Special Features

Paul’s Pond is a peaceful and scenic spot for fishing, canoeing, and hiking. Named in honor of Bishop Paul Erickson, whose leadership in the Illinois Synod played a key role in supporting LOMC, the pond offers a beautiful place to connect with nature.

Stocked with a variety of fish, the pond features a small dock and multiple shoreline access points for fishing. Fishing is available to all LOMC guest groups; however, public fishing is not permitted. Local residents can join LOMC’s Fishing Club for an annual pass to enjoy this special resource.

With over 600 acres of diverse landscapes, LOMC’s trails invite you to explore prairies, woodlands, ravines, and striking St. Peter sandstone formations. Along the way, discover scenic landmarks like Barber’s Cliff, Turtle Hill, Paul’s Pond, Levi’s Cave, and Stony Point, while encountering the beauty of God’s creation in the plants and wildlife around you.

Along select trails, prayer and reflection stations offer moments for spiritual renewal, guiding you through scripture, meditation, and quiet contemplation in nature. Whether hiking for adventure, prayer, or peaceful solitude, let the trails lead you into deeper connection with God and creation.

Hiking is by permission only as LOMC is private property. Please visit our Day Use page for more details.

The Prayer Labyrinth offers a meaningful way to connect with God while surrounded by the beauty of nature. A favorite space for visitors of all ages, it provides a peaceful setting for reflection, prayer, and renewal.

Unlike a maze, the labyrinth has a single winding path that leads to the center and back out again, symbolizing a spiritual journey. Whether you walk it by day or under the stars, take time to slow down, breathe deeply, and embrace the stillness. May the journey renew you.

Challenge your group to build trust, teamwork, and problem-solving skills with LOMC’s low ropes Team Building Course. Designed to foster communication and collaboration, this interactive experience includes a variety of engaging challenges that encourage participants to strategize, support one another, and grow together in a fun and dynamic setting.

Led by trained LOMC staff, the Team Building Course is perfect for retreats, youth groups, and leadership training. Reservations are required—come ready to connect, learn, and take on the challenge!

A fast-paced favorite at LOMC, Gaga Ball is an exciting and inclusive game that keeps players on their toes! Similar to dodgeball but with a lower impact, this energetic activity is perfect for groups of all ages. Players aim to hit the ball toward opponents below the knees while dodging, jumping, and strategizing to stay in the game.

Gaga Ball is a great way to build community and enjoy friendly competition. When your group is onsite, check with an LOMC staff member to borrow a ball and join the fun!

Gather your team and experience the excitement of human foosball, a life-sized version of the classic tabletop game! Players hold onto horizontal poles and move side to side in unison, working together to pass, block, and score. Just like traditional foosball, teamwork and strategy are key to success.

This fast-paced, high-energy game is a favorite for retreats, youth groups, and team-building activities. Whether you’re aiming for victory or just looking for some friendly competition, human foosball is a fun and engaging way to build camaraderie and connection at LOMC.

One of LOMC’s newest additions, the Tim Geissler Memorial Archery Range offers an exciting opportunity to learn and practice archery in a safe and supportive setting. Whether you’re a first-time archer or looking to refine your skills, this activity provides a fun and rewarding challenge for all experience levels.

Led by trained LOMC staff, guests will receive guided instruction on using compound bows before taking aim at the targets. Located just behind the Norm Nelson Program Center, the archery range is a thrilling way to build confidence, focus, and precision. Reservations are required.

Nestled among the trees, LOMC’s basketball court provides a great space for pickup games, shooting hoops, or other group activities. Whether you’re looking for a friendly match or a place to burn off some energy, this court is open for guests to enjoy during their stay.

Conveniently located just steps from the Norm Nelson Program Center and a short walk from the LOMC Office and Tent & Trailer area, it’s a perfect spot for fun, exercise, and community-building in the great outdoors.

Standing proudly across from the Dining Hall, LOMC’s belltower is a charming symbol of tradition and community. Rebuilt in recent years, this inviting landmark adds a special touch to the camp experience.

Whether marking a moment of celebration or simply enjoying the sound, visitors are welcome to give the bell a ring during their stay. Let its chime be a reminder of joy, reflection, and the connections made at LOMC.

Once the base of a farm silo from LOMC’s dairy farm days, the Drama Drum is now a unique gathering space for worship, storytelling, and performances. This circular wooden deck is surrounded by an open grassy lawn, creating a natural amphitheater perfect for group activities and reflection.

Conveniently located near the Pole Barn, Dining Hall, and Norm Nelson Program Center, the Drama Drum provides a memorable setting for meaningful moments, whether it’s a campfire devotion, a skit, or a community discussion under the open sky.

Designed for our younger retreat guests, LOMC’s playground offers a fun and safe space for children to climb, slide, and explore. Nestled between the Norm Nelson Program Center and the LOMC Office, it provides a perfect spot for kids to play beneath the shade of towering white oak trees. Whether it’s a break between activities or a moment to simply enjoy the outdoors, this charming playground is a favorite gathering place for families and young visitors.

Tucked among the trees near Marander Lodge in Freedom Tree Village, the striking “Come to the Wilderness” sculpture depicts John the Baptist emerging from the forest to proclaim the Word of God. Created by renowned local artist Jeff Adams, this powerful piece honors the legacy of Rev. Dr. (Jack) John E. Swanson, a long-serving executive director of LOMC.

As part of the Oregon Sculpture Trail, this artwork invites visitors to reflect on the call to faith and the beauty of God’s creation. Learn more about the trail and its other sculptures here.

Perched among the trees near the Team Building Course, David’s Loft is a peaceful retreat built in memory of David Larson. This elevated treehouse-style loft offers a quiet space for Bible study, reflection, relaxation, and meaningful conversations, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Whether used for personal contemplation or small group gatherings, David’s Loft provides a unique setting to pause, connect, and be present. To access the loft during your stay, please speak with an LOMC staff member.