Embrace the Past

It all started with a charitable
donation of land on Lake Washington by H. A. Patterson to the Mankato Kiwanis Club in 1927. From there, generous community members and dedicated volunteers have managed care for and expand Kiwanis Camp Patterson into a 19.2 acre lakeside camp that has served four generations of youth in the Mankato community. Campers today participate in many of the same activities their grandparents did decades ago - canoeing, archery, swimming, singing and skits by the campfire.

Experience the Present

A summer retreat and home away from home, Kiwanis Camp Patterson offers youth the chance to experience the great outdoors, make new friends, and enjoy some
quality and wholesome fun. Rather than focusing on a screen or smartphone, campers have the
opportunity to spend a week creating memories and exploring new interests or hobbies, as the camp offers a broad range of activities that are designed to
spark conversation and encourage face-to-face interaction.

Explore the Future

Kiwanis Camp Patterson has operated for close to a century as a traditional summer camp away from technology and distractions. A special focus has always been on serving at-risk and under-privileged youth.  Now more than ever, parents and guardians are seeking the opportunity to provide their children with a summer experience that embraces simplicity and the wonder of nature.  But space is extremely limited and ADA updates as well as additional restroom, dining and cabin facilities are needed to meet the demand.