In the mid-1800's, a Chickasaw Indian chief settled his followers at the springs due to the abundance of water, good grazing and hunting areas. In 1924, the property was developed into a spa and resort which was popular until 1939, when it was virtually abandoned after a fire. During the following three decades the property changed hands several times until the estate of the late Earl E. Ayres and his widow, Syliva G. Ayres, donated approximately 60 acres of land to a project to be known as Pettijohn Springs Christian Camp. On December 26, 1968, the Madill Record declared, "Pettijohn Springs is coming back to life...The surroundings will ring with the sound of happy children."