DuBois Center is the Camp and Retreat Center of the Illinois South Conference of the United Church of Christ. Nestled amidst 330 wooded acres, two shimmering lakes, open meadows and network of wooded trails, DuBois Center is a great escape in Southern Illinois for all – you do not have to be a member of the United Church of Christ to enjoy our programs and/or facilities. Because we have been fortunate to run continuously since 1965, we are beginning to welcome third- and fourth- generation DuBois Center campers. It is an honor to maintain such an incredible legacy of “Growing Together”.
Our Mission Statement
Growing Together… in Faith, in Respect for Ourselves and Others, and in our Care for Creation
Our Ministry
DuBois Center is the camp and retreat center of the Illinois South Conference of the United Church of Christ. We have served the people of Southern Illinois, the Greater St. Louis area and beyond for more than 60 years as a place where people of all ages and faiths can learn more about themselves, explore the world in which they live, and build community.
Because we affirm the value of all God’s people, the Illinois South Conference of the United Church of Christ does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, national origin, religious background, sexual orientation, or gender identity. To the extent possible, we endeavor to accommodate those with a variety of physical, mental, emotional, medical, or dietary needs.
Our History
DuBois Center was established in 1965 as the Conference Retreat Center and Summer Camp of the Illinois South Conference of the United Church of Christ. Learn more about our history.
Our Staff
Our year-round staff, seasonal staff, and volunteers are dedicated to providing a safe and accepting atmosphere for visitors and campers to explore and grow. All of our staff members and volunteers are screened and trained in accordance with our Safe Conduct procedures. In addition, our paid summer staff are First Aid and CPR certified and have completed extensive training including safety, program facilitation, activity leadership, and emergency response.
DuBois Center would not be what it is without the fantastic people who keep the campfires lit. Learn more about our staff.
Our Facilities
Our lodges and cottages are located on the shores of our main lake amidst over 300 acres of woods, pastures, and wildlife. We provide our guests with a comfortable retreat environment, a well-maintained camping & retreat facility and delicious meals. Learn more about our facilities.
Our Services
Hospitality: Lodging and Meal Service
Retreat Center: Meeting spaces for your church or community group.
Faith Formation and Christian Education: Whether during our summer camps and seasonal retreat or your church or group retreat, opportunities to grow in one’s faith abound.
Spiritual Retreats: Faith and Fellowship – take time to focus, reconnect and relax.
School Camps: Experiential education and community building for school groups.
Recreation: Horseback riding, canoeing, hiking, swimming, fishing, team building, Gaga, campfires, hay rides and more.
Nature Study: Utilize our diverse eco-system, including the lakes, creek and trails to get closer to nature than ever before.