Lazy F is located deep in the heart of Manastash Canyon.  For hundreds of years, Yakima Indians climbed the ridges above camp to gather roots, berries, and stones for arrowheads.  The word Manastash is derived from the Indian word for "place to dig".



The land where the camp is located was ranched by a man names Gus Johnson around 1892.  He lived on the property and raised hay.  The land changed hands many times, but it  remained a ranch.



After a long search in eastern Washington for an ideal "dude ranch", William and Mildred Morris of Seattle purchased the property in 1937.  It is supposedly the first dude ranch in the state.  Guests would come to Lazy f for trail rides, rodeos, and ranch meals.  The Morris family named the ranch lazy F for their interpretation of the French words Laissez Faire for "peaceful, quiet, restful place".  The brand for the cattle and horses was an "F" lying on the side with a crescent moon over the top.



After World War II the Morris family rented the facility to the government for a place for those in the service to rest and recuperate after the war.



In 1954 the property (98 acres), facilities, tack equipment, and use of the "wrangler" was purchased by the United Methodist Church for $40,000.  The original intent was to have a location for children and youth to come to summer camp to further their Christian faith.  The mission is still a vital aspect of Lazy F, but now all non-profit groups are invited to visit and enjoy the area all times of the year.



Currently, lazy F Camp and Retreat Center serves over 6,000 guests each year and over 28,000 meals.  Groups are diverse in nature and include churches, schools, government agencies, and universities.  Lazy F also sponsors over 25 different programs each year. 



Today Lazy F Camp and Retreat Center is  a ministry of the United Methodist Church.  The Camp's mission is to be a sanctuary of hospitality, renewal, and learning with in God's natural world that celebrates diversity, inspires love and service, and fulfills our special partnership with local churches in the development of Christian disciples and spiritual leader.