Camp O-AT-KA

★★★★★Duane Lowenstein

Sending both of my boys to Camp O‑AT‑KA has been one of the best decisions we’ve made as parents. From the moment they arrived, it was clear they were having an absolute blast—trying new activities, having nonstop fun, and coming home with stories that got better every summer. Whether it was sports, outdoor adventures, or just being kids in a screen‑free environment, they found joy in things they never would have discovered at home. What truly sets Camp O‑AT‑KA apart, though, are the life lessons my boys gained along the way. Living independently, being responsible for their own belongings, and learning to work through challenges without mom or dad nearby helped them grow in confidence and maturity. They learned resilience, teamwork, and how to step outside their comfort zones—all while having fun. Equally important was the opportunity to meet and live alongside boys from diverse backgrounds. Those friendships taught them empathy, respect, and how to connect with people who may see the world differently than they do. Camp O‑AT‑KA gave my sons far more than a great summer—it helped shape them into more confident, curious, and well‑rounded young men. We’re incredibly grateful for the role it’s played in their growth.

★★★★★Nina Frusztajer

My sons started going to Camp O-AT-KA when they were 9 and 11 and went on to be CIT's and counsellors. They looked forward to it every summer to see their friends, have fun outdoors by the lake and on hiking and camping trips, learning many skills, the campfires and togetherness, and to feel a part of the very special community full of tradition and substance. As CIT's and counsellors they gladly took on great responsibility and there was a lot of bonding among the staff which made the hard work meaningful and taught them a lot about how you can blend hard work with fun and fulfillment. Everyone has a place at O-AT-KA and there is an enormous sense of honesty and acceptance. Boys can be themselves with vulnerabilities, feel confident to try new things without fear of shame, and embrace self-expression. These are invaluable qualities for a well-lived and fulfilling life. My sons still talk about their experiences at camp which I know they will cherish their whole lives. I am incredibly thankful for the impact O-AT-KA has had on shaping the fine young men my sons have grown up to be.

★★★★★Peter Livas

Would highly recommend. I attended as both a camper and a counselor. My son also went as both a camper and a counselor. Wonderful traditions. Beautiful lakefront property with crystal clear water. The perfect place for a young person to go to build lasting friendships and learn life-long skills.

★★★★★Alaina Baker

We hosted our wedding at Camp O-AT-KA during their off season. Speaking as a wedding venue, it was the most perfect, personable, and FUN wedding venue to host our wedding weekend. Our guests still rave to us about how amazing the food was (everything we requested for our menu really was amazing). Tori was so helpful to work with and coordinate everything we needed for our event, including cabin stays for everybody, vendor coordination and suggestions, and even decor we could borrow from past weddings hosted there.

★★★★★Tanner Skilton

I went to Camp as a camper and counselor from 2002-2014! I now stay as involved as an alumni as I can. Camp was the single most positive thing I had in my years of adolescence and development. Oatka is fully unplugged and this gives boys and young men a real opportunity to build community and focus on being kids! This camp is so fun and isn’t overly focused on competition and sports. Camp is all about new experiences, making friends, and having fun! For young boys and teens, a place like Oatka can do wonders for mental health! The staff here is extremely well trained, and many of them are experts in their craft, whether that be sailing, photography, stained glass or archery. Oatka balances skill building and relaxation! I wish I was able to keep going back every summer!