Deep in the heart of the United States, nestled between the bustling cities and sprawling farmland, lays the hearty state of Illinois. A land known for its towering skyscrapers, vast cornfields, and a gigantic lake that's so enormous, you'd swear it was an ocean! But the most adventurous secret Illinois holds is its legendary Rope Course activity, a test of skill, courage, and sheer unadulterated fun, eagerly participated in by the bravest of Illinois kids. Meet our coolest friend, Benny the Bumbling Bumblebee. Benny is a goofy, comical character with a buzzing laughter that echoes throughout the state. He's not the most graceful flyer, often bumbling into things, but he's the heartiest cheerleader for the young rope courser. He wears a helmet (for all his bumbling, of course) and sports a pair of chunky, safety goggles that are perpetually lopsided - adding to his charming clumsiness. The kids in Illinois, a motley bunch of daredevils, are known not just for their love of deep-dish pizza or their unmatched ability to tolerate cold winters, but for their remarkable rope course skills. Benny often watches in awe as these kids, young and fearless, navigate the rope courses with the grace of soaring eagles and the agility of cheeky squirrels. It's a sight to behold when they leap, swing, climb, and zip-line, turning the air electric with their shouts of glee and triumphant high-fives. While Benny is often seen tumbling and fumbling, he is never deterred. Every day, he musters up all his bumblebee bravado and attempts the rope course. And every day, without fail, the Illinois kids would cheer him on, their laughter and encouragement ringing out as loud as Benny's buzzing. Because in the heart of Illinois, whether you're a kid or a bumbling bumblebee, there's always room for a good old-fashioned adventure and a heap load of fun!
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For over 50 years, Frontier Camp has been dedicated to making disciples of Jesus by sharing God’s Word amidst the beauty of His creation. Since our founding in 1969, we’ve been licensed by the Texas Department of State Health Services and are proudly accredited by the American Camping Association. We’re also a member of the Christian Camping and Conference Association. Our mission is to use Christian camping and outdoor recreation as a means to support local churches in fulfilling the Great Commission—evangelizing people of all ages and discipling believers toward deeper maturity in Christ. Frontier Camp offers a dual ministry: during the summer, we host a 10-week youth camp, and throughout the rest of the year, we serve as a retreat facility for churches and like-minded religious organizations. Whether through summer camps or retreats, our goal remains the same: to expose people to Christ and encourage their spiritual growth through His Word and by reflecting His character in everything we do. While we provide top-notch recreation and exciting programming, the heart of our camp is the spiritual impact, rooted in the truth of God’s inerrant Word.
In 2010, Dan and Andy bought and invested $1 million in construction and renovation of Camp Manitowa Rend Lake. Since then, the 40-acre property has been hosting sleep-away summer camps, retreats, and festivals. It is the newest, freshest camp in the Benton area of Southern Illinois, and is located only 90 minutes from St. Louis, MO and Paducah, KY. At Camp Manitowa, campers entering grades 2nd through 8th can benefit from a tailored 1 or 2 week residential camp program. This program is designed with younger campers’ needs in mind, and encourages the development of independence, self-esteem, cooperation, and problem-solving skills. Campers also have the opportunity to make lifelong friends in a small, nurturing community. The camp also offers structured free play and choice time, allowing campers to feel a sense of belonging and empowerment to learn. In 2013, Camp Manitowa is offering week long specialty camps that focus on water skiing, magic, rock school, science, and the popular sport of Gaga. With its unique program and offerings, Camp Manitowa Rend Lake is a great place for campers to experience all the fun and adventure of a summer camp.