Frequently Asked Questions about Camp Mack Day

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Q: What is Camp Mack Day?

A: Camp Mack Day is a Manchester tradition that began in 1939. The first year, a parade led 500-600 students in a march down to the railway station in North Manchester where a special train ("The Big Four") was chartered to carry them to the beautiful shores of Lake Waubee at Camp Mack. The event became an annual affair and has been orchestrated by Student Involvement, Religious Life, or Simply Brethren over the years.

Q: What is the purpose of Camp Mack Day?

A:  Camp Mack Day provides faculty, staff, and students from both campuses the opportunity to build community and evoke Manchester spirit. It gives students the opportunity to develop leadership ability within their organizations, the opportunity to develop healthy interpersonal relations, and the ability to explore activities in individual and group settings. It also enhances student engagement and affinity for Manchester by providing students the opportunity to engage with other first-year students, other second-, third-, and fourth-year students and participate in a time-honored Manchester tradition.

Q: What is the schedule for Camp Mack Day?

A:  Camp Mack Day is a SURPRISE day! You will receive an email at 5 am the day of Camp Mack Day and all classes and events will be cancelled from 8 am - 3 pm that day. The schedule is very flexible and “choose your own adventure” style. You may go boating, hiking, play games like gaga ball or 9-square-in-the-air, make s’mores, and more.

If you want to see something really cool, here is a schedule from one of the first Camp Mack Days!

Q: What COVID-19 precautions are in place?

A:  Masks are optional. Hand sanitizer will be accessible onsite.

Q: Is food provided? Do I need to bring money?

A: Lunch will be provided free of charge at Camp Mack, and meals will be inclusive to dietary needs (vegetarian, kosher, halal, etc.).

Q: Is Camp Mack accessible to those with physical disabilities?

A: Yes, the camp has gravel paved roads that are wheelchair accessible. There are very few spaces with steps. Accessible bathrooms are located in the John Kline Welcome Center and the Hamer Health Center.

Q: Why is this event under the Religious Life page?

A: Manchester University was founded by and is still affiliated with the Church of the Brethren. Camp Mack is a Church of the Brethren camp. Religious Life, Church Relations and Simply Brethren act as liaisons between the University and the Camp.

Q: What clothing should I wear, and what should I bring to Camp Mack Day?

A:     We suggest you bring:
- Manchester ID
- hand sanitizer
- clothes that you are comfortable wearing outdoors
- swimming attire and towel
- sun screen and bug spray
- sun glasses
- water bottle
- shoes for various activities
- a book
- a hammock if you have one
- service project: closed toed shoes and long pants

A:     Faculty, staff, commuter students - pack your GO BAG today!!

Q: Who do I talk to if I have questions?

A:     Email the planning team!

Q: Where can I find more information about Camp Mack?

A:     Their website is HERE!