If the zombie apocalypse ever hits, forget the grocery stores and big cities — you’re going to want to head straight to Camp Foley up here in Pine River, Minnesota. Nestled along the shores of the Whitefish Chain, Camp Foley is more than just a place for s’mores and sail races. It’s a veritable fortress of survival-ready facilities, tools, and people who know how to adapt, problem-solve, and maybe even make the end of the world a little bit… fun?
Here’s why Camp Foley would be the ultimate haven when the undead rise:
1. Location, Location, Location
Camp Foley’s remote location in northern Minnesota offers a huge advantage. Far from major cities and highways, it’s tucked into a quieter part of the world — less foot traffic, fewer people, and therefore, fewer zombies. Plus, being on Whitefish Lake provides natural boundaries on multiple sides and a reliable water source (huge survival win).
In a zombie apocalypse, isolation is protection. And Foley has that in spades.
Running from the horde with a smile on our faces!
2. Lakefront Advantage
Water is life — and defense. The lake isn’t just a pretty backdrop for paddle mania; it’s a crucial escape route and fishing spot. Zombies aren’t known for their backstroke, so boats become mobile safety zones. With canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and pontoons at the ready, Foley’s waterfront turns into a maritime stronghold. Picture floating out to a quiet bay to rest, recharge, or fish for dinner. It’s apocalypse strategy with a side of serenity.
Zombies famously hate lake water… right?
3. Facilities Built for Survival
Let’s talk infrastructure. Camp Foley isn’t some tent-in-the-woods setup. We’re talking sturdy cabins, a huge Dining Hall, multiple bathrooms, a kitchen with a generator, and more. There are storage rooms for tools, sports equipment (hello, potential weaponry), and non-perishable food. With a few quick fortifications, this place could become a self-contained survival compound.
Need to set up triage? We’ve got a fully stocked health center. Need to cook for a small community? The kitchen staff has you covered — even over a fire if the power’s out. Plus the stove is gas!
4. Staff = Multi-Skilled Survival Experts
Summer camp people are built different.
At Foley, staffers are trained in emergency response, wilderness survival, conflict resolution, and keeping cool under pressure (ever tried wrangling 12 homesick ten-year-olds during a thunderstorm?). Whether it’s first aid, fire building, or food rationing, the team already has a skillset primed for survival mode.
Let’s not forget: Foley staff are pros at working long days with little sleep and no cell service. They thrive in controlled chaos. What’s a zombie horde compared to alpha games, running the gauntlet in paintball, and 6 am polar plunges?
5. Kids Teach You How to Adapt
Every summer, camp staff learn to pivot on the fly. Rain cancels activities? No problem, we’re going to the rec center. Power outage during dinner? Time to bust out the fun in the sun grills and make it the best night of the session. That kind of flexibility and creativity would be essential in a post-apocalyptic world.
And those counselors who can make friendship bracelets while blindfolded or tie climbing knots like it’s a second language? They’re going to come in clutch.
We can get crafty during the Zombie Apocalypse
6. Built-In Community
Camps run on community, and surviving the end of the world is no solo act. Foley already has a culture of teamwork, inclusivity, and collaboration. Everyone has a role, from leaders to quiet thinkers to hype people who keep morale high. If there’s any place where people will keep believing in humanity, even when things get grim, it’s here.
7. We Already Have Games
Yes, survival is serious. But keeping spirits up is just as vital. Camp Foley knows how to create fun out of anything — even apocalypse life. Capture the Flag becomes Capture the Undead. Canoe races turn into supply runs. And the talent show? Still happening, zombie moans and all.
We can hippity hop to safety!
Final Thought: Camp Preparedness = Apocalypse Readiness
Camp Foley is more than just a nostalgic slice of summer. It’s a training ground for resilience, quick thinking, and community building — all under the guise of silly skits and s’mores. When society crumbles and the walking dead roam the earth, you want to be somewhere with boats, bunk beds, and people who know how to lead.
Zombie apocalypse? We say: bring it on. We’ll meet you at the campfire.
Want to claim your bunk before the apocalypse hits? Just kidding (kind of). But if you’re looking for a place that builds real-world skills and lifelong friendships, maybe you should check out Camp Foley before the world ends.