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History
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Lake Retreat is a Christ-centered camping ministry operated by the
Columbia Baptist Conference
of the Baptist General Conference.
The history of Lake Retreat Camp & Conference Center is a story
of God's provision, blessing and divine timing. Ten years before the current site was purchased,
God placed a vision in the hearts of the Columbia Baptist Conference (CBC) leadership. They knew
that Christian camping was a dynamic means of reaching people with the good news of Jesus Christ.
Their vision was for the CBC to provide this life-changing ministry within the Pacific Northwest.
Without fully realizing the potential of their dream, this group of dedicated men and women launched
into a venture that God has abundantly blessed.
With the importance of the camping ministry in the forefront of their minds, these men and women
spent years seeking and praying for the site God had chosen. The search for a camp site continued
through World War II until May 25, 1946 when twelve members of the conference board toured the
"Old Raymer's Resort" on Lake Retreat. Finally, after ten years of waiting, God turned a vision
into reality... this was the place. The property included 900 feet of lake front, ten cottages,
a two-story lodge (Bethany Lodge) and a few other buildings. The years of waiting were over: the
board voted unanimously to purchase the 25 acre property for $25,000. The Lake Retreat Baptist
Camping ministry was born.
God further demonstrated His provision by using the aftermath of World War II to supply needed
inventory. The War Assets Administration gave Lake Retreat an excellent deal on beds, mattresses,
utensils, stoves, tents, and tables. In August of 1946, less than 90 days after purchasing the
land, Lake Retreat hosted it's first summer camp. All three hundred and fifty boys and girls
attending the Young People's Bible Conference had a roof over their head (although many roofs
were canvas), a bed, and a place to eat.
Over the years the vision and ministry has grown. Support from people and churches in the CBC has
made possible the purchase of additional acreage and the construction of several important buildings.
With expanded facilities and improved programs the effectiveness of the ministry increased.
From it's humble beginnings as the site for a once-a-year summer Bible Conference, Lake Retreat has
grown into a beautiful year-round Christian camp and conference center where men, women and children
are led to Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior. There is no doubt that God has used this camping
ministry to accomplish His purpose in thousands of lives.
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