Ewalu Camp and Retreat Center marked its 65th anniversary the last weekend of August with a reunion weekend full of activities, including a dedication service to celebrate the newly renovated Cedar Lodge. More than 160 folks from all eras of the camp's history came together for oral history listening sessions, camp activities, meals, coffeehouse trivia, 5K trail run, kids Color Run, a campfire and more. Singer-songwriter Peter Mayer performed an outdoor concert for over 100 people in attendance, with the new addition of Cedar Lodge glowing as the backdrop on a perfect late-summer night. The Minnesota-based musician has been performing for 30 years in venues across the country and sings about interconnectedness and the human journey. 

 

The dedication and celebration service on Saturday afternoon marked the completion of the $3.2 million campaign to renovate and expand Cedar Lodge, the main hub of camp since the early 1960s. Built early in Ewalu's existence, Cedar Lodge has long served as a focal point for meals, activities, and summer staff lodging. After 60-plus years, the building was in need of updates to continue to serve guests of all ages and abilities for decades to come. The improvements to the facility include:

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• Remodeling and expanding the kitchen for higher food production capacity and to better serve guests with food restrictions and allergies

• Enhancing food preparation capabilities for pack-out meals 

• Redesigning the dining hall layout to streamline serving and seat more people comfortably

• New entryway addition with ADA-accessible restrooms on the main floor

• Additional indoor space for camp gatherings and worship

• Air conditioning and new HVAC system 

• Technology upgrades like WiFi for retreats and conferences

• Remodeled restrooms on the lower level and new shower areas

• Remodeled break room for summer staff to rest and rejuvenate during personal time

• Increased energy efficiency and reduced costs for appliances and HVAC

• New solar energy collectors to power the building 

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The "Cedar at 60" campaign to date has raised over $3 million for the project. To help Ewalu "cross the finish line" with no debt from the project, Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Cedar Rapids is making a major gift as a challenge to other ELCA congregations in the NEIA and SEIA synods: Gloria Dei will match dollar-for-dollar all congregational gifts to the campaign, up to a total of $50,000. As of September 1, about half that total is still on the table to claim. Congregational gifts must be made (or on the way) by September 15, 2026, to claim the match. Contact the camp office for more information or to let them know a gift is on the way for the match. 

 

Most of the main-floor renovations were completed just in time for the 2026 summer camp season, and the lower level work is just now getting some finishing touches. The back deck on the main level is also being redone with all-weather decking material in early September. The renovated Cedar Lodge can now be rented for retreats and gatherings of all kinds, including wedding receptions of up to 250! Go to the Ewalu website at www.Ewalu.org/Retreats for rental information or call the office at 563-933-4700. Ewalu's lodges and cabins are available year-round for rental by groups of any size, and there is also a campground with electrical hookups for RV and tent camping from May to October. 

 

Keep Ewalu in mind for church retreats, family reunions, youth groups, quilt groups, civic meetings and corporate groups. Ewalu's 500-plus acres offer a beautiful setting any time of year with miles of trails, a disc golf course, trout fishing, campfire rings and more. You can also add low ropes and high ropes cooperative courses, meals, a wagon ride and custom programming. All are welcome! 

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Check Out Photos: Ewalu Facebook Page

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