In 1945 one-quarter mile of beautiful beach front property in Angola, New York, along with 75 acres of woodlands, cabins, picnic areas, and grounds were purchased from the Y.M.C.A. by the Western New York Lutheran Laymen's League. This treasure became known to all of us as Camp Pioneer.."a warm place in the Son".

Camp Pioneer was purchased from the W.N.Y. Lutheran Laymen's League in 1991 by the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod Eastern District and their 150 member congregations that encompass half of New York, all of Pennsylvania, and parts of Maryland. Incorporated in 1991, Pioneer Camp and Retreat Center, Inc. continues to provide the same quality Christian and educational opportunities to residents of New York, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan and other states, since 1945. Pioneer welcomes all and does not discriminate against anyone because of race, creed, or religion.

Since 1945 summer resident camping programs have been provided to families, children, teens and seniors. In 1976 Pioneer became a year round facility and began running various outdoor education programs for schools and a successful program for developmentally disabled children and adults in addition to the existing summer program.

Today Pioneer serves over 10,000 people annually, providing Christian community experiences for people of all ages and from all walks of life. Pioneer is open and active every month of the year. Resident summer programs offer a unique experience providing positive role models and an opportunity to live in Christian fellowship with one another. Diverse programs for children 6 - 12, teens 13 - 17, families and developmentally disabled children and adults impact not only their lives, but their relationship with their families and their communities as well.

Winterized facilities operate year round and are suitable for families, youth, teens, and adults. Retreat facilities open up opportunities for seminars, workshops, events and retreats that strengthen families, congregations, councils, groups and individuals of all ages.

Pioneer has been a treasured gathering place where God's marvelous creation inspires us to grow as Christians, strengthen our faith, and put God's word into action. There is literally no place like it. Pioneer has offered a first hand experience in Christian living to thousands of people. It has enriched peoples' lives, helped them to build relationships, and serves as the basis for life long relationships. In many cases it has prepared individuals for professional church work. Pioneer has served as a resource for churches and schools. It is a place for inspiration and meditation, for service and relaxation, for education and reflection, for body, mind and soul. It is truly "a warm place in the Son" and will continue to be this and more.