History of The Woods
Celebrating 80 years of creating a sanctuary for drawing closer to Christ and for spiritual reflection and growth; to encourage stewardship of our natural resources through ecological education and action; and to strengthen our relationships with one another and our diverse communities.
80 Years of transformation
In June of 1946, the Presbytery of the Redwoods officially designated “Westminster Woods Day,” marking the moment this land became a public camp.
Word spread quickly. Volunteers rushed in, laying temporary pipelines, building wash stands with running water, assembling a fresh-air kitchen, and raising three large tents just across from the redwood grove. It was a massive communal effort — humble, hopeful, and the very beginning of the Westminster Woods we know and love today.
For the next several decades, camp operated much the same way, shaped by a shared belief in the power of sacred outdoor experiences.
the turning point
By the early 1960s, Westminster Woods transitioned to the leadership of United Camps, Conferences, and Retreats, an interdenominational organization. As times changed, the shift stirred questions and controversy. Many wondered whether Christian camp remained relevant in a rapidly evolving world.
In the early 1970s, the future of The Woods hung in the balance. The Presbytery faced a difficult decision: invest significant funding into the camp — or sell it.
During a pivotal meeting, Richard Nazarian stood up and asked for one chance to revitalize and reimagine Westminster Woods, against all odds. The Presbytery agreed. Funding followed. And a new era began.
Growth through the decades
The 1970s brought tremendous growth. Under decades of devoted leadership, The Woods expanded both physically and programmatically, becoming a place deeply rooted in community and transformation.
In 1994, the Nazarian family retired, leaving behind an enduring legacy woven into every part of camp — a legacy still felt today.
In 1997, Westminster Woods officially launched its Environmental Education program, opening The Woods to thousands of students and schools and ushering in a new chapter of environmental learning and connection.
community support
It wasn’t until 2008 that Westminster Woods became an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. While the Redwoods Presbytery continues to own the land, the camp is now governed by an independent Board of Directors.
Today’s Board includes:
Monte McClain (Board President), Amanda Wallace, Janine Bullis-Valine, Krista Seiden, Jeff Richards, Kelsey Ingalls, Jeff Fletcher, Sarah Harling, and the Nazarian family’s very own granddaughter, Cassie Carroll.
Today at The Woods
As an independent nonprofit, The Woods relies heavily on grants and donor support. Like many organizations, the 2020 pandemic brought immense challenges. Still, the strength of this community carried The Woods through, and it continues to persevere.
From the very beginning, Westminster Woods has grown through the generosity of its people — time, talent, and treasure offered by volunteers, donors, churches, alumni, and friends across the Presbytery and far beyond.
The Woods has never been built by a single person, but by a community that believed deeply in what happens here.
community support
This is only a glimpse into the long, vibrant story of Westminster Woods.
To explore more, we invite you to join us on April 25th, 2026, for our 80th Anniversary kickoff celebration, Day at The Woods. There, you’ll find a special historical display created by our Board of Directors and learn more about the generations who have crossed our beloved bridge.