2026 Lake Union Summer Camps

Andrews University is excited to offer three summer programs for students ranging in age from Kindergarten through university. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about God’s creation, build community and grow their discipleship skills. Based in beautiful Southwest Michigan, the programs will allow students to learn about the region alongside a thoughtful curriculum led by caring professionals. We invite you to join us for a summer filled with engaging and rewarding experiences. Together we can seek knowledge, affirm faith and change the world.  

The Crayon Box Children’s Learning Center 

The Crayon Box is offering an educational day camp experience for children entering kindergarten through the age of 12. The theme for 2026 is “ZOOM IN! to God’s Amazing World.” 

Each week will include a theme that invites campers to notice the small wonders, big ideas and amazing details of God’s creation. 

“The Crayon Box provides a safe, joyful and faith-centered setting where children can spend their summer vacation exploring, learning and thriving through on-campus adventures, campus field trips and special visits from off-campus programs like zoo and wildlife directors,” says Kristy Conklin, camp director. 

The camp will be held from 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, with before-camp and after-camp care available. Enrollment is open online. Space is limited and forms are due by May 18, 2026. 

The Crayon Box Children’s Learning Center: June 1–Aug. 20, 2026 

Location: Andrews University, Marsh Hall 

Web: https://www.andrews.edu/services/crayonbox/summercamp/ 

Email: summercamp@andrews.edu 

Phone: 269-471-3350 

Explore Andrews: Early College Experience 

The Andrews University Early College Experience is an in-person summer program for rising high school juniors and seniors as well as incoming freshmen. The initiative is part of the Explore Andrews program, which is designed to help students find a desired academic plan as well as career and life goals through intentional support and personal advising. 

“Come join us for three weeks of learning and fun on the campus of Andrews University. Each student will take one 3-credit hour college course in addition to participating in seminars, activities and local travel,” says Aaron Moushon, assistant dean for Undergraduate Education and Explore Andrews Program director. 

“Students can choose from one of the following general education courses: College Writing, World Civilizations, Communication Skills and Scripture.” 

Applications are open now. The deadline to apply is June 30, 2026. 

Explore Andrews: Early College Experience — July 27–Aug. 14 

Location: Andrews University, 8975 M-139, Berrien Springs, MI 49104 

Web: https://www.andrews.edu/exploreandrews/earlycollege/ 

Email: explore@andrews.edu 

Phone: 269-471-3382 

IGNITE Discipleship Program 

IGNITE, a three-week summer discipleship experience hosted at Andrews University, will take place from July 26–Aug. 14, 2026. The program is created for high school and college students who want to grow deeper in their relationships with God. In addition to offering academic credit, IGNITE is designed as an intentional space for spiritual growth, mentoring and community. It is a place where faith can take root, friendships can grow and purpose begins to feel real. 

“IGNITE is an opportunity for students who desire a deep relationship with God to grow in that relationship,” says Alanna Rodríguez Merlos, director of the program and the Andrews University Discipleship Center. “It helps them understand their Adventist identity and what it looks like to have a daily walk with Christ that can endure hardship and uncertainty.” 

Additional details can be found on the program website. 

IGNITE Discipleship Program — July 26–Aug. 14 

Location: Andrews University, Discipleship House 

Web: https://www.andrews.edu/audc/ignite/index.html 

Email: discipleshipcenter@andrews.edu 

Phone: 269-471-3617 

Never Too Far 

Before the campers arrive at Camp Akita, there’s a stillness that settles over the grounds. The lake sits glassy and calm in the early morning light. Cabins are freshly cleaned, bunks are made tight, and somewhere in the lodge someone is testing the microphones for worship. Staff gather in circles to pray over the season ahead, asking God to move in ways we can’t yet see. 

Then the buses arrive. The cars roll in. The quiet disappears in an instant. 

Suddenly the air is filled with the sounds of laughter, rolling suitcases, and the unmistakable buzz of campers realizing they’ve finally made it to camp. Counselors welcome new faces into cabins that will feel like home by the end of the week. Old friends reunite like no time has passed. The zipline hums to life, the horses are saddled, and the camp songs start echoing across the fields. And just like that, another summer begins. 

But if you could zoom out for a moment; far beyond a single week, a single summer, or even a single camp. . . you’d see something remarkable. 

For 100 years, God has been doing something extraordinary through Adventist camping ministry in North America. Across forests, lakes, mountains, and fields, young people have been stepping away from their normal routines into spaces where it becomes easier to hear the voice of God. Away from the noise of everyday life, hearts open. Questions are asked. Faith begins to take root. 

And again and again, campers discover something powerful: Jesus was never far away. 

Sometimes that realization comes during a quiet moment at the lake, watching the sunset paint the sky orange and gold. Sometimes it happens during worship when a song hits a little deeper than expected. And sometimes it comes in the middle of a conversation with a staff member who listens without judgment and reminds a camper that God still sees them. Those are the moments we live for at Akita. 

This summer, our theme is “Never Too Far,” inspired by the powerful promise found in Romans 8:38–39, that nothing in all creation can separate us from the love of Jesus. 

Not our mistakes. 

Not our fears. 

Not the distance we sometimes feel between where we are and where we wish we were. 

Nothing. 

And that truth sits at the very heart of what camp has been about for the past century. For 100 years, camping ministry has been a place where young people discover that no matter where life has taken them, no matter what questions they carry, and no matter how far they feel from God, they are never too far to come home. That’s what we hope every camper experiences when they step onto the grounds at Camp Akita this summer. Whether it’s their first time at camp or their fifth, our prayer is the same: that somewhere between the laughter, the adventure, the worship, and even the moments of chaos, they encounter the kind of love that changes everything. 

A love that has been reaching campers for 100 years. And a love that reminds us all that we are never too far. 

– Stacey DePluzzer is associate youth director for Illinois Conference. 

SUMMER CAMP DATES 

CAMP AKITA 

1684 Knox Rd. 1200 N, Gilson, IL 61436 

www.campakita.com | youthdept@ilcsda.org 

309-876-2060 

Timber Ridge Camp has always been a part of my life. From attending Adventurer campouts since before I can remember coming to summer camp from age 10 onward, I came to realize that TRC is the best place to be. TRC holds a beauty that I am yet to find anywhere else. Christ-centered friendships are formed. Decisions to follow the Lord are made. And real relationships with Jesus are cultivated.

I knew from the moment I became a camp-staff-in-training when I was 14 that someday I wanted to work at camp. I desired other children to have the same life-altering experience I had. I began to look around at the staff members I admired, taking note of their best qualities, really trying to learn how to have Jesus’ light shine through me.

In 2021, I was given the opportunity to be a lifeguard. The waterfront was the perfect place for me. Every camper went there, so I learned as many of their names as I could. I learned how to connect with the campers, leading them to feel loved and safe to open and share when they needed to. But beyond creating connections, I learned what a privilege it is to be a staff member as I watched my faith grow alongside the campers.

The following summer, I chose to work in the Nature Center. I learned the importance of having a why for working at camp and reminding myself of that why often. In ministry, it can be easy to get so caught up in what you are doing to serve that you forget to think about why you serve. But, that why is way more important than anything you could do.

For the summers of 2023 and 2024, I was the waterfront director. I learned how to have fun with the campers while also keeping them within the guidelines. I really began to see how to lead a group of people with faith as the foundation.

I wasn’t able to return to camp in 2025, and I thought 2026 was going to be the same. However, God opened the door for me, and I am going back to camp this summer. With humility and total awe in the Lord, I have accepted the offer of assistant camp director.

Over the years, God has turned TRC into you my place of growth. That is where I gave my heart to Him, where I found my soon-to-be-husband, where I experienced my greatest character growth, and where I will be experiencing my greatest leadership opportunity. At the moment, I don’t know exactly how God will use me this summer, but through my waiting and wondering, He reminds me, “…And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8).

After many years spent as a camp staffer, Alonna Taylor is looking forward to serving as Timber Ridge Camp’s assistant director.

SUMMER CAMP DATES:

TIMBER RIDGE CAMP

1674 Timber Ridge Rd, Spencer, IN 47460

www.indysdayouth.org/summercamp

812-829-2507

Are you ready for the ultimate summer adventure—where faith meets fun, and every day feels like a new level to conquer? Well, it’s time to level up!  

Get ready to power up your spirit, build real friendships, and experience God like never before! The program provides a refreshing escape from the pace of everyday life and introduces campers to a safe, uplifting rural environment where faith and fun go hand in hand. 

Escape the ordinary… enter the extraordinary! 

Leave behind the noise of the city and step into a world filled with fresh air, wide-open spaces, and nonstop excitement. Camp Wagner isn’t just a campsite; it is a home away from home where memories are made and lives are changed. What are you waiting for? It is time to register now.  

Imagine this… campfires, laughter and unforgettable memories. Peaceful nights, no loud cars and buses so quiet you can actually hear God speak and see His handy works with skies full of stars so bright it takes your breath away. It’s time to unplug and recharge.  

The camp also offers a wide range of high-energy activities designed to keep campers engaged and excited. From swimming and skating to laser tag and go-kart racing, each day is packed with opportunities for fun, teamwork, and building lifelong friendships. These experiences not only entertain but also help campers develop confidence, social skills, and a sense of belonging. 

At its core, Camp Wagner is committed to spiritual impact, and we want to see every camper level up in your faith walk with Jesus. This year’s theme, Super Daniel Bro., brings the Bible to life like never before! Step into the story of Daniel and discover what it means to stand strong, trust God, and live boldly. Through dynamic worship, interactive lessons, and intentional mentorship, campers are inspired to grow in their personal relationship with God. For many, this experience becomes a turning point, leading to decisions for baptism and a deeper commitment to Christ. 

Registration is now open, and families are encouraged to sign up early for what promises to be a life-changing summer.  

Camp Wagner 

19088 Brownville Rd., 

Cassopolis, MI 49031 

Dates: July 12–26 (ages 8-16) 

More information and to register: www.lrcyouth.com  

Facing My Fears at Camp 

I hate snapping turtles. Every time I jump into Camp Au Sable’s beautiful lake, the ugly 

face of a huge snapping turtle is all that appears in my mind’s eye. It was no different this warm June afternoon. I smiled at all the girls in my cabin as we piled on to Camp’s shiny red boat. My gaze fell on one particular camper, Jessica*. Her eyes didn’t meet mine, nor did she smile. She slumped in her chair, insecurity written all over her face. As three of my campers piled on to the tube and bounced across the waves, my heart broke for her. She didn’t have shampoo or conditioner when she came. She didn’t have a brush or even toothpaste like all the other girls. She only had one blanket. She hadn’t brought any knowledge of Jesus with her to camp either. 

I snapped out of my thoughts as my girls tugged on my arms and begged me to get on the 

tube. Finally, I succumbed to their pleading and, with shaking arms, grabbed onto the handles. As the boat violently lurched forward, I flew into the lake. I could just imagine the snapping turtles with their evil smiles and swimming toward my helpless, exposed feet. So I screamed. It was louder than I have ever screamed before. In a panic, I clambered onto the boat, reaching for the arms of safety that would save me from my mostly imaginary fears. 

All my girls were laughing hysterically. Their eyes twinkled in the sun, and their laughter skipped across the waves. All of them were laughing! Even Jessica! It was like the 

dam had broken and laughter tumbled out of her! Throughout the rest of the week Jessica was a completely different girl. Her fear seemed to have vanished too, and I could see joy radiating from her. She had seen Jesus in a new way that I never would have expected. 

I never imagined that facing my biggest fear would have brought a smile to Jessica’s face. 

Maybe seeing me face my fears was exactly what she needed to face her much bigger, all-encompassing fears. What a privilege it was to show Jesus to campers who had never seen Him before.  

Throughout the rest of the week, Jessica showed a desire to get to know Jesus. She started to participate in activities, smiled and laughed often, and asked me questions about God. I never would have guessed that my actions, silly as they were, would impact Jessica in such a way, but God has mysterious ways of working. I don’t know where Jessica is, or what her home was like when she went back at the end of the week, or if I will see her at camp again this summer, but I do know that God can do amazing things, in the most unexpected ways when we choose to surrender our lives fully to Him. So, I encourage you to go face your fears. You have no idea who it may impact. 

*Camper’s name changed to protect privacy 

– Selah Garcia is a sophomore elementary education major at Southern Adventist University. This summer will be her fourth working at Camp Au Sable, and she will serve in leadership as the Girls’ Village director. 

Camp Au Sable Dates: 

CAMP AU SABLE 

2590 Camp Au Sable Drive, Grayling, MI 49738 

www.campausable.org | office@campausable.org 

989-348-5491 

CAMP SAGOLA 

2885 State Hwy. M-69, Crystal Falls, MI 49920 

www.gabmorgan@yahoo.com | 313-333-6129 

Faith That Grows Under the Pines 

I’ve been coming to Camp Wakonda for as long as I can remember. I grew up here: running through the trails, sitting by the campfire, and feeling the crunch of pine needles beneath my feet. This place isn’t just “camp” to me. It’s home. 

It’s also where I gave my life to Christ. I was baptized here, surrounded by the beauty of God’s creation. There’s something about being in nature away from the noise, breathing in the stillness that makes it so much easier to feel His presence. Here, you can’t help but notice His fingerprints on everything. 

The whole reason I keep coming back to work at Summer Camp is to help youth find their way to God. I want them to know they are loved, wanted, and seen. I want them to feel His loving arms wrapped around them, no matter where they are in life.

As staff, we begin every class with prayer because we believe God should be at the center of all we do. Each morning at line call, we share memory verses: words filled with God’s guidance and love to remind everyone that He is everywhere and in everyone. 

Not every camper is at the same place in their walk with God, and that’s OK. Each person has their own unique journey, and God patiently waits for us when we wander. But this year felt different. I witnessed a spiritual stirring among many campers their hearts softened, and faith began to take root. Several arrived uncertain about their beliefs yet left camp baptized or feeling a renewed calling to draw closer to God. 

Seeing the impact Summer Camp had on these young lives has made my heart swell. Faith truly grows under these pines. Like the trees that stretch upward toward the light, our faith reaches higher as our roots sink deep into God’s truth. When you leave camp, you don’t just carry your belongings: you carry a deeper connection to the One who made it all. 

Because I’ve lived it. I’ve been that person sitting under the trees, unsure of what God had planned for me, and I’ve felt Him meet me here. My baptism was just the beginning. Every summer since has been another step in my walk with Him and now, I get to help others take theirs. As long as God allows, I’ll keep coming back to these pines, watching seeds of faith take root, and celebrating as they grow toward the Son. 

“Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.” (Colossians 2:7 KJV) 

– Hannah Bergeon is returning to camp for her fourth summer on staff at Camp Wakonda; it will be her third summer as the Girls director.   

Summer Camp Dates: 

​ 

CAMP WAKONDA 

W8368 County Hwy E, Oxford, WI 53952 

www.wakonda.org | zpayne@wi.adventist.org