This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Ark at Redwood Christian Park, one of the camp’s most recognizable and beloved landmarks.

Tucked into the trees at Redwood Christian Park stands one of our most beloved landmarks: the Ark. With its unmistakable shape and whimsical design, it’s sparked curiosity, wonder, and joy for generations of campers—and this summer, it turns 40!

But did you know the Ark started as a dream?

In 1981, longtime supporter Doris Knox brought an idea to the RCP board: to create a VBS center shaped like Noah’s Ark. Her heart was to give kids a space where biblical stories came to life in unforgettable ways. That same year, Doris made history again by becoming the first woman to serve on the RCP board.

Since then, it’s become more than a creative building. It’s been a home base for VBS programs, youth worship, staff retreat meeting rooms, and much more. And it all started with one woman’s dream.

Over the past four decades, the Ark has welcomed thousands of campers, families, and retreat guests. What began as a creative vision has become a recognizable symbol of Redwood Christian Park and a place where countless memories have been made.

Happy 40th birthday, Ark. You’re still making waves.