Fall at Camp: Serve, Reconnect & Make New Memories

Fall at Camp: Serve, Reconnect & Make New Memories

As the leaves begin to turn and the temperatures cool, Camp Ondessonk comes alive in a whole new way. For members of the Lodge of Ondessonk & Tekakwitha, fall is an invitation to return, reconnect with friends, serve the Camp you love, and enjoy the beauty of Camp.

Whether you’re bringing your family, volunteering your time, or simply looking for an excuse to spend a weekend at Camp, there are plenty of ways to make Camp part of your fall plans.

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 a.m. and a shotgun start at 8:00 a.m. Participants can support Camp by becoming sponsors, donating prizes, or registering as an individual or team golfer.

Lodge members can support the event by registering as golfers, sponsoring the tournament, donating prizes, or volunteering. Not a golfer? We’d love to have you volunteer!Contact Michelle Bretcher at michelle.bretcher@ondessonk.com to learn more or sign up.

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

This is where Lodge membership meets service.

Fall Lodge Reunion is an opportunity for members of the Lodge of Ondessonk & Tekakwitha to return to Camp, reconnect with fellow Lodge members, and roll up their sleeves to help prepare Camp for winter.

Saturday is dedicated to service projects throughout the property, followed by an evening of fellowship and time to enjoy Camp with friends. Meals are provided throughout the weekend, and members will gather for Mass Saturday evening.

Fall Lodge Reunion is free for active Lodge members and is one of the most meaningful ways to give back to the place that has given so much to so many.

Open Camping

Looking for your own Camp adventure this fall? Open Camping 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 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.

Lifetime Lodge members receive free unit or tent camping during Open Camping Weekends. Normal camping fees apply to guests of Lifetime Lodge Members.

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.

For Lodge members, Camp isn’t just a place to visit; it’s a place to return, serve, reconnect, and belong. As summer fades into fall, we hope you’ll find an opportunity to make your way down the Camp Road.

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