In 1958, a group of Adventists in the Southeastern California Conference established the Palomar Nature Club, seeking to encourage young families to study God’s second book, the book of nature. Charles Martin and Harry Garlick of the education and M.V. departments sponsored the club. A pastor in Orange County, C. C. Cantwell, served seven years as the first president.

Beginning with 40 members, the club soon grew to more than 800. After sub-dividing into area groups, the entire club met over Labor Day weekend at the conference camp, then located in Idyllwild.

The club promoted nature hobbies and awarded prizes for the best displays. Erma Clark won a prize at an early session for collecting sticks and stones that resembled food. With a little imagination she set a table said to resemble a feast. Later, the club bought a boat and lapidary equipment and housed them in a war-surplus building at La Sierra College.

Over the years, the club has remained cohesive in fellowship. Many children of those early years are now parents with grown children of their own.

Today, the club no longer has area groups and members seldom camp in tents. They come to events with SUVs, trailers and motor homes, and prefer full hookups and club houses. Many venues are in the Inland Empire. Members who have quit camping still drive out for an all-day Sabbath experience.

The club camps together eight times a year from September to May. At a December banquet, members give an offering for a worthy project. The group has built churches in India and sponsored children in Adventist group homes.

Twice a year the club meets at Pine Springs Ranch (May and September) on a weekend preceding the retiree camp meeting. Some arrive Friday morning for a potluck breakfast of pancakes and hash browns. After a day of games and visiting, they gather for evening vespers, sometimes huddled under warm blankets. With its own video equipment, synthesizer and generator, the club can host visiting missionaries or nature speakers with audio-video presentations.

Following Sabbath worship, as many as 100 line up for potluck. In the afternoon some take a trip to the “springs” (bed springs), while others enjoy a nature walk or Bible discussion. The evening may include a campfire and table games.

Today, most members are retirees, some with modest campers and others with RVs that include portable satellite hookups to view 3ABN.

The club is eager to recruit members. Young families are welcome to preserve the continuity of the club. Alton Johnson is president and Joanne Revel, vice president. For information about the club, call John Rhodes, conference liaison, 951-687-2786.

Coming Club Events

September (4th weekend) – Pine Springs Ranch

October (3rd weekend) – Lake Skinner

November – to be announced

December – Christmas Banquet, Loma Linda University Campus Cafeteria