FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 3, 2021

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Sisters, Oregon — On Tuesday afternoon, August 3, Big Lake Youth Camp was advised by Willamette  National Forest Fire Dispatch to begin evacuating campers out of an abundance of caution due to a nearby wildfire. Lightning strikes on August 2 ignited the fire on the west flank of Mount Washington, approximately three miles south of Big Lake Youth Camp. Fire personnel and aircraft mounted a rapid response to try and contain the blaze, but shifting winds and worsening visibility hampered efforts on August 3.

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While the Big Lake Youth Camp facility is not in immediate danger, a preemptive evacuation of campers ensures the safety of both campers and staff should fire conditions worsen in coming days. Parents can pick up their children Tuesday evening, August 3, from 7:00-10:30 PM or Wednesday morning, August 4.

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The facility remains at an official Level 2 — “Get Set” evacuation alert, and camp leadership will continue working with local officials to determine the next steps for camp operations.

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Big Lake Youth Camp is owned and operated by the Oregon Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and serves campers ages 7-17. Located in the Willamette National Forest, Big Lake Youth Camp operates under a special use permit from the US Forest Service.