Our Journey

Lazy F Camp and Retreat Center is located in the Manastash Canyon on the eastern foothills of the Cascade Mountains. The Yakima Indians called this area the Manastash, “place to dig,” including canyon, creek, lake, and ridge. They canvassed the endless canyons, hills, and ravines of this area for years digging for roots, gathering berries, and hunting animals.

In 1893 Gust Johnson started a working ranch on this property, raising 60 tons of hay and establishing a dairy farm. The property changed owners several times, but continued for that purpose for a number of years. In the mid-1930s, the Morris family from Seattle scoured the eastern side of the Cascade Mountains looking for a place for a Dude Ranch. In 1937 they settled on the Manastash Canyon, purchased land here and began construction on the Lazy F Ranch. Dr. Morrill and Mrs. Mildred Morris named it “Lazy F” for the French words: Laissez Faire, meaning “peace, rest, containment, and complete relaxation.” It was the first guest ranch in Washington state and thrived for a number of years. During World War II, they integrated a stock and dairy ranch to Lazy F. Upon the tragic death of their daughter Zelda in 1943 and the passing of Dr. Morris in 1945, Lazy F was sold.

In 1954 the Methodist Church purchased 100 acres of the Lazy F Ranch, 20 buildings and contents, 12 horses and one colt, 10 saddles and tack, and “use of the wrangler” (Larry Hightower) for $40,000. Lazy F started out as a “church camp” for the faith formation of children and youth, eventually expanding into use by non-profit groups and families.