Nestled in the quiet woods of Elkhorn, Wisconsin, Camp Wandawega is a magical spot that feels like stepping back in time. Known for its vintage, rustic charm, Camp Wandawega is a place where you can unplug from the noise and connect with nature, history, and, most importantly, the people around you. It was the perfect setting for a recent trip with Two Hearted, where we (along with consumer and internal sweepstakes winners, local chefs and other Two Hearted culture collaborators) came to savor the simple pleasures and authentic experiences in this one-of-a-kind destination.
Driving up to the camp feels like discovering a hidden treasure. It’s filled with quirky vintage touches like retro signs, old-school cabins and charming woodsy decor that make you feel like you’ve stepped into an old postcard. From canoes waiting by the lake to taxidermy in the lounge, every corner here has been curated with love.
The camp itself dates to the 1920s and has served many purposes over the years—from a brothel to a prohibition-era speakeasy and even a summer church camp, it’s now a place where nostalgia and community are celebrated.
Because Two Hearted is a brand all about timeless quality and connection, the synergy at the camp was natural and you could feel the joy and camaraderie throughout the week. I saw our new friends taking advantage of all the camp had to offer: lawn games like shuffleboard and Two Hearted Basket golf, an archery range, fishing, relaxing by the warm fire inside the bar room, and playing several rounds of the old Midwestern favorite card game – Euchre.
Some of the highlights of this trip include the delicious meals cooked by our very own Chef Kris and Chef Russ from the Eccentric Cafe. When I think of camp food, I think of simple s’mores and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, but they really took it to the next level and treated our fans to hearty comfort meals such as smoked bratwurst and pierogies, duck confit, and even freshly shucked oysters! The elevated yet rustic food truly embodied the spirit of Two Hearted.
Another favorite activity of the week was a leaf-bleaching craft led by our Chicago-area Field Marketing Manager, Dre. She got everyone involved making one-of-a-kind Two Hearted shirts, with leaves sourced from around the campground. Using bleach to press onto the shirts, each one was made into a unique, abstract pattern and was a takeaway souvenir for each guest. It was awesome to see everyone’s creative flags fly.
As night fell, we all gathered around the fire to swap stories and listen to music until late into the evening. There’s just something about unplugging from technology that brings people closer and feel genuinely connected.
We couldn’t have picked a better spot to channel the rugged, timeless, no-frills, and just-a-little-bit-wild energy of the Two Hearted brand. As I packed up and headed back to the real world, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of immense gratitude for the experience. This was more than just a trip – it was a pilgrimage! For those of us who appreciate the finer things in life like a cold beer enjoyed on the shores of a quiet lake, this was a reminder of the magic that happens when you let the beauty of nature guide your days.
