Scouts work on their chess merit badge at Camp Kootaga in June. Completion of the sale of the camp to a non-profit foundation dedicated to keeping it a resource for local Scouts and other youth was announced Thursday. (File Photo)

From staff reports

PARKERSBURG — A nonprofit organization created to keep Camp Kootaga a resource for local Scouts and other youth announced Thursday it has completed its acquisition of the property.

The Buckskin Council decided late last year to sell the 350-acre camp along the Hughes River, south and east of Parkersburg, which has served as a Scout camp since 1922.

The Camp Kootaga Foundation was established to acquire, maintain and operate the camp. A purchase price was not included with Thursday’s press release from the organization, but foundation President James Bennon said in July they had made an offer of $1 million and were close to having the money to make it happen, including a loan through Community Bank.

“The Camp Kootaga Foundation is committed to ensuring that this historic camp remains a thriving, year-round haven for outdoor adventure,” Bennon said in the release. “Our mission is to preserve the camp’s rich Scouting legacy, providing a place where young people can develop leadership, character, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.”

The property appraised at $1.1 million and includes substantial acres of standing timber and a new lodge, officials have said.

“We think that the Camp Kootaga Foundation is a good organization. Their intent is to continue to provide Camp Kootaga as a youth activity venue for local youth in the area. And obviously our executive board is very favorable to that,” Buckskin Scout Executive Jeff Purdy said. “We’d like to look at it as the win-win scenario.”

In addition to Scouting activities, the foundation’s plans for the camp include opening it up to family reunions, weddings and other gatherings as well.