overview
Connection. Challenge. Conviction.
“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” Proverbs 27:17
For 79 years NF has been partnering with families and the church to raise up boys into godly men through wilderness camping and activities. We do this through programs for boys, young men, and their fathers with the truth of God’s Word, community, outdoor challenges, and leadership development. Our vision is to continue what we have done while developing new programs that allow NF to continue in those relationships with men beyond their camper and staff years.
Our purpose for this weekend is to help you to Connect through prayer, worship, and fellowship with brothers in Christ, to Challenge you spiritually from the Word and in purposeful activities, and to solidify your Conviction to bring God glory in all areas of your life.
SCHEDULE
Coming soon!
Plan to arrive between 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM on Friday and depart between 1:30 and 2:00 PM on Sunday.
This helps us make sure you’re settled in and not rushed on either end of your trip.
For more information, see Registration and Travel below.
JOIN US AT "THE FORGE"
A forge is not a place of comfort, but a place of intense heat, where force brings transformation. In a forge, raw metal is refined, beaten, shaped under intense heat and pressure until its integrity and design is exactly what the blacksmith has a need for. Similarly, you and I are God’s workmanship also being formed by Him to reflect His image in the world and fulfill His unique purpose for us. After this time together, we pray that you will leave Northern Frontier with the goal to look more like Christ each day and would be challenged to bear Northern Frontier’s “Twelve Marks” exemplifying Christ’s character: Faithfulness, Love, Integrity, Courage, Conviction, Communication, Confidence, Humility, Passion, Wisdom, Self-Control, and Competence.
On this retreat, our sessions and activities will be geared to refine, strengthen, and equip you for the battles of life and faith while also allowing for a lot of fun and a chance to relax, laugh, and take part in some classic NF traditions.
The invitation is out…will you join us at “The Forge”?
Registration & TRAVEL
Cost: $200
When you register, you’ll have the option to add a donation toward the Men’s Retreat Scholarship Fund, helping make this experience possible for men facing financial hardship.
Plan to arrive between 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM on Friday and depart between 1:30 and 2:00 PM on Sunday. This helps us make sure you’re settled in and not rushed on either end of your trip.
Flying in? Contact Brian Conroy at alumni@northernfrontier.org to coordinate travel and housing logistics.
SAFETY & ACCOMDATIONS
The retreat may include physically demanding elements like hikes, swimming, and team challenges—but there will also be plenty of opportunities for rest and stillness. All staff are certified in Wilderness First Aid and CPR/AED, and a nurse or EMT will be on-site throughout the weekend. Please consult your physician if you have any health concerns before attending.
Please note:
• Northern Frontier is off-grid—no pavement, no cell service, and no WiFi.
• Sleeping accommodations are in open-air cabins with screen windows, unfinished walls, and basic lighting.
• Washhouses are 20–50 yards from the cabins.
A participant waiver will be required.
MEN'S RETREAT gallery
photos
GOT QUESTIONS?
Contact us directly: For more information, you can contact our office directly at office@northernfrontier.org or call us at (215) 493-2995
Program
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Tree Climber FAQ
- Where will we stay?
You'll stay in either Cabin 1 or 2 on our Stockade side of camp. These cabins are central to other key buildings including our Infirmary, Dining Hall, and Office. There is a washroom only a short walk away.
- What about arrival and departure times?
There are two sessions, A and B, that run Saturday to Tuesday and Wednesday to Saturday.
Pairs should plan to arrive before Lunch, between 10:00 and 12:30 (Saturday or Wednesday), and depart after breakfast, between 9:00-10:00 (Tuesday or Saturday).
- Do we get to choose what we do each day?
Certain activities are scheduled ahead of time such as archery, air riflery, wood shop, rock climbing, and low ropes. This is done to ensure the availability of these activities. The schedule may change at any moment to accomodate for weather.
During the afternoon, you will have plenty of free time with your son. This is a great time to head to the waterfront and enjoy fishing, swimming, and boating.
- Who facilitates the Tree Climber pairs?
Each session is accompanied by a Tree Climber Coordinator, an alumni father with years of experience at Northern Frontier. Sometimes, these coordinators attend with their sons, other times they're returning fathers whose sons are now grown.
There will also be a Tree Climber assistant who works alongside the Coordinator to make sure the group has everything they need. He will also be reponsible for the boys when the ads are in Father's Forum or enjoying their evening snack.
- Will there be other camp programs happening at the same time?
Yes, but we run activities at specific times to avoid scheduling conflicts. The only times programs will overlap is during meals and swim times.
- What is Woody’s Checkup?
Woody's Checkup is a time where dads and sons will dive into God's Word together. We provide a small booklet of scripture, discussion questions, and activities that are designed to help dads engage the Bible with their sons.