retreats
Join me for inspiring retreats that promote personal growth and creativity.
Queer Summer Camp 2026
2026 dates coming soon
Palisade, MN
Come experience summer camp the way you never did as a kid!
Hosted by: Madelyn Steen and Kenen Heggernes
all-inclusive weekend for LGBTQ+
in beautiful Palisade, MN
Join us for a 4-night adventure in beautiful Palisade, MN, where you can experience summer camp the way you never did as a kid! This all-inclusive weekend for LGBTQ+ (age 30+) combines the nostalgia of childhood camp with the freedom to be your authentic self. For many of us, camp wasn’t a place where we could be fully out or ourselves—now it can be. Whether you’re here to meet people, reconnect with nature, or simply celebrate in an inclusive space, Queer Summer Camp is your chance to create the summer memories you’ve always deserved.
Sample Schedule
7am-8am → Sunrise Nature Yoga
8am-9am → Breakfast
9am-10am → Bog Trek
10am-12pm → Canoe/swim
12pm-1pm → Lunch
1pm-3pm → Challenge Course - Across Lava River, onto the Teeter-Totter, and over the Wall!
3pm-4:30pm → Free Time (hike, rest, connect, etc.)
4:30pm-6pm → Crafts
6pm-7pm → Dinner
7pm-8pm → Talent Show
8pm-onward → Queeraoke and Dance after dark
Meet Your camp Hosts
Madelyn Steen (she/her), LMFT
Maddawg is a queer therapist, nature kid turned world wanderer, avid hiker, animal lover, and adventurous spirit. With years of experience as a therapist, she understands the power of community in fostering joy and belonging. Inspired by outdoor adventures and the power of play, she created Queer Summer Camp to bring people together in a fun, affirming environment.
Kenen Heggernes (they/them)
Coach K spends her time playing. As a former college lacrosse coach turned parent, they love to spend their time being active with friends and family. With decades of experience bringing people together through play and movement, they’re a new yogi and can finally touch their toes.
Madelyn Steen (she/her) - aka Maddawg
Kenen Heggernes (they/them) - aka Coach K
Long Lake Conservation Center are wonderful allies to our community, and allow us to host camp on their beautiful land. We’ve decided to give back by creating an LGBTQ+ youth scholarship, so queer kids can attend camp there for free.
If you feel compelled to donate, please click here:
*Queer Summer Camp is not therapy. It is simply a space for community, connection, and fun!