The Manitou Story
All in on excitement
Manitou is proud to offer fun, friends and fulfillment for each and every camper.
Our Story
Camp Manitou was founded on the shores of Lake Manitou-Wabing in 1959.
We’re known for our long tradition of sports and arts programming for campers of all ages, but the camp was actually founded as a Music and Arts camp for teens. It wasn’t long before we started adding sports programs, and by the 1970s campers could pick from all kinds of land and water sports. Now, campers from 7 to 16 can come for eco-adventures, outdoor sports, visual arts, theatre and so much more.
Over 430 campers and 180 staff from all over the world visit Camp Manitou every summer. Most years, more than 15 different countries are represented. Our blend of group living and individual choice create a camp experience filled with fun, friendship, personal growth and, most importantly, memories that will last a lifetime.
Our Values
At Manitou, we emphasize respect for the self, for the environment, for new ideas and for others.
Every camper is always respected as an individual, whether it’s at a campfire, a bunk night or a new lesson. We teach campers the value of inclusion, integrity and tolerance, so they can learn how to appreciate themselves and the world around them.
Our hope is that every camper goes home with the skills they need to grow into healthy adults filled with confidence, character, and an understanding of others.