You may have read the exciting news last week that Camp Namanu, a pioneer in outdoor education, experiential learning, and its commitment to inclusivity and diversity, is now officially recognized as a National Historic District in the National Register of Historic Places! This designation honors the rich history and cultural significance of the camp, which has served as a beloved summer retreat since its founding in 1924 by the Camp Fire Girls organization.

Since 2018, Restore Oregon has collaborated closely with Camp Namanu staff, its Board of Directors, and preservation consultants to navigate the complex process of achieving National Historic District status through its Preservation Together Program, which provides Oregonians with free consulting advice to help them save and reuse historic places. “Camp Namanu holds a special place in Oregon's history due to its commitment to inclusivity and diversity,” says Nicole Possert, executive director for Restore Oregon. 

We are thrilled to have been involved with this project and invite everyone to join in Camp Namanu's Centennial Celebration and revisit camp memories at the Oregon Historical Society’s exhibit, “Camp Namanu, A 100-Year Journey Toward Inclusion,” which runs now through June 9th.


Camp Namanu on Think Out Loud: Yesterday, Nancy King, a board member of Camp Namanu, joined OPB's Think Out Loud noon radio show to talk about what this camp has meant to generations of Oregonians. Give a listen!