Centennial Frequently Asked Questions

What’s it all about?

The Centennial Celebration weekend is designed to be a time to reconnect with campers and staff from many generations. There will be camp activities, songs, camp fires, lots of good food and time to visit and reminisce.

Why should I come?

Camp friends and alumni should come if they are interested in reconnecting with old camp friends, experiencing the beauty of the north woods and seeing Camp Mishawaka. We are anxious to share all that we have been up since you were last here.

Can I stay at Camp?

Yes, on-camp housing is available. Please refer to the website for more information. If you plan on coming, we recommend that you reserve a room at one of the area hotels listed on our website. Summer weekends fill up fast and you can always cancel up to 24 hours before.

I have registered, now what?

After we receive your registration payment you will receive a letter and email of acknowledgement. A final registration packet will be mailed out in July.

When can I come to Camp?

The gates will open Friday afternoon. As on-site parking will be limited, and generally available only to those staying at camp, we will be providing shuttles to and from area hotels throughout the weekend. Parking will also be available near camp, with shuttles to and from. Final information will be included with your registration packet.

What is the schedule for the Centennial?

Preliminary Schedule of Events
Registrants will receive a detailed schedule upon arrival.

Friday, August 20
Coffee and refreshments on all day!
1:00 Camp opens for check-in, tours and
camp activities
5:00 Director’s Reception with Dinner
7:00 Presentation – “Honoring our Past”
8:00 Campfires, songs and s’mores
10:00 Goodnight all campers!

Saturday, August 21
Coffee and refreshments on all day!
8-9 Breakfast for those staying at Camp
9-12:30 Camp activities
1:00 Lunch for all
2:15 More Camp activities
5:00 “Even-Innings” – activities wind down
6:00 Founder’s Club Reception and
Centennial Banquet
8:00 “Mishawaka Today” – Evening Program
– music and Camp skits
9:30 Campfire and wishing boats
11:00 “Good Night Belding”– and every
one else too

Sunday, August 22
7:00 Coffee & rolls for campers
7:30 “Polar Bear” and ice-cube dip in lake
8:30-11 Brunch at Timberlake Lodge
10:00 Closing Ceremony and Slide Show
“Our Shared Future”
12:00 Good-byes – until we meet again!

Throughout the weekend, coffee and refreshments will be available in the dining hall.

How can I help?

Opportunities to Help

Join the Founder’s Club
Your donation of $100 will go towards helping with special events planned throughout the weekend, and producing the Centennial Program. In addition to special recognition in the program, Founder’s Club members will receive a commemorative Mishawaka Pennant not available in stores.

Locating Lost Alumni
Though we have been in touch with many camp alumns, there are still many who we are missing. Contact the camp office for more information about how you can help.

Serving on the Host Committee
Putting on a Centennial Celebration is a big project, and we will need assistance with registration, camp tours, transportation and other on-site logistics.

Host a Camp Reunion in your area
The most effective way to spread the word about Camp Mishawaka remains personal contact. Share your enthusiasm with friends and neighbors in your community. We are happy to try to arrange a visit this winter!

Camp Memorabilia
Please also feel free to send or bring unique camp correspondence, awards or other items that you think would be interesting for display.

Send us your pictures
Many hours have gone into organizing and preparing our archives for the Centennial. We would love to have any pictures you would like to share. They can be emailed, or sent to us via regular mail. We will scan these items and return them to you.

Share your Camp Memories
Send us your memories on a separate sheet, or email them to: info@campmishawaka.com

What activities will there be during the Centennial?

Camp Activities

  • Swimming
  • Kayaking
  • Basketball
  • Campfires
  • Volleyball
  • Naturalist Walks
  • Mountain  Biking
  • Sauna
  • Sailing
  • Canoeing
  • Climbing Wall
  • Pontoon Lake  Tours
  • Tennis
  • Archery
  • Arts and Crafts
  • Soccer
  • Air-Riflery
What type of clothing do I need to bring?

Make sure you pack clothes for any activity you wish to take part in. Keep in mind that it may rain and weather is often cool in the evenings.

What else can I do in the area?

http://www.visitgrandrapids.com

Are pets allowed during the celebration?

No pets, please.

Do I need to bring cash or will checks and credit cards be accepted at camp?

Cash will be needed for the cash bar Friday and Saturday evening. You can also pay cash for Camp memorabilia, but credit cards and checks will also be accepted.

Where can I change clothes during the day?

In addition to the restrooms, Camp will provide separate changing areas close to main campus and the waterfront.

What if I can’t make it to the Centennial?

If you are unable to attend the August Celebration, you can take part in special Centennial Days planned for each four-week session this summer. Watch the website for information on dates and events planned. Of course, we welcome alumni visits anytime! Please call or email us to arrange this.

How can I find out who else is coming?

Visit our dedicated blog post to view a list of registrants. (Some registrants have chosen not to be listed on this list).