About

An Outdoor Sanctuary for All – Where Faith and Nature Meet

About

LOMC is very grateful to honor and acknowledge the Očhéthi Šakówiŋ, Hoocąk (Ho-Chunk), Myaamia, Sauk/Meskwaki, Peoria, Kiikaapoi (Kickapoo) peoples upon whose ancestral homelands amidst the Rock River Valley we now share ministry as well as all our Indigenous siblings who have and continue to care for this place-this land-and call it their home.

Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center (LOMC) is a welcoming retreat and camp ministry supported by ELCA congregations in Illinois. Nestled in the heart of the Rock River Valley, our 600-acre site provides a beautiful natural setting for faith formation, adventure, and renewal.

Each summer, we offer a variety of camping experiences for children and youth, helping them grow in faith while exploring the outdoors. Throughout the year, LOMC also serves as a gathering place for people of all ages, hosting retreats, conferences, and special events in a peaceful, scenic environment.

Whether you’re looking for tent camping under the stars, a cozy cabin with bunks, a spot for your trailer, or comfortable hotel-style lodging, LOMC has a space for you to rest, reconnect, and be inspired. Learn more here... 

Mission Statement

The purpose of Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center (LOMC) is to be the Church in outdoor settings, nurturing Christian faith and providing experiences connecting the Word of God with the World of God.

Who We Are

Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center (LOMC) is a place of sanctuary, renewal, and faith formation for churches, organizations, and individuals throughout Illinois. As a ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), we extend its mission in a new way, creating outdoor experiences that deepen faith, foster community, and inspire a connection between the Word of God and the world around us.

Our history is rooted in nearly a century of outdoor ministry. It began in 1927 with Cisco Beach/Camp Augustana at Lake Geneva, WI, later expanding to include Camp Alpine in Richmond, IL. In the early 1970s, these beloved camps closed, and their legacy helped establish LOMC in Oregon, IL. Today, we continue their tradition of faith-filled outdoor experiences, welcoming people of all ages to grow, explore, and encounter God in nature.

Why LOMC?

Something for Everyone
LOMC is more than just a summer camp—it’s a year-round retreat center offering programs and experiences for people of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to reflect, an adventure-filled retreat, or a faith-centered outdoor experience, there’s something here for you.

600 Acres of God’s Creation
Nestled in the heart of the Rock River Valley, LOMC offers a breathtaking natural setting with forests, prairies, and a peaceful pond. It’s home to deer, wild turkeys, hawks, owls, and countless other creatures, providing the perfect place to explore, learn, and connect with God’s creation.

A Place to Step Away and Reconnect
In today’s busy world, LOMC offers a space to slow down, breathe deep, and be present. Whether you’re on a retreat, at camp, or just visiting for a walk, our setting invites you to step away from the noise and reconnect—with yourself, your community, and God.

A Welcoming and Supportive Community
You don’t have to be Lutheran to love LOMC! We are a place where all are welcome—individuals, families, churches, and organizations—regardless of background or beliefs. Our goal is to create an environment where everyone can grow in faith, friendship, and understanding.

Friendly, Dedicated, and Trained Staff
Our staff is passionate about providing meaningful experiences, whether through summer camp, retreats, or special events. From maintaining our facilities to leading programs, our team is here to ensure your time at LOMC is safe, welcoming, and enriching.