Camps have a magical way of taking kids out of their routines, pushing them to grow and helping them see life with fresh clarity. These experiences are life-giving, yet as we grow older, it’s easy to let those moments of adventure and growth slip away. But why do we stop seeking those mountaintop moments once we become adults?
Perhaps it’s time for grownups to rediscover the rejuvenating power of camp. With the daily grind of jobs, family and responsibilities, the idea of escaping for a retreat might seem impossible. But the truth is, there are adult retreats that offer the same refreshing and life-changing experiences we cherished as kids.
An Unexpected Surprise
Brittany Nichols, Assistant Director at Cedar Canyon Camp, is a passionate advocate for these retreats designed for women and men. A wife and mother herself, Brittany knows firsthand how transformative these experiences can be. Her connection to Cedar Canyon began when she attended one of these women’s retreats.
“My husband was a worship pastor in Gillette for 10 years,” Brittany shared. “I was working at the church doing administrative work and eventually became their women’s deacon. I was putting on retreats for the women there, and one of them was at Cedar Canyon.” Camp Director Ben Sutton noticed her knack for organizing and leading meaningful retreats. “Ben jokingly said, ‘Hey, we have this position available.’” Brittany, hesitant about leaving home, talked it over with her husband, who surprisingly encouraged her to apply. And as they say, the rest is history.
A Little Piece of Heaven
Nestled in the Black Hills, Cedar Canyon Camp is nothing short of a hidden gem. “It’s a little piece of heaven,” Brittany said. “But you’re still just 10 minutes from downtown Rapid City. It feels like you’re completely disconnected from the world, yet you’re so close to everything.”
Whether you’re young or old, every camper at Cedar Canyon is sure to find peace — and just as much excitement. With activities like hiking, ziplining, and ropes courses, Cedar Canyon offers both relaxation and adventure, ensuring that every visitor leaves feeling recharged and exhilarated.
What to Expect at an Adult Retreat?
Every year, Cedar Canyon hosts two highly anticipated retreats especially for adults: a women’s retreat in the spring and a men’s retreat in the fall. These retreats offer a refreshing escape from the daily grind, providing an opportunity for spiritual growth, rejuvenation and connection. But Cedar Canyon isn’t alone in offering these transformative experiences — many camps and churches organize similar events throughout the year, providing a
wide range of opportunities for adults to step away from the chaos of everyday life and focus on their well-being.
If you’re part of a local church community, this is an excellent place to start when looking for an adult retreat. Many churches partner with camps or even host their own events, making it easy to find a retreat that fits your schedule and needs. These retreats often bring people together with a shared goal: to deepen their faith, build lasting relationships and return to their daily lives with renewed purpose.
The adult retreats at Cedar Canyon are designed with a rhythm that echoes the familiar structure of a traditional summer camp — engaging speakers, inspiring music and a variety of activities to keep participants energized and connected. These retreats also offer unique elements tailored to men and women.
Why Get Away?
For Brittany, adult retreats are invaluable. “It’s so important to take a break from everyday life and focus on your own growth and spiritual renewal,” she said. “After a weekend away, people feel refreshed, equipped and inspired to live out their faith and roles in a more fulfilling way.”
Parenthood can be deeply rewarding, but let’s face it: it can also become monotonous. “When you’re caught up in the daily routine — work, kids, meals, sports — it’s easy to forget the bigger picture,” Brittany explained. “To be a better person and follow God more closely,
I need time away.”
Another key aspect of these retreats is the camaraderie that builds among participants. “Having conversations with others who share your experiences really shows how important it is to get away,” she said. Knowing that you’re “not the only one” can help combat the isolation that often comes with parenting.
But How?
A weekend getaway to recharge sounds like a dream — but how can anyone with so many responsibilities take time for themselves? Family, work, and daily chores can make it feel impossible to get away. Brittany offers a practical perspective: “Women’s and men’s events usually happen over the weekend, which is easier to manage than a kid’s summer camp, which can usually last a week. Most people can carve out that time.”
A Gift — to Ourselves and our Loved Ones
We constantly encourage our children to slow down, reflect on what truly matters and nurture their relationships. But why is it that, as adults, we often resist giving ourselves that same kind of intentional time? Why do we shy away from the very practices that can refresh and strengthen us?
Taking time for ourselves isn’t selfish; it’s essential. When we prioritize our own well-being and spiritual growth, we become more present, more patient and more able to give our best to those around us. A more focused, balanced version of ourselves isn’t just a gift to our families — it’s the greatest gift we can give to the world around us. So, let’s take a step back, reset and invest in our own renewal. After all, when we care for ourselves, we’re better equipped to care for others.
To learn more about Cedar Canyon Camp, visit cedarcanyoncamp.com.