Lumsden Beach Camp History

As summer draws to a close I thought that it would be fitting to examine a site that has been the source of faith and friendship for area youth for over 100 years. In 1905, Lumsden Beach Summer School was established under the leadership of Rev. John Doyle, a Methodist minister of Lumsden and district. As a part of the programming, Rev. Doyle held Summer School Camps on the west shore of Last Mountain Lake.


In 1908, Lumsden Beach Summer School was recognized as the first church camp in western Canada. The camp was under the auspices of the Methodist Church, Epworth League, Sunday School Workers, W.M.S. and other church workers.

Most people travelled to the camp by either riding the Qu'Appelle Steamer or taking the train to Lumsden. Wilkies Livery supplied transportation from Lumsden to the camp for 50 cents each for groups of two or more. For those who chose to make their own way to the camp, there was a good pasture for their horses not far from the camp grounds.

In the early days of the camp, people were asked to supply their own tents; however, a limited number of tents were available for those in need. Campers were also asked to bring ground sheets and straw ticks - before the air mattress, a large sack like structure was filled with straw to be used as a portable bed. It was also suggested that campers bring plenty of blankets, quilts and cushions, as nights were cool.

The Ladies Aid of Lumsden spared no effort in providing good wholesome and well served meals. Breakfast and supper cost 25 cents and dinner 35 cents.

The Dining Hall was the first camp building was erected. Built in 1911, the Dining Hall was eventually, enlarged to include living quarters the 150 campers that made their way to Lumsden Beach each summer.

In 1912, the Tin Temple was erected. The building provided a place for worship and gatherings on cold, wet days. It could seat about 250 people. In 1917, the Leaders Lodge was built and in 1925, when the bell tents and walled tents were retired, the first cabins were built.

It was interesting to note that in those days swimming was not allowed on Sundays at the camp. The quiet time was an opportunity for campers to reflect without distraction and for groups to conduct study sessions. Campers would often beg to go in the lake to cool off during hot summer days, but the answer was always a firm, “No”. Some campers just wouldn’t take no for an answer so they would hike down the lake to a beach out of sight of the camp leaders to go for a swim - this site became known as Sunday Beach or Bible Beach and is the stretch of beach in front of the present camp site.

Lumsden Beach Camp continues to offer its unique ministry through summer programs for children, youth, and adults from all backgrounds. Although much has changed over the years, the camping traditions and values have remained strong. Today, people from diverse backgrounds participate in the camp as campers, leaders, staff as well as board and committee members.

Adapted, with permission, from the Lumsden Beach Camp website.