Three Weeks to Encounter God in a New Way
Come spend three weeks away from your busy life with us and encounter Jesus in a deep, meaningful way that could change the trajectory of your life!
Program Dates: Sunday, May 17th to Sunday, June 7th, 2026
Team Leader Orientation: Thursday, May 14th until program start
Priority Application Deadline: March 1st, 2026. Applications after this date will be considered on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Cost: $600
Covers meals, housing, activities, and program supplies for the entire three week program. Transportation to and from STP is not provided, and must be arranged on your own. Ask your campus staff if you need help with this!
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect at Great Lakes STP?
When you arrive at STP you will be joined by other college students from across Ohio, Michigan, and Kentucky. We live and serve at Portage Lake Bible Camp in Onekama, Michigan. The camp is right on the lake front of Portage Lake, but also a short drive from the shores of Lake Michigan, and a few minutes drive from a small town with places to get coffee and a bite to eat. It’s a quiet place, but not totally in isolation either.
A typical week at STP includes Bible study in the morning with your team, afternoons spent working for the camp to prepare them for their summer season, evening NavNights and socials, as well as in-depth training in how to share the Gospel with others. Throughout the program you can also expect plenty of opportunities for fun: beach nights, sports, ice cream, and weekends off for rest.
What should I pack?
In short, pack like you’re going to summer camp. You will need to pack bedding for a twin size bunk. The weather can be decently cold on the lake front in May, so pack layers! You’ll also want to pack clothes you’re prepared to work in and get dirty, but a few nice outfits - especially something for our celebratory banquet at the end of the program. Your cabin will have attached bathrooms, so pack toiletries and towels. Additionally, don’t forget to bring your Bible, notebook, and pens! A more detailed packing list will be sent to participants in advance of the program.
How do I travel to and from Portage Lake Bible Camp? What’s the address?
The program fee does not include any travel costs to and from the program. Each participant is responsible for travel arrangements. If you need help getting to and from the program, please talk to your local Navigator staff! The address of the camp is: 4158 Camp Delight Road, Onekama, MI 49675
What does the registration fee cover?
The cost of STP is $600. $50 of that is paid in your application deposit; the remaining $550 will be paid when you arrive at the program. This fee includes your lodging, meals, program materials, and a t-shirt. There are 2-3 meals on your own, but financial assistance is available for those who may need it. You may want to bring additional spending money for coffee runs off-camp, weekend fun, and other optional extras while you’re at the program.
Am I able to take days off to travel away from the program?
Great Lakes STP is a 21 night program and all days are scheduled with content and programming. Therefore, missing time away from the program is not preferred. There are some exceptions, but all time away from the program must be requested and approved by the STP Director in advance. Leave requests must be submitted by April 1st, 2026. Every situation is unique, and will be considered as such, but requesting significant time away from the program may be a barrier to your participation. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with more questions and/or your requests.
2026 STP Director: Brendan McDonough, Brendan.McDonough@navigators.org, (513) 317-7400
I have more questions. Who should I contact?
For questions regarding financial aid, please contact your local Navigator staff. For any other questions related to the 2026 program, please contact Brendan McDonough, the 2026 STP director (contact info above)