Camp Manitowa
Southern Illinois Summer Camp and Rend Lake Retreat Center
Located near Rend Lake in Southern Illinois, just 90 minutes from St. Louis, Camp Manitowa is a traditional summer camp and retreat destination rooted in community, adventure, and lifelong friendships.
Summer Camp Programs in Southern Illinois
Camp Manitowa is a Southern Illinois summer camp and Rend Lake retreat rooted in community, adventure, and tradition. We host youth summer camp programs, family retreats, school groups, and private cabin stays in a peaceful lakeside setting designed to help people unplug and reconnect.
Family Retreats & Group Getaways
Camp Manitowa offers lakeside cabin rentals near Rend Lake for family reunions, school retreats, scout groups, yoga weekends, and private events. Guests enjoy access to camp activities, waterfront recreation, and peaceful Southern Illinois woods.
About Camp Manitowa
Founded in 2010, Camp Manitowa is rooted in tradition, community, and outdoor adventure. Located near Rend Lake in Southern Illinois, we create meaningful experiences for campers, families, and groups seeking connection and time away.
Get In Touch
Whether you're exploring summer camp, planning a retreat near Rend Lake, or simply have a question, we’d love to connect. Reach out and our team will help you find the right fit for your camper, family, or group.
Camp Dispatch
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The 411 • Day Camp Arrival Information
Published: July 19, 2026 We’re excited to welcome another fantastic week of Camp Manitowa Day Camp! Whether it’s…
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The 411 • Session IIB Arrival Information
Published: July 17, 2026 The countdown is on! We’re excited to welcome a brand-new group of campers for…
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The 411 • Session IIA Pick-Up Information
Published: July 17, 2026 What an incredible week it’s been. As Session IIA comes to a close, we…
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The 411 • Beach Day & Bunk Night
Published: July 15, 2026 If there were ever a day that captured the spirit of Camp Manitowa, today…
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The 411 • Session II Is Underway!
Published: July 15, 2026 What a way to kick off Session II! Camp officially came back to life…
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Welcome to Day Camp at Camp Manitowa
The swimsuits are packed, the water bottles are filled, and we’re ready for our first week of Day…
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The Final Campfire of First Session 2026
As we bid our last goodnight to First Session 2026, we’re reflecting on three unforgettable weeks filled with…
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Camp Doesn’t End When You Leave Benton
The bags are unpacked. The laundry machines are working overtime. But we’re willing to bet the camp songs…
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Dispatch from the Smokies: The Adventure Is Underway
Camp Manitowa’s ninth-grade campers have officially taken the magic on the road. Our 2026 Smoky Mountains crew is…
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One More Day. Maybe One More Week.
An epic first week at Camp Manitowa has us asking a simple question: who wants more camp? As…
Camp Canteen
The Camp Canteen keeps the spirit of Camp Manitowa alive beyond the summer. From classic camp apparel to timeless keepsakes, each piece is inspired by tradition, community, and life near Rend Lake.
Book Your Rend Lake Adventure Today
Camp Manitowa is located in Benton, Illinois, serving families and groups throughout Southern Illinois and beyond.