Camp Ondessonk

Tracy Christ (Dancin'Tracy)

2024-04

A group of us met at Camp for the Total Solar eclipse weekend. It was amazing! I can't wait to go back to this place in time when we were campers ourselves. To have a chance to sneak back to one's youth for a split second and just enjoy a breath of fresh air at this unique place that I value . Camp Ondessonk is one of my favorite childhood memories. The most memorable part collectively, was that one of the friends to come along,,,we were campers together the first time we went in 7th-8th grade. We stayed in the old Daniel. I could still find the old path through the forest to Tequawitha. The pictures are from 1987. We went to visit one afternoon. We stayed in Tequawitha cabin Apache.

Kate Crimmins

2023-08

Daughter loved her week at Camp O and can't wait to go back! We went to Family Camp first and I was so impressed at how warm, enthusiastic, and positive the staff is-and how they all seem so happy to be there! From talking to parents who send their kids to other camps, it seems that many camps are struggling to hire decent staff these days and it affected their kids' experience. I am glad to say that's not the case here. The property is beautiful and the kids seem to have a good mix of activities and free time.

Josiah Biver

2024-02

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Danielle

2023-08

In February 2020, my daughter, as an avid viewer of Bunk’d, asked if she could go to summer camp. Not having gone to camp myself, a random search for “Catholic youth camp” led me to Camp Ondessonk and after reading the website and watching some of their videos on YouTube, I knew in my heart that this was the place for her. 2020 happened and camp wasn’t a reality that year, but I was so impressed with the communication from them throughout that spring and summer, that we felt comfortable sending our daughter to camp summer 2021 sight unseen.Summer 2021 came and, while all of us were a little apprehensive about sending her away, those nerves were quickly alleviated once we arrive, and even more so when I picked up a daughter who so enjoyed camp, she let out a huge sigh of disappointment that I was there to pick her up. Our then often shy and quiet daughter was a chatterbox the whole 5 hour ride home, telling me all about her experiences and the wonder and joy that is Ondessonk. She tried many new and activities: horseback riding, swimming, canoeing/kayaking, hiking, an overnight camp out, handicrafts, campfires, archery, and riflery to name a few. She roughed it in the three-walled treehouses that are Ondessonk’s signature unit, sleeping under the stars at Wednesday’s overnight, showering in cold water, and using outhouses. She “survived” without phones and technology, learning to appreciate a slightly slower pace of life. She explored nature amidst the Shawnee National Forest: serene trails, trickling waterfalls, tall trees, rock formations, scenic lakes, and pastures. She grew deeper in her faith and appreciation for God’s beauty and compassion and service towards others.Since then, she has returned twice each summer, and each time, her personal growth from these experiences has been evident to not only us but to many of our family and friends. She has emerged a slightly happier, more confident, more independent version of herself. For many reasons, she has blossomed over the past couple of years, and we know that camp had been a big piece of that equation. As parents, we know there isn’t a price that can be put on what our daughter has gained from camp, but there is no doubt in our minds that it is worth every penny.My husband and I have been fortunate enough to gain a small glimpse of what our daughter experiences at camp at the annual family camp in September. We too enjoy the beauty of nature and the serenity of time together as a family that is very different from our every day life, and we are all the better for it. Ondessonk truly is a special place and one that has become important to all of us. 🏕️

Rachel Jenness

2023-05

Both of my children went to Camp Ondessonk for 12 years. First as campers and then they continued to work there as young adults. My husband and I believe Camp O shaped who they are as people. They looked forward to going to camp all year long and never wanted to leave when it was time to go. Many years there were even tears on the way home. Just a few comments my kids have said over the years about Camp O...."I am my best self at camp." "The friendships I have made with camp friends are my strongest relationships." "I feel bad for all the kids who never got to experience camp." and then one of my personal favorites.... "It was a good thing I had my pillow to put my cheeseburger on during the overnight". Memories of picking my kids up at camp and walking up to the screened in dining hall hearing the songs and chants can still give me the goosebumps. Very good memories watching your children follow all those unit leaders and then become one, leading the songs and shouting and cheering. Thank you Camp Ondessonk...I am so glad I passed that billboard off of Hwy 40 and was nudged to check out what all the fun was about!

Derek Clifford

2023-11

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Emily

2023-06

Extremely well kept and clean camp, lots of activities for kids, and plenty of space. The only feedback would be the need for better food.Edit: Meals--D1 - Sloppy Joes/sweet potatoes and meatloaf/baked potato. (no additional veggies or sides - ground beef for 2 meals)D2 - Breakfast was fine but lunch was just a plate of ham (no cheese or turkey) with chips and granola bars (no veggies or fruits)

Brandy Nelson

2023-05

What a fun place for my kids! Wall Climbing, horseback riding, archery, food decently priced, face painting, all kinds of good, fun stuff! My only complaint is you feel pretty directionless. When you go to the wall climbing area, like other areas, there's no telling who came first for the staff and no doubt you will have those families that won't respect someone else being there before them and giving them their due turn. It turns into a push and shove so you know your child is having fun too. It's a shame it is this way and why staff members should maybe come up with a way to make this easier on the families attending. Otherwise this place is pretty awesome.

Sherri Franklin

2022-05

This camp is amazing! The property is beautiful. There are tons of things to do such as archery, horseback riding, high ropes course, swimming, zip lining and more! My daughter loved going to summer camp so much here that she's already planning to go next year!

David Morris

2021-05

This place would be so cool to attend camp as a kid. The tree house cabins would be awesome. We go in October for a mountain bike festival and love it here. The trails and facilities are great. The staff is always friendly and very helpful. Can't wait for our next visit.

Dee Haas

2023-05

Camp O is amazing! We are on the 3rd generation of youth camp attendance. You don’t have to be Catholic to attend. Our daughter had a wedding weekend their and it is still talked about as so much fun 7 years later.

J Reign

2019-05

We absolutely love this place! My kids go to summer camp here and we would recommend it to anyone. We also have many friends who send their children here also. It is a Catholic religion camp but all would be welcome with open arms. We drive 2.5 hours just to drop our children off here and it is well worth the drive. They can do a short camp or a long full week camp with many dates and options available. If you do not have the funds and it seems to expensive just contact them and they will work with you to figure out how your child can experience this amazing opportunity.

Sherie Loverkamp

2019-05

Camp Ondessonk is an amazing place! I have been there many times. I have slept out in the treehouses and I am here to tell you that during a thunderstorm these are the place to be! Some of the best sleep I have ever had. I have also stayed in the St. Noel Center. The rooms are cozy and comfy.We have taken guided and unguided hikes on the property. The trails and waterfalls are beautiful. I love walking out on the swinging bridge. When we stayed and used their meal services the food NEVER disappoints. I highly recommend this location for church retreats, camping weekends, family outings, scout troops and whatever your outdoor fun may be. Fishing, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, archery, horseback riding. You should check out all the events and special weekends they offer along with summer camp for the kids.

Sara Shaffer-henry

2020-05

Send you kid to this camp!! I was fortunate enough to be a camper, staff and volunteer and this camp made the person I am today. It built my confidence to meet new people and try new things. It taught me important lessons about friendship, leadership, responsibility, social justice and environmental conservation. Today, I am fortunate enough to help protect our public lands and heritage and I know that Camp Ondessonk was the place that gave me this love for the outdoors and confidence to be the person I am today. If you want to give your child the experience of a lifetime--Ondessonk is the place to send them.

jo sasser

2020-05

My children have both attended Camp O and have absolutely loved it. My son went to mini camp this past summer and in the 3 days he was at camp he grew up years in maturity. He cannot wait to go back this summer for a full week. We also did family weekend and had a great time.

CRYSTAL Valentine-Johnson

2019-05

THE BEST PLACE ON EARTH!!! Could not be more beautiful! We love to camp here in the off season! I can't wait for my youngest to be old enough to go! His 2 big brothers, mamma, and uncles love Camp O ! We have also done Family Camp a couple of times!

Nathan P

2019-05

I visited with an old counselor who had spent many summers here. She had stories and tales of her time there and it just sounded amazing. After visiting on a weekend I felt the joy of this place and it was so beautiful and preserved. The joy it brought her and her campers was something that only this camp could do. I see why she loved it so much.

Sassa Frass

2021-05

Sent my daughter here for one week and she came back acting more focused. She got to go horse back riding, hiking and swimming. They take photos of your child and they post videos on YouTube so you can always watch them afterwards. It was worth the money and she wants to return.

Bonnie

2023-09

I went in 1974. Great experience. My brother and friends built that place I probably 1967.

Morgan Wagner

2018-05

I love camp so much I will be returning this summer for my 5th year. Five stars are not enough to describe how amazing this place is. I have made so many new friends that I talk to on the daily. Camp is a great way to come together and grow in your faith as well as build confidence and social skills to help out later in life. Even now I am seriously considering working there as I get older because it’s such an amazing place. I seriously recommend sending your child, it’s a great way to step out of your comfort zone but you will never be forced to do something that will put you in your panic zone. I learn new values every year!!

carla burnham

2019-05

When we picked up our granddaughter she was bouncing with joy. She had a wonderful time. Lovely facility very clean with friendly staff. The kids have the opportunity to learn new skills, lots of new camp songs and cheers and make new friends.

Jahzara Norris

2020-05

I have been a camper at Camp Ondesonk for the past 2 years. I enjoyed every minute of my stay and I encourage you to send your kids there. It's a beautiful place and everyone is so kind. It's a wonderful opportunity I am lucky to have had.

Amantacha 19

2020-05

It's so awesome! The camp is so beautiful, and it's so much fun to go! I don't know if there's anything you can do to fix this, but it would be nice for campers to be able to go back to their units after showering to put away their towels. It's hard to lug around all of your wet shower stuff. But I still love camp ondessonk so much! Carrying around towels is no big deal anyways.

Ella

2020-05

I absolutely love Camp O! This is my third year going for summer camp. I’ve done the traditional camps, and I’m now trying out Horse Adventure. Every year has brought great memories, and a place that I miss as soon as I leave. I recommend it to EVERYONE, and I can’t wait to go back. This is the highlight of my year, every year.

Kristin Beutel

2020-05

Camp Ondessonk is not only a gorgeous camp but also a great experience for kids. My 9 year old attended mini camp last summer and Camp O really helped her come out of her shell a little bit and become more confident. We already signed her up for this year!

Teale Betts

2024-03

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Christina Tellor

2019-05

Their haunted hayride was very good. Their volunteers were excellent. We will be doing this every year! Good work to everyone who put in the effort in doing this. We really enjoyed going.

Alex Moore

2023-07

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Dylan Patrick

2023-07

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Hannah Sanchez

2022-05

I looooove this place! It is sooo nice there, and the busy thing about it is all of the activities they do there! My 2 favorite ones are horseback riding and hiking!