Camp Crystal Lake Comes Alive for Jason Lives Fans

RUTLEDGE, Georgia — Camp Crystal Lake made a chilling return over Labor Day weekend 2025, as horror fans gathered at Camp Daniel Morgan to celebrate the classic slasher film franchise, Friday the 13th. The event drew dozens of dedicated attendees on the site that once doubled as the fictional summer camp for the iconic killer, Jason Voorhees.

Attendees participated in various activities, including a tour led by Kenny, an enthusiastic director and replica builder, who shared insights about the filming locations for Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives. “We might not know exactly where it happened, but I can tell you this spot was pivotal,” Kenny told fans while pointing out pivotal scenes from the movie.

The nostalgic gathering, affectionately dubbed “Camp Blood,” was a mix of excitement and trepidation as fans embraced the horror theme. As many congregated around the check-in cabin, the atmosphere echoed elements of a rock concert married to a campout. With vapers and beer in hand, fans dressed in black and adorned with Jason-themed memorabilia prepared for a weekend full of fun and frights.

Participants included Rick, a marketing executive from New Jersey, who celebrated his love for the series by staying at the camp with fellow enthusiasts. “I’ve seen every movie in theaters,” he said. Meanwhile, Jill, a competitive powerlifter, charmed campers by recounting her Friday the 13th favorites while cooking meals at the camp.

The central theme of the horror genre’s connection to vacations became a topic of debate among campers. “Why do we love punishing characters simply for taking time off?” a participant mused. The events led up to the screening of Friday the 13th Part V followed by Jason Lives, generating a collective sense of belonging among fans.

As darkness fell, Kenny encouraged everyone to enjoy the final screening of Jason Lives, expressing gratitude for their commitment to the event. “It’s amazing how far everyone has traveled to gather here,” he said, as campers watched the infamous slasher story unfold once more on the screen. Thus, Camp Crystal Lake came full circle, reuniting the past with the present in a weekend of thrill and nostalgia.