Overview
Seize the day at Camp Wanake, an idyllic setting for young adventurers, nestled like a lullaby between the quaint towns of Beach City and Brewster, Ohio. It was the canvas for a vision conjured by the Brethren Church in the early ‘40s. For just $8,500 they got not only an apple orchard but also what became the beating heart of youthful discovery - 80 acres of pure natural bliss.
With the lifting of the curtain in 1946, the camp began its noble march to become a tranquil haven, a paradise for kids where the footsteps of time hold no ground. The title 'Wanake,' a triumphant result of a spirited name-contest, instills a special sense of place in every adventurer's heart. It's a name that whispers 'a beautiful, spiritual place among the hills', stirring the soul with three lyrical syllables from Native American vernacular.
In the hands of the accomplished Rev. Mel Moody, the camp soared in its role as a hub for Christian Education and Camping, amplifying its beacon of light to reach more young hearts across the region. A parade of assorted activities from hiking and backpacking to canoeing and kayaking stirs the spirit of young explorers, bonding them with nature in its grandest theatre.
The initial popping kernel of this vision, the captivating big white house, continues standing firm as testament to the camp's enduring legacy. After all, Camp Wanake isn’t just another camp; it's a home away from home. It is where dreams are spun, adventures lived, friendships forged, and life lessons silently sown in the youthful heart. At Camp Wanake, the melody of childhood finds its finest rhythm, reverberating joyously through the verdant Ohio hills.