Camp Wawona Lodge Renovation Campaign Aims to Raise $150,000 by Year's End

CLOVIS, Calif. — The Central California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists has launched a $150,000 fundraising campaign to renovate the main lodge at Camp Wawona, with an anonymous donor pledging to match contributions dollar-for-dollar up to $50,000 through Dec. 31, 2025.

Nestled among the towering pines of Yosemite National Park, Camp Wawona has served as a spiritual retreat center for generations of families across Central California. The lodge, built in 1958, stands at the heart of the camp’s ministry operations but now requires significant updates to meet modern needs.

“Camp Wawona has been a spiritual home for generations across our conference,” said President Ricardo J. Viloria. “Now we have the opportunity to renew its heart — the main lodge — ensuring this sacred space continues to inspire and serve God’s people for years to come.”

The renovation will modernize the 67-year-old facility, making it more functional, more comfortable, and more aligned with the ministry’s expanding programming. The lodge currently serves as the central hub for worship services, youth programs, retreats, and family gatherings throughout the year.

Transforming Lives Through Ministry

Youth and Young Adult Director Delinda Hamilton experienced the camp’s impact firsthand this summer.

“Campers who came looking for fun left with hearts on fire for Jesus,” Hamilton said. “We saw young people give their lives to Christ, and entire families follow them in baptism. Camp Wawona isn’t just a place to stay — it’s where lives are transformed.”

Camp Director Brian Simons echoed the urgent need for improvements.

“This building has served us well through decades filled with laughter, worship, and countless moments of commitment to Christ,” Simons said. “We’re working to create an even better environment for future generations.”

Vision from the Camp Wawona Operations Board

A key champion of this project is Camp Wawona Operations Board Chair Richard Dunn, who played an instrumental role in initiating the renovation and the fundraising effort. Dunn has supported Camp Wawona’s ministry for many years and helped guide the board through a prayerful review of the camp’s long-term master plan. 

“Our board spent time walking the campus, praying, and asking God where He is leading us next,” Dunn said. “The lodge emerged as our most immediate need. It’s a place where people seek peace, renewal, and spiritual connection. I’ve seen how Camp Wawona touches lives and strengthens faith. Every summer, guests arrive searching — and they leave renewed by God’s presence.”

Dunn offered a heartfelt invitation to every member of the conference family:

“By supporting this project, you’re not just renovating a building,” he said. “You’re helping restore a place where God continues to change lives. I invite you to stand with us so Camp Wawona can keep serving future generations.”

Investment in Future Generations

Camp Wawona remains a powerful place where young people meet Jesus, form friendships, and discover their purpose. Every gift to this renovation is more than a financial contribution — it is an investment in the next generation of Christ-centered leaders.

Every dollar given goes directly toward the renovation work and is managed with prayerful stewardship. Because of the matching fund opportunity, contributions now have double the impact:

• $25 becomes $50

• $100 becomes $200

• $1,000 becomes $2,000, and more

How to Contribute

Whether large or small, every contribution helps strengthen a place that has shaped generations of youth and families. With the matching fund in effect until Dec. 31, 2025, each donation is doubled.

You can give today at

Camp Wawona Lodge Renovation section on cccgift.org or simply click the button below.

Give Online to the Lodge Renovation

Mail checks to:

Central California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists

2820 Willow Ave. Clovis, CA 93612

Please note on the check: “Camp Wawona Lodge Renovation”

As the year-end approaches, this is a meaningful moment to make a difference. The renovation is not just about improving a building; it is about strengthening a place where children, youth, and families encounter God in life-changing ways.

Camp Wawona has blessed generations. With your gift—now doubled by the matching opportunity—we have the privilege of blessing generations to come.

Written by Justin Kim