Welcome

The Broom Tree Retreat, managed by the Ministerial Association of California Counties (MACC), is dedicated to rest, spiritual renewal, and reflection. Inspired by God’s care for Elijah under the broom tree, this space serves as a sanctuary for MACC ministers and church members to recharge and seek the Lord’s guidance. All reservation request will be decided at the sole discretion of MACC's designated Broom Tree Coordinator.

In 1 Kings 19, after a dramatic confrontation with the prophets of Baal, the prophet Elijah fled into the wilderness—physically exhausted, emotionally spent, and spiritually discouraged. He collapsed under a broom tree and cried out to God, saying, “I have had enough, Lord.” But instead of rebuking Elijah, God met him there with compassion. He let Elijah rest, provided food and water, and spoke to him not in the whirlwind or fire, but in a gentle whisper. It was under the broom tree and in the quiet that followed where Elijah’s strength was restored, his purpose renewed, and his hope revived.

That is the heart behind Broom Tree Retreat.

Broom Tree is a ministry of the Ministerial Association of California Counties (MACC), created as a place of refuge for pastors, ministry leaders, and church members from MACC-affiliated churches. Nestled in the mountains of Northern California, near Lassen National Park, Broom Tree is not a conference center or a program-driven space—it’s a simple, peaceful environment where guests can unplug, rest, and seek the Lord without pressure or distraction

Broom Tree Retreat is located in Viola, California, a quiet mountain community near Shingletown and just a short drive from Lassen Volcanic National Park. Nestled among tall pines and crisp mountain air, the retreat offers a peaceful and remote setting—yet it’s not isolated.

Within 15–20 minutes, you’ll find the small town of Shingletown, which offers coffee shops, restaurants, a grocery store, and other essentials. Whether you want to grab a meal, take a scenic drive, or explore the shops, it’s all close by.

And for those looking to experience God’s creation in a unique way, Lassen Park offers hiking trails, lakes, waterfalls, and breathtaking views—all within easy reach.

Broom Tree was designed for rest and renewal. Its location provides the quiet needed for reflection, along with the practical comforts that help make your stay restful and refreshing.

Nature & Outdoor Attractions

1. Lassen Volcanic National Park
2. Bubbling mud pots, fumaroles, and scenic hikes like Bumpass Hell, Manzanita Lake, and Lassen Peak. Open year-round with snowshoeing in winter.
3. Lake McCumber (approx. 10 min)
4. Quiet forest lake ideal for kayaking, fishing, or a peaceful picnic.
5. Battle Creek Reservoir (approx. 15 min)
6. Small reservoir tucked in the woods, great for a scenic stop or birdwatching.
7. Manzanita Lake (inside Lassen NP, approx. 30 min)
8. Popular for fishing, kayaking, and stunning mountain reflections—especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
9. Subway Cave Lava Tubes (approx. 35 min)
10. A fascinating, family-friendly lava tube cave near Old Station. Bring a flashlight!

Local Shops & Restaurants

1. Papa's Pizza (Shingletown)
2. Shingletown Ridge Market
3. Higher Ground Coffee Shop (Shingletown)
4. Reeds Creek Farm & Bakery (seasonal)

Museums & Points of Interest

1. Loomis Museum (inside Lassen NP, seasonal)
2. Shasta State Historic Park (approx. 45–60 min toward Redding)
3. Turtle Bay Exploration Park (Redding, approx. 50–60 min)

All guests must affirm MACC’s doctrinal statement prior to booking.

1. We believe the Bible to be the only inspired, infallible, authoritative Word of God.
2. We believe that there is one God, eternally existent in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
3. We believe in the deity of our Lord Jesus the Christ, in His virgin birth, in His sinless life, in His miracles, in His vicarious and atoning death through His shed blood, in His bodily resurrection, in His ascension to the right hand of the Father, and in His personal return in power and glory.
4. We believe that for the salvation of lost and sinful humanity, regeneration by the Holy Spirit through faith in Jesus the Christ is absolutely essential.
5. We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a godly life.
6. We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost, they who are saved unto the resurrection of life and they who are lost unto the resurrection of damnation.
7. We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus the Christ.
8. We believe that all human life is sacred and made in the image of God. Consequently, we must have concern for the spiritual and physical needs of all people.
9. We believe human sexuality is to be expressed only within the context of monogamous marriage. Further, the examples of marriage in scripture portray marriage as a union of a male to a female.

Broom Tree Retreat is reserved for those affiliated with the Ministerial Association of California Counties (MACC) who affirm the doctrinal statement.

Eligible guests include:

1. MACC pastors and their immediate families
2. Ministry leaders and members of MACC-affiliated churches (with a pastoral recommendation)
3. Church teams, missionaries, and discipleship groups from MACC churches (with a pastoral recommendation)

Booking Window:

1. MACC pastors may reserve the retreat up to 6 months in advance (waived for 2025)
2. All other eligible guests may reserve up to 3 months in advance (waived for 2025)

Stays are generally limited to one week to allow access for multiple users. Extensions may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Usage Cost

1. Your stay at Broom Tree is free of charge.
2. A $150 cleaning donation is requested for each stay.
3. This donation helps cover cleaning costs and may be waived depending on individual circumstances, at the discretion of MACC.
4. Extended stays may require additional cleaning donations.

Donations are due at the time of booking.

Retreat Rules

1. Use of the property is at the sole discretion of MACC.
2. Guests are expected to care for the retreat and leave it in good condition. Any damage or concerns should be reported promptly.
3. All use must reflect Christian character and conduct. Illegal activities or behavior that contradicts biblical values will not be permitted.
4. Guests must bring their own food and personal supplies. A fully equipped kitchen is available for meal preparation.
5. Standard check-in and check-out times will be provided when your stay is confirmed.

Pets are not allowed indoors. Service animals may be allowed with prior approval.