or "Enjoy  the rest of your vacation." If possible, wear a ministry T-shirt or name badge. 
• Last, but always first, remember to pray!

Adapted from an article by Steve Hughes in the 1993  National Resort Ministries Conference notebook. Used by  permission. Resort/Leisure Ministry Resource Manual ARLM