Earle Trent Assembly

Earle Trent Assembly stands as one of Alabama’s premier Christian retreat centers, offering a unique blend of spiritual renewal and outdoor recreation nestled in the natural beauty of the Shoals region. Located at 1245 Spring Cove Road in Florence, Alabama, this 94-acre facility has been serving individuals, families, churches, schools, and organizations for decades, providing an ideal setting for groups seeking meaningful experiences in a serene natural environment.

The assembly was named in honor of Rev. Earle Trent, who served as the Director of Missions for the Colbert Lauderdale Baptist Association from 1958 to 1976. This naming reflects the deep respect and appreciation the community holds for Reverend Trent’s contributions to Baptist ministry and his vision for creating a space dedicated to spiritual growth and community building. The facility itself is owned and operated by the Colbert Lauderdale Baptist Association, ensuring that its mission remains centered on providing authentic Christian experiences and fostering spiritual development for all who visit.

The physical infrastructure of Earle Trent Assembly combines comfort with natural beauty. The retreat center features attractive California redwood buildings equipped with central heating and air conditioning, ensuring that guests of all ages can enjoy their stay in comfort regardless of the season. The buildings are thoughtfully designed to accommodate various group sizes and needs, making the facility versatile enough to host everything from intimate family gatherings to large organizational retreats. The property’s location near the banks of Shoal Creek provides a picturesque backdrop and direct access to water-based activities.

Recreation and outdoor activities form a cornerstone of the Earle Trent Assembly experience. Guests can participate in high and low ropes courses that challenge both body and mind, swimming in designated areas, canoeing along the scenic waterways, softball and basketball games, hiking through the natural landscape, fishing in stocked areas, and camping in Adirondack shelters for those seeking a more immersive outdoor experience. These diverse activities cater to different age groups and physical abilities, ensuring that every visitor can find engaging ways to connect with nature and fellow participants.

A fascinating historical element adds cultural significance to the property. The old Jackson Trail, which crosses the assembly grounds, represents a piece of American history—this historic route was used during Andrew Jackson’s journeys through the South, connecting visitors to the broader historical narrative of the region. This historical dimension transforms a visit to Earle Trent Assembly into an educational experience as well as a recreational one.

The facility’s mission centers on providing spiritual renewal in a beautiful natural setting, welcoming all organizations including churches, schools, workplaces, and community groups. Whether groups are seeking team-building experiences, spiritual retreats, educational programs, or simply quality time in nature, Earle Trent Assembly provides the infrastructure and environment to facilitate meaningful connections and personal growth.

For those interested in scheduling an event or retreat at Earle Trent Assembly, contacting the facility is straightforward. David Quimby, the assembly director, can be reached at (256) 762-4147 or via email at [email protected] to discuss availability, pricing, and specific group needs. The professional staff works closely with organizations to customize experiences that align with their objectives and group composition, ensuring that every visit to Earle Trent Assembly creates lasting memories and meaningful spiritual experiences in one of Alabama’s most beautiful natural settings.