Discover the Journey of Wilderness Lake Retreat

The Founding Vision

In the late 1950s, a group of rugged loggers working deep within the Mount Jefferson Wilderness stumbled upon something extraordinary—a pristine hidden lake tucked away in the quiet valleys of Central Oregon. To many, it might have been just another beautiful landmark in the vast Oregon wilderness, but to these men it was a revelation. They saw more than still waters and tall pines; they envisioned a place where children could escape the bustle of everyday life, grow in faith, and experience the beauty of God’s creation.

The idea of a kids’ camp on the lake’s shores quickly took root. The dream, however, required more than enthusiasm. First, permits had to be secured to cut a road through the rugged forest so the site could be reached by vehicles. It was no small undertaking. Constructing access to the lake demanded both vision and determination, but the founders pressed on, convinced they were building something that would last for generations.

Their vision resonated beyond the logging camps. Soon, nine Central Oregon churches united around the dream, pooling resources, volunteers, and prayers. Together, they formed the Round Lake Christian Camp nonprofit, an organization committed to establishing a permanent home for youth ministry in the wilderness. Their collective effort embodied the spirit of community, each congregation bringing its own strengths and support to the table.

With the nonprofit established, the group approached the U.S. Forest Service and successfully secured a long-term lease for the property. This pivotal step transformed the vision into a tangible reality. What began as a discovery by a few outdoorsmen had blossomed into a faith-driven movement supported by multiple congregations, ready to build something enduring.

The founding of Round Lake Christian Camp was not simply about creating cabins and trails. It was about cultivating a sacred space where young people could build character, form friendships, and grow spiritually. That hidden lake, once known only to a handful of loggers, became the heart of a community’s mission—a place where faith and wilderness would come together to shape lives for decades to follow.

The Expanding Camp

The 1970s marked a period of exciting growth and transformation for the camp. What had begun in the previous decade as a modest retreat tucked away in the wilderness was now blossoming into a vibrant space that could welcome more campers and create a stronger sense of community. With an ever-growing number of children and church groups eager to experience the rustic charm of the camp, leaders knew it was time to expand both comfort and capacity.

One of the most notable additions of the decade was the construction of a shower house. While tents and cabins provided shelter, campers had long made do with limited facilities for personal care. The new shower house offered a welcome improvement, providing clean, reliable amenities that elevated the overall camp experience. For young people spending days hiking, swimming, and exploring, this was more than just a convenience—it represented a real investment in health, comfort, and the feeling of being cared for during their stay.

Alongside the shower house, a small meeting hall was also built. This space became the beating heart of camp gatherings, a place where groups could share stories, plan activities, and join together for devotionals or rainy-day lessons. The meeting hall allowed for flexible use, serving as a classroom, fellowship space, or even a venue for camp leadership to plan the future. It symbolized the camp’s growing role as not just a recreational site, but a place of teaching, reflection, and personal growth.

Perhaps the most inspiring addition of the 1970s was the creation of an outdoor amphitheater. Nestled against the natural backdrop of the forest and lake, the amphitheater gave campers a place to come together under the open sky for worship services, skits, and evening programs. It captured the essence of camp life—combining faith, friendship, and the beauty of the outdoors into one unforgettable setting.

By the end of the 1970s, the camp was no longer simply a rustic retreat; it had become a well-equipped sanctuary where young people could connect with nature, strengthen their faith, and build lasting relationships. The expansions of this era laid the groundwork for the thriving camp community that would continue to flourish in the decades ahead.

Storm Damage

In the winter of 1999, a fierce snowstorm swept through the Mount Jefferson Wilderness, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Among the hardest hit structures was the camp’s beloved old lodge, a centerpiece that had served as a gathering place for countless groups and activities. Built decades earlier, the lodge stood as both a functional hub and a symbol of the camp’s enduring spirit. But when the heavy snow piled onto its aging roof, the weight became too much, causing severe structural damage that shook the community to its core.

The damage was not just physical—it was emotional. For many, the lodge represented more than wood and nails. It held memories of summer retreats, youth gatherings, and shared stories around warm fires. To see it weakened by the relentless forces of nature was a sobering reminder of how vulnerable even the most cherished places can be.

In the aftermath, immediate repairs were made. Dedicated volunteers and skilled workers worked tirelessly to reinforce the compromised structure, patching the most critical weak points so the lodge could continue to function. Their efforts reflected a determination not to let the storm erase a piece of history. Despite these measures, however, the building never fully regained its former strength. The repairs extended the lodge’s life, but its bones had been shaken.

This lingering vulnerability became a concern for everyone invested in the camp’s future. Each new winter carried with it the worry that another heavy snowfall could once again threaten the lodge. Although the repairs bought time, they also underscored a pressing reality: the structure’s long-term survival was uncertain.

The 1999 storm served as both a challenge and a lesson. It highlighted the resilience of the community and the value placed on preserving its history, but it also revealed the ongoing battle between human craftsmanship and nature’s power. While the lodge endured beyond that winter, the memory of its fragility lingered, reminding everyone that stewardship of such places requires vigilance, planning, and sometimes the courage to rebuild anew.

Growth and Vision

Wilderness Lakes Retreat has always been a place where people could step away from the busyness of life and reconnect with what matters most. Over the years, this special destination has continued to evolve, growing not only in its facilities but also in its mission. What began as a retreat centered primarily around youth camps has steadily broadened its scope, becoming a haven for families, organizations, and community groups seeking renewal, connection, and purpose.

Expanding Facilities and Services

Recent years have brought an intentional focus on growth. The retreat’s leadership has recognized that to remain vibrant, the camp must continue to expand its offerings. From updating lodging and recreational areas to improving meeting spaces and amenities, every enhancement is designed to ensure that guests have the tools and environment they need for rest and reflection. These upgrades not only increase comfort but also open the door for hosting a wider variety of events, ranging from church retreats and school gatherings to family reunions and corporate team-building sessions.