This summer is the 99th summer since the Wisconsin Conference of Seventh-day Adventists began Summer Camp ministries back in 1927. We’re not quite to the 100-year anniversary yet, but we are still just as excited about this coming summer.
The theme is PROMISEKEEPER, centered on the story of Abram and Sarai before they become Abraham and Sarah. This year’s play explores their struggle to trust God’s promises of a land and a family that seem slow to arrive, ultimately portraying God as the true PROMISEKEEPER who understands His plans far better than we do. The play was written by longtime Summer Camp veteran and novelist Adeline Minett.
The theme song reflects that same journey of waiting on God’s promises. At times, faith can feel like calling out to a silent sky, but when we recognize God’s faithfulness, we can see that His promises are always secure, even when the outcome is unclear. A few powerful lines in the bridge capture this journey well:
You’re not late
You’re not slow
You’re writing stories we can’t yet know…
Over the past three summers, Camp Wakonda has placed a renewed emphasis on the spiritual depth of its Summer Camp program, and the results have been incredible. Dozens of young people have chosen to be baptized at camp, while many others have committed to baptism back home, begun Bible studies, or recommitted their lives to God. The morning and evening programs have played a major role in that impact, not only through meaningful music and engaging drama, but also through the influence of a rotating team of gifted pastors who invest personally in our campers each week.
Outside of the morning and evening programs, campers spend much of their time with their cabin groups, building friendships alongside peers under the guidance of dedicated counselors trained to work with each age level. These counselors are supported by our Boys and Girls Directors: experienced leaders who mentor both campers and staff. With strong role models and friendship connections, the cabin experience is one of the most meaningful parts of the Camp Wakonda Summer Camp program. The kids camps we’re offering this year, for various age groups, are as follows:
Cub Camp, ages 7-10, June 28 – July 3
Tween Camp, ages 11-13, July 5 – 10
Teen Camp, ages 13-17, July 12 – 17
At the writing of this article, there is still room in each of these weeks for those who haven’t signed up yet. Register HERE.
Of course, we’ll have nearly all of our classic camp classes and activities, with a few new ones that are forthcoming. The climbing wall is down now, but we’re in the process of planning for the next big thing at Camp Wakonda. Below you can find pictures of many of the fun things there are to try at Summer Camp.
Finally, for those who are looking for a full family getaway, we do offer a full week of Family Camp, which is for all ages. All of the same great programming, all of the camaraderie with fellow campers and staff, and all of the same fun activities, but together as a family.
Dates for Family Camp are July 19 – 26
There’s still room! You can register HERE.
Prices for this summer continue to be the absolute lowest that we can offer them. We don’t make money on this program, as it is a ministry more so than a business.
- For kids campers, it is $330/week.
- For adult family campers, it is $330/week; kids ages 4 – 17 are $100/week; kids under 4 are FREE.
Due to a recent high volume of requests for financial assistance, we are unable to offer our Worthy Camper Fund at the time, as we’re building it back up. However, we have a network of local churches that are supportive of our program and are happy to help young people get to camp. Let us know if you need financial assistance, and we would be happy to reach out on your behalf.
If you’re interested in giving to the Worthy Camper Fund and helping to send young people to camp, you can make a check out to Camp Wakonda, write “Worthy Camper Fund” in the memo, and send it to W8319 County Highway E, Oxford, WI, 53952.
Other ways to enjoy Summer Camp at Camp Wakonda
Be part of our Summer Camp staff team (ages 16 and up)
Studies show that children who attend Summer Camp are more likely to remain active in the church long-term. For those who serve on Summer Camp staff, the impact is even greater: they gain leadership and work experience, take part in meaningful ministry, and build friendships with peers who share their faith and values. It is an opportunity to take the Christian walk to the next level.
For those interested in more information and receiving an interview with Pastor Zack, you can find the Staff Application HERE.
Disclaimer: our season for Summer Camp staff in 2026 is June 7 – July 27. Those interested in working would have to have these weeks available, although we do try to work with staff regarding time-off for a variety of special events (weddings, family reunions, etc).
Volunteer at Summer Camp (ages 14 and up)
For those who are not quite old enough to start working full summers at camp, but would like to try out the experience, we have our CIT (counselor in training) program for young people to volunteer at camp. Spending a week shadowing a counselor, helping in a department, and seeing things from the perspective of a staff can be a great way to get to know whether or not you’d like to eventually work as a staff. It’s also a great way for the camp to get to know you, as many of our volunteers end up coming back in future summers as staff.
For those interested in more information on volunteering, you can find the Volunteer Application HERE.
Nurses
Every week at camp, we have a volunteer nurse who helps make sure our campers are safe and healthy. What is needed is a valid nursing license, which we would make a copy of to keep on file. If you would like to volunteer as a nurse at Camp Wakonda, please reach out via Pastor Zack’s email: zpayne@wi.adventist.org. If a nurse brings family with them, they are able to enjoy the camp that week for free.
As you can see above, there are many ways to enjoy Summer Camp at Camp Wakonda. We can’t wait to hear from you about which option you’ll choose that is right for your children and family.
Pastor Zack Payne,
Youth Director