ROCKAWAY BEACH, OR – Camp Magruder, a cherished United Methodist coastal camp and retreat center, invites the community to join in two exciting events this May to celebrate its rich history and share the magic of camp life.
“For 80 years, Camp Magruder has been a place of adventure, reflection, and lifelong friendships,” said Troy Taylor, camp director. “We can’t wait to welcome campers past and present to celebrate this milestone together.”
The first event is today May 24th for past camp attendees and then next Saturday May 31st, there is a community celebration and open house.
80th Anniversary Celebration – Saturday, May 24, 10 AM to 7:30 PM Join us in commemorating 80 years of adventure, friendship, and cherished memories at Camp Magruder. Guests will reconnect with fellow alumni, explore the scenic campgrounds, and participate in classic camp activities. Highlights include: Singing around the campfire, story-sharing sessions, meals in Carrier Dining Hall (complimentary lunch, dinner available for a fee)and a special one-hour evening train ride from Camp Magruder to Garibaldi and back The event is free to attend, though donations are encouraged. Dinner costs: $15 for adults, $13 for ages 5-17, and free for children under 5.
Community Open House – Saturday, May 31, 10 AM to 2 PM
Discover the magic of camp life at our special Open House! This event offers a perfect opportunity for locals to experience what makes Camp Magruder so unique. Activities include:
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Archery and boating adventures
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Guided and self-guided tours of the campgrounds
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Cabin tours and insights into the camp experience
“Camp Magruder has been a special place for campers of all ages to experience nature, adventure, and community,” said Taylor. “We’re excited to welcome our neighbors and friends to see what makes camp so unique.”
This event is free and open to all. Whether you’re a returning camper or discovering Camp Magruder for the first time, it’s a day of fun and exploration for the whole family. For more information, visit bit.ly/Magruder80th.
Camp Magruder History
Based on excerpts from the 1995 book “A Camp Magruder History” by the Rev. Marvin D. Jones:
“Dr. Magruder was one of the twenty-five men brought out to the Barview by Rev. Jesse Bunch in 1937. According to Bunch, Magruder was slow to be won over to the site. Yet, once convinced of the need for action, Magruder took it upon himself to become involved. Magruder, in a report to the 1942 Annual Conference session, presented a resolution to offer to the owners of the Barview site the sum of $6,000 for purchase of the property. His motion was adopted and soon thereafter, the Jackson family (long time owners of the property) accepted, and the Barview site came into Methodist hands on March 19, 1943.
In the summer of 1945, the first “official” Methodist Youth Institutes were held on Methodist property on the Oregon coast. The dream of so many had become a reality at last. Two years later, on July 4, 1947, in an official dedication service, the Barview site was officially named Camp Magruder.
Dr. Frank Abbott Magruder was a native of Virginia, educated at Princeton, and a professor of political science and international relations at Oregon State College (now OSU) in Corvallis. His avocation was writing high school textbooks, and in this endeavor he was very successful. He chose to live on his teaching salary and used the considerable royalties from his books to support church work and other charity causes. His interest in youth related work was considerable.”
A little slice of heaven between the Pacific Ocean and Smith Lake in Rockaway Beach, Oregon. Escape everyday worries and rediscover the joy of living in Christian community. Whether you are a summer camper or attending with your church, school, non-profit, or community organization, come and leave your footprints in the sand and take home memories to last a lifetime! www.campmagruder.org