Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Summer Camp & Retreat Center in Washington State
Founded in 1957, Sunset Lake is a non-profit summer camp and retreat center nestled in the foothills of Mount Rainier on 400 acres of pristine forest and mountain lakes. Accredited by the American Camp Association, we are owned and operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, welcoming all to experience grace through inclusive community and outdoor adventures. Our programs include eight weeks of summer camps for ages 6-17, designed as mountain expeditions fostering leadership and personal growth. We offer year-round horsemanship programs with a 10-level riding curriculum, guided trail rides, and horse-themed events at The Ranch. As a premier retreat destination, our facilities accommodate up to 500 guests for meetings, events, and weekend retreats, featuring flexible meeting spaces, comfortable housing, and recreational activities.Over 60 years of service have established us as a trusted destination for churches, youth groups, schools, and civic organizations across the Pacific Northwest. Our team of experienced instructors and staff prioritize safety, skill development, and creating memorable experiences that connect participants with nature and each other. From Foothills Camp for younger adventurers to Summit Camp for teens, our age-specific programs ensure appropriate challenges and growth opportunities. The Ranch's herd of horses, cared for by dedicated professionals, supports both recreational and educational activities. Our commitment to accessibility includes scholarship programs and family-friendly options like Family Camp Out, ensuring these transformative experiences remain available to all.
Services
Summer Camps
Retreat Programs
Horseback Riding Lessons
Trail Rides
Group Events
Youth Leadership Programs
Family Camp Out
Horse-Themed Events
Camp Scholarships
Outdoor Adventures
Details
- Year established: 1957
Highlights and features
- 60+ years of experience delivering transformative outdoor experiences
- American Camp Association accredited safety and programming standards
- Experienced Seventh-day Adventist-led staff with specialized training
- Year-round horsemanship program with 10-level skill progression curriculum
- Scenic 400-acre Mount Rainier foothills location with modern facilities
Associations and certifications
- American Camp Association
Services
Summer Camps
Our summer camps transform the experience into a mountain expedition metaphor, with age-specific programs (6-17 years) fostering leadership and personal growth. Activities include outdoor adventures, team-building exercises, and spiritual development through nature immersion. Each session builds character while creating lasting memories in a safe, supportive environment.
Horseback Riding Lessons
The Ranch offers a structured 10-level riding curriculum for beginners to intermediates, with certified instructors and diverse horse breeds. Lessons focus on skill development, confidence building, and various riding styles including jumping and barrel racing. Participants earn achievement certificates as they progress through the program.
Trail Rides
Explore scenic mountain trails from horseback with guided rides that emphasize safety, horsemanship, and nature appreciation. These adventures include educational components about horse care and trail navigation while showcasing the camp's natural beauty across 400 acres of forest and lakes.
Retreat Programs
Our retreat center hosts groups of up to 500 with customized programming for churches, schools, and organizations. Facilities include meeting spaces, lodging for 300, and recreational activities like lake swimming and campfires. Packages accommodate day visits to weekend-long events with flexible scheduling options.
Youth Leadership Development
Through progressive camp experiences, we cultivate leadership skills using a mountain expedition framework. Programs emphasize teamwork, responsibility, and spiritual growth through structured challenges and reflective activities designed to shape character and build confidence.
Questions
What age groups do your summer camps serve?
We offer programs for ages 6-17, including Discovery Day Camps (6-13), Foothills Camp (8-11), and Summit Camp (14-17).
Are horseback riding lessons available year-round?
Yes, our horsemanship program operates year-round with structured lessons and trail rides available seasonally.
Can groups book retreat facilities outside summer months?
Our retreat center accommodates groups year-round with meeting spaces for 500 and lodging for 300 guests.
What accreditation does Sunset Lake hold?
We are accredited by the American Camp Association, ensuring adherence to rigorous safety and programming standards.
How do scholarships work for summer camp attendance?
We offer the Camper Fund scholarship program to ensure accessibility for families needing financial assistance.