• A group of friends gather around a rustic wooden table in the woods, sharing laughter and toasting with drinks, immersed in the beauty of nature. The vibe is casual and joyous, perfect for a retreat.
  • A couple enjoying a delightful moment by a campfire, holding drinks and toasting marshmallows. Their smiles and the warm glow of the fire create a cozy and memorable evening in the tranquil forest.
  • A man savoring a unique drink with a burnt marshmallow garnish, while a woman joyfully reacts in the background. The playful campfire moment captures outdoor fun and creativity.
  • Friends clinking dark cups around a wooden table in the forest, sharing laughter and joy. The boho-chic setting, rustic elements, and natural surroundings create a serene, retreat-like atmosphere.
  • A couple embracing joyfully by a campfire in the woods, exuding warmth and happiness. The serene retreat atmosphere is highlighted by the soft light of the fire and their genuine smiles.

Why We Do It

So here’s the thing, We love God. We love humans. We love nature. When the best of creation comes together, something shifts in a transcendental way. It’s wild, free and awe inspiring. And the beauty is that it’s for all of us to have. That’s why we do it.

Our Story

The 60 acre parcel of land on which Elk Island Retreat is located, has been our home since 1981. Incorporated in 1995, we slowly built Elk Island Retreat to what it is today with the help of our four sons.

We started out with a few seasonal unserviced sites and then in 2000 erected our first tipis.

Rustic cabin with the sign "Patty's Porch" nestled amongst trees, featuring a welcoming front porch with wooden steps, charming decor elements on the wooden exterior, and serene forest surroundings.

Soon after that we built the 2 rustic trapper cabins with canvas walls and wood burning stoves and then put in the first 18 full service RV sites.In May of 2009 we opened the second RV park with another 18 full service sites.

In 2018 we built 2 beautiful yurts that became operational in 2019 complete with power and heat.

The original trapper cabins were revamped in 2019 with insulated walls and ceiling, windows installed, and power, and heat were added.

Aerial view of the white Dark Sky geodome nestled in lush green forest, surrounded by tall evergreen trees, offering a secluded and serene retreat experience in nature's embrace.

In 2020 we added 2 “out-of-this-world” geodesic domes and the cozy Wood’s Cabin. Another 2 domes were added in 2021.

Building the campground from the ground up really has been a labor of love. We take pride in what we do and we hope it is obvious to our guests.

Over the years we have hosted many Girl Guide and Boy Scout groups, church groups, family reunions, and weddings.

Under warm string lights, coworkers enjoy a cozy fireside dinner. The atmosphere is vibrant and intimate, filled with laughter and shared stories in a woodland setting.

In addition to the many groups Elk Island Retreat has hosted we have been pleased to have local visitors stay with us as well as guests from all over the world.

Many of our guests have commented on the peacefulness and cleanliness they have experienced during their stay.

A number of film production companies have used this site for their filming location.

We feel blessed to have been allowed to enjoy this gem of natural beauty and we wish to share it with our visitors. We trust you will find a "feel at home" welcoming atmosphere here.

Close-up of the founders of Elk Island Retreat Rick & Pat smiling warmly, capturing a moment of joy and connection at a rustic, bohemian gathering, adding a touch of heartfelt charm to the scene.

We invite you to come and visit us and trust that your experience too, will be a memorable one.

~ Rick and Pat