The National Destination for Muslim Retreats & Camps
Camp White Eagle is a Muslim-owned overnight camp near Chicago, IL, that offers faith-centered outdoor experiences for all ages.
Owned and operated by The Prayer Center of Orland Park, Camp White Eagle is the first Muslim-owned overnight camp in the Midwest. Set on 120 acres of private woodland, the camp provides a safe, faith-centered environment where youth, families, and communities can experience outdoor adventure, leadership development, and spiritual growth.
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To inspire faith, growth, and leadership through exceptional Muslim outdoor experiences for all ages.
To be the nation’s premier Muslim camp where faith, community, and adventure come together.
What we teach and model every day — in every program.
We center all experiences around Islamic values, nurturing spiritual growth, character, and purpose.
We commit to physical, emotional, and spiritual safety through professionalism, care, and accountability.
We foster belonging, respect, and meaningful relationships across generations and backgrounds.
We develop confident leaders who serve others with responsibility, humility, and integrity.
We strive for quality in our programs, facilities, staff, and experiences—doing things the right way.
We encourage personal growth through challenge, exploration, and outdoor learning.
Honoring the Land and Its Story
The land that now hosts Camp White Eagle carries over a century of Midwest history and heritage. The site’s origins date back to the 1800s, when it was home to the White Eagle Mill settlement. Built in 1837, the original White Eagle Mill served as a cornerstone of livelihood for the Leaf River community.
In April 1951, the Board of Directors for the 4-H Camp of Northwestern Illinois purchased the first 110 acres of timberland from brothers Ben and Deed Sjoberg. Later donations expanded the property to 126 acres, forming the beautiful woodland setting that continues to welcome campers today.
The camp was named “White Eagle” in honor of the historic mill. While the name’s exact origin remains uncertain, local legend tells of a rare white eagle seen soaring above the valley when the mill was first built. Even today, eagles and hawks are often spotted gliding along the thermal air currents over the Leaf River Valley—symbols of the enduring spirit of the land.
A tangible link to this history remains at the heart of Camp White Eagle: the old mill wheel, which now forms the base of the dining hall fireplace—a powerful reminder of the site’s rich past and resilience.
A New Chapter: The First Muslim Camp in the Midwest
In September 2025, The Prayer Center of Orland Park proudly purchased Camp White Eagle—marking the establishment of the first Muslim-owned overnight camp in the Midwest.
This acquisition honors the land’s legacy while introducing a renewed Islamic vision: to create a sanctuary where young Muslims can grow spiritually, mentally, and socially through meaningful outdoor experiences.
Under the stewardship of The Prayer Center, Camp White Eagle will serve as a regional hub for Islamic leadership development, community retreats, and youth empowerment—bridging history with faith, and tradition with purpose.
Camp White Eagle is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and nurturing environment for all participants. Rooted in Islamic values of compassion, integrity, and responsibility, we strive to support the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual growth of every camper and guest.
Through trained staff, clear expectations, and positive role modeling, we foster a community where individuals feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow in faith, character, and leadership—at camp and beyond.
In the coming years, Camp White Eagle will continue expanding programs, enhancing facilities, and introducing new adventure features, positioning itself as a regional hub for Islamic leadership development, outdoor education, and year-round community retreats.