Miniwanca
Set on 360 wooded acres and a mile of private Lake Michigan shoreline, Miniwanca is a breathtaking and inspiring setting for growth. Towering sand dunes and pines line our beach and a second, inland lake provides the perfect setting for swimming, sailing, and canoeing.
Our days are simpler. We challenge often but have more fun. The outdoors is our home. We work together to create a community where individuals are respected, and where our values guide our actions.
The AYF mission is the foundation for all we do. Programs are intentionally designed to encourage all to stretch beyond what is comfortable to see what is possible, to allow participants to discover more about their unique capacities, and to practice putting their own best into action in big and small ways.
Registration for Summer 2024 will take place in fall 2023.
Summer 2024 registration is a first-come, first-served model, and waitlists will be created when programs fill. Miniwanca is pleased to served more youth in 2024, offering one-, two- and three-week sessions during Sessions A and B.
The American Youth Foundation is committed to making the camp experience accessible to as many youth as possible through Financial Aid.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to email miniwancacamps@ayf.com.
Camps & Programs

Dare to Adventure All genders First-time campers entering grades 7 and 8
- Season: Summer
- Sessions: Aug. 8 to 11, 2023