Camp Manitowa, nestled in beautiful Southern Illinois just 90 minutes from St. Louis, is your child’s happy place. It’s the place they dream about at night and talk about all year long.

Here, campers try new things with new friends and discover a deeper sense of independence and self-confidence. Every adventure — from the first leap off the dock to the last song around the campfire — stays with them. And when they leave, they start counting down the days until they return.

Camp is where kids can be creative, brave, bold, and full of joy.

They can jump in the lake, fly down the zip line, tie-dye a shirt, play Gaga ball, laugh with friends, get advice from their counselor, and dance under the stars at the campfire — all in one day. As they grow older, the friendships and memories of camp grow with them.

At Camp Manitowa, kids learn to lead, to listen, to cheer for one another, and to become their best selves.

It’s the place where you become you.

Camp Manitowa serves kids entering 2nd–10th grade. With 75–125 campers each session, we’re small enough for every child to feel known and valued — and big enough for adventure. Campers choose their daily core activities, giving them ownership over their experience and the opportunity to grow their skills at their own pace.

Our staff and counselors embrace their roles as mentors, role models, and spirited leaders. They’re highly trained, deeply caring, and genuinely love camp life.