PHOTO ALBUM -- Landscape | Animals | Buildings | History

In the summer of 1927, a bold band of theosophists set up tents near an old farmhouse on Orcas Island to discuss science, philosophy, cosmology, the unity of mankind and living in harmony with nature. The facilities were Spartan, supplies were limited and the grass was high. Out of their gathering was born Camp Indralaya, a center for living close to nature -- full of shared human effort, joy and companionship -- a place for communing with nature amidst tall trees near the sea.

The "1940 Report to Camp Indralaya" best describes the essence of the camp's foundation:

"The future of this venture is in your hands. It offers intriguing possibilities, not only as a refuge in a war-torn world, and a haven from materialistic uncertainties, but as a place where the building of a better world is a possibility;...

...for education free from dogmatism and a chance to live and grow normally under natural conditions in one of nature's grandest amphitheaters.

It is not the property of a few people, but belongs to you; it is held in trust for a great purpose, the exact nature of which will disclose itself as the plan unfolds.

Whatever development takes place, it is bound to be the result of the spontaneous enthusiasm of those who have benefited in the past."