Camp Gaea, Kansas

For Kansans seeking a truly unique and deeply inclusive natural sanctuary, **Camp Gaea Retreat Center** in Tonganoxie stands as a vibrant beacon of community, spirituality, and land stewardship. Spanning **168 acres** of beautiful, naturally maintained land, Gaea is more than just a campground; it’s a non-profit educational center dedicated to fostering community, spiritual growth, and the free exchange of ideas. The entire operation is a labor of love, diligently **maintained by wonderful volunteers** who are the heartbeat of the center.

The primary goal of Gaea is to provide a private, natural retreat area for people of **all spiritual traditions**, particularly those from **marginalized groups and the LGBTQIA+ community**, who have historically struggled to find accepting venues in the rural Midwest. This commitment to **DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility)** is alive and well, driving a **strong community of supporters**. It is a place where respect for oneself, others, and the land is the Universal Mandate, creating a nurturing and welcoming environment where you are genuinely free to be yourself, whether you are seeking peace, celebration, or a profound connection with nature.

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Camp Gaea Retreat Center is ideally situated in a rural setting near **Tonganoxie, KS 66086, USA**, making it highly accessible for residents of Eastern Kansas, especially those in the Kansas City metropolitan area. The property is located within **an hour’s drive of the KC metro**, providing a secluded feeling of escape without requiring extensive travel time across the state.

The retreat is easily reached via state highways that connect to the Tonganoxie area. Once off the main roads, the center is nestled amidst tranquil wooded trails and meadows, offering a truly peaceful environment. The location is strategic for hosting regional events, drawing attendees from across the Heartland. The center emphasizes **respect for the land and conservation**, ensuring that the immediate environment reflects a strong commitment to ecologically sound practices, which enhances the feeling of sanctuary and natural beauty for all who visit.

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Gaea Retreat Center offers a diverse array of lodging and facility rentals, catering to everyone from individual tent campers to large organizations looking for exclusive event space. The facilities are designed to support spiritual, educational, and communal gatherings.

• **Camping Sites:** Plenty of **tent camping spots** are available throughout the property, allowing guests to choose their preferred level of seclusion or proximity to central facilities.
• **Cabin Rentals:** Nine rustic **rentable cabins** are available, including one with **A/C for special health needs**. Cabins offer electricity but no plumbing; guests must bring their own bedding and are expected to leave the cabin clean.
• **Indoor Facilities:** Features an **air-conditioned meeting hall** for workshops and gatherings, and a large **Dining Hall with a full kitchen** available to rent, which is fully equipped for group meals.
• **Restroom and Shower Access:** Guests have access to modern **flush restrooms and heated showers**, providing essential comfort even for those staying in tents or rustic cabins.
• **Event Rentals:** The entire facility is available to be **rented for exclusive events** by organizations and groups. The space is also utilized for workshops, festivals (like the Heartland Pagan Festival), and spiritual gatherings.
• **Accessibility and Inclusivity:** Dedicated to providing sanctuary for those who have experienced oppression or discrimination, the center actively welcomes **LGBTQIA+ individuals and groups** and people of all spiritual paths.

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The distinguishing features of Camp Gaea center on its natural environment, its commitment to community, and the unique amenities that support spiritual and recreational activities.

• **The Lake:** Features a **12-acre lake with a sandy swimming area**, perfect for quiet reflection, lakeside ceremonies, or simply diving into the stillness.
• **Community Spaces:** Includes a **large Pavilion with a stage**, multiple established **fire circles** (including designated Main Ritual and Bardic fire circles on Sunset Ridge), and open spaces for sports and activities.
• **Nature Immersion:** The 168 acres offer **tranquil wooded trails**, open meadows, and secluded spots for **meditation**, allowing visitors to connect with nature in a peaceful setting.
• **Strong Community Ethos:** The center operates on the principles of **Respect Yourself, Respect Others, and Respect the Land**, creating a nurturing atmosphere where people feel free to be themselves and discover a sense of belonging.
• **Educational Focus:** Hosts a variety of events, including **educational workshops** and gatherings designed to build connections, encourage the free exchange of ideas, and support spiritual growth.
• **Volunteerism:** The land is maintained by volunteers through Earth Rising, Inc., fostering a community where individuals can actively contribute to the upkeep and mission of the center.

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For Kansans interested in camping, renting facilities for an exclusive event, or learning more about the community and volunteer opportunities at Gaea Retreat Center, you can reach out via the following contact information. Note that the address provided confirms its location near Tonganoxie.

• **Address:** Tonganoxie, KS 66086, USA (The official address is 25110 235th St., Tonganoxie, KS—a short distance from the initial general location)
• **Phone:** (816) 358-8750 (This number is common for the GSKSMO area and may be a general contact point for the non-profit organization operating the site.)
• **Mobile Phone / Direct Contact:** +1 816-358-8750

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Camp Gaea Retreat Center is the definitive choice for Kansas users who value **radical inclusivity, spiritual freedom, and an authentic, volunteer-maintained natural environment**. What is truly worth choosing here is the feeling of **sanctuary and belonging** that permeates the 168 acres. This is a place specifically created to provide a haven for all spiritual traditions and marginalized communities, ensuring a judgment-free space that is rare to find.

Beyond the social atmosphere, the **12-acre lake with a swimming area** and the abundance of tent camping and rustic cabin options provide the perfect backdrop for personal renewal or large group celebrations. Guests consistently praise the strong community and the helpfulness of the volunteers. Whether you are looking for an affordable spot for **day camping**, a facility to host an **exclusive event**, or simply a place where you can connect with nature under a deep, quiet Kansas sky, Camp Gaea offers a nurturing and deeply respected environment unlike any other in the region.