Community News

‘Good Friends’: Camp Kootaga prepping for 102nd summer season

WALKER -- This year marks the 102nd summer camp season for Camp Kootaga, making it one of the longest continuous Scout summer camps in the nation and among the 25 oldest still active Scout camps.

"The time spent with my sons at camp, sitting around a campfire with friends, seeing Scouts build lifelong memories and friendships, that is what makes camp so special," Scouter Mike McGee said.

Waterfront activities and fishing are among the opportunities offered at the camp on the Hughes River near Walker. Scouts can also earn their Swimming or Lifesaving merit badge at the pool or do the mile swim. A rustic cabin functions as the Nature Center where Scouts can learn about insects, environmental science, forestry and weather, just to name a few topics.

There are many innovative programs available at summer camp this year, including a First Year Campers Program that helps new campers become accustomed to camp and the Scouting program. A complete overview of all programs offered, along with general information about summer camp at Camp Kootaga, can be reviewed online at www.buckskin.org.

This year's camp director is Billy Bryant, and program director is Michael Cidor. Returning as climbing director is Christopher Burk. Matt Lookadoo will be the shooting sports director, and Dr. Ernie Miller will serve as camp medical director.

Staff weeks start on June 9, and the first week of summer camp is June 16. A few weeks are still open for units that have not yet registered for summer camp. All units from all councils are welcome.

Kootaga means "Good Friends."

Volunteers have been working all winter and spring to get camp ready. The Friends of Blennerhassett Bicycle Club spent a day volunteering to get all the mountain bikes ready for the season. In addition, the pool and surrounding deck area have been washed and the pool has been filled. Both the dining hall and lodge have been cleaned and are ready. And the finishing touches are being made to the new bouldering grotto.

But there is still a lot to do, and assistance is welcome any day. A volunteer mechanic would be welcome to get the camp trucks ready for the season, and a volunteer certified electrician is needed. Those wanting to help with the camp work list are asked to contact Camp Ranger John Baker or Jim Bennon with any questions. The next scheduled workdays are Saturday, June 1, and 8.

Scouting units were asked this year to adopt campsites to improve and maintain now and for the future. The following are still open for a unit, family, alumni group or civic organization to adopt: Beechwood, Mahonegon, Cherokee and Iroquois, as well as Cabin Kiwanis. Those interested can contact Kathy Wise.

Contact information for the parties listed is also available at www.buckskin.org.

Those interested in joining Scouting can visit www.beascout.org to find a unit in their area or a new unit can be started.