The mission of Circle Pines is to promote peace, social justice, environmental stewardship and cooperation. Our program combines elements of a traditional summer camp (swimming, sports, campfires, hikes, theater, dance, arts and crafts) with cooperative work projects (construction, organic gardening, trail maintenance and cleaning). Additional educational activities focus on topics like climate change, food politics, social justice, ecosystems and the importance of critical thinking. Parents frequently report that their kids come home more independent, thoughtful and interested in the world around them.

Our focus on cooperation as an interpersonal strategy and viable economic alternative is embodied in our daily chores, work projects, decision making, camp store and other activities. Meal clean-up is a time when staff and campers work together and learn the importance of working to maintain a community. Every morning we do work projects all around camp to teach cooperation and give campers an appreciation for work itself.

CPC is committed to supporting sustainable agriculture and the slow food movement. Kitchen staff members work hard to provide delicious and nutritious meals from scratch using primarily local and organic ingredients. We source camp food from over 15 local farm families in west Michigan. Meat dishes are prepared using pasture fed and humanely raised animals. Prior to each meal, the kitchen staff educates campers and staff as to the source of the food they are about to enjoy. Given advance notice, CPC can accommodate most dietary restrictions and allergies. Vegetarian alternatives are always available.