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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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…
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CAMP MANITOWA GOES VIRAL: BASEMENT ATTIC SUPERCOMPUTER NEARS BREAKING POINT
BENTON, IL — A Camp Manitowa Instagram video has surpassed one million views, sending Manitowa Nation into a…
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Manitowa Magic in Full Swing as Week Two Begins
One week down, and Camp Manitowa has officially found its summer rhythm. As Week Two of Summer 2026…
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A Little Rain Couldn’t Stop Opening Day
Summer 2026 is officially underway at Camp Manitowa—and our first day back gave us just about everything. Campers…
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The Magic Is Back: Welcome to Summer 2026
The cabins are ready. The staff is waiting. And another summer of Manitowa Magic is officially here. Today,…
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Introducing the New Camp Manitowa Parent Hub
Everything camp families need, all in one place. At Camp Manitowa, we know that preparing for camp should…
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.