Camp Manitowa
Southern Illinois Summer Camp and Rend Lake Retreat Center
Located near Rend Lake in Southern Illinois, just 90 minutes from St. Louis, Camp Manitowa is a traditional summer camp and retreat destination rooted in community, adventure, and lifelong friendships.
Summer Camp Programs in Southern Illinois
Camp Manitowa is a Southern Illinois summer camp and Rend Lake retreat rooted in community, adventure, and tradition. We host youth summer camp programs, family retreats, school groups, and private cabin stays in a peaceful lakeside setting designed to help people unplug and reconnect.
Family Retreats & Group Getaways
Camp Manitowa offers lakeside cabin rentals near Rend Lake for family reunions, school retreats, scout groups, yoga weekends, and private events. Guests enjoy access to camp activities, waterfront recreation, and peaceful Southern Illinois woods.
About Camp Manitowa
Founded in 2010, Camp Manitowa is rooted in tradition, community, and outdoor adventure. Located near Rend Lake in Southern Illinois, we create meaningful experiences for campers, families, and groups seeking connection and time away.
Get In Touch
Whether you're exploring summer camp, planning a retreat near Rend Lake, or simply have a question, we’d love to connect. Reach out and our team will help you find the right fit for your camper, family, or group.
Camp Dispatch
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Introducing the New Camp Manitowa Parent Hub
Everything camp families need, all in one place. At Camp Manitowa, we know that preparing for camp should…
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Rend Lake Beaches are Open for the Summer!
Rend Lake beaches opened this weekend… which around here feels like the unofficial start of summer. For Camp…
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100 Days Until Camp.
Today marks just 100 days until campers roll through the gates, duffel bags hit the floors of our yurts,…
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Why People Come to Camp Manitowa for Retreats
In a world that moves fast, retreats offer something simple and powerful: the chance to slow down. At…
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What’s Happening at Camp This Season
Spring 2026 As the weather warms and the lake comes back to life, Camp Manitowa begins to fill…
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The End-of-Winter Survival Playlist
Winter has a way of lingering longer than anyone wants. The lake is quiet. The campfire circle is…
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Opening the Basement Attic Archives
Every camp has stories. At Camp Manitowa, those stories live in photo albums, old camp schedules, worn-in t-shirts,…
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Welcome to the Manitowa News Network
Live. Local. Up-to-the-Minute. At Camp Manitowa, something special is always happening — and now there’s a place to…
Camp Canteen
The Camp Canteen keeps the spirit of Camp Manitowa alive beyond the summer. From classic camp apparel to timeless keepsakes, each piece is inspired by tradition, community, and life near Rend Lake.
Book Your Rend Lake Adventure Today
Camp Manitowa is located in Benton, Illinois, serving families and groups throughout Southern Illinois and beyond.