Wesley Woods Camp was founded in 1956 by the Iowa-Des Moines Conference of the United Methodist Church. Located on 344 acres near Lake Ahquabi and Indianola,  Iowa, its mission has been to provide a place for faith development, outdoor adventure, and Christian community.

The camp’s history began in 1953 when the Annual Conference authorized a search for land. In 1955, 56 acres were purchased from Gordon and William Shaver, and development began in April 1956. That summer, the first campers stayed in tents and hogans. In 1957, the camp’s official name was chosen, and Rev. J.M. Morrie Steffenson was appointed as the first director. Beacon Hill Lodge, the first permanent structure, was completed in early 1957, followed by the construction of cabins built by local churches.

Throughout the years, Wesley Woods grew in both land and facilities. In 1979, a 248-acre neighboring property, including the John Woods Homestead, was purchased through a generous gift from Ruth Scott, significantly expanding the camp’s footprint. A white cross was placed in the pasture to symbolize God’s provision. The 1980s saw further development, including the addition of Horseshoe Pond (1987), an outdoor chapel, and the expansion of nature-focused programming with the construction of a sod house on its original foundation in 1987.

The camp continued to expand its programming and infrastructure in the 1990s and early 2000s. A new dining hall (West Dining Hall), larger kitchen, and staff housing (Wesley Inn) were added in 1989, increasing camp capacity. Timber Lodge was built in 1992 to replace Border Lodge, which was lost in a fire. The Ponderosa campsite, featuring a Noah’s Ark theme, was introduced in 1992, and the Blue Heron Bay campsite opened in 1996 for water-based adventure programs.

Wesley Woods also developed specialized experiences such as the Homestead Camp in 1996, featuring covered wagons and a historical Iowa setting. The equestrian program expanded in 2004 with the construction of the Barnum Equestrian Center. Challenge course elements, including a low ropes course (2002) and a high ropes course with a zipline (2005), were added to enhance leadership and team-building opportunities.

The camp faced challenges, including the 1993 flood, which led to Lake Ahquabi being drained for dam repairs. This prompted the camp to transition from using lake water to rural water and sparked discussions about adding a swimming pool. Later, in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic led to virtual programming as in-person camps were paused.

Significant renovations and facility improvements continued in recent years. In 2014, New Life Lodge was built. The playground was installed in 2011, and rustic cabins underwent major refurbishments in 2018. The pool reconstruction began in 2022 but, due to supply chain delays, was not completed until late that year, with its first full summer of use in 2023.

Leadership at Wesley Woods has played a crucial role in shaping the camp’s direction. Directors over the years have included:

• Rev. Morrie Steffenson (1956)
• Dennis Nicholson (1974–1981)
• Dave Schar (1981–2001) – Expanded programming and introduced the Outpost and Horse Program
• Art and Nancy Allen (2001–2006)
• Deke Rider (2007–2017) – Oversaw program and facility growth
• Chip Hutler (2017–2023) – Led during modernization efforts
• Sean Gundersen (2023–Present)

Today, Wesley Woods continues to thrive as a place where people of all ages can grow in faith, develop new skills, and form lasting relationships. Through continued facility improvements, innovative programming, and a commitment to Christian ministry, Wesley Woods remains a cornerstone of faith-based outdoor experiences in Iowa.