Our Story

Wilderness Christian Assembly began in the mid-1960s when a small group of leaders from the Spencer Church of Christ took about 30 children to camp at Wilderness State Park near the Straits of Mackinac. The experience was powerful—kids loved it, and word quickly spread. Soon churches from across Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula joined together to create a place where young people could grow in faith, build friendships, and experience God’s creation.

After several years at temporary locations, Max McCool from the Spencer Church of Christ generously donated 40 acres from his family farm in Kinross. That land became the permanent home of Wilderness Christian Assembly.

Growing the Camp

The first permanent structure—a bathhouse—was built in 1972. Early campers slept in army tents set on concrete pads until cabins were constructed using logs milled locally. Over the years, volunteers from supporting churches continued to build and improve the camp, creating the facilities enjoyed today.

WCA has always been shaped by faithful leadership and dedicated volunteers. Long-time camp manager Bob Saxton served for 20 years beginning in 1994, and current manager Ted Peasley began serving in 2014 during a transition alongside Bob.

A Camp Built by Volunteers

Wilderness Christian Assembly is unique in that it is largely a volunteer-driven camp. With the exception of the camp manager, nearly every role—from kitchen staff to counselors to maintenance—is filled by volunteers from supporting churches who give their time to serve the next generation.

Today, WCA continues its mission of providing a Christ-centered place where youth, families, and churches can gather to grow in faith, build community, and enjoy God’s creation.

Be Part of the Story

For over 60 years, Wilderness Christian Assembly has been impacting lives through faith, community, and the beauty of God’s creation. Whether you attend camp, volunteer, or support the ministry, you become part of the continuing story of WCA.