Björklunden (pronounced Bee- york´-lun-den) is an integral part of every Lawrence student’s college experience. A lodge situated on a 425-acre parcel of waterfront property on Lake Michigan, Björklunden is visited by different student groups every weekend of the academic year. Student organizations visit to plan events, academic departments visit to bond and further the academic experience, musical and dramatic groups visit to practice and perform – and all are able to take advantage of beautiful indoor accommodations and outdoor environment.
In June of 2007, a 20,000 square-foot addition to the Björklunden main lodge was completed, adding ten new bedrooms, a new multi-purpose room, a second seminar room, a computer room, a mudroom for the sciences, and an observation deck for a telescope.
Retreats to Björklunden are completely funded for students, and, in recompense for their weekend experience, each student completes certain cleaning and cooking chores – another great way to bond with your peers!
Though a weekend at Björklunden might have an academic focus, time is deliberately left open for social interaction – playing games, watching movies, hiking, playing capture the flag outside, or just plain hanging out. Many Lawrence students cite Björklunden, and getting to spend out of class time with their peers and professors, as one of the most memorable and important parts of their college experience.