2026 PROGRAMS
SURVIVAL SKILLS - RESIDENTIAL CAMP
JUNE 14TH – 19TH | AGES 9 TO 15 | $850
At Survival Skills Camp, campers embark on an exciting journey to discover what it takes to thrive in the great outdoors. Throughout the week, they’ll learn how to use the natural resources around them to meet basic survival needs, from identifying edible and useful plants to mastering essential outdoor skills.
Exploring the acres of the Cedar Lake Outdoor Center, campers will hike through forests, observe local wildlife, and practice wilderness navigation. They’ll also learn the fundamentals of setting up a safe and comfortable campsite, including how to pitch a tent, build a campfire, and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment.
The highlight of the week is an unforgettable overnight campout, where campers put their new skills to the test by sleeping in tents beneath the stars. Along the way, they’ll build confidence, teamwork, and a deeper appreciation for nature while having fun and creating lasting memories with new friends.
The Michigan Hunter Education Course is offered during this week. Campers arrive on Sunday at 4 pm and leave Friday at 10 am.
Tentative Activities:
– Swimming, Kayaking, Fishing
– Archery and Shooting Sports
– Shelter Building and Fire Crafting
– Hiking
– Leave No Trace Curriculum
– Animal and Plant Identification
– Orienteering
(All activities and programs are subject to change based upon staff, weather, schedule changes, etc.)
ANGLING ADVENTURE - RESIDENTIAL CAMP
JUNE 21ST – 26TH | AGES 9 TO 15 | $850
Grab your tackle box and fishing pole, it’s time to fish your way through Waterloo! This week of camp offers an exciting introduction to the art of fishing and the science of wetland ecology, giving campers a fresh perspective on angling and the aquatic environments that make it possible.
Throughout the week, campers will explore Michigan’s diverse wetlands, lakes, and rivers while learning about the many species that call these waters home. They’ll practice hands-on fishing techniques like casting, baiting, and safely handling fish, all while discovering how to identify different fish species and understand their habitats. Campers will also investigate the important role wetlands play in keeping ecosystems healthy and balanced.
Even for those who have fished before, this camp goes beyond the basics. Campers will gain new insight into what it truly means to be an angler and learn about conservation, responsible fishing practices, and the interconnectedness of nature. By the end of the week, they’ll leave with greater confidence, respect for the environment, and the skills to continue their fishing adventures long after camp ends.
The Michigan Hunter Education Course is offered during this week. Campers arrive at 4 pm on Sunday and depart at 10 am on Friday.
Tentative Activities:
– Fishing
– Fly Fishing Introduction
– Wetland Ecology
– Lure Making
– Hiking
– Archery
– Guest Speakers
– Swimming
(All activities and programs are subject to change based upon staff, weather, schedule changes, etc.)
CEDAR LAKE TEASER - RESIDENTIAL CAMP
JUNE 28th – JULY 1ST | AGES 9 TO 12 | $475
Perfect for first-time overnight campers, this 3-day program offers the ideal introduction to all the fun and excitement that Cedar Lake has to offer. Designed for ages 9 to 12, campers will get a taste of classic camp activities and outdoor exploration while building confidence and independence in a supportive environment. With programming inspired by our popular Conservation Connection Day camp, this short stay is the perfect steppingstone to a full week of overnight camp.
During their stay, campers will dive into a variety of adventures, including hiking, archery, swimming, kayaking, fishing, and trying out our low ropes course. They’ll also get an introduction to essential survival skills, learning how to appreciate and navigate the natural world around them. From campfire evenings to time spent on the water, every moment is packed with discovery, friendship, and fun.
Campers arrive at 4:00 PM on Sunday and depart at 4:00 PM on Wednesday—just enough time to experience the magic of camp life and create lasting memories. After this mini week of adventure, campers are sure to head home excited, confident, and ready to return for a full week next summer!
Tentative Activities:
– Hiking
– Archery
– Swimming
– Kayaking
– Fishing
– Low Ropes Course
– Intro to survival skills
(All activities and programs are subject to change based upon staff, weather, schedule changes, etc.)
CONSERVATION CONNECTION - DAY CAMP
July 6th – 10th | AGES 6 TO 11 | $375
The Conservation Connection Day Camp is the perfect experience for first-time campers or those eager to learn more about the natural world and what conservation truly means. Throughout the week, campers will dive into hands-on outdoor education programs designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and inspire a love for nature.
Each day brings new adventures as campers explore the forests, wetlands, and trails around Cedar Lake Outdoor Center. Activities may include wildlife observation, nature hikes, basic ecology lessons, and interactive games that teach the importance of protecting our environment. By sampling a wide variety of outdoor topics, campers can discover which areas of conservation interest them most.
Running Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, this camp offers a full week of fun, learning, and exploration. It’s a great introduction to our camp for those who may want to attend one of our themed overnight camps in the future, helping campers find their passion for the outdoors while making friends and unforgettable memories along the way.
Tentative Activities:
– Swimming
– Introduction to Archery
– Outdoor/Nature Related Games
– Shelter Building and Fire Crafting
– Light Hiking
– Low Ropes Course
– Animal and Plant Identification
– Introduction to Fishing
– Art in Nature, Crafts, Painting
(All activities and programs are subject to change based upon staff, weather, schedule changes, etc.)
FISHING FRENZY - DAY CAMP
JULY 13th – 17th | AGES 6 TO 11 | $375
The Angler Adventure Day Camp is perfect for first-time campers or beginner anglers eager to cast their first line and explore the world of fishing. Throughout the week, campers will dive into the basics of angling while learning about the fish, habitats, and ecosystems that make Michigan’s waters so special.
Campers will spend their days along the shores of Cedar Lake and nearby ponds, practicing skills like casting, baiting, knot tying, and safely handling their catch. In addition to fishing, they’ll learn how to identify different fish species, explore the importance of aquatic conservation, and gain a deeper appreciation for wetlands, rivers, and lakes. Each activity blends fun with learning, helping campers connect with nature while building patience, focus, and respect for the environment.
Running Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, this camp offers the perfect mix of outdoor exploration and fishing fun. It’s a great way for campers to develop confidence and foundational skills before joining one of our overnight or advanced angling camps in the future. By the end of the week, they’ll be ready to call themselves true anglers!
Tentative Activities:
– Swimming
– Wetland Activities
– Introduction to Archery
– Fishing
– Shelter Building and Fire Crafting
– Light Hiking
– Low Ropes Course
– Fish Identification
– Lure Crafting
– Art in Nature, Crafts, Painting
(All activities and programs are subject to change based upon staff, weather, schedule changes, etc.)
HUNTING HERITAGE - SESSION 1 - RESIDENTIAL CAMP
JULY 19th – 24th | AGES 13 TO 15 | $850
This program is designed for campers ready to explore the long-standing traditions of hunting, fishing, and trapping, and to gain a deeper understanding of how these practices connect to conservation and wildlife management. Throughout the week, campers will learn about Michigan’s diverse game animals and the important role ethical hunting and resource stewardship play in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Campers will spend time both in the classroom and outdoors as they work toward completing their Michigan Hunter Education Course. They’ll also head out to the shooting and archery ranges for hands-on target practice, guided by trained instructors focused on safety, skill-building, and responsibility in the field.
The adventure continues with a one-night backpacking experience, where campers will hike the scenic trails of Waterloo, set up tents at a neighboring campsite, and return to Cedar Lake the next morning. This immersive week combines outdoor skill development with a deeper appreciation for Michigan’s natural heritage—perfect for campers eager to learn, explore, and connect with the great outdoors.
The Michigan Hunter Education Course is offered during this week. Campers arrive at 4 pm on Sunday and depart 10 am on Friday.
Tentative Activities:
– Archery & 3D Archery
– Shooting Sports
– Backpacking
– Trapping Demonstrations
– Waterfowl introduction and duck calling
– Fishing
– Swimming
– Outdoor survival skills
(All activities and programs are subject to change based upon staff, weather, schedule changes, etc.)
RILEY WILDERNESS WEEK - RESIDENTIAL CAMP
JULY 27th – 31st | AGES 9 to 12 | $850
The Riley Wilderness Camp is a special program designed exclusively for recipients of the Riley Foundation Scholarship. This unique opportunity allows campers to experience a week of outdoor adventure and environmental education at Cedar Lake Outdoor Center, surrounded by peers who share their curiosity and enthusiasm for nature.
Throughout the week, campers will participate in a variety of hands-on activities modeled after our popular Conservation Connection Day Camp, but at a more advanced level. They’ll explore topics such as wildlife ecology, outdoor skills, and environmental stewardship through engaging lessons, hikes, and interactive field experiences that challenge them to think critically and act responsibly in the natural world.
Each day offers a new adventure—whether it’s studying local ecosystems, practicing outdoor techniques, or discovering how conservation impacts Michigan’s wildlife and habitats. The Riley Wilderness Camp provides scholarship recipients with an inspiring, educational experience that builds leadership, confidence, and a lifelong connection to the outdoors.
Tentative Activities:
– Swimming
–Archery
– Outdoor/Nature Related Games
– Shelter Building and Fire Crafting
– Hiking
– Low Ropes Course
– Animal and Plant Identification
–Fishing
– Art in Nature, Crafts, Painting
(All activities and programs are subject to change based upon staff, weather, schedule changes, etc.)
HUNTING HERITAGE - SESSION 2 - RESIDENTIAL CAMP
AUGUST 2ND-7TH | AGES 9 TO 12 | $850
This program is designed for campers ready to explore the traditions of hunting, fishing, and trapping while learning how these practices connect to modern conservation and wildlife management. Throughout the week, campers will study Michigan’s diverse game animals and discover how ethical hunting and responsible resource use help maintain balanced ecosystems.
Campers will spend time both in the classroom and outdoors as they work toward completing their Michigan Hunter Education Course. Under the guidance of trained instructors, they’ll gain valuable knowledge about safety, equipment, and wildlife identification while developing skills that promote respect for nature and responsible outdoor recreation.
The week also includes time on the shooting and archery ranges, where campers can put their new skills into practice through hands-on target sessions. By the end of camp, participants will leave with a strong foundation in outdoor ethics, confidence in their abilities, and a lasting appreciation for Michigan’s natural heritage.
Tentative Activities:
– Archery & 3D Archery
– Shooting Sports
– Backpacking
– Trapping Demonstrations
– Waterfowl introduction and duck calling
– Fishing
– Swimming
– Outdoor survival skills
(All activities and programs are subject to change based upon staff, weather, schedule changes, etc.)
Do not worry if your camper does not get a spot in their preferred theme. Depending on the theme of each week, the staff focuses more on that topic while tying it into the camp curriculum, but no matter which week your camper attends, they will get to participate in our daily activities such as archery, hiking, fishing, and of course, conservation education and all the other outdoor activities we have at Cedar Lake. Each week is unique, depending on what the staff has planned and surprise guest speakers! There will be plenty of conservation to go around.
