The Magic Is Back: Welcome to Summer 2026

The cabins are ready. The staff is waiting. And another summer of Manitowa Magic is officially here.

Today, we welcome our Session I campers home to Camp Manitowa and officially begin Summer 2026 at Rend Lake.

After an incredible Staff Week filled with preparation, training, activities, camp procedures, plenty of laughter, and more than a few loud sing-alongs, our team is ready. We’re especially lucky to welcome back so many familiar faces this summer, alongside an amazing group of new counselors who have already brought incredible energy and enthusiasm to camp.

They’ve spent the past week getting every corner of Manitowa ready for the moment we’ve all been waiting for: campers arriving.

“There’s nothing quite like welcoming campers back home to Manitowa,” said Program Director Dylan Brown. “Our staff has put so much into preparing for this summer, and the excitement around camp is impossible to miss. We’re ready to make new memories, try new things, laugh a lot, and have some great times in Benton.”

For our camp families, opening day is about more than luggage, cabin assignments, and goodbyes. It’s the beginning of a summer filled with new friendships, growing independence, favorite traditions, and the moments campers will still be talking about long after they head home.

We know how special the trust our families place in us is. Thank you for sharing your kids with Camp Manitowa and allowing us to be part of their summer. It’s a responsibility—and a privilege—we never take for granted.

The bags are packed. The cabins are ready. The sun is shining.

Hellllooooo, Summer 2026. We’re so glad you’re here. ✌🏼🏕️💛