Coldwater Foundation is a Christian faith and leadership development ministry based at Mink Lake Wilderness Camp near Grand Marais, offering wilderness canoe and backpack expeditions in the Boundary Waters and Superior National Forest. Its Wilderness Leadership Expedition teaches technical wilderness-tripping and leadership skills to youth, with college and adult programs also offered. Multi-day residential wilderness trips rooted in outdoor ministry.
The practical details
We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact Coldwater Foundation directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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★★★★★Sullivan NewcombHey!!!! This camp is amazing!!! I have found myself in these groups of girls. I'll be praying that God have more plans for this camp. God bless yall!!!!
★★★★★Thomas FrykmanGreat place to send your kids on a canie trip into the boundary waters!!! That's all i really have to say but I'll say more! This year i took a trip this past summer and it was absolutely life changing for me personally and i definently want to vome back next summer for another one!! The field team the home team and Kevin and Jen Sutton were all soooo amazing and kept everything centered around God while also teaching you leadership and navigational skill plus many other skill!!! absolutely the best place on earth! come try it out the trips fill up fast!!!
★★★★★Kyle DurantWhere do I start? I've been wanting to explore the Boundary Waters for more than two decades. I finally got the opportunity to come up here with my church, Crosspoint Church, Waverly, IA. I wouldn't have wanted to experience the Boundary Waters any other way than with the amazing staff of Coldwater Foundation. The guides are well trained, both in outdoor expeditions and spiritual leadership. The owners and staff are super inviting, wonderful disciples, and amazing cooks! Upon arrival, I immediately felt like I was part of their family. The base camp is wonderful with a lodge, multiple cabins, outdoor worship area next to a beautiful lake, and even an outdoor sauna! I look forward to my next visit to Coldwater Foundation!
★★★★★Carole SeidWhat an amazing blessing Coldwater Foundation is! It is changing families and children’s lives. The world is a better place because of Kevin Sutton and his wonderful team. Every child should have the expanding experience of growing up going to Coldwater for wilderness experiences!
★★★★★Patrick GiannantonioKevin Sutton and his passionate Coldwater team deliver a one-of-a-kind wilderness experience. They combine leadership training, confidence-building, real-time problem solving and outdoor skills development. Then they bring it all together with a Christian world-view and present their programs with a God-centered approach.