Summertime...and the living is easy with the Friars.
OUR 2026 CAMPING SEASON IS SET!
There will be a one week advance commitment needed in 2026 due to cancellation fees enacted by the state park.
Trips will go with a minimum of 6 campers.
Email us if you have questions about any of our summer activities.
Things you should know:
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We count on volunteers to help run and organize trips. Please take your turn to volunteer if you are able!
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Campfire wood is provided for all trips. For the sake of forests everywhere, do not transport wood to our camping trips.
It must be purchased in or within 10 miles of state parks. -
All TENT camping trips cost $35-45 per person, which includes campground camping fees, firewood and coffee for breakfasts. Unless a trip leader is indicated, all other meals and meal prep are on your own. A trip leader indicates that Friars will provide meat for Saturday night dinner -- please consider bringing a side dish to share.
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Pets are not allowed on our trips. Neither are children.
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We do not supply adult beverages on our trips except coffee, tea, milk for breakfasts. Because everyone's preferences and habits vary widely, we ask that you bring your own beverages.
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We start our trips on Thursday night (easier to get those reservations!) but you are welcome to join us on Friday if that's better for your schedule.
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We have a sign-up sheet for each trip for participants to help with garbage disposal, meal prep and clean-up. We all stay happier that way!
Note: most state parks require a daily entrance permit for your car. Annual/daily park permits are not included in the trip price and are the responsibility of each participant.
Yellowstone Lake State Park
Wisconsin
June 11-14, 2026

This park surrounds the 455-acre Yellowstone Lake, a reservoir along the Yellowstone River. Lovely hiking trails and nature walks are available as are mountain biking trails.
Site 206

Point Beach State Park
Two Rivers, Wisconsin
July 9 - 12, 2026
This is a terrific state park on Lake Michigan with hiking and biking trails and a delightful concession stand with excellent ice cream!
Group Site B

Governor Dodge
State Park
Wisconsin
August 6 - 9, 2026
This hilly and beautiful state park is a fan favorite for the Friars. Plenty of things to do in the area, a quiet campsite with our own bathroom, and hiking trails and hilly biking around the park.
Group Site A

Potawatomi
State Park
Door County, Wisconsin
Sept. 3 - 7, 2026
Who will be the "keeper of the fire" on this camping trip to beautiful Door County, WI? It's a bit farther from Chicago so we'll be using the long weekend wisely -- relaxing, wandering around the art shops and distilleries and eateries of Door County.
Group Site C

Chain O'Lakes
State Park
Indiana
October 9 - 12, 2026
Our cabins are rustic but wonderful with wood-fired stove heat, indoor plumbing with ample hot water, 2 bedrooms plus roll-away beds and a spacious common area/kitchen. Choose either a 2- or 3-night stay.
Cabins 12-13
Price: TBD

