Shaping Lives Through Faith Since 1959

Rooted in resilience and Christian values, Pine Springs has inspired over 30,000 campers to find purpose and community since its founding.

Founding and Early Years

(1959–1989)

Visionary Beginnings: Founded in 1959 by Brother Vernon Cone with a mission to “win over the hearts and minds of young people” from Southwest congregations.

From its inception, Pine Springs grew into a ministry hub. These early years laid a strong foundation for its enduring legacy of faith and community outreach.

Early Impact: Welcomed an estimated 15,000 campers and staff over three decades, creating a significant spiritual influence.

Original Facilities: Constructed cabins, pump house, bathhouse, dining hall, kitchen, Quonset hut, nurse’s quarters, canteen, laundry, cook’s quarters, and chapel.

The Fire & Recovery

(1989)

In June of 1989, a fire destroyed much of the camp, wiping out the dining hall, kitchen, Quonset hut, nurse’s quarters, canteen, laundry, cook’s quarters, and chapel.

Surviving Structures: Only the cabins, bathhouse, and “the Hilton” remained standing. We were was faced a pivotal decision—sell the camp or rebuild it.

Resilient Response: Dedicated individuals opted to save Pine Springs, scheduling three camp sessions that summer using tents.

Community Effort: Despite rain, mud, broken buses, and leaks, the Sacramento Assembly helped feed campers and sustain meaningful sessions.

“Many campers felt this was the best session they had ever attended,” a testament to the camp’s spirit.

This challenging time sparked a new era: “Rising from the Ashes.”

Rebuilding and Growth

(1989–1999)

Despite the fire devastating much of the camp, Pine Springs never skipped a summer, hosting sessions every year.

This decade marked a powerful resurgence for Pine Springs. Far from merely recovering, the camp expanded its reach and reinforced its mission, laying the groundwork for a lasting legacy of spiritual growth.

Camper Reach: Attracted more than 12,000 campers (to be refined), with many embracing Christ and being baptized.

New Facilities: Built five major structures with donor and volunteer support—chapel (1989), recreation center (1990), dining hall (1992), caretaker’s cabin (1995), and log cabin (1996).