Considering the COVID-19 threat to campers, the Michigan Area United Methodist Camping Board has unanimously voted to cancel all 2020 summer youth camping programs.
JOEL WORLEY
Michigan Area United Methodist Camping
With much prayer, consideration for the safety of campers, and careful review of available information relating to social distancing guidelines and COVID-19, the Michigan Area United Methodist Camping Board of Directors has unanimously voted to cancel all 2020 summer youth camping programs. This action impacts scheduled programs at Lake Michigan Camp & Retreat Center and Wesley Woods Camp & Retreat Center.
Based on our survey of camper families, we share your disappointment that present conditions have forced us into making this difficult decision. Thank you for your patience and encouragement during this challenging time. We will work hard to return even stronger in 2021.
If you have already registered for a 2020 summer camp event, we will contact you soon, and you may choose to:
- Receive a full refund
- Apply your deposit or payments to a future program
- Generously donate part or all of your registration/deposit to the camp of your choice.
Possible reopenings
Lake Huron Retreat Center will reopen after stay-at-home restrictions are lifted, and we have established how we will implement any new social distancing and safety guidelines. God’s Treasures and other scheduled programs will be evaluated based on the final state and federal requirements.
We are preparing to open our recreational and family camping at Lakeview Family Campground and Lake Michigan Camp & Retreat. Still, we must wait to see how and when Governor Whitmer lifts the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” limitations. Once these orders are clear and regulations are provided, each camp will open as soon as possible. Please understand our campgrounds may have some limitations or restrictions when we do open. Please check this web page for updated information as each campground may have a different timeline.
Michigan Area United Methodist Camping is uniquely positioned to offer incredible, fun outdoor experiences that build community, ease anxiety, grow leaders, and develop followers of Jesus Christ. With prayer and support from you — our camper families and churches — we can weather this storm and use this time to improve programs and facilities to serve you better.
As you can imagine, these past few weeks have created a financial hardship/strain which will continue without revenue from the summer youth camps. As good stewards, we applied for and received relief in the form of a small loan through the federal Paycheck Protection Program established by the CARES Act.
Your prayers and financial support will help the camping ministry come out of this crisis ready for a new season. Please consider a one-time or on-going gift to support these efforts. You may donate online here.
~ Editor’s Note: Lake Louise Christian Community has also announced the cancellation of their 2020 Summer Camps.
Last Updated on January 31, 2024