NMLA came into being when land was donated for use as a Lutheran camp. Tall pondrosa pines were cleared in one area and a well was drilled to allow for a fellowship/kitchen/bathrooom facility to be built. A few years later a bunkhouse was built near the existing facility. An outdoor chapel was constructed in the forest within walking distance of the buildings. The camp was used on a weekly basis for several years by Lutheran groups from New Mexico.

In August of 2002 the Lakes forest fire destroyed the camp including all trees and structures on the 20 acre site. Since then the well and pumphouse have been restored, a toilet and sink have been installed in an outhouse, tent sites have been built and the flat area has been graded for parking and RV site. A new 3600 square foot, two story, lodge has been constructed and is scheduled for final completion in spring of 2012.

Every spring the annual Lutherhaven baseball night helps raise additional funds for the camp. Thrivent and NMLA sponsor the event at the Albuquerque Isotopes baseball stadium and include a popular tail gate party before the game begins.