Celebrating Community at Wanakee's Homecoming BBQ and Wilderness 5k

On Saturday, August 16, hundreds of campers, families, alumni, and friends returned to Wanakee for our annual Wilderness 5k and Homecoming BBQ—a beloved tradition marking the close of another fruitful summer season. Participants enjoyed a full day of activities that captured the spirit of camp: swimming and splashing at the waterfront (and getting to enjoy our brand-new docks installed earlier this summer!), exploring the trails, and sharing stories over a delicious homemade lunch.

The day began with our annual Wanakee Wilderness 5K run, a silent auction, and the much-anticipated luncheon, all of which together raised about $10,000 to support Wanakee’s operating budget for the coming year. We’re so grateful to everyone who participated, donated, volunteered, and helped make this day such a meaningful celebration of our shared community, especially the 2025 Wanakee summer staff. Everyone’s support ensures that Wanakee continues to be a place of growth and laughter for generations of campers.

As we look ahead, we’re excited to welcome everyone back next summer for an especially meaningful milestone, Wanakee’s 65th Anniversary Homecoming Celebration on August 15, 2026! Mark your calendars and plan to join us as we mark Wanakee’s history, celebrate our community, and look forward to the next 65 years of ministry and memories on Upper New Hampton Road.