Program Director's Residence

For Iowans seeking an enriching and memorable experience that combines outdoor adventure, personal growth, and a strong sense of community, Hidden Acres Christian Center in Dayton, IA, stands out as a truly exceptional destination. While the specific provided name "Program Director's Residence" might refer to a particular building or staff housing within the larger complex, the facility at this address is widely known and beloved as Hidden Acres Christian Center. It’s a place that fosters incredible memories, as one glowing review simply puts it: "Best summer camp EVER." This sprawling center offers a diverse array of programs and facilities, making it ideal for summer camps, family retreats, youth gatherings, and even facility rentals for various groups across Iowa.

Hidden Acres Christian Center is located at 3837 Union Ave, Dayton, IA 50530. This address places it in a serene, rural setting in Webster County, just a short drive from Fort Dodge and other central Iowa communities. The peaceful environment is perfectly suited for a retreat center, allowing visitors to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse themselves in nature and planned activities.

Accessibility to Hidden Acres Christian Center is generally straightforward, with clear directions available on their website, including links to Google Maps and Iowa 511 for current road conditions. While cellular service can vary depending on your provider (Verizon Wireless is noted as the most reliable, with US Cellular & Sprint sometimes getting a decent signal, while AT&T/T-Mobile/TracFone users may struggle), Wi-Fi signals are available in most buildings, excluding some cabin areas and horse barns. This allows for a balance of staying connected when needed, while also encouraging a true "unplugged" experience for campers, particularly kids and teens. Its central Iowa location makes it a convenient and manageable drive for families and groups coming from various parts of the state, ensuring that this fantastic experience is within reach for many Iowans.

Hidden Acres Christian Center provides an extensive range of services and facilities designed to accommodate large groups and offer diverse recreational and educational opportunities throughout the year.

Services Offered:

• Diverse Accommodations: Offers a variety of lodging options including comfortable cabins, cottages, hotel/motel-style rooms, and even platform tents, catering to different preferences for comfort and immersion.
• Comprehensive Camp Programming: Specializes in Adventure/Wilderness camps, with programming for families (separated by age). Throughout the year, they offer special emphasis camps and themes such as Aquatic Skills, Sports, Arts/Crafts, Culinary, Drama, and Equestrian activities.
• Activity Facilities: Features an array of on-site activities including a Nature Center, Soccer Field, indoor and outdoor Swimming Pools, Baseball/Softball Field, Basketball Court, and Miniature Golf Course.
• Horseback Riding Programs: Offers various horse activities, including trail rides (for ages 10+, with a minimum of 10 riders), "Lead-Me Rides" for younger children (under 10, parent-led in arenas), and Horse Team Wagon Rides with their horses, Andy and Amos.
• Meeting and Event Rentals: Facilities are available for rent to various groups, including schools, churches, non-profits, and businesses, making it an ideal venue for retreats, conferences, and special events. Kitchen facilities can be used by rental groups.
• Dining Services: Catering services are available for rental groups.
• High Capacity: Can accommodate up to 850 guests during summer, spring, and fall, and 500 guests in winter, making it suitable for large gatherings.
• Special Programs: Hosts unique events like "All Peoples Camp," "Sportsmen's Retreat," and various marriage and women's retreats throughout the year.
• Staff Support: A dedicated team, including a Retreat Director, is available to assist groups with scheduling activities and ensuring a smooth experience.

Hidden Acres Christian Center truly shines through its unique features and highlights, emphasizing both spiritual growth and a broad spectrum of engaging activities.

Features / Highlights:

• "Best Summer Camp EVER" Atmosphere: The standout review speaks volumes about the positive and impactful experiences children have here, fostering a fun, engaging, and memorable environment.
• Focus on Encountering Jesus: As a Christian center, its primary mission is to provide "a place set apart for you to encounter Jesus," integrating faith-based principles into its programs and atmosphere.
• Extensive Equestrian Program: The variety of horse-related activities, from trail rides through the timber to parent-led arena rides for younger kids and wagon rides, provides a unique and engaging experience for animal lovers.
• Diverse Recreational Options: Beyond structured programs, the sheer number of on-site activities like swimming (indoor and outdoor pools), sports fields, miniature golf, and a nature center ensures there's never a dull moment.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: Nestled in the Iowa countryside, the center offers a peaceful and picturesque environment, ideal for nature walks, reflection, and outdoor play. The "timber" mentioned in trail ride descriptions suggests wooded areas for exploration.
• Accommodation for All Ages and Group Sizes: With various lodging types and a high capacity, the center can comfortably host diverse groups, from individual families to very large youth or adult retreats.
• Opportunities to Unplug: While Wi-Fi is available in some areas, the encouragement for kids and teens to "truly unplug at camp" promotes a healthier relationship with technology and deeper engagement with activities and peers.
• Strong Community and Spiritual Focus: The programming is designed to foster leadership skills, character development, and a sense of camaraderie, aligned with its mission.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about Hidden Acres Christian Center, you can use the following contact details:

Contact Information:

Address: 3837 Union Ave, Dayton, IA 50530

Phone: (515) 547-2751

Fax: (515) 547-2752

Email: office@hacamps.org (or visit their staff page for direct email contacts)

Website: www.hacamps.org

For Iowans, Hidden Acres Christian Center is an invaluable local gem, offering much more than just a typical campground experience. It's a comprehensive summer camp and retreat destination right in our own backyard, easily accessible from across the state. The "Best summer camp EVER" review is a testament to the profound and positive impact this center has on its visitors, particularly children and youth. Its dedication to fostering spiritual growth alongside a wide array of engaging activities—from thrilling horseback riding and aquatic skills to traditional sports and arts—ensures that every participant finds something to love.

Whether your family is looking for an unforgettable summer camp experience for your children, your church group needs a spacious and well-equipped facility for a retreat, or you're an individual seeking a peaceful setting for personal reflection, Hidden Acres Christian Center provides the perfect environment. Its capacity to host large groups, diverse accommodation options, and commitment to creating a safe and enriching experience make it an ideal choice for Iowans seeking meaningful outdoor and community-based activities right here in our beloved state. It truly is a place "set apart" for growth, fun, and unforgettable memories.

Program Director's Residence

Union Ave, Dayton, IA 50530, USA