Camp Shaw-waw-nas-see, the long-running summer camp in Kankakee County, marks eight decades this weekend with a lineup of free and ticketed events that aim to reconnect former campers, raise funds and spotlight outdoor recreation near the Kankakee River. For locals and alumni, the celebration is more than nostalgia: it’s a chance to preserve a community institution and support programs that keep the camp operating for future generations.
The camp—known simply as Camp Shaw—sits on more than 100 acres at 6641 N. 6000W Road in Manteno, just beside Kankakee River State Park. Founded in 1946, the site has hosted generations of campers and staff; organizers say the weekend’s events are designed to honor that legacy while attracting new support.
Activities kick off Saturday morning with the Rugged Run and Hike, a trails event that tests endurance while showcasing the camp’s scenic landscape. The timed race follows a non-repeating, roughly 4‑mile loop on trails about four feet wide and includes computerized finish-line scoring and awards. A separate, non-competitive 1.8‑mile hike (walk) will also be offered.
Camp Shaw marks 80th year with reunion fundraiser Saturday
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- Start time: Rugged Run and Hike at 10:30 a.m.
- Course: 4-mile loop for the race; 1.8-mile walk for hikers
- Entry fees: $20 online through 3 p.m. Friday; $25 after that and on race day. Children under 8 ride free.
- Extras: A short Trail Blazer kids’ dash (50–100 yards) after the race; Chicago Dough pizza for finishers.
From noon to 4 p.m., the camp opens its gates for the 80th Reunion, a no-cost gathering aimed at former campers and staff. The afternoon program includes guided tours, camp activities, a campfire with s’mores, a photo booth and food trucks—an opportunity to reconnect and to see how the site has evolved.
Saturday evening brings the seventh annual Camp Shaw Drawdown fundraiser, scheduled from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Organizers say the event features a benefit dinner, raffles, a silent auction and a top cash prize of $2,000 along with several smaller payouts. Tickets are priced at $100 and cover one drawdown entry, dinner for two and craft beer; guests must be 21 to attend. Winners do not have to be present to claim prizes.
The weekend’s combination of outdoor activity, free community programming and paid fundraising makes clear why the anniversary matters now: as camps nationwide face rising costs and shifting participation patterns, long-standing local programs often rely on events like this to secure operating funds and maintain public interest.
Key details at a glance:
- Where: Camp Shaw-waw-nas-see, 6641 N. 6000W Rd., Manteno (near Kankakee River State Park)
- When: Events run throughout Saturday (Rugged Run at 10:30 a.m.; Reunion noon–4 p.m.; Drawdown 4–8 p.m.)
- Costs: Rugged Run/Hike $20–$25; Drawdown tickets $100; reunion admission free
- Who: Family-friendly daytime programs; 21+ for evening fundraiser
For registration, RSVPs and the most current event updates, organizers point to the camp’s event listings on Facebook and information posted at campshaw.org.
Whether you’re a former camper returning to the trails or a neighbor curious about local conservation and youth programs, the 80th anniversary events provide multiple ways to participate—by running, volunteering, donating or simply taking a tour of a site that has anchored summers in Kankakee County for generations.
