Mission & History

Nurturing well-being for children and adults with identified needs for over 65 years

Our Mission:Harold Knutson with campers in the 1950s

Camp Knutson is dedicated to nurturing the well-being of persons with identified needs in a setting which celebrates God’s love for community and creation.

Camp Knutson is an accepting and caring residential camp for children and adults with identified needs. We provide a safe, medically-sound camp environment for all campers. Campers are surrounded and embraced by an intentional, loving, and supportive community that includes, campers, families, staff, and community volunteers.

 

Our History

In 1953, Minnesota Congressman Harold Knutson donated his summer vacation property which he called Dunworkin’, to be used as a summer retreat for "neglected, unfortunate, deprived and handicapped children."

Since the dedication in 1953, Camp Knutson has provided a safe, medically-sound residential camp experience for thousands of individuals with disabilities, medical conditions and other identified needs.

Where Spirits Fly - read about the history of Camp Knutson in this a photo-rich book.

 

Camp Partners

Camp Knutson partners with other organizations to provide camp experiences for youth and adults with disabilities, medical conditions and other identified needs. Registration for camps are made through partner organizations. To attend Camp Knutson, please contact one of our partner groups.

Our current camps serve individuals with:

  • Adults with Mental Health Needs
  • Autism
  • Cancer/cancer survivors (serving youth with cancer and their families)
  • Down Syndrome
  • Families with a member(s) affected by, or infected with, HIV/AIDS
  • Heart Disease
  • Older youth who have recently been adopted and their adoptive families
  • Severe Burns (serving youth burn survivors and their families)
  • Skin Conditions
  • Youth Experiencing Homelessness

 

Retreat Center

September through May, Camp Knutson's beautiful facility and grounds serve as the perfect retreat center for various groups and organizations.