Fall Adventures Await at Camp Ondessonk

As summer comes to a close and we prepare for cooler temperatures and colorful autumn scenery, Camp Ondessonk will come alive with opportunities for adventure, fellowship, and service. Whether you’re reconnecting with old friends, making new family memories, or simply enjoying some time away, there’s something for everyone this fall at Camp.

Labor Day Friends Weekend | September 3–7

For more than 40 years, Labor Day Friends Weekend has been a cherished tradition for Camp Ondessonk’s staff alumni, volunteers, and donors. This invitation-only gathering welcomes staff alumni ages 25 and older, along with recent volunteers and donors, for a relaxing weekend of friendship, reminiscing, and enjoying Camp together.

Fall Family Camp | September 18–20

Gather the family and experience a taste of Summer Camp during Fall Family Camp! Families can enjoy favorite Camp activities including Boating, Archery, Handicrafts, Climbing Wall, and even Swimming as we celebrate the final days of summer.

For those seeking even more adventure, Horseback Riding and the High Challenge Course are available for an additional fee. Families will also have the opportunity to gather for Mass Saturday evening and spend quality time around the campfire.

The weekend fee is $105 per person and includes lodging in a cabin unit, meals, and a commemorative Family Camp t-shirt. Children ages 3 and under attend free.

31st Annual Pete Korte Memorial Golf Benefit | September 26

Join us for one of Camp Ondessonk’s most beloved fundraising traditions, the 31st Annual Pete Korte Memorial Golf Benefit, hosted in partnership with Korte and Luitjohan Contractors.

The event will take place at Roland Barkau Memorial Golf Course in Okawville, Ill., with registration beginning at 7:00 am and a shotgun start at 8:00 am. Participants can support Camp by becoming sponsors, donating prizes, or registering as an individual or team golfer.

Proceeds from the tournament directly support Camp Ondessonk’s mission of providing exceptional outdoor and spiritual adventures that empower kids of all ages.

Mother-Daughter Weekend | October 2–4

Mothers, daughters, grandmothers, and special friends are invited to share a memorable autumn weekend at Camp. Mother-Daughter Weekend offers the perfect opportunity to unplug, enjoy the outdoors, and create lasting memories together.

Participants can enjoy activities such as Gaga, Handicrafts, Canoeing, and campfires, with optional trail rides and Challenge Course activities available for an additional fee. Mass will be celebrated Saturday evening.

The weekend fee is $105 per person and includes lodging, meals, and a commemorative Mother-Daughter t-shirt. Children ages 3 and under attend free.

Fall Lodge Reunion | October 9–11

Service and fellowship come together during Fall Lodge Reunion. Members of the Lodge of Ondessonk & Tekakwitha are invited to return to Camp and help prepare the property for the winter season.

Lodge members will spend Saturday participating in service projects across Camp before enjoying an evening of camaraderie with fellow members. Meals are provided throughout the weekend, and Mass will be celebrated Saturday evening.

This event is free for active Lodge members and remains one of the most meaningful ways to give back to the Camp that has given so much to so many.

Stable Round-Up | October 9–11

Every fall, volunteers spend the weekend tackling projects around the barn, trails, and pastures while enjoying fellowship with fellow members of the Camp Community and, of course, plenty of time with our beloved herd. Stable Round-Up has become a treasured tradition for many volunteers, and plays an important role in ensuring that Camp’s horses and Equestrian facilities are ready for another incredible season ahead.

Stable Round-Up is open to invited guests, and offers a rewarding weekend of hard work, friendship, and fun. To request an invitation, or to receive additional information, email registration@ondessonk.com.

Open Camping Returns August 17

Looking for your own Camp adventure this fall? Open Camping begins August 17 and offers families, scout groups, churches, and organizations the opportunity to experience Camp Ondessonk on their own schedule.

Guests can sleep among the trees in one of our rustic cabin units or enjoy a stay in St. Noel or the Fournie Lodge. Cabin units include fire pits, picnic tables, benches, potable water, and easy access to shower facilities.

Open Camping opportunities include:

• Day field trips on Mondays and Tuesdays.
• Overnight school field trips on Wednesdays through Fridays.
• Unit cabin and tent camping from Wednesday through Sunday.
• St. Noel and Fournie Lodge stays available seven days a week.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend retreat, planning a school trip, or simply seeking time in nature, there’s no better place to enjoy the beauty of autumn than Camp Ondessonk.

To learn more or register for any of our fall programs, visit www.ondessonk.com or contact the Camp office at 618-695-2489.