Frequently Asked Questions
Who will own the camp?
The property is expected to be owned by the independent nonprofit organization established to restore and operate Lake Ellen Bible Camp.
The organization is governed by a local Board of Directors that provides oversight for finances, leadership, and long-term ministry planning.
The board is committed to operating the camp with transparency, strong financial stewardship, and a Christ-centered mission.
Why did the organizational structure change?
As the project developed, local Christian leaders determined that an independent nonprofit organization governed by a local Board of Directors would provide the strongest foundation for the future of Lake Ellen Bible Camp.
This structure allows the organization to focus exclusively on the mission of restoring and operating the camp while working in partnership with churches, supporters, and the surrounding community.
How will the camp be funded?
The project is supported through several sources:
1. Donations
Churches, individuals, families, and businesses are invited to make tax-deductible donations that support the purchase of the property and its future restoration.
2. Grants
A significant portion of long-term funding is expected to come through grants that support youth ministry, community outreach, and facility improvement.
Many grants require the organization to own the property before funding can be awarded.
3. Camp Operations
Once the camp is operating, ongoing support is expected to come from:
Camp registrations
Retreat rentals
Church partnerships
Donations
The long-term goal is a financially sustainable ministry that serves churches and families for generations.
Why is the property price higher than what it previously sold for?
The current owners purchased the property as an investment several years ago.
Since then:
Buildings and structures have been maintained and repaired
Infrastructure improvements have been made
Property taxes, utilities, and maintenance have continued to be paid
The current effort is focused on moving forward and restoring the camp for ministry.
What condition is the camp currently in?
The camp has been maintained during the years it has been closed, including ongoing property care and upkeep.
With the proper inspections and permits, it may be possible to reopen portions of the camp relatively quickly.
Some facilities may require updates or improvements as operations restart.
Will children who cannot afford camp still be able to attend?
Yes.
A priority of the project is ensuring that no child is turned away because of financial limitations.
This would be supported through:
Scholarships funded by donations
Church sponsorships
Financial assistance programs
Many churches already help send children to camp, and that partnership will continue.
When could the camp reopen?
A timeline depends on several steps:
Raising the funds needed to complete the property purchase.
Completing the property purchase
Finalizing inspections and permits
Hiring camp leadership and staff
If those steps move forward successfully, initial programs could begin relatively soon after the purchase.
What is the long-term vision for the camp?
The goal is to restore a gospel-centered Christian camp that serves young people and families in Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula.
Possible programs include:
Youth summer camps
Family camps
Church retreats
Men’s and women’s retreats
Leadership and discipleship programs
The heart of the vision is simple:
A place where young people can hear the gospel, grow in faith, and build lifelong memories.