82 years ago, Arthur Gregory donated his land to become Thousand Pines Christian Camp.
Today, the camp he wanted to see started is now operating the lake that he created.
From its roots in Arthur Gregory’s logging camp - to its newest venture as operator of Lake Gregory, it appears that God has truly brought Thousand Pines full circle.
1937
Redlands citrus rancher Arthur Gregory Sr. envisions a lake in the mountain community of Crestline, where his family enjoyed spending time under the pines. The work of constructing the lake begins.
1938
The lake is nearly completed and filled by heavy March rains over just three days (It was expected to take three years to fill). The lake is named in Gregory’s honor.
1939
Gregory owned many other parcels of land, including Thousand Pines Camp, which began because of its location with individual camping sites in the 1890s, and the camp was developed over the years into a vacation resort. During the construction of Lake Gregory, workers stayed at the cabins at Thousand Pines.
When the lake was finished in 1939, Gregory, inspired by his faith, initially donated 10 acres to the Southern California Baptist Convention to start a campground and retreat center.
2019
2019 was the most successful year in the history of Thousand Pines. After 80 years, Thousand Pines has grown into a 255-acre camp and retreat property while serving over 30,000 guests per year!
San Bernardino County ended its relationship with the previous lake concessionaire.
2020
The last of the Gregory Estate funds spearhead a miraculous wave of donations that help keep Thousand Pines afloat through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Thousand Pines submits a bid to become the next operator of Lake Gregory Regional Park.
2021
Thousand Pines creates The Lake Gregory Company and takes over management of the alpine recreation getaway under a 15-year contract unanimously approved by the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, February 9, 2021.
The contract signed allots $1.65 million for capital improvements, repairs, deferred maintenance, and modernization projects.
82 years after Arthur Gregory donated his land to become Thousand Pines Christian Camp... the camp he wanted to see started is now operating the lake he created.
From its roots in Arthur Gregory’s logging camp - to its newest venture as operator of Lake Gregory, it appears that God has indeed brought Thousand Pines full circle.
is often measured by financial gain, choosing to value moments, relationships, and personal growth feels refreshing and empowering. It reminds me of how much our lives can feel like a balancing act—sometimes you want that lively energy of dressing up in yacht party attire, while other times, it's all about finding peace in the everyday. Jonna’s journey shows how meaningful it is to design a life that’s rich in experiences rather than just numbers.