Red Crown Lodge typically hosts corporate retreats. After attending several work events there, some of us kept asking if they'd ever host a couples weekend, because we knew our spouses would love it.

They finally agreed, and a few of us attended their inaugural Couples Weekend. As expected, our spouses loved it. After a few drinks in the Gazebo (arguably the best party room anywhere), we decided the only way to make it better was to fill the place with our friends.

So in 2019, we hosted our first Couple's Retreat, and we were right. It was even better. Many people said it felt like a summer camp for adults... hence, Camp.

We polled early September and October, and they came in basically neck and neck. While we were going back and forth, we found out we could grab a Thursday to Saturday at Red Crown in July. Too good to pass up.

Summer Camp 2.0. Pack your swim trunks.

Camp has one simple goal: give couples a weekend away from the busy lives of work and kids to spend however they choose.

For some, that means staying up late, overindulging a bit, and having that kind of fun. For others, it's a more serene weekend soaking in the beautiful grounds at Red Crown Lodge with a bike ride, yoga on the pier, or a quiet drink by the water. Both are done right.

There's no agenda to keep up with and no pressure to do it all. It's a choose-your-own-adventure weekend. Your only job is to enjoy it your way.

RCL is located just north of Minocqua on Trout Lake. It's a truly special place. The property is beautiful, and the service and food are outstanding.

www.redcrownlodge.com

There are several lodges across the property. Some have a few "hotel-style" rooms, while others have up to 20. All rooms feature king beds and en suite bathrooms stocked with Aveda products.

Since only one group uses the property at a time, there are no room keys (yes, really). You can lock your room from the inside. Ask James for a funny story about that.

All food and drinks are included, but you may want cash for tips:

• Bartenders during happy hours
• A group gratuity for the Red Crown staff on Friday night (optional, but encouraged—they're amazing)
• Tipping the live musician Thursday night

You may also want cash for side bets with James in euchre, cornhole, or pickleball, but Venmo works too.

Once you're registered, we send a SignUpGenius link a few weeks before Camp. It stays live in the Attendee Portal all the way through Camp so you can check what you picked. A few spots usually open back up, so email Lisa at Red Crown if you want to get added to something.

Pontoon Rides

One-hour cruises starting mid-afternoon (approx. 2:30, 3:30, 4:30, 5:30). Grab a drink and meet at the Main Lodge pier.

Stretch 'N Sip Yoga

Friday at 9am on the pier, led by Brea. Mimosas included.

Golf at Trout Lake Country Club

Right across the street. Play 9 or 18 holes Friday morning (additional fee).

Massages

Available Friday morning onsite (additional fee).

Trap Shooting

A fan favorite about 10 minutes away. You can ride with Red Crown, but driving yourself gives you more flexibility.

Guided Canoe Trip

Limited availability. Sign up early if you're interested.

Camp is mostly choose-your-own-adventure: relax, explore, play games, be social, or not.

That said, there is one required event: the Camp Challenge.

Usually Friday afternoon on the Main Lawn. This lighthearted competition has included canoe relays, axe throwing, and golf challenges. No injuries (so far), and the winners get prizes.

Whatever you're comfortable in: shorts, jeans, hoodies, flip-flops, etc.

People tend to clean up a bit for happy hours and dinners, but overall the vibe is relaxed and casual.