Business Details
16 Years
experience
Summer Camp & Retreat Center in Southern Illinois
Camp Manitowa was founded in 2010 by Andy Brown and Dan Grabel, two seasoned professionals with over 50 combined years of experience in youth development and camp management. Located in Southern Illinois, just 90 minutes from St. Louis, our 40-acre facility offers immersive summer camps and year-round retreats designed to foster personal growth, community building, and outdoor adventure. Our programs cater to children entering 2nd through 10th grade, as well as families, schools, and groups seeking transformative experiences in a safe, natural environment. With a focus on choice-driven activitiesfrom high ropes courses and water sports to arts and team-building gameswe empower participants to explore their interests and build confidence. Our staff, many of whom are alumni of our programs, undergo rigorous training to ensure they serve as mentors and role models.We maintain small camper cohorts to create a close-knit family atmosphere, prioritizing safety through state-certified protocols and a fully staffed health center. Our facility includes modern accommodations like yurts and cabins, all equipped to host diverse groups year-round. Over the past decade, weve welcomed thousands of campers and groups, consistently earning trust through our commitment to quality, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship. Whether youre planning a summer adventure, corporate retreat, or destination wedding, Camp Manitowa delivers unforgettable experiences rooted in tradition and innovation.
Services
Summer Camps
Family Retreats
Wedding Venues
Team Building
Outdoor Activities
Cabin Rentals
School Programs
Music Festivals
Adventure Trips
Yoga Retreats
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- We offer 15+ years of combined leadership experience from founders certified in social work and education.
- Our 40-acre facility features state-of-the-art amenities including a 50-foot climbing tower and two lakes.
- Small camper groups ensure personalized attention and a family-like community atmosphere.
- All staff undergo specialized training in youth development and outdoor safety protocols.
- We maintain a 100% nut-free environment and accommodate diverse dietary needs.
Services
Summer Camps
Our overnight summer camps serve children entering 2nd-10th grade through structured activities promoting independence and social growth. Campers choose from adventure sports, creative arts, and team games in a supportive environment. With session options ranging from one to three weeks, we accommodate diverse schedules while maintaining our core values of community and personal development.
Family Retreats
Family retreat weekends feature shared yurt accommodations and activity packages including zip lining, canoeing, and campfire traditions. These events emphasize quality time through guided programs like father-son bonding days and mother-daughter weekends. Our facilities comfortably host multigenerational groups seeking both structured activities and relaxed outdoor experiences.
Wedding Venues
Camp Manitowa offers rustic-chic wedding venues with access to adventure activities and lodging for guests. Couples customize ceremonies amid natural backdrops, with support for receptions up to 175 attendees. Our team coordinates logistics including catering, activity scheduling, and accommodation blocks for seamless destination weddings.
Team Building
Corporate groups develop collaboration skills through high ropes courses, problem-solving challenges, and outdoor initiatives. Our facilitators design programs emphasizing communication and leadership development. The rustic setting removes workplace distractions, fostering authentic team connections through shared adventure experiences.
Adventure Trips
Guided Smoky Mountain trips challenge 9th graders with whitewater rafting, cliff jumping, and backcountry hiking. These week-long adventures combine professional outfitters with our staff to ensure safety and skill development. Participants gain confidence through structured risk-taking and peer support in national park environments.
People
Andy Brown
Co-Founder & Director
Andy Brown, a St. Louis native with a Master's in Social Work, has led camp programs since 1994. He brings decades of experience in youth development and community building to Camp Manitowa's operations.
Dan Grabel
Co-Founder
Dan Grabel, holding dual Master's degrees in Social Work and Education, contributes 25+ years of camp leadership expertise. His background includes roles at major Jewish camps and public school social work across multiple states.
Questions
What age groups do your summer camps serve?
Our summer camps accommodate children entering 2nd through 10th grade, with specialized programming for different developmental stages.
Are meals included in camp packages?
Yes, we provide three nutritionally balanced meals daily with options for common dietary restrictions and a nut-free environment.
What safety measures are in place?
We maintain a licensed nurse on-site, enforce strict activity safety protocols, and conduct regular staff training to ensure camper well-being.
Can we visit the camp before booking?
We encourage pre-visit tours and offer virtual walkthroughs for those unable to visit in person.
Do you offer transportation options?
While we don't provide transportation, we coordinate carpool networks and offer shuttle services for select off-site adventures.
What's included in retreat packages?
Packages include accommodations, activity access, and dining services, with customizable add-ons for special events and group needs.
Reviews (4)
Steven Schmidt
Sep 15, 2021
Report
I'm gunna give this place 5 stars because of the love they share is without cost. Very friendly family atmosphere. The hippie to head ratio seems to be on an even cue without getting overloaded with one or the other leaving you not dealing with alot of wookery. I was going to give 4 stars because I could have caught more fish over the weekend. I decided to give 5 stars because atleast I didn't catch an STD. Instead what I caught were feelings. After skinny dippin in the rain and a hot shower with a beautiful lady at the camps nice and clean bathroom facilities. My head was in the clouds from the
Joe Frittz
Apr 20, 2021
Report
I had such a great time here this weekend at Sugar Creek Family Jam..Great campground, loved it as always!!
Cecil Tinnon
Nov 30, 2020
Report
Had a wonderful stay. The cabins were more than enough,spacious,air conditioned. The Zurts were likewise,a great party setting,accomidating for a group of any size. Staff was curtious and quick with help for any needs or questions.
GREAT STAY.
GREAT STAY.
Charlie Brynn Kuether
Oct 15, 2020
Report
We stayed in one of the yurts for a music festival and it was fabulous. SO much room in the yurt and very comfortable. We would definitely stay here again!