Camp Arcadia has something for everyone! The wide array of activities offered each day will keep even the most active member of the family busy all day. The opportunity to choose what to participate in each day makes each day a perfect fit for every member of the family. Each week features a 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.
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 in local resort towns, 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 and your family might enjoy a square dance; play basketball, shuffleboard, 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 (Dean’s Program), presentations and worship.
“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
While adults are in the Dean’s Program, children (infants through college-aged young adults) are engaged in the Youth Program, which features a Bible study catered to their age group and 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-centric event.
Camp Arcadia is also thrilled to offer a Respite Program. The Kingdom of God affirms the dignity and value of all people regardless of their capabilities, and so does Camp! We honor guests with special needs and their families by creating opportunities tailored for them to be renewed in “spirit, mind and body” during their stay. Camp Arcadia’s Respite Program assigns caring staff that will work to develop and carry out a plan, designed through conversation with each individual family. If you are interested or would like more information about this program, please contact the Camp Arcadia office.
Arcadia’s Teen Retreats are very popular retreats 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.
While Camp Arcadia is well known for its Family and Teen Retreats, there are many other retreats satisfying a range of interests. For instance, our Summer Starter Retreat is a time for adult-only guests to enjoy playing spectacular golf courses, shop in local towns, visit nearby sites, and spend evenings being refreshed by God’s Word in an evening Dean’s Program. The Lutherhostel Retreat is for adults aged 50+ featuring morning Bible studies and discussion sessions, lots of time for fellowship, and great field trips to local areas of interest. Fall weekend retreats include Men’s Retreat or Women’s Retreats and Fall Confirmation Retreats.