Helpful Hints
We certainly hope you find "What to Bring", "Recreational Opportunities", "Seasonal Considerations", and "Current Weather Conditions" to be helpful as you prepare for a visit to Sky Lake. If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
What to Bring
Here is a basic list of things we recommend that you bring with you:
- comfortable, casual clothing
- sturdy boots or sneakers for hiking
- indoor only footwear
- weather appropriate gear
- a good book to read (we have a few in the Riley Library as well!)
- a notebook and writing utensil
- items specified by your retreat leader(s)
- toiletries (if you are lucky enough to be spending the night…)
- for our spiritual life retreats, you will also need to bring a Bible with you
If you are looking for our summer camp packing list, please click here.
Recreational Opportunities
There are plenty of opportunities to get outside at Sky Lake. So why not:
- throw a frisbee on one of our large playing fields?
- go for a hike (or snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in the winter)? There are several miles of trails at Sky Lake ranging from easy to moderate.
- play a game of volleyball or basketball? A volleyball net is set up on the west shore and one can easily be set up on the east shore. A basketball hoop is located at the end of the Underwood parking area (from spring to autumn).
- go for a swim or boat ride? Our waterfront is open for the enjoyment of our campground and retreat guests when camps are in session, most weekends from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and upon request (if a Sky Lake trained lifeguard is available). Please contact us to inquire about lifeguard availability.
- build a campfire? We have several pits in which to build a warm campfire to roast marshmallows over--while singing some favorite camp songs.
Seasonal Considerations
Sky Lake experiences four distinct seasons. Here are some things to keep in mind during each one:
- Summer:
- summer temperatures can vary--from cool to hot. Dressing in layers and having a sweatshirt or light jacket with you will come in handy. Feel free to bring a fan as well.
- if you plan on spending any time outdoors, you will want to bring sunscreen and bug repellent with you.
- Autumn:
- nights and mornings are typically chilly, so you will certainly want warmer clothes for those times of the day.
- don't forget a camera! Sky Lake is especially colorful this time of year.
- Winter:
- when the snow starts to fly, we break out our winter coats, hats, mittens, scarves, snow-pants, and boots. You will want to as well! It's hard to resist playing in the snow, so be sure to bring an extra set of winter clothing.
- bringing an extra pair of shoes to wear indoors only will help keep the floors looking nice.
- unless we receive an unusually high amount of snowfall, both the public and private roads around Sky Lake are kept safely passable.
- Spring:
- for the first few weeks of spring, it is a good idea to wear older boots or sneakers when walking around camp--they're apt to get muddy!
- our region receives quite a bit of rainfall during the spring, so be prepared with an umbrella, raincoat, or poncho.
- come late Spring a stunning display of wildflowers can be viewed around Sky Lake. Please take only pictures (and not the flowers themselves!)
Current Weather Conditions
Whether snow, rain, or leaves are falling, it is advisable to consult the current weather forecast prior to packing for your stay at Sky Lake.
