The Great Lakes District of The Foursquare Church rented facilities for camps for over 40 years. However, a growing realization that churches needed a home for ministry activities led to a serious search to purchase camp facilities. Several properties were located, among them Camp Hickory near Fox Lake, IL. It was found to be the most desirable for several reasons

After a lengthy negotiation process, an agreement was reached with the Chicago Conference of the American (Swedish) Baptist Church and on the Eve of Thanksgiving in 1995, and the Great Lakes District took possession of Camp Hickory.

The facilities at Camp Hickory were in dire need of repair and refurbishing. Some professionals were hired but most of the work was done with volunteer workers as pastors and members of churches came to help. The electric, gas, and water systems were redone and extended, new heating and air conditioning systems were installed, athletic fields and courts were built, every building was remodeled and new structures were built.

The district pastors and leaders had considered changing the name of the camp but out of awareness of the many years of outstanding ministry and excellence at Camp Hickory there was a sense of the legacy that had been established and a desire on our part to continue and expand the vision that had begun. So it was decided to keep the name “Camp Hickory.”

Since its re-establishment in 1995, Camp Hickory has strived to create an atmosphere that is conducive to building leaders, growing communities and changing lives through the many experiences that are only available in the great outdoors. Camp Hickory has opened its doors to a variety of groups ranging from churches and Boy Scouts to job fairs and cultural identity groups. Nestled within 47 acres of protected woodlands, the serenity of Camp Hickory allows each visitor the opportunity to experience nature without having to sacrifice the modern amenities of home.

Today Camp Hickory serves not only as a camp for our NextGen Ministries, but as a conference and retreat center for any group looking to create a unique experience on an incredible campus!