2026 Summer Camp Series

Outdoors, kids don't miss their screens

 

By Catherine Ferguson SNJM

Lutherhaven, as its name suggests, is a camp in the Lutheran tradition. It has operated for more than 75 years on Lake Coeur d'Alene, by Shoshone Creek and in McPherson Meadows in north Idaho. It offers year-round events and retreats for youth and adults.

The 2026 summer camp theme for Lutherhaven Ministries is "Run," based on 1 Timothy 6:11: "But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness." The theme draws attention to running away from distractions and toward a life of faith, righteousness, love and endurance in Christ.

Summer camping sessions run in six-day, five-night or half-week (three-day) formats between late June and mid-August for youth of all ages, with the shorter programs for the youngest campers. Their programs, staffed largely by college students, feature swimming, campfires and Bible studies. 

Lutherhaven believes that kids need space to breathe. Getting kids outdoors and un-plugged is more important than ever. Both at Camp Lutherhaven and Shoshone Mountain Retreat, programs help un-plug campers of all ages from the noise of screens to draw them into creation, community, service and Jesus.

In their approach to the ministry of camping, they affirm that "kids were made for dirt, lakes, laughter and belonging."

At Lutherhaven, faith formation becomes lived service, forming leaders who serve the world.

Besides traditional camp programs, Lutherhaven also features Champ Camp from June 21 to 24 for students with disabilities and Family Champ Camp Weekend from July 31 to Aug. 2 for families whose students have special needs.

In July, Lutherhaven offers seventh to 12th graders several six-day TREK programs. They feature three off-site outdoor experiences. Depending on the week, campers climb natural rock walls, bike the Hiawatha Trail, do off-site hikes, sail or kayak on Lake Coeur d'Alene or raft the Clark Fork River in Montana.

The camp also offers a program called Idaho Servant Adventures, a week-long, faith-filled, service leadership camp. It combines the elements of a service trip and the energy of summer camp into one week. In this program, youth groups from across the United States come together to grow in Christian faith, love and service.

For information, visit lutherhaven.com.