Outdoor Retreats in the USA

Engage Creation & Find Fellowship

How did John Paul II rejuvenate himself and others in the midst of an intensely lived life? Through physical activity, prayer, and fellowship, in the backdrop of God’s beautiful creation, all four seasons of the year. Now offering outdoor retreats in the USA for young adults 18+.

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Remove Distractions & Encounter God

Each retreat will have time for Mass and adoration, reflection and discussion, outdoor activity, and good food and fellowship. Be not afraid to unplug for the weekend and find the restoration that your body, mind and spirit need.

Upcoming Retreats

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Shenandoah, Virginia

April 16 – 18, Virginia

This weekend venture takes place from April 16 – 18 in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Our chaplain is Father Noah Morey of the Diocese of Arlington, VA. The cost is $160.00 and this includes everything: campsite reservation, kayak and canoe rental, all you need for camping and all meals: dinner Friday evening, breakfast, lunch and dinner on Saturday, and breakfast and lunch on Sunday. ​

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Shenandoah, Virginia

June 20 – 22, Virginia

This retreat takes place from June 20 -22 in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. The cost is $85.00 and this includes everything: campsite reservation, kayak/canoe rental, all you need for camping and all meals: dinner Friday evening, breakfast, lunch and dinner on Saturday, and breakfast and lunch on Sunday. ​NB – This retreat is the first two days of the week-long Love & Truth Seminar.

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Indian River, Michigan

July 23 – 25, Michigan

In conjunction with the Catholic Diocese of Lansing, we are offering a young adults weekend hiking pilgrimage this July 23 – 25! Join young adults from across the state of Michigan this summer for a weekend of camping, prayer, friendship, and hiking to the Shrine of the Cross in the Woods in Indian River. The cost of $45.00 includes everything. For ore information or to register click below.

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Finding God

We’re following Pope Saint John Paul II’s example and heading out in the wilderness to find God.
This cornerstone of these retreats is the spiritual food, facilitated by our chaplain. You’ll be able to participate in daily Mass, adoration and discussions on Pope Saint John Paul II’s teaching to young people throughout the course of the trip!
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Our Philosophy

Our outdoor excursions are based on the same principles as our study-abroad programs: God, community and conversation.

We help you grow closer to God by exploring his beautiful creation and sending your prayers to Him at daily outdoor Mass and prayers.

The very nature of our outdoor excursions facilitates friendship – shared experiences and fun times!

We engage in thoughtful conversation based on the life and teachings of Pope Saint John Paul II, all the while striving to become saints!

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Explore Nature
Escape the hustle and bustle of life and explore God's beautiful creation!
Makes Friends
You'll meet other zealous young Catholics on these trips!
Find God
Our outdoor excursions feature daily Mass and prayer.
Get Exercise
You'll walk away in better shape than when you arrived!
Have a question?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the cost?

Everything

Everything. Campsite reservation, kayak and canoe rental, all you need for camping and all meals.

Where does it start and end?

April Trip, See Below. Future Trips, TBD.

The retreat starts at our campsite in Shenandoah at 4pm on Friday April 16th and ends at 2pm on Sunday April 18th. Details about the meeting point are forthcoming. If you need transportation, let us know!

Do I need my own tent or gear?

No.

Each person will only need their own sleeping bag and flashlight, and camping mat or mattress if desired. But if you do have your own tent and camping gear and are willing to share, that would be extremely helpful! 

Who can attend?

Young adults.

This is a young adult retreat, which we classify as 18-35. Both single young adults and young adult married couples are welcome.

Do I need to be Catholic?

No.

Not at all. This is certainly a Catholic retreat, but people from all walks of faith or those searching are welcome.

Do I need to be experienced in hiking, kayaking or canoeing?

No.

Any level of outdoorsman (or lack thereof) is welcome. Stretching before the retreat will be encouraged.

How are we retreating?

Prayer.

A cornerstone of this retreat is the spiritual food, facilitated by our chaplain. You’ll be able to participate in daily Mass, adoration and a discussion on John Paul II’s teaching to young people.

What can I expect from this retreat?

Grow closer to God.

Connecting with God and rejuvenating yourself through sacrament and prayer, nature, physical activity and nature, community and fellowship with others.

What is the policy surrounding alcohol?

If you’re over 21, you’ll enjoy the drinks at night around the fire. If you’re under 21, you’ll enjoy other beverages.​

Getting Started

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Contact Us

If you have any questions about the trip contact us today!

CONTACT US
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Register Online

Once you decide that this is the excursion for you, register immediately online!

REGISTER NOW
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Pack Your Bags!

Pack your bags and arrange transportation to/from the excursion!

What Our Students Say

An Interview with Nicholas George
An Interview with Abigail Allen
An Interview with Jacob Francois