In 1857, leaders of the Methodist Church chose this site for the Battle Ground Collegiate Institute because of its historic significance, natural features, and close proximity to the railroad and nearby towns. From 1859 to 1882, the school averaged 275 students in enrollment, with boys earning a Bachelor of Science degree and girls earning a Mistress of the English Literature. In 1874, the Methodist Church converted the site into a gathering place for Methodists from around the state, hoping to provide families an affordable summertime change of scene and air for their children. The first camp meeting was held in the woods in 1874, and in subsequent years a tabernacle, cottages, dining hall, swimming pool, and retreat center were added to support the summer camps. The site continued in that role until the late 1960s, before being sold to the Tippecanoe County Park & Recreation Board in 1974. Construction of the first cottages began in 1875, and by 1917, 55 cottages were in use. In the late 1960s and 1970s, the cottages were torn down, though several were moved and became residences in Battle Ground.