About Lakeside
Lutheran Lakeside has welcomed campers and guests to East Lake Okoboji for 65 years. We are a 501(c)(3) Lutheran ministry in Spirit Lake, Iowa, on 110 acres with a half mile of shoreline and endless activities. Each year we serve thousands of campers, guests, visitors, and partner churches across the Iowa Great Lakes region and beyond.
What we offer
Summer and school year camps for kids. Retreats for groups and individuals. Weddings and events on site. Outreach for partner churches and schools.
Why Lakeside?
On the water at East Lake Okoboji
We sit on 110 acres with a half-mile of shoreline at the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes. The lake is part of nearly everything we do, from swimming and boating to quiet mornings on the dock.
Faith you can touch
Faith here is lived, not lectured. Campers and guests find Christian community through cabin conversations, campfires, worship by the water, and the simple work of caring for one another.
Summer staff who come back, campers who become staff
Many of our summer staff return year after year, and many first arrived as campers themselves. That continuity is one of the reasons families trust us with their kids.
Lutheran roots, wide open doors
We are rooted in Christ and affiliated with the ELCA, and we welcome everyone. You do not need to be Lutheran, or a member of any church, to belong here, or benefit from our services and spaces.
What people say
For Every Season campaign
Get Involved
Give, serve, and stay connected. Every one of these is a way to join Lakeside’s ministry.
FAQ
Can I donate larger items like a vehicle or furniture?
Yes. We welcome larger in-kind gifts, including a used truck or van, gently used furniture, picnic tables, and trees. Contact us and we'll coordinate drop-off or pickup.
Can I donate stock?
Yes. Lakeside accepts gifts of stock and securities through our financial advisor, Brandon Madison at Edward Jones, with Executive Director Britt Swanson as your contact. We'll work with your advisor to make the transfer straightforward.
Can I give monthly?
Yes. Monthly giving through the Kindling Club lets you set your amount and schedule and change it anytime. See the Monthly Giving page to get started.
How can I donate to Lutheran Lakeside?
You can donate in six ways: monthly giving, one-time gifts, special non-cash giving like land or stock, legacy giving, in-kind donations, or Thrivent partnerships. Most gifts can be made online at lutheranlakeside.campbraingiving.com.
How do I direct Thrivent Choice Dollars to Lakeside?
Log in to your Thrivent account and direct your Choice Dollars to Lutheran Lakeside Camp. Choice Dollars expire on March 15 each year, so be sure to direct them before then.
How do I include Lakeside in my will?
You can name Lutheran Lakeside Camp & Retreat Center (EIN 42-1302683) in your will, trust, or estate plan. A regional ELCA gift planner will help you at no cost, and can set up all of your charitable giving, not only Lakeside's.
How do I make a memorial gift?
Choose the memorial or honor option in the donation portal and enter the person's name. You can do the same to designate a gift to a specific fund or mark a special occasion.
Is Lutheran Lakeside a 501(c)(3)?
Yes. Lutheran Lakeside is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so your gifts are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Our EIN is 42-1302683.
What can I donate from the Amazon wishlist?
Our wishlist focuses on everyday camp needs like arts and crafts supplies, flashlights and night lights, mattress covers, bug spray and sunscreen, batteries, sports balls, first aid supplies, and shade umbrellas. Shop the list.
What’s the EIN?
Lutheran Lakeside's EIN is 42-1302683. You can use it for tax purposes and to designate Lakeside in estate or beneficiary plans.
Will camp take used items?
Yes. Gently used camper supplies like fishing gear, sleeping bags, backpacks, rain boots, water shoes, games, toys, quilts, and furniture are put to good use!