The Canyon Comeback

After months of quiet, the Canyon is seeing people again. You’ve been missed.

2020 was the quietest year the Frio River Canyon has known in over half a century. But as you read these words, camps and retreats are making a comeback.

We’re not functioning at full capacity yet, and we may have to adjust all the plans described on this page as the COVID-19 situation develops. But since early fall, Laity Lodge has been holding small retreats and individual experiences, and small groups of leaders have had opportunities to gather safely at Headwaters and at the Lodge.

As this issue goes to print, here’s what we hope will be happening in the Canyon this spring and summer.

Laity Lodge

The Lodge is focusing on gatherings that range from the individual to the intimate—private, personal renewal experiences called Open Retreats, and custom group retreats for partner organizations.

To learn about additional retreat offerings, be sure to register for email updates.


Laity Lodge Family Camp

In January, Headwaters will be hosting certification retreats for next year’s summer staff to receive training in high ropes and other camp activities. Also, the leadership staff of several partner organizations will gather for weekend retreats.

Starting in February, families will be returning to Family Camp! All guests who missed weekend retreats last spring due to COVID-19 will have an opportunity to return for a safe, socially distanced retreat experience.

And next summer, LLFC hopes to be in the fullest possible swing. We’ll be sending updates about next summer’s camp schedule in the weeks ahead.

Be sure to sign up for updates.


Laity Lodge Youth Camp

We plan to have a summer like no other in 2021! All campers who were registered last summer still have their spot secure.

Be sure to confirm your registration.


Foundation Camp and Outdoor School

Note that these programs continue to lie fallow as we build new ways for them to function safely.


More from this issue

Therapy Is a Camp Activity, Too

Hilary Monford has been partnering with Laity Lodge Family Camp to offer accessible counseling and therapy to families during a particularly difficult year.

The Stars at Night

Deep in the heart of Texas’ hill country, the stars aren’t competing with light pollution from cities and suburbs.

Camp Docs Keep Campers Healthy

A lot has changed since Margo Pruitt first moved into the Canyon as the Echo Valley nurse in the summer of 1996.

How to Retreat When We Can’t Go to Retreats

Kathleen Norris reflects on the urge to retreat and the unique challenges of this year.

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