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Home >  United States  >  Illinois  >  Makanda  >  

Camp Carew

Camp Carew

United States, Illinois, Makanda 

Sandee

Camp Carew

United States, Illinois, Makanda 

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Camp Carew is a Christian camp, conference, and retreat center located on Little Grassy Lake, nine miles south of Carbondale, Illinois. Situated within the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, it offers a serene environment for spiritual growth and community bonding. The camp spans across sixty acres, with one and a half miles of shoreline, providing ample space for various activities and spiritual reflections. Established in 1952, Camp Carew is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church and hosts retreats for all ages throughout the year.

It features facilities such as traditional cabins, hogans, a dining hall named Calvin Hall, a swimming area, and fire circles, all nestled among beautiful woods. The camp welcomes participants from diverse religious backgrounds and emphasizes a drug- and alcohol-free environment. Activities are designed to foster a sense of community, focusing on group living and spiritual exploration.

Camp Carew is a member of the American Camp Association and complies with relevant guidelines, ensuring safety and quality in its programs.

Near Camp Carew, there are several notable restaurants offering a variety of dining experiences. Giant City State Park Lodge & Restaurant provides rustic American fare within a historic lodge setting, complete with a cozy fireplace and great beer selection. For brunch lovers, The Iron Whisk Bistro & Bar is a favorite, offering trendy breakfast and lunch options. Blue Sky Vineyard is ideal for those interested in wine tastings and vineyard tours. For a diverse culinary journey, Tandoor & Tadka offers flavorful Indian cuisine with vegan and vegetarian options. Lastly, a visit to The Tasting Room at Walker's Bluff provides a sophisticated dining experience with live music and performances.

For accommodations near Camp Carew, several options are available. Makanda Inn offers a cozy woodland setting with cottages and rooms, perfect for those seeking an intimate natural retreat. Giant City State Park Lodge & Restaurant combines lodging with a rustic dining experience amidst a historic setting. For contemporary comforts, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Murphysboro - Carbondale provides modern amenities. Walker's Bluff Casino Resort offers a more vibrant experience with casino facilities. Lastly, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Marion, IL is another option with comfortable rooms and an indoor pool.

Camp Carew provides a range of amenities to support its programs and offer a comfortable stay. Facilities include two traditional year-round cabins (Knox and Witherspoon), several hogans, Calvin Hall for dining, a swimming area, and a fire circle. The camp complies with American Camp Association standards, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for campers. Other amenities may include restrooms, showers, and basic equipment necessary for day-to-day activities. However, specific details on rental equipment or extensive recreational facilities are limited.

Camp Carew is designed to foster spiritual growth and community bonding through various activities. Programs are structured around group living, where campers and leaders work, plan, play, and worship together. Popular activities include swimming, and group games, though the camp is focusing on new activities in place of using Little Grassy Lake due to a current drawdown. Additionally, participants can engage in hiking and nature exploration within the surrounding wildlife refuge. The camp offers specialized programs like horseback riding and music camps, providing diverse experiences for attendees.

While specific details on disability access at Camp Carew are not extensively outlined, the camp aims to provide an inclusive environment for all participants. Facilities might include accessible pathways and potentially adaptable accommodations within cabins or hogans, though this would need to be verified with the camp administration. The surrounding businesses and venues in the area often provide wheelchair-accessible facilities, but direct confirmation from Camp Carew is necessary for precise information.

Parking facilities at Camp Carew are likely designed to accommodate campers and visitors, though specific details about parking capacity or fees are not readily available. Given its rural setting, parking is generally accessible near the cabins and main facilities. The camp's focus on community and natural exploration suggests that parking areas are intended to be convenient and accessible, allowing participants to engage fully in camp activities.

Camp Carew has a rich history, dating back to 1952 when it was established by the Presbyteries of Cairo and Ewing. The name 'Carew' is derived from these two presbyteries, symbolizing collaboration and community. The camp has evolved over the years, focusing on spiritual growth and community building. It is notable for its serene setting within the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and spiritual exploration. Additionally, Camp Carew is part of the Presbyterian Church Camp and Conference Association (PCCCA), connecting it to a broader network of Christian camps.

Located near Camp Carew, Giant City State Park is a major attraction with its unique sandstone structures and diverse hiking trails. The park offers scenic views and opportunities for exploration, combining natural beauty with outdoor adventure. Additionally, the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge provides a rich environment for wildlife viewing and exploration, with its woods and shoreline offering a serene natural backdrop for activities at Camp Carew. For those interested in local vineyards, Blue Sky Vineyard is nearby, offering wine tastings and tours.

Basic Details

INParking

IN24 / 7

INRestroom Available

IN788 Hidden Bay Ln, Makanda, IL 62958, USA

Know Before You Go

Amenities

  • ATM

  • Barbecue

  • Boat Ramp

  • Dogs

  • Entry Fee

  • Fire Pits

  • Hidden

  • Lifeguard

  • Marine Life

  • Pier

  • Playground

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestrooms

  • Shops

  • Showers

  • WiFi

  • Picnic Table

  • Activities

  • Bike Paths

  • Camping

  • Clubs Party Scene

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFishing

  • Hiking

  • Nude

  • Paddle boarding

  • Scuba Diving

  • Snorkeling

  • Surfing

  • Tours

  • Volleyball

  • Cave

  • Rentals

  • ATV

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBikes

  • Boat

  • Fishing Boats

  • Jet Skiing

  • Kayaking Canoeing

  • Chair Rentals

  • Sailing

  • Speed Boats

  • Umbrella Rental

  • Waterskiing

  • Windsurfing

  • Yachts

  • Food

  • Bars

  • Food Snacks

  • Local Beach Vendor

  • Lounge

  • Restaurants

  • Access

  • Bike Racks

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesCar Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesDisabled Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFoot Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesParking - Free

  • Parking - Paid

  • Parking - RV Parking

  • Parking - Street

  • Public Bus Stop

  • Stairs to Beach

  • Boat Access

  • Features

  • Blue Flag

  • Jellyfish

  • Pebbles

  • Riptide

  • Rocky

  • Sharks

  • LGBTQ+

  • Camp Carew - Beach Map

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!

    Does Camp Carew have parking? If so, is it free or paid?

    Yes, this Beach provides free parking at the entrance, although spaces are limited. Visitors can also find street parking nearby for easy access to the beach.

    Does Camp Carew have lifeguards?

    No, this Beach does not have lifeguards monitoring the beach - please be careful when swimming on this beach.

    Is Camp Carew a family-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.

    Is Camp Carew good for swimming?

    Yes, this Beach boasts excellent swimming conditions, attracting swimmers of all skill levels with its gentle waves and clear waters.

    Does Camp Carew have restrooms?

    Yes, Restrooms are conveniently available on or adjacent to the beach at this Beach.

    Is Camp Carew a nude beach?

    No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.

    Is there food near Camp Carew?

    No, this Beach does not have nearby food options - please plan your beach day accordingly.

    What are the activities at Camp Carew?

    Yes, this Beach is renowned for its vibrant beach scene, offering various activities for everyone to enjoy Camping, Fishing, Hiking.

    Does Camp Carew have accommodations for people with disabilities?

    Yes, this Beach offers accommodations for people with disabilities, allowing everyone to relish the coastal experience.

    Is Camp Carew a dog-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not dog-friendly.

    Is Camp Carew good for surfing?

    No, this Beach is not generally considered to be good for surfing.

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