Program

Retreats at Camp Arcadia have been called “a cruise beside the lake” because of the array of activities offered daily.  Weekly programs vary and are tailored to our guests’ needs and interests.  But, regardless of the program, each week features a single or pair of “deans” who act as spiritual leaders for the week, offering daily Bible study and table prayers. This unique facet has been a tradition since Camp opened its doors in the summer of 1923.

“The community of believers that gather at Arcadia year after year makes it special.  It is amazing to have the common thread of a love for God and a love for our families- something you wouldn’t find on any other vacation!” – family week guest

At Arcadia you are invited to play tennis, kayak, swim in Lake Michigan, hike along the beach and through the forest, learn about God’s creation, watch the sun set over Lake Michigan, see area sights like the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, shop at local resort villages, play golf at area championship courses, enjoy ice cream at Camp Arcadia’s Trading Post, and relax as you read a book or take a nap in one of our Adirondack chairs.

Arcadia’s Family Week and Labor Day Weekend programming is designed for inter-generational vacationing. During a Family Week you might: square dance; play basketball, shuffeboard, softball, tennis or soccer; create a craft; participate in a talent show; compete in family relays; or shoot archery. You will be engaged spiritually through the daily adult morning Bible study, presentations and worship. While adults are in their program, children (infant through college age) are engaged in their own Bible study or activities led by our program staff (a nursery for those under 3 is also available). Daily programming also features activities (athletic, crafts, nature) for children and adults to do on their own or in family groups. Volleyball is played each evening after dinner and is followed by another family-participation event.

Arcadia’s Teen Retreats are very popular events in the early summer. For generations, teens have come to Camp Arcadia to spend a week in a safe and engaging environment where they meet new friends, laugh with old ones, build relationships, play outdoors, and grow in faith.

OTHER RETREATS: While Camp Arcadia is well known for its Family and Teen Retreats, there are many other retreats satisfying a range of interests. For instance, Golf & the Gospel for adults is a time for adult guests to enjoy playing spectacular golf courses and spend evenings learning more about the Gospel. The Lutherhostel Retreat is for adults age 50 and older featuring morning Bible studies and discussion sessions, fascinating speakers and great field trips to local areas of interest. Fall weekend retreats range from a Couples’ Weekend Getaway, Men’s or Women’s Retreats (Women’s I and Women’s II), and new this year, “Revive Weekend,” which is a weekend retreat for high school seniors and college students. Camp Arcadia is also available for fall wedding weekends.

Sunday morning worship generally takes place at Trinity Lutheran Church in the village of Arcadia, a short walking distance from the Camp.