Click the Register link at the top of the site and follow the instructions. You will be asked to register as a camper or a sponsor before proceeding.  The registration could take 15-20 minutes to complete.  It is IMPORTANT that it is fully completed. 

Yes – however, we ask that the keys be turned into the camp office for the week. Participants are not allowed to leave campus, unless for an emergency OR the camp leadership has been contacted by a parent. 

Lodging is in the dorms of the university. We try to house all SURGE KIDS participants in the same dorm for safety purposes and less confusion to the children. SURGE participants (campers, sponsors, staff) are scattered throughout the other available dorms. All campers are housed two in a room.   

Yes – when registering, you have the option to list someone you would like to room with. Dorms have two twin beds. Roommate preferences are considered, but not guaranteed. 

Devices are NOT allowed for SURGE KIDS campers. They can create unnecessary communication and chaos between the camper and the parent. SURGE KIDS campers can contact parents at various points throughout the day, using a device of an adult leader. 

Devices for SURGE campers are permitted but must only be used at appropriate times for appropriate reasons. The camp leadership reserves the right to confiscate a device if being used for inappropriate reasons, and in that case, a parent will be notified. 

A non-refundable $50 deposit is required at the time of registration. This must be made via credit/debit card. 

Tracks are the large group option available to SURGE (student) campers only. These include Choir, Orchestra, and Praise Band. Every SURGE camper chooses one as their focus for the week. One note: the Praise Band track is selected by audition video. Participants are notified if selected for the Praise Band track prior to camp.

SURGE KIDS campers do not select a track. They all form one choir that presents at the end of the week, but also get to experience other musical outlets such as guitar, violin, ukulele, piano, and more. 

Both SURGE KIDS and SURGE offer elective choices for the week. These are more individualized, one-on-one opportunities for a specific focus in an instrument or topic. When registering, you select the electives you are interested in. We try to assign everyone to their top TWO choices. 

SURGE KIDS Elective choices for 2026

SURGE (Student) Elective choices for 2026

A detailed packing list will be emailed out at one month prior to camp, but essentials include: Bible, Twin XL bed linens/sleeping bag; bath towels; toiletries, instrument(s). 

The online registration is exhaustive, and all forms / waivers required by the Georgia Baptist Mission Board, as well as Shorter University are included in the registration. It is important that ALL aspects of the registration be completed. 

Yes – there will be nurses, as well as a doctor on site for the week. A team of nurses are there to oversee medication distribution during camp. Students are required to see the nurses during check-in to release all prescription medications to their oversight. No exceptions – students will be sent home if they do not turn in their prescribed medications. 

You can click to apply at the top of the main page. Interns are open to college students, who have completed at least their second year of college or of equivalent age. Interns arrive the day before camp starts to help get things ready. The week consists of helping in classes; being a part of worship; daily discipleship with camp staff; and more. 

Yes, AFTER the initial $50 deposit. If sending a check, please notify Chad Todd (ctodd@gabaptist.org) that a check is being sent. 

All checks should be sent to the following: 

Georgia Baptist Mission Board 
Attn: SURGE MUSIC CAMPS 
4125 Old Milton Parkway 
Alpharetta, GA 30005 

Absolutely! Orchestra students and praise band students (with the exception of keyboards) should bring their instrument to camp. Any cords or cables that might be needed are also helpful to bring. 

Yes, we have several rules to ensure that SURGE remains a powerful environment for musical and spiritual growth. You will find the list of camp rules included with the registration. You can also see them HERE.

A sponsor is a chaperone that is responsible for a group of campers for the week. Sponsors are especially important if a group of campers is coming from the same church. The more sponsors that are at camp, the more enjoyable and smooth the experience is for everyone. Sponsors also alleviate staff from having to double as a staff member and a sponsor, which can be significant to staff. If you have questions about sponsors, send a message to Chad Todd (ctodd@gabaptist.org). 

An adult, whether a staff member or sponsor, may room with a family member in SURGE KIDS only. Students are not permitted to room with an adult, unless medically necessary. 

The theory assessment is only for middle and high school students.  Because we feel it is important to have a strong understanding of musical concepts as a worship leader, students in SURGE have the opportunity to sit under great teaching in this area.  Students come to camp with varying knowledge levels; therefore, this assessment helps us group students accordingly.   

CLICK HERE TO ACCESS THE ASSESSMENT

A SURGE KIDS participant cannot room with a middle or high school student. However, middle and high school students may room together. 

No.