Lake Doniphan, first opened to the public in 1944, is still a favorite Excelsior Springs spot for camping and retreat style events. The lodge and grounds offer outdoor games, swimming, fishing, archery, boating, and campfires and lodging. Lake Doniphan used to be a hunting lodge, but since being acquired by a non-profit with some affiliations with the Community of Christ Church, it now hosts activities year-round for those in the community and surrounding areas. Randall Pratt, Lake Doniphan board president, said, “Most of the guests that come to Lake Doniphan are not connected to the Community of Christ Church.” Several groups utilize the camping and retreat center throughout the summer, including special needs camps such as Camp Quality for youth with cancer, a developmentally disabled camp, and a spina bifida camp. “Children can come and have an experience in a setting with a higher level of care for their medical needs,” Pratt said. “It’s such a blessing for those children to…