2026 April Newsletter
Spring Has Sprung at Wanakee!
After a cozy winter, we’re counting down the days until summer begins. Here’s what’s happening and how you can get involved.
Register for Summer 2026
Spots are filling up quickly, but there’s still time to register for camp! Visit our 2026 Registration Guide for step by step instructions to help you create your account and sign up for camp, and see our 2026 Family Handbook for everything else you need to know — a sample schedule, packing list, and answers to common questions.
Scholarship funding is available! We are excited to partner with your family to make sure your child can come to camp. Wanakee’s scholarship application is available to every family after you register. Use the coupon code SCHOLARSHIP at checkout to avoid paying the deposit, or contact us for a confidential conversation.
Program Spotlight: Water, Wind, & Waves
Love adventure and time on the lake? Our Water, Wind & Waves program is perfect for campers who enjoy swimming, sailing, and learning water safety while having fun in God’s beautiful creation. This program brings campers together for sailboat adventures, waterfront games, and a deeper connection with nature.
Learn more or register today ➡️ wanakee.org/water-wind-and-waves
Support the Campership Fund
At Wanakee, we believe camp should be accessible to every child. Your gift to our Campership Fund helps make that possible! Every donation directly supports camper scholarships and ensures that cost is never a barrier to experiencing the joy of camp.
Upcoming Events
Spring Work Day — Saturday, May 16th (9:00 AM - 3:00 PM)
Join us for a day of fellowship and fresh air as we help get camp ready for summer! Whether you love building, painting, clearing trails, or simply lending a hand, there’s a job for every skill level. Lunch and snacks are provided — please RSVP here to help us plan.
Wanakee Sunday — THIS Sunday, April 12 at Milford UMC (10:30 AM)
We’re thrilled to celebrate Wanakee Sunday at Milford United Methodist Church this weekend! Leslie will be joining the MUMC team to sing, pray, and share updates about the coming camp season. It’s a wonderful time to reconnect with friends, give thanks, and celebrate our mission together. Learn more on our website!
A Note from Ryan
As Wanakee’s new Executive Director, Ryan has been reflecting on why camp feels more important than ever. In a world filled with constant noise, Wanakee offers youth an opportunity to be fully present. It’s a place where kids (and adults!) can pause, step outside, and remember what truly matters.
Here’s a reflection from Ryan about why the summer camp experience matters so much:
We never have to be bored. If we have a few extra minutes or hours, we just pick up a screen and sit. It’s easy, effortless and low stress. How much time did we lose this week staring at a screen or trading misunderstood text messages?
I recently saw a statistic that our kids will be the first generation “with more of other people's memories than their own". More time staring than doing. More time alone than connecting.
Outdoor experiences at Wanakee are part of the future I want. A time and space set apart from the chaos we see in the news. A place where kids find fun, faith, fellowship, and belonging. A place where kids can be present in the moment, finding real community, and sharing lasting experiences in God’s creation. Come join us!
Book Your Next Church Retreat
🏕️ Churches that play together stay together!
We host year-round retreats for youth and adults in our cozy log cabin. Whether you’re looking for reflection, team-building, or just a peaceful weekend away, we’d love to welcome your congregation to Wanakee.
Fill out our Retreat Interest Form or email leslie@wanakee.org for more information.
Stay Connected
Thank you for being part of the Wanakee community! Visit wanakee.org and follow us on social media for the latest news and updates.
Grace and peace,
Ryan and Leslie