Retreats in this beautiful mountain setting are one of the best ways of integrating new members into a group. They also help participants strengthen their relationships with one another and deepen their commitment to the group. Retreats can be designed for any parish or non-profit group: men, women, families, vestries, youth, choirs, school, etc.

Create a committee that represents a cross section of your group and develop goals for what you hope to accomplish with the retreat.

Determine what facilities and/or program would best suit your group and contact Camp Stevens Reservations Coordinator to find out what is available. It’s helpful to have more than one date in mind and an estimate of the size of the group before you call.

Contact Vicki Bergstrom at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 760-765-0028.

Return the contract and deposit within 30 days after you’ve received it. Contracts cancelled 90 days or more before the date will only incur a $100 cancellation fee. Groups cancelling less than 90 days before the event will be charged 50% of the contracted cost unless a replacement group can be found.

Begin publicizing at least 6 months before the retreat and get at least a 30% deposit from each person. This will deter last minute cancellations and avoid penalties.

Organize a scholarship fund or some church fund-raisers if your group or its individuals need assistance paying for the retreat.

Determine if you would like program assistance from the camp staff. We can add recreation opportunities for your retreat or design the complete program. These programs include Ropes Course and Team Building, Garden and Kitchen Classes, and tailored Discovery Retreats. (Additional charges apply.)

Make sure everyone brings a sleeping bag or bedding, towel and flashlight. In late fall, winter and spring the weather can change dramatically–bring a hat, gloves, warm jacket, rain protection and an extra pair of shoes. Hiking boots and binoculars and/or a camera can increase your enjoyment of the beautiful woods. If snow is forecast, call to see if you need to bring chains.

Bring some light snacks like pretzels, popcorn or chips and refreshments for Friday and Saturday nights. The camp provides plenty of good food, so you don’t need to bring much; and avoid a lot of candy, cookies and pastries which make people feel over stuffed and sluggish, and often lead to upset stomachs. The camp will provide fruit, coffee, tea and hot chocolate. We may be able to provide other snacks upon request.

Create a list of things to bring and provide a map and/or detailed directions to camp. Encourage group members to carpool if possible and to arrive early enough to miss the rush hour traffic in urban areas.