Let’s Build Bergstrom

written by admin_user | April 25, 2017

From 1972 until 2012, Peter and Vicki Bergstrom transformed Camp Stevens from a summer only facility to the thriving, year round, ecologically minded, community centered operation it is today. Their leadership continues to inspire camp staff, as well as hundreds of alumni and friends across southern California and the Episcopal Church. Caring parents, avid travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and giving friends to so many, the Bergstroms are worthy of a lodge named in their honor. Bergstrom Lodge is our opportunity to say “Thank You” to Peter and Vicki, the couple who gave Camp Stevens so much.

Ground is Broken for the New Bergstrom Lodge

At Camp Stevens, guests, campers and friends experience the wonder, beauty, and diversity of creation and leave this peaceful place apart more open, connected and full of gratitude. Bergstrom Lodge will provide opportunities for transfomration by welcoming gutestsw into private, comfortable spaces to sleep and gather with views of Volcan Mountain and access to delicious, home cooked meals and the warm hospitality of camp staff. Over 100 people attended the groundbreaking celebration on March 5, remembering the story of the land where Bergstrom Lodge will stand. There is more work to be done. Join the effort by making a donation or pledge today to help build Bergstrom.

The Transformation

Built in 1961 and renovated in the early 2000s, the building known as the Infirmary, St. Luke’s, St. Aidan’s and eventually Lax-Sadler Lodge was home to summer camp nurses, youth group programs and family and adult retreats. It is at this location that the new Bergstrom Lodge will be built. In 2007, the Angel Fire ripped through Camp Stevens, burning 15 buildings and over 100 acres of forest. Today the forest has recovered with maturing manzanitas, coulter pines and oaks. All camp buildings except the Bergstrom Lodge have been repaired or replaced. In order to provide necessary beds for retreat guests, summer counselors and staff, and for retreat income during the rebuilding, three canvas yurts were constructed. Each slept eight to ten people with internal plumbing and electricity. The new Bergstrom Lodge will welcome and revitalize our guests with comfortable private rooms to rest and with emeting spaces for individuals and groups to find ways to transform their communities.

Lodge Features

  • Eight hotel style rooms
  • One to four people per room
  • Private bathrooms for each room
  • Linens (optional)
  • Two meeting spaces for up to 40 people with Internet access
  • Outdoor promenade
  • James Hubbell designed patio, fire pit and indoor fireplaces

You Can Make a Difference

Whether you have been inspired by your own experience, or your child’s, we need your help reaching our goal. Please make a gift to Bergstrom Lodge or one of these lodge projects:

John Horton Meeting Room
Join staff and counselor alumni raising $100,000 honoring the leadership and friendship of John Horton, who retired in 2016 after 41 years at Camp Stevens

Outdoor Adventure Spaces
Have you gone on a Camp Stevens adventure to the Sierras or Baja or traveled overseas with Peter and Vicki? Honor those memories with a contribution to the Lodge’s outdoor spaces designed by James Hubbell.

Giving Opportunities
Projects are also underway in Bergstrom Lodge to honor Bishop Borsch and Dean Hall and in fond memory of Joe and Phyllis Golowka. Contact Executive Director Beth Bojarski for details.