Laurel Lake Celebrates 70 Years of Impacting Lives

Story by Tamyra Horst

When the Pennsylvania Conference purchased a 150-acre farm outside of Smithport, Pa., in the spring of 1954, it was a dream to create a camp facility for children and families. Leaders would buy additional properties and add to the new camp, and in December 1954, it was voted to call this new ministry Laurel Lake Camp.

Organizers held a four-day summer camp in 1955 for 30 boys from the community. The following year, the conference offered two weeks of “summer training camp,” inviting churches to send children to this new summer camp program.

In 1974, the pool was built, thanks to the leadership of Jere Patzer, then-youth director, and Pennsylvania Pathfinder clubs that raised $20,000 through bike-athons. At summer camp that year, 148 young people made decisions for Christ through baptism.

In the late 1980s, Baker Lodge was built in three phases, led by Don Baker, who served as youth director and for whom the new facility was named. Cabins and activities have been added throughout the years as the camp continues to impact lives and create a space for people to encounter God.

This year, Laurel Lake will celebrate its 70th birthday Oct. 5, 2024. Join camp staff there at 9:30 a.m. for a Pathfinder parade, followed by a worship service featuring President Gary Gibbs. Bring your pictures and memories, take a hayride tour of the camp and learn more of its history. Visit paconference.org/events for more information and to purchase Sabbath meal tickets.