Bachelor Donated Land for Youth Camp and Boat Launch

Did you know that a portion of the Lake Sammamish State Park was donated by a bachelor who came to the U.S. in 1904 from Denmark?

Hans Jensen acquired property in 1942, complete with house and well-plumbed barn, and began a dairy operation. According to his friend Bill Bergsma,Sr., Jensen always had a herd of 60 excellent Holstein cows.

Before his death, Jensen specified in his will that 65 acres of land be donated to the state for the use of the area’s young people. Initially, private investors proposed to state parks to turn the property into a golf course, but it was a logical location for a boat launch facility and group camp. His land became the property of the Washington State Parks Commission in May of 1958; and it was dedicated in 1966.

Situated on the bank of Laughing Jacobs Creek, the group camp accommodates up to 200 overnight campers and has parking for 75 vehicles. The camp – available to youth organizations – features 36 picnic tables, 7 campfire rings, a covered shelter, two amphitheaters and four vault toilets.