Camp Agaiutim Nune is a testimony of God’s heart to reach the children, teens, and families of western Alaska. Before the camp began, there was no ministry of this kind in the region—but God set His hand on this land and made a way. The property, untouched and undeveloped, was given to the Assemblies of God missions outreach in Alaska. Accessible only by boat along a tributary of the Yukon River, it became a place chosen and set apart for His purposes.
In the early days, the camp was greatly helped by Pastor Sonny Joseph of the Yupik Assembly of God in Alakanuk. Until his passing in 1997, Pastor Joseph faithfully carried supplies back and forth in his boat and even gave the camp its name in his native Yupik language. “Agaiutim Nune” means The Place of God.
When Camp AN first opened in 1996, the expectation was for 30–40 children. Instead, 61 young people arrived from nine villages—and the numbers quickly grew. By the following summer, 83 campers came. Today, over 100 children and teens attend each year, experiencing God’s presence, fellowship, and teaching in a powerful way.
The early years were humble: a single 38’ x 62’ tent served as kitchen, dining hall, and chapel, with army tents for sleeping and a small gas generator providing minimal power. Yet God faithfully provided. Year after year, workers came from across the nation, bringing prayer, resources, and hands to help. In 2014, through miraculous provision, a 50’ x 100’ building was constructed to house the camp’s kitchen, dining hall, and chapel—a huge step forward in ministry.
Location
Camp AN is located on the Akularak River, 17 miles up the Yukon River from the village of Emmonak. This completely undeveloped area is rustic and beautiful, surrounded by willow trees, fish camps, and abundant wildlife. Electricity comes from the camp’s own diesel generator, and all supplies—including drinking water—must be shipped to Emmonak from Anchorage and then transported by boat to the site. With no phones, stores, or conveniences, the setting provides a rare opportunity for campers to “come apart” from daily distractions and encounter God in the stillness of His creation.
Ministry
While there’s plenty of fun at Camp AN, the heart of everything we do is to lead people into a life-changing relationship with Jesus Christ. Every year, campers make commitments to Christ, are filled with the Holy Spirit, and discover God’s purpose for their lives—some even responding to His call into ministry.
Each morning begins with small-group devotions and prayer, followed by chapel services filled with worship, Scripture, and teaching. Afternoons mix recreation with Scripture learning, while evenings are set aside for powerful services with worship, skits, the Word of God, and altar ministry. Around the altar, campers and leaders seek God together, and lives are transformed for eternity.
Coaches also spend personal time with each camper, answering questions and pointing them to God’s Word for guidance. All of this is covered by prayer—year-round intercession from people across the nation who carry the camp, its workers, and its campers before the Lord.
Camp Agaiutim Nune truly lives up to its name: The Place of God!