History   
 

 


In 1970, Kirk Conragan (Curator of the Josephine Randall Jr. Museum in San Francisco) proposed to Rev. John Powell (Priest at St. Andrew's Church in San Bruno), the idea of a Camp Program. The program was intended to introduce nature to inner-city kids; provide an outreach program for the church; and lastly, provide an extension for their own youth program at St. Andrews. Kirk, John, their wives and other families at St. Andrews set up a five year plan. Their combined experience provided the necessary knowledge needed. In addition, Kirk coordinated and taught a nature course at Skyline College to train the staff that first year. Camp St. Andrews was intended to be short-lived, but is continuing today stronger than ever.

Of the early camp participants about 1/2 were members of the church in San Bruno and the remainder inner-city children from San Mateo and San Francisco counties. Many of the Counselor-age staff were friends and classmates of the St. Andrew's members. As the camp expanded, participants began inviting their friends, family, and classmates. Within just a few years, campers were coming from other cities, counties, and states. Many of the campers and staff now come from the East Bay and Marin.

Diocese of California

In 1998, St. Andrew's Parish returned to Mission status within the Diocese of California, and Camp St. Andrews became a program of the Diocese of California. Camp St. Andrews has big plans for growth, and we are currently exceeding those expectations. Camp St. Andrews is a one week program, but is planning on expanding to handle our increased attendance. We have also begun exploratory discussions to locate property to serve as a permanent location and home.

Take a trip thru history and look at our PAST YEARS' CAMP PHOTOS.