Second Annual St. Joseph's Family Camp Planned for August

By PETER MARTIN

The Diocese of Winona-Rochester is excited to announce the second annual St. Joseph’s Family Camp! This day-long camp for Catholics living with disabilities will be hosted on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch in Stewartville, from 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ironwood Springs is an open-access camp offering those with limited mobility or other disabilities the opportunity to experience a summer camp atmosphere without the limitations often associated with attending outdoor camps. Paved trails, adaptive activities, and medically sensitive food options make this a great option for families looking to relax and unwind this summer while nurturing their faith and connecting with other Catholic families affected by disability. This camp is open to any family that has a son or daughter of any age, including adult, living with a disability (cognitive disability, physical disability, or on the autism spectrum). Although the entire family does not have to attend, we do encourage it; we want this day to be a renewal day for the whole family!

This year, our camp will offer tractor pulled wagon rides, an animal encounter/ petting zoo, adaptive zipline, swimming, arts and crafts, and optional fishing (catch and release only with valid MN Fishing License). Lunch is included for all registered families.

Families are encouraged to register early as spots are limited. The cost of this camp is generously covered by the Diocese of Winona-Rochester and other benefactors. First priority will be given to families that belong to the Diocese of Winona-Rochester. Interested families outside of the Diocese will be waitlisted and notified of registration status approximately three weeks prior to camp. Register at www.dowr.org

Our camp relies on the help of our fantastic volunteers! Interested volunteers are encouraged to email our Camp Coordinator, Katie Netzel, at stjosephfamilycamp@dowr.org to learn more about available volunteer opportunities.

We hope to see your family at the St. Joseph’s Family Camp in August!

Peter Martin is the director of Life, Marriage & Family for the Diocese of Winona-Rochester.