KANAKUK MINISTRIES

A Century of Ministry. One Mission.

We believe that the next generation is called to rise higher - in faith, in character, and in purpose.

Kanakuk Ministries is more than a summer camp. For over 100 years, God has used this ministry to shape lives, first in the Ozark hills and now across the globe. Each summer, thousands of kids step away from screens and distractions to discover faith, friendship, and moments that last a lifetime. Every year, young men and women step into leadership as summer staff, learning what it means to serve, disciple, and lead others for Christ. And every day, ministries born out of Kanakuk are equipping believers to make a difference in their homes, churches, and communities.

From the laughter of new best friends to the late-night prayers between a counselor and their cabin, from the ministry work happening in communities across the US, to the joy of serving Haitian families in need – these moments are the heartbeat of Kanakuk Ministries.

What We Do

Transformative Summer Camps

Each summer, more than 20,000 boys, girls, and families experience Kanakuk Kamps, where fun collides with faith. With overnight Kamps, day Kamps, family Kamps, and retreats, each program is designed to point kids and families to Jesus in ways that are unforgettable.

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Equipping Leaders

Kanakuk is one of the largest Christian equipping grounds for college-aged leaders in America. More than 1,500 summer staff are trained each year in discipleship, leadership, and spiritual care, pouring into Kampers while being mentored themselves. Many go on to lead churches, ministries, businesses, and families across the world.

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Global Missions

Through ministries like Kanakuk Haiti and Kanakuk International Leadership Training (KILT), individuals around the globe experience the Gospel in action. These programs allow Kampers, families, donors, and alumni to participate in, and reflect, God’s heart for the world.

Developing Disciples for life

Programs like KILT and Link Academy provide immersive discipleship and leadership training, preparing young people not just for a season but for a lifetime of faithful ministry.

Heritage of Multiplying Ministries

The Kanakuk Institute to KLIFE and Kids Across America, God has used Kanakuk to launch independent ministries that now impact lives nationwide. Though separate organizations today, they remain connected by shared DNA: Christ-centered discipleship and servant leadership

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Why It Matters

Our world is hungry for authenticity, community, and leaders who live with integrity. At Kanakuk Ministries, we believe the next generation is not just the future of the Church, they are its present. By investing in children, families, and young leaders today, we are multiplying Kingdom impact tomorrow.

Alumni tell us their lives were forever shaped here: faith that became personal, friendships that became lifelong, callings that became clear. Parents tell us their children return home different: more joyful, more courageous, more grounded in truth. Leaders tell us the experience of serving at Kanakuk formed them more than any classroom or internship ever could.

“Our family loves this place. Our oldest two started going to camp here a couple years ago. They both talk about it as “the best week of their year.” I have worked in the health center for the week that they attend camp each summer, and my husband stays with me. We sees the ins and outs of camp throughout the week unlike most parents. We have been so impressed by what this camp stands for, all that is offered to our kids, and the quality of people working here. We have felt like our kids are incredibly safe and loved here, and we have never once questioned whether it’s worth it because we’re so confident it is. If you’re looking for your child to have one of the best experiences of their year, get to try tons of fun new things, grow in their faith and confidence, and be loved by some of the most amazing staff, this is the place. 1000% recommend.”
Whitney – Parent

“Absolutely a blessing every year. It’s been fun to see her grow into a teenager — the experience is always fun, but I now see a deeper connection happening in her faith. She’s maturing and coming to rely on Kamp not just for a place to blob, make friendship bracelets, and wear fun costumes, but now it’s become her place to escape, recharge, and realign her faith and get back on track. THANK YOU for what you do. We love our Kamp friends.”
Jill – Parent

OUR INVITATION

Kanakuk Ministries is not just our story, it is yours. Whether you are a parent looking for a trusted place to send your child, an alumnus remembering your Kamp days, or a friend who believes in raising up disciples, there is a place for you here.

Join us as we continue what God started nearly a century ago: calling generations to know Jesus and equipping leaders to serve Him faithfully.

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