Posts by Camp Manitowa

One week down, and Camp Manitowa has officially found its summer rhythm. As Week Two of Summer 2026 begins, camp is buzzing. Friendships are growing. Campers are trying new activities. Skills are being mastered, hidden talents are being discovered, and a little healthy competition is making its way across camp. Most importantly, campers are becoming…

Summer 2026 is officially underway at Camp Manitowa—and our first day back gave us just about everything. Campers arrived in Benton on Sunday to gorgeous weather, big energy, and a full day designed to help everyone settle back into the rhythm of camp life. Throughout the afternoon, campers rotated around camp, took their swim tests,…

Everything camp families need, all in one place. At Camp Manitowa, we know that preparing for camp should feel exciting—not overwhelming. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce the new Camp Manitowa Parent Hub, a dedicated online resource designed to make camp preparation easier for both new and returning families. Whether you’re getting ready for your…

Rend Lake beaches opened this weekend… which around here feels like the unofficial start of summer. For Camp Manitowa guests staying in our cabins and Airbnbs, that means easy access to local beaches just minutes away — perfect for a quick swim, beach afternoon, or sunset stop after a day on property. It also means…

Today marks just 100 days until campers roll through the gates, duffel bags hit the floors of our yurts, and Camp Manitowa comes back to life. 100 days until campfire songs.100 days until Rend Lake days and late-night laughs.100 days until bugle calls, color wars, Gaga tournaments, and the moments campers talk about all year. For…

In a world that moves fast, retreats offer something simple and powerful: the chance to slow down. At Camp Manitowa, retreat groups find a setting that makes it easier to step away from everyday routines and reconnect with what matters most — whether that’s community, creativity, reflection, or rest. Located near Rend Lake in Southern…

Spring 2026 As the weather warms and the lake comes back to life, Camp Manitowa begins to fill with the sounds of gathering, learning, and adventure again. This season brings special opportunities for families, young leaders, and the camp community to come together in meaningful ways. Here are two events we’re especially excited about this…

Winter has a way of lingering longer than anyone wants. The lake is quiet. The campfire circle is waiting. Spring feels close, but not quite here yet. At Camp Manitowa, we believe music helps bridge the seasons. So while we wait for warm evenings, canoe paddles, and the first real sunset of camp season, here’s…