Chris Smith grew up in Thomson, Georgia. In 1984, he graduated from Briarwood Academy. He attended Augusta State University for a year, and then transferred to Georgia Military College, where he graduated in 1987. Following graduation, he passed the entrance exams for a position with the Burke County Emergency Management Agency, and became a certified Fire Fighter and Emergency Medical Technician, quickly worked his way up to the rank of Captain.

Between 1988 and 1994, Chris helped create the Disaster Relief Program with the Kilpatrick Baptist Association, and was instrumental in forming the policies and procedures for the Disaster Relief Program for the entire Southern Baptist Convention.

In June 2004, while eating at the Dearing Café, Chris received a divine revelation to start The Old Frontier Non-Denominational Christian Campground.

The Old Frontier was incorporated in October 2004, and Chris began receiving help and support from friends, volunteers and area businesses.

In the spring of 2008, Chris was ordained as a Christian minister to preach and teach the Gospel, and to spread the Good Tidings unto all that come to him for help.

Over the years, The Old Frontier has grown significantly, offering a variety of social activities, recreational and leadership opportunities, and reinforcing spiritual values to people of all walks of life — all the while bringing many individuals to the salvation of Christ Jesus.