Camp Winnekeag Retreats
Camp Winnekeag takes group bookings from September through May, when the summer camp program isn't running. Church groups, school organizations, and nonprofits use the facility for weekend retreats, multi-day conferences, and team-building programs. The camp is located at 257 Ashby Road in Ashburnham, Massachusetts — about 35 miles northwest of Worcester and roughly 90 miles from Boston on Route 2.
How Booking Works
Reservations for the following calendar year open on the first Monday of November, starting at 9:00 AM. SNEC constituent groups get priority booking through December. All other groups can book starting the first Monday of January. A deposit is required to hold a date — a phone reservation without a deposit is held for 10 days only, then released. Groups with outstanding balances cannot book new dates until prior obligations are paid in full.
Lodging Capacity
The Pathfinder Lodge accommodates up to 56 guests. The main cabin clusters sleep 108 people total. Headquarters building fits 8. Eagle Eye Cabin holds 6 (call for availability). There are also three full-hookup RV sites, two sites with water and electric, and twelve tent sites without hookups. Group leaders should not plan for numbers beyond these limits due to state and local codes.
Food Service
Camp kitchen food service is available for groups of 30 or more, with advance arrangements and a guaranteed meal count submitted 15 days before arrival. Groups below 30, or those who prefer to cook for themselves, can use the Lodge Kitchen or Village Kitchen — both are equipped with ranges, ovens, grills, refrigerators, freezers, and basic cookware. Groups must supply their own paper goods and clean up before departure. No food is permitted in sleeping quarters.
Activities and On-Site Use
Activities available to retreat groups — depending on season and certified staff availability — include archery, hiking, mountain biking, basketball, volleyball, soccer, canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boating on Lake Winnekeag. The zip line and climbing wall require a certified instructor and must be arranged in advance. Water activities require a currently certified lifeguard on duty, either provided by the camp or brought by the group (certification must be shown to the camp host before the area opens).
Sabbath Policy
The camp observes the Seventh-day Adventist Sabbath. On Saturdays, guests are invited to contribute what they feel is appropriate rather than paying the standard daily rate. Groups planning events that run over a Saturday should factor this into their budget planning.
