Camp DeSales

Catholic Youth Camp, operated by the Oblates, is a six-day, co-ed spiritual retreat at Camp DeSales offered to SFS students as another opportunity to deepen spiritual growth with the Oblates.

Camp Director, Rev. Ken McKenna, OSFS '74 developed the camp, which is open to parish and school youth groups in the Toledo, Lansing, and Detroit dioceses.

CYC aspires to awaken, empower, and equip teens to live their Christian faith. The goal is to enhance relationships between students, their youth group ministers, and above all with Jesus Christ.

The Catholic Youth Camp is funded in part through the generosity of Connie and John Schoen '62, who recognize the importance of instilling a love of God in young people.

St. Francis uses Camp DeSales facilities for student retreats, and the grounds of Camp DeSales are available throughout the academic year to other groups. Priority is given to parish high school youth groups. Camp also has a space for individual self-led retreats in small hermitages, which can be booked at desales.org.

Salesian Leadership Camp blends the teachings of St. Francis de Sales and St. Jane de Chantal with hands-on, practical leadership skills. During the week-long camp, high school students from across the U.S. live the Salesian leadership philosophy that is rooted in self-confidence, global awareness, and service to God through neighbors. Daily Mass and night prayer are integral to the program. SLC helps students boost their confidence, improve communication skills, grow in prayer, and bring Salesian spirituality back to their schools.

St. Francis de Sales School Orientation Camp is a three-day, two-night retreat program for incoming 7th, 8th, and 9th graders. Here, students meet their new classmates, current student leaders, the Oblates, and teachers before school begins. Students report having GREAT times, GREAT food, GREAT friends, and GREAT memories at Camp DeSales.