Welcome to Camp Shaw!
Summer Camp | Special Events | Rental Groups | School Groups | Habitat Restoration – Donations and Volunteers
For Your Information:
The Camp Shaw Drawdown was a huge success and we would like to thank the following companies and individuals for their donations to our silent auction. We can not thank you enough for your support!The Chicago Cubs, The Chicago Red Stars, The Chicago White Sox, Paramount Theatre, Lou Malnati’s, Whiskey Acres, Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurant, Chicago Dough Pizza, Flannel Candle Co., Chicago Wolves Hockey, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Gourmet Gift Baskets, Laura Heidrich Dog Grooming, Allegory Handcrafted Goods, Greg and Beth LaPlante, Renee Daggers, Jim Duggan and Julie Larsen, Randy Papineau, Dave Osbourne, Melissa Kahoun, Ty and Judy Arseneau, Marlow Jones, and Lilly and Steve Hill.***
Registration and Employment Applications for the Summer of 2025 are now open here!***
Want to know more about what we offer?
Visit our Summer Camp page to learn more!
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With over 75 years of camp history, Camp Shaw loves to celebrate what makes it special. There is so much to experience here; we continue many of our camp traditions while bringing in new adventures and activities!
Our campers have the opportunity to experience all that we have to offer when they sign up for camp. In trying these new activities, each camper is able to gain skills and experiences to keep with them for life!
Here at Camp Shaw…
We are ADVENTUROUS!
Did you know that we have 3 zip-lines that all cross over Rock Creek? Those that choose to try zip lining here get a nice view on their adventure!
We are CREATIVE!
We love to highlight creativity in each camper through our different programs that we offer. Campers can express themselves in camptivities like arts & crafts, theatre, music, and much more!
We are BRAVE!
It takes a lot of bravery to partake in archery! Those that try out this activity will get the opportunity to practice improving on important archery skills that will increase their target accuracy.
And We LOVE OUR CREEK!
Camp Shaw is fortunate to have access to Rock Creek, which runs through the middle of our property! We love to cool off and play in the creek, do rock building, and we have a waterfall that is perfect for you to slide on!
| More Information About Us |
Camp Shaw is an ACA-accredited, overnight non-profit summer camp and rental facility located in northeastern Illinois, just an hour south of Chicago. We have 75 years of experience which combines time-honored camp traditions with new adventures to create the perfect mix of programming for both our campers and rental groups. While at camp, youth will have the opportunity to make new friends, try new things, and gain independence.
At Camp Shaw, children will further develop valuable social skills when they put technology down and proactively problem solve, play, and bond with their peers. Join us in summer as we continue to offer fun and safe overnight summer camp experiences.
Additionally, we’re the perfect venue for your beautifully rustic, laid-back event, including corporate retreats or outings, family reunions, sporting events, and more! We’ve hosted band camps, running camps, church groups, youth clubs, and more. Not sure if we’re the right fit? Just ask and we’ll let you know if we can accommodate you!
Book your next Special Event with us today-spots fill quickly!
| Testimonials |
“We choose this camp because it is where I went as a kid and I loved it. My children have grown to love it as much as I have and cannot wait to get there. The thing that makes it great is that it is a true summer camp. It is all about getting back to nature and getting to spend a week away from your parents and make your own memories and experiences.” –K.W., former camper
“My son has gone the last 3 summers now and he absolutely loves it. We make sure that he is able to go as much as he wants because he never feels excluded or unwelcome.” – camper parent
“My daughter came back so excited for next year. She LOVED it and gained confidence in making friends.” – camper parent
“This was my first time ever going to a camp and I really enjoyed it. I liked all the counselors, they were a lot of fun. I can’t wait to come back next year.” – camper
“Our family’s first experience with Camp Shaw was so positive. Great communication when I had questions, great resources for first-time young-camper parents. We will be back! – camper parent
“I really loved my son attending this year. I’m so happy for him and so appreciative that Camp Shaw still exists and continues the tradition of summer camp fun! Thank you to all the staff who work so tirelessly to make it happen.” – camper parent
“I have been going to camp for four years now and have loved every bit of it… It is an amazing camp with some amazing people, and the food is amazing.”- camper
Camp Shaw Mission
The mission of Camp Shaw-waw-nas-see is to build participants’ self-esteem and independence through fun, educational, and recreational activities in a safe, accepting, high quality natural environment.
Camp Shaw Statement of Inclusion
At Camp Shaw, we believe Camp is A Magical Place. We are committed to providing transformative outdoor life experiences in our safe, accessible, and inclusive camp environment. We celebrate the differences of our campers, staff, and volunteers as part of our beautiful natural setting.
