Camp Ondessonk — Local services in Vienna

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...

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...

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...