welcome to

clearwater forest

A stunningly beautiful camp and retreat setting on Clearwater Lake in central Minnesota, Clearwater Forest has been changing lives in God’s woods and waters since 1954.  Come find beauty, peace, renewal, joy, connection and spirit, while enjoying acres of pristine forest and lakeshore. Clearwater is a place to unplug and rejuvenate with the power of nature.

Clearwater Forest has programming available for all ages including summer camp, retreats, family events, senior programs and team-building opportunities.  We host family reunions, small and large group retreats, corporate picnics/events, business meetings and weddings, all year round with a variety of facilities to offer.

As a non-profit, Clearwater Forest relies on the generosity of volunteers and donors like you!

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

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RENTING BACK TO 100% OCCUPANCY!
You are now able to rent rooms in Leaning Tree Lodge, Eagle Lodge and the Carriage House at 100% occupancy. Contact the office for more information or to make your reservation today: office@clearwaterforest.org or (218) 678-2325

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SUMMER CAMP 2023
Summer Camp 2023 dates and theme have been announced, head to our Summer Camp page to see camp dates and learn more about our theme, What's In a Name! Registration is now open!

We are also actively seeking camp counselors, lifeguards, and more. Interested individuals can apply HERE!

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STATEMENT ON RACIAL JUSTICE!
Clearwater Forest stands firm in our Christian beliefs that each Black life is created in God’s image, because every human is created in God’s image. We commit to using our shared voices to speak against systemic injustice. View full statement & Racial Justice Resources Page

at clearwater forest we have

Something for Everyone

summer camp

Find out more about our summer camp opportunities for campers from elementary to senior high!

More Info

Events & Rentals

We have everything you need to make your next retreat, conference, or gathering a success!

Request Reservation

Facilities

We have seasonal and year round facilities to accommodate all of your needs and activities!

More Info
program spotlight

women's chrysalis

Clearwater Chrysalis is a balanced, faith-building program at Clearwater Forest. We welcome adult women from all Christian traditions. Our vision is to nourish and support the body, mind and spirit in community with other women.

The first Clearwater Chrysalis in 1984 featured speakers, exercise classes, Bible study, and workshops. Chrysalis has been held every summer since and an annual winter gathering since 1990.

Winter Chrysalis is February 24-26th, 2023.
Theme: Psalms as a Way Forward

The Psalms offer language for our lives as well as our laments in the face of confusion, loss, and betrayal. They remind us that there is still space for hope and jubilation in God.

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Learn More and Register
clearwater forest

Conservation easement

The Board of Directors of Presbyterian Clearwater Forest is pleased to announce that Clearwater has completed the agreement with the Minnesota Department of Revenue to place the northern, rustic part of our property into a perpetual conservation easement in exchange for $1,663,620. This agreement, which was approved by all five governing bodies of Clearwater Forest, does not limit our ability to have trails for mountain biking and cross-country skiing or using it for wilderness camping programs.

We were well into negotiations for this easement prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. The majority of the funds ($850,000) received from the easement will be permanently placed in the Clearwater Conservation Easement Endowment Fund with the earned income going to the annual budget each year. Part of the easement ($650,000) will be used as a bridge loan to the capital campaign to allow us to break ground on the needed renovations to Hallett Hall.  After covering about $3,000 of legal and filing fees, the balance of $160,000 will be used to cover some of the losses due to the pandemic.

When we first realized the possibility of not having summer programs, the question was raised, “What new possibilities does this give us?” This question and the availability of easement funds opened up the possibility of beginning the renovations to the dining hall during this time when we don’t have guests at camp. The original budget for the Hallett Hall renovation was $1,200,000 but we have reduced that to under $800,000 and will be using volunteer workgroups to help with some of the interior parts of the redesign. If you have a potential workgroup interested in coming to Clearwater in fall (pandemic orders allowing), please contact Lance@clearwaterforest.org.

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