​Camping has played an integral role in the history of God’s people throughout the centuries. In the Old Testament, the Children of Israel journeyed and camped in the wilderness for forty years, learning to trust and follow God’s leading. Deuteronomy 23:14 reminds us that God’s presence was among them and that His desire for His people was holiness: “For the Lord your God walks in the midst of your camp to deliver you… therefore your camp must be holy.” With this truth in mind, our desire has always been to provide a place set apart—holy ground where people can sense God’s presence away from the distractions of the world.

This rhythm of stepping away is echoed in the life of Jesus. As He prepared for His earthly ministry, Jesus withdrew from the crowds and spent forty days in the wilderness fasting, praying, and seeking the Father (Luke 4:1–14). In that same spirit, Pioneer on the Lake exists to offer a retreat-centered environment dedicated to God—a place where individuals and families can lay aside the cares of daily life and reconnect with Him in a meaningful and renewing way.

Pioneer on the Lake is situated on 75 beautiful acres along Lake Shore Road in Angola, New York. For its first 30 years, the property served as a YMCA youth camp, establishing a strong foundation of community, outdoor fellowship, and ministry. In 1945, the land was acquired by the Pioneer District of the Lutheran Laymen’s League, and since that time has been operated by various branches of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, continuing its legacy as a place devoted to faith, service, and spiritual growth.

Today, Pioneer on the Lake is managed by Friends of Pioneer, Inc., a nonprofit organization, in partnership with the landowners, Concordia Lutheran Ministries of Cabot. Together, we steward this sacred space as a Christian camp and retreat center committed to honoring God while fostering community, worship, fellowship, and opportunities to serve both God and others.

Rooted in history and guided by faith, Pioneer on the Lake continues its mission of providing a place where lives are shaped, faith is strengthened, and God’s presence is experienced—generation after generation.