CYO/Camp Howard: A Premier Youth Summer Camp Experience in Oregon

CYO/Camp Howard offers a uniquely memorable setting for gathering with friends or family, making it an ideal venue for group meetups. Nestled amid serene natural surroundings, it creates a welcoming environment where people can escape the hustle of everyday life and reconnect with each other through shared experiences. The camp’s longstanding tradition of fostering community, with over 66 years of history, adds a rich sense of continuity and belonging for visitors. Being a place accredited by the American Camping Association ensures high standards for safety, programs, and staff, giving visitors peace of mind while they enjoy their time. The camp's reputation for positively impacting attendees through its carefully curated activities and spiritual elements provides a nourishing experience for both body and spirit. With enthusiastic testimonials from campers and families highlighting the joy and bonding it fosters, CYO/Camp Howard stands out as a destination where friends can make lasting memories together. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or meaningful connection, this camp offers the perfect backdrop to rally your group and enjoy quality time in an organized, supportive, and gorgeous natural environment.

At CYO/Camp Howard, a diverse array of activities ensures there’s never a dull moment for groups seeking fun and engagement. Outdoor enthusiasts can revel in exhilarating experiences like zip lining and a giant swing, particularly thrilling for teenagers seeking adventure. The camp also boasts three full-sized basketball courts, all under cover, which is perfect for basketball lovers and offers shelter from inclement weather, allowing play regardless of rain or shine. Younger kids can enjoy the newer, larger pedal carts designed especially for ages 6 to 10, which provide both exercise and excitement in a safe setting. For those who prefer a calmer pace, arts and crafts sessions allow groups to tap into creativity, fostering relaxation and bonding in a casual environment. Additionally, the heated camp pool invites swimmers of all ages to cool off or engage in water-based fun, making it a great gathering spot on warm days. The camp’s commitment to continually updating and enhancing activities, based on camper feedback, guarantees a dynamic, inclusive experience that caters to all interests and ages, making it ideal for varied groups to connect and create shared memories.

CYO/Camp Howard’s facilities and atmosphere are tailored to support seamless group gatherings, making it outstanding for meetups with friends or family. The camp’s physical layout is designed to accommodate large groups efficiently, evident in organizational features like covered unloading areas that simplify logistics on arrival days, even when weather conditions are less than ideal. With dedicated spaces that can handle luggage sorting and group activities regardless of outdoor conditions, the camp facilitates smooth transitions and comfortable stays. The presence of a welcoming dining hall serving highly praised food, including favorites like “cheesy rolls,” ensures that groups experience satisfying communal meals, which are essential for social bonding. Moreover, the camp prioritizes safety and well-being, maintaining American Camping Association accreditation, which means groups can relax knowing standards are rigorously upheld. Beyond physical infrastructure, the camp’s spirit—rooted in recognizing and respecting community values and the presence of Jesus—fosters an environment where group members feel connected not only to each other but also to the larger community ethos. This combination of practical convenience and meaningful ambiance makes CYO/Camp Howard uniquely suited for hosting enriching and memorable group meetups.

The environment at CYO/Camp Howard uniquely blends natural beauty with a welcoming, wholesome atmosphere that encourages genuine reconnection among friends and family. Situated in a lush, wooded setting near Corbett, Oregon, the camp immerses visitors in the tranquility of nature’s landscapes, from towering trees to fresh air, away from urban distractions. This immersion into nature facilitates relaxation and opens space for authentic conversations and quality time with loved ones. The camp’s roots in outdoor faith-based traditions provide a layer of spiritual grounding which many find enriching and comforting, helping groups feel a deeper sense of togetherness and reflection. Testimonials highlight how campers and their families come away with positive life impacts, highlighting not just fun but personal and social growth fostered by the camp’s nurturing environment. This contemplative yet lively setting encourages attendees to slow down, appreciate the environment, and truly enjoy the presence of their peers, making meetups at Camp Howard profoundly meaningful and restorative.

CYO/Camp Howard caters thoughtfully to a wide age range, providing tailored experiences to ensure every group member, from young children to teenagers and adults, finds engaging and appropriate activities. For younger children, the camp offers specially designed pedal carts and age-appropriate crafts, ensuring they feel safe and joyful while developing new skills and friendships. Teenagers find excitement in high-adrenaline activities like the giant swing and zip line, which add an unmistakable thrill and give them the opportunity to challenge themselves physically and socially. All ages benefit from the heated swimming pool, providing a comfortable space for swimming and casual fun regardless of external weather. Meanwhile, indoor and sheltered facilities such as the covered basketball courts guarantee that even on rainy days, groups can continue activities without interruption. This range of programming highlights the camp’s commitment to inclusivity and adaptability, enabling families or friend groups with varied age compositions to enjoy their time together harmoniously.

The facilities at CYO/Camp Howard are designed thoughtfully to enhance comfort and convenience for group gatherings. The camp’s covered unloading and sorting areas allow for smooth, organized arrivals and departures, even in adverse weather, minimizing hassle and stress for large groups. Spacious lodging options accommodate families and friends with comfortable sleeping arrangements that foster closeness and restful nights. Dining facilities provide well-rated, group-friendly meals served in communal settings that encourage socializing and shared enjoyment, a cornerstone for any successful meetup. The camp’s multiple recreational facilities, including basketball courts with sun and rain covers, arts and crafts rooms, swimming pool, and adventure zones, are all maintained to high safety and cleanliness standards, ensuring everyone’s wellbeing. Additionally, the camp continually solicits feedback to keep improving its amenities and services, guaranteeing that future visits become even more enjoyable. These factors combine to support groups’ needs, making their stay as comfortable, enjoyable, and carefree as possible.

Camp Howard’s community spirit is central to its appeal as a gathering place, cultivating an atmosphere of warmth, belonging, and mutual respect that enhances every group meetup. Rooted in Catholic Outdoor Education traditions and recognizing the presence of Jesus at the camp, it promotes values such as kindness, cooperation, and reflection, which help groups bond meaningfully beyond just recreational fun. The camp’s dedicated staff work passionately to create an inclusive experience where every individual feels valued and supported, fostering an environment that encourages friendships and personal growth. Regular traditions, shared meals, and group challenges build a collective identity that guests carry with them long after they leave. This spirit of community also extends to alumni and repeat visitors who maintain lasting connections through their shared experiences at Camp Howard. As a result, groups meet here not only to have a good time but to feel part of a continuing, supportive community, making their reunions deeply fulfilling.