Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Experience Summer Fun at Camp Newaygo
Camp Newaygo was established in 1926 by a group of forward-thinking women who recognized the need for young women to reconnect with nature. Over nearly a century, we have evolved into a premier destination offering transformative outdoor experiences for individuals of all ages. Our programs include girls' overnight camps, co-ed day camps, family retreats, and community events, all designed to foster leadership, environmental stewardship, and lifelong friendships. We pride ourselves on maintaining rustic charm while continuously modernizing facilities to meet contemporary needs, including a LEED-certified Health and Leadership Lodge and expanded arts and crafts spaces.Our dedicated team, many of whom are alumni, brings decades of expertise in youth development, outdoor education, and sustainable practices. As a nonprofit organization, we prioritize accessibility through scholarships and community partnerships, ensuring our programs remain inclusive. With over 100 acres of pristine woodlands and waterfront property, we provide a safe, inspiring environment where campers develop resilience, creativity, and a deep appreciation for nature.
Services
Girls Overnight Camp
Co-Ed Day Camp
Family Camp
Girlfriends Getaway
Wedding Rentals
Ridge Catering
Leadership Training
Outdoor Education
Scholarship Programs
Volunteer Opportunities
Details
- Year established: 1926
Highlights and features
- We offer 95+ years of experience in youth development and outdoor education
- Our staff includes certified experts with extensive camping industry experience
- We provide accessible programs with over 150 annual scholarships available
- Our facilities combine rustic charm with modern LEED-certified amenities
- We maintain a 1:5 staff-to-camper ratio for personalized attention
Associations and certifications
- American Camp Association
What people say
Lifelong friendships
Dedicated staff
Beautiful natural setting
Transformative experiences
Well-structured programs
Services
Girls Overnight Camp
Our flagship program offers immersive summer experiences for girls aged 7-17. Activities include swimming, hiking, arts and crafts, and leadership development. Campers stay in rustic cabins with trained staff, participating in structured programs that build confidence and environmental awareness. Sessions range from one to eight weeks with optional adventure trips.
Co-Ed Day Camp
This summer program serves children aged 0-12 with daily outdoor activities in Newaygo County. Features include water sports, nature exploration, and team-building exercises. Flexible weekly sessions accommodate working families while providing a safe environment for children to develop social skills and appreciation for nature.
Family Camp
Weekend programs designed for all-age family participation. Activities include guided hikes, waterfront recreation, and campfire traditions. Lodging options range from rustic cabins to modern facilities, creating opportunities for families to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature together.
Ridge Catering
Full-service catering operation supporting camp programs through event revenue. Offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert options for weddings, conferences, and private events. Menus feature homemade dishes with proceeds directly benefiting youth programs and facility maintenance.
Leadership Training
Programs for teens aged 13-17 focusing on leadership skill development. Includes counselor-in-training tracks, wilderness first aid certification, and team management workshops. Combines practical experience with mentorship from experienced staff to prepare future camp leaders.
People
Jalisa Danhof
Director
Jalisa has led Camp Newaygo since 2020, bringing 14 years of experience in camping leadership. A 2017 Jack Weiner Leadership Award recipient, she holds a degree in camp administration and lives year-round at camp with her family.
Scott Lakin
Associate Director
Scott oversees program development with expertise in youth leadership and architectural design. He holds a Master's degree in Architecture and specializes in creating inclusive outdoor learning environments for Michigan youth.
Whitney Sparks
Events & Catering Director
Whitney manages catering and events, combining culinary expertise from Disney World and Grand Rapids restaurants. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of Michigan, she ensures memorable dining experiences that support camp programs.
Richard Murray
Facilities Director
Richard brings 20+ years of camp facility management experience from New Zealand and Michigan. A licensed builder, he oversees maintenance and construction projects that preserve camp's rustic charm while modernizing infrastructure.
Liliana Villa
Adventure Program Director
Liliana leads outdoor adventure programs with two years of youth trip guiding experience. Originally from Chicago, she specializes in wilderness safety and creating engaging outdoor learning opportunities for campers.
Questions
What age groups does Camp Newaygo serve?
We serve children from 0-17 years old through age-specific programs including Mom & Me weekends, day camps, and teen leadership programs.
Are scholarships available for camp programs?
Yes, we award over 150 scholarships annually based on financial need, with options for both day and overnight camp programs.
What safety measures are in place?
We maintain a 1:5 staff-to-camper ratio, employ certified lifeguards, and have a LEED-certified Health Lodge with trained medical staff for 24/7 care.
Can families stay together at camp?
Yes, our Family Camp program accommodates all ages and genders with lodging options from rustic cabins to modern facilities.
What outdoor activities are offered?
Activities include swimming, canoeing, archery, high ropes courses, environmental education, and wilderness backpacking trips for older campers.
Is transportation provided to camp?
Campers arrange their own transportation, though we offer guidance for local travel options and family visits during sessions.
Reviews (6)
Julie Akers
Sep 29, 2021
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My son had his wedding there. It is a beautiful facility, the staff was so nice, the food was delicious. I really enjoyed the experience.
Hamad Sheikh
Aug 03, 2021
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Loved the experience, in spite of the rain. The folks running the camp made sure there were fun activities for all. If you love nature walks, this would be an excellent choice.
Jackie Kozma
Jul 07, 2021
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My daughter went to camp Newaygo from 8yrs old until she aged out. She loved it beyond words. She is grown married and has two children one being a daughter who now continues the great experience for 3rd year. I also have another granddaughter who is attending for 2nd year. We highly recommend the experience of the legend of camp newaygo. Forever grateful!!!
Mary Brown
Jun 05, 2020
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Our son is doing his remote learning here. It is an amazing experience for him! He is getting all his learning done, while spending the rest of the day doing camp activities like hiking, fencing, archery, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, building forts in wooded areas, among other things. I wish he never had to go back to regular school!!!!
Joseph Celentino
Dec 20, 2019
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Great place for a wedding! We had a very good friend get married here and it was really nice to have everyone be able to stay right where the ceremony was. The lake and view was beautiful and we were able to have a killer good time well into the night. I would be extremely excited to attend another wedding at this venue.
T. S.
Oct 31, 2019
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Camp Newaygo has been such an important staple in my children's lives since we moved here. It's something that they look forward to every summer. It's a beautifully located camp with some of the most caring counselors you'll ever meet! Everyone is always so friendly, helpful and I know when I leave my children that they're safe and having fun. The parking situation can be a little challenging to navigate but it's just a minor nuisance.
