Camp Elkanah

For Oregonians seeking a nurturing environment that combines outdoor adventure with spiritual growth, Camp Elkanah in La Grande stands as an exceptional choice. More than just a campground, this beautiful 172-acre property is a dedicated Christian camp and retreat center, renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, dedicated staff, and diverse facilities. Nestled along a creek within pleasant forested land in northeastern Oregon, it offers a unique setting for youth camps, church retreats, family gatherings, and ministry conferences.

Camp Elkanah has been a cornerstone for youth development and spiritual enrichment for decades, with a history rooted in a generous donation that stipulated its use for improving youth spiritually and physically. This mission continues to thrive, as evidenced by glowing reviews from those who have experienced its programs. Visitors consistently praise the "awesome Christian Camp," highlighting the quality of its "facilities, staff and setting." Many parents enthusiastically share how their children, like the one whose "daughter had a blast this year summer of 2024," have had profoundly positive and memorable experiences. It’s a testament to Camp Elkanah's commitment to creating engaging, safe, and meaningful opportunities for personal growth and a deeper connection with faith amidst Oregon's stunning natural landscapes.

Camp Elkanah is ideally situated at 49504 OR-244, La Grande, OR 97850, USA. This location places it in the picturesque rural landscape of northeastern Oregon, roughly 35 miles west of La Grande and about 60 miles southeast of Pendleton. The camp's setting along a creek within a forested property offers a serene and inspiring backdrop for all its activities.

For Oregonians traveling from various parts of the state, accessing Camp Elkanah is relatively straightforward via Oregon Route 244 (OR-244). This state highway provides reliable access, making the journey to the camp manageable for buses transporting youth groups, families in personal vehicles, or individuals attending retreats. The camp is set back from the main road, ensuring a sense of peaceful seclusion once you arrive, yet remains conveniently connected to nearby towns for any essential needs. Its location within Union County, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Blue Mountains, offers a genuine escape into the Pacific Northwest wilderness, making it an accessible yet immersive destination for all who visit from within our state.

Camp Elkanah is equipped with a wide array of facilities and services designed to accommodate various groups and activities, ensuring a comprehensive and comfortable experience for all participants.

• Overnight Accommodations: The camp provides lodging for groups of up to 240 people. A unique highlight includes cabins built on old train boxcars situated on original tracks, which have been recently upgraded with new floors, roofs, and improved heating, offering a one-of-a-kind sleeping experience. They also have remodeled staff cabins and dorms.

• Dining Hall: A central dining hall is available, equipped to serve meals for large groups, making meal times convenient and communal. Rental groups may also have access to kitchen facilities.

• Recreational Facilities: The camp boasts a variety of sports and recreational areas, including a baseball/softball field, basketball courts, and a miniature golf course. There is also a swimming pool and a "swimming hole" for cooling off during warmer months.

• Challenge Course/Ropes Course: For team-building and adventure, Camp Elkanah features a robust ropes course area with activities such as a climbing tower, zip line, and a giant swing, which are popular for all age groups.

• Chapel/Messenger Chapel: Dedicated spaces like the Messenger Chapel are available for worship, spiritual gatherings, and quiet reflection.

• Meeting and Conference Rooms: Facilities like the Elkhorn Commons and other spaces are suitable for various meetings, conferences, and group discussions, making it ideal for retreats and ministry events.

• Outdoor School Programming: Camp Elkanah annually hosts nearly 1,000 fifth and sixth-graders for Outdoor School, offering educational and engaging programs focused on environmental and outdoor learning.

• Special Emphasis Camps: Throughout the year, the camp offers various special emphasis camps and themed sessions, including specific programs for different age groups (Primary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School), focusing on spiritual growth and fun activities like paintball and team-building.

• Rental Opportunities: Camp Elkanah happily rents its facilities to various groups, including youth camps, church retreats, ministry conferences, and potentially other special events like reunions or corporate team-building events.

• Unique Train-Car Cabins: A standout feature, these cabins built from old train boxcars on original tracks offer a truly distinctive and memorable accommodation experience, enhanced by recent upgrades.

• Exceptional Staff and Setting: Consistently praised in reviews, the camp's staff are noted for their dedication and friendly approach, contributing to a welcoming and impactful environment. The "beautiful location" in forested land along a creek further enhances the overall experience.

• Diverse Recreational Activities: From traditional sports fields to an exhilarating ropes course with a zip line and giant swing, the camp offers a wide range of activities catering to physical, emotional, and spiritual development for all ages.

• Strong Focus on Spiritual Growth: As a Christian camp, Elkanah's core mission is to foster spiritual health and proclaim the gospel. Programs are designed to deepen faith and provide a nurturing environment for personal growth.

• Family and Group Friendly: The camp is well-equipped to host large groups, including family reunions and church retreats, providing ample space and facilities for collective activities and fellowship.

• Outdoor School Program: The annual Outdoor School brings valuable environmental education and outdoor experiences to thousands of local students, showcasing the camp's commitment to community and education.

• Well-Maintained Facilities: Continuous efforts in maintenance and upgrades, including renovated cabins and staff housing, ensure that the facilities remain functional, comfortable, and inviting for all guests.

• Serene Natural Environment: The 172-acre property offers a peaceful and picturesque setting, ideal for reflection, relaxation, and enjoying the natural beauty of northeastern Oregon.

Address: 49504 OR-244, La Grande, OR 97850, USA

Phone: (541) 428-2175

Mobile Phone: +1 541-428-2175

For Oregonians, Camp Elkanah in La Grande represents a truly valuable resource, offering much more than just a place to sleep under the stars. It's a comprehensive and welcoming destination perfectly suited for our community's diverse needs, from spiritual enrichment to adventurous recreation. Its unique blend of comfortable facilities, engaging programming, and a commitment to personal growth makes it an ideal choice for families, youth groups, and organizations across the state.

The camp's dedication to providing a nurturing environment for youth, as echoed in reviews praising its "awesome" staff and the positive experiences of children, directly aligns with the values many Oregonian families hold for their children's development. Whether it's the thrill of the zip line, the camaraderie of team-building activities, or the quiet reflection found in its beautiful forested setting, Camp Elkanah offers a well-rounded experience. Furthermore, its capacity to host large groups and its unique accommodations, including the charming renovated train-car cabins, make it an excellent option for church retreats, family reunions, or educational outdoor school programs that are easily accessible from various parts of Oregon.

By choosing Camp Elkanah, locals are not only investing in a memorable and impactful experience but also supporting a long-standing institution that consistently gives back to the community through its programs and mission. It's a place where faith can deepen, friendships can flourish, and the beauty of Oregon's outdoors can be fully appreciated, creating lasting memories right here in our own backyard.

Camp Elkanah

49504 OR-244, La Grande, OR 97850, USA