W̱ȾÁEMEṈ – Johns Island
Our unique 135-acre property is the old Nell Robinson Ranch at the west end of Johns Island, in the San Juan Islands of Washington State. It is located on ancestral lands of all tribes and bands within the Lhaq’temish (Lummi), Samish, Swinomish, Noxwsaag, WSÁNEĆ (Saanich), Songish, T’souk-e (Sooke), Nəxʷsƛayəm, and Semiahmoo Nations. We acknowledge the people who used the land before us and are grateful for their stewardship. WȾÁEMEṈ is a local indigenous name for the island, and means “the sound of barnacles at low tide”
Surrounded by over 10,000 feet of saltwater shoreline, the area includes wetlands, open meadows and diverse forests.
A long sandy beach flanks the south shore, while many intimate coves dot the north. The property is home to numerous old growth firs, gigantic Madrona and Garry Oak.
It is a haven for bald eagles, otters, mink, seal, deer and a multitude of wildlife. Coves and beaches piled high with driftwood are alive with seabirds and shellfish.
The snow-capped Olympic and Cascade peaks and other San Juan Islands are visible from many points on the property. The open meadows and undulating shoreline allow for many planned and spontaneous activities. Virtually the entire property is child-friendly and ideal for camp activities and exploration.
San Juan Islands
Being on a remote island in the San Juans allows our campers access to an incredibly unique and biologically diverse part of the world. Canoe, kayak, sailing and bike overnights and multi-day trips (beginning at age 12) offer a chance to visit and explore many islands.
We frequent state campgrounds and have also been granted access to several private properties in the San Juans.
The combination of our incamp and outcamp programs provides our campers with a better understanding of this beautiful region throughout their time at Nor’wester.
The San Juans have a unique beauty all their own, and have been home to the camp throughout it’s over 80-year history.
The mystique and magic of nature are right there for campers to soak up, providing a great space for growth and self-discovery.