Camp Manitowa

At Camp Manitowa, we're dedicated to providing an unforgettable experience for our campers and guests. Located in Southern Illinois, our beautiful Rend Lake property offers a private, traditional sleep-away summer camp, along with fall and spring group retreats, and individual cabin rentals. Our mission is to create a safe and welcoming environment where everyone can feel at home, whether you're a school group, a family, or an individual looking for a unique getaway.

Our Services

Our services range from overnight summer camps for kids entering 2nd to 10th grade to year-round retreats for schools, college students, scout groups, music festivals, yoga retreats, weddings, and more. We offer a variety of outdoor activities, unique accommodations, and delicious food, all set amidst our stunning natural surroundings. Our camps and retreats are designed to be fun and meaningful, with programs tailored to meet the needs and interests of each group.

Our Story

Camp Manitowa was co-founded by Andy Brown and Dan Grabel in 2010. Both had a lifelong dream of owning and running a summer camp and, after a two-year search, they found the perfect property in Southern Illinois. The camp has a rich history, previously operated by the Lake Benton Baptist Camp from 1947 to 2005. Andy and Dan invested over $1 million in renovations to ensure the camp met their high standards. With a combined 50 years of experience in running camps and working with children and youth, they're dedicated to making your stay with us an unforgettable experience.

Daily Activities

At Camp Manitowa, campers get to choose their daily activity sessions. If they find something they love, they can choose to do it each day. Our core activities include water skiing, tubing, canoeing and kayaking, swimming, and many more. We believe in giving campers the space to be creative and have control over their experience. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, we have something for everyone.