As a former minister associated with Church of the Brethren, I've long had an appreciation for Milford, Indiana's Camp Alexander Mack, a 200+ acre facility located on the shores of Lake Waubee in Northern, Indiana in the tiny "blink and you'll miss it" town of Milford. Started in 1925, Camp Alexander Mack is named after the man attributed as the founder of Church of the Brethren. Church of the Brethren is one of the historic peace churches - think Quakers and Mennonites. Camp Mack is a ministry of the Indiana Camp Board and the two Indiana districts of Church of the Brethren, though it is a public camp utilized frequently by a wide variety of denominations. Camp Mack serves children, youth, and adults and has both day overnight programming available. Each lodge offers group meeting rooms. In Church of the Brethren tradition, there's a simple but beautiful chapel overlooking Lake Waubee that can seat 75+. There's an auditorium that can accommodate 1500, while there's also outdoor settings perfect for lake baptisms and outdoor worship offerings. While simplicity is largely the rule here, audio-visual and supplies are available as "roughing it" here still does mean a certain degree of comfort is offered. Kate Warstler Dining Center serves meals buffet style; the dining center overlooks the lake and the center of the camp. There's also a deck that can accommodate 300. The dining center can also accommodate special events with advanced planning. Activities include hiking trails sailing, canoeing, kayaking, rowboating, swimming, fishing, sand-court volleyball, basketball, softball ,soccer, Low Ropes Course/ Challenge Course, four-square courts, Gaga Ball, 9 Square in the Air, ping pong, croquet, horseshoes, campfires, climbing tower and zipline, and flying squirrel. The camp is in the midst of a rather nice campaign that will expand offerings and improve facilities. They also do host many weddings. There's some boating options, though a lifeguard needs to be on duty. Christian attendees often love "The Living Cross," a White Oak tree that has grown into the shape of a cross. The camp is operated by a paid staff along with many camp volunteers and counselors. Camp Mack is accredited by the American Camp Association, a member of the Christian Camp and Conference Association, and a member of the Outdoor Ministries Association of the Church of the Brethren. The camp does not allow pets, a slight bummer, but does obviously allow for service animals. You can bring your own linens or rent them for a fee from the camp. Additionally, the camp offers a small gift shop inside the John Kline Welcome Center. As someone with a disability, I often avoid camping because of the hassles with accessibility and self-care. While Camp Mack is no Bradford Woods, the latter pretty much being the king of accessible camping in Indiana, generally they do offer accessible options for both day and overnight campers. This is likely a camp I'd avoid if I had extensive needs physically, but for moderate accessibility needs they do well and staff persons are always friendly and helpful as able. I'm a wheelchair user and was able to stay for a weekend, though it was beneficial to make advance notification of my need for an accessible accommodation and it definitely was "roughing it" a bit more than I do in daily life. While accessibility issues could easily cause me to drop a star here, generally speaking I think there's a solid effort here to be open to all. The enthusiasm of the staff is top-notch and I'm keeping this as a 5-star spot and genuine hidden gem in Indiana. A friend of mine is currently working on a project that will also provide additional sparkle for the camp. If you're looking for a day getaway in Indiana, especially with a spiritual focus, Camp Mack is a great option. Camp Mack is also a great option for those seeking family-centered retreat options of themed retreats. Much like Church of the Brethren, it's simple yet remarkably hospitable. read more