Centennial Celebration

Mission Springs Established in 1926

In 1923, during the second State Covenant Conference, a dedicated “land committee” embarked on a mission to find a suitable property for a summer camp. After two years of diligent searching, the committee discovered a picturesque 45-acre site in the Santa Cruz Mountains, which was purchased for $6,000 from the Houghton Family by the Swedish Evangelical Missionary Association of California. This land, now known as Mission Springs, was envisioned as a permanent venue for summer conferences and has since expanded to encompass 200 acres of stunning natural beauty. The name “Mission Springs” was thoughtfully proposed by Miss Carolyn Engstrom of Oakland, inspired by the mission-driven purpose of the conferences and the presence of a crystal-clear spring on the grounds. Today, Mission Springs stands as a testament to its rich history and enduring commitment to fostering a mission-minded community

Over the decades, Mission Springs has seen significant developments. In 1930, the first permanent indoor meeting space, known as the Tabernacle, was dedicated. The 1940s saw the construction of Fireside Hall, and in 1955, a swimming pool was added to the facilities. The outdoor Redwood sanctuary, Cathedral Grove, was enlarged and improved in 1957. Despite a fire in 1961 that destroyed the original Laurel Lodge, a new lodge was rebuilt in 1963. The 1960s also saw the construction of the Redwood Memorial Chapel and a new Worship Center to accommodate the growing number of attendees

In 1967, the Frontier Ranch youth camp was established, followed by the Horse Ranch program in 1975. The Mission Springs Outdoor Education program began in 1978, emphasizing hands-on science and team-building activities. The 1990s and 2000s brought further enhancements, including the Wild Oak Camp for senior high and junior high students and the construction of new facilities like the Frontier Lodge and a modern water treatment plant

Mission Springs continues to evolve, with recent additions such as a new covered sports court and amphitheater in 2018. The remodel of the pool, Redwood Chapel, Laurel Lodge and a new Welcome Center is helping to set up Mission Springs for the next one-hundred years.

Mission Springs remains a cherished retreat, dedicated to its mission of providing a space for spiritual growth, community building, and environmental stewardship