DuBois Center
Private
Church camp and retreat center of the Illinois South Conference of the United Church of Christ, set on 330 wooded acres with two lakes and trails in southern Illinois. Offers overnight summer sessions for campers ages 5-18 with swimming and canoeing, horseback riding (one of the area's longest-running equestrian programs), crafts, hiking and fishing. Running continuously since 1965 and open to campers of all backgrounds and denominations.
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 DuBois Center directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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Google Reviews
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★★★★★Kimberly DuggerThis place is amazing. I didnt realize they had summer camps for children of all ages here. We went for the fall festival and had a blast. We got to ride horses, get homemade desserts, and got to do arts and crafts for my little one.
★★★★★Justine MegeeMy school has been coming to DuBois Center for school elementary trips since the 80's. After having to take a 6 year hiatus due to Covid and all the ups and downs and challenges from that, we finally returned this past week. It would be an understatement to say that it was an incredible trip. The staff there is amazing, kind, so incredibly helpful, and a blast to spend time with. The grounds are beautiful and boast an incredibly relaxing environment. The wild life was a joy to see and the woods allowed for lovely easy hiking. There were tons of activities to choose from in terms of programming. My 1-6 grade Montessori class did canoeing, shelter building, and fire building between activities hosted by our teachers. Parents loved having the choice to join activities as chaperones or simply relax by the lake. Our kids enjoyed lasagna, chicken sandwiches, taco bar, eggs, waffles, sausage and biscuits with gravy. Each lunch and dinner was accompanied by a salad bar and veggies, and each breakfast with cereal, yogurt, and fruit. Meals were served buffet style. For sleeping, parents and children slept in the babins. The cabins are made up of two bunk rooms with 5 sets of bunk beds and a bathroom, attached by a living space with a fire place, table and two couches. You need to bring your own linens and towels. Teachers stayed in Hickory lodge to which is made up of two floors with bedrooms, shared baths, and a large living space with couches, a table, and fireplace. There are bed linens, but you must bring towels. DuBois Center is one of my favorite places to be. If you are considering a place for a school camp trip (or any kind of retreat, really) do yourself a favor and just go here.
★★★★★Kristen BelcherLove it here! Have been going there for 35 years. Real old school camp experience with horses, lake, cabins, creeks, hiking, crafts, fishing etc. Easy place to make memories and let kids be kids.
★★★★★Scott PerdueGreat place that feels like camp. Jason and the rest of the staff are very accommodating and friendly. Pretty good food, too, and they always have a pot of coffee brewed.
★★★★★Cathie KruegerI've been going to DuBois for 30+ years. My kids have gone there throughout their childhood. It's one of my favorite places to be, always feel at home there.