WALKER, W.Va. (WV News) — Camp Kootaga, operated by the Buckskin Council, is getting ready for its 103rd summer camp season. Staff week kicks off on June 8, and the first week of summer camp will start on June 15. Scouting units that have not yet registered can still do so, with a few weeks available. All units from any council are invited to attend. Interested groups can contact Summer Camp Director Billy Bryant for more details.
Billy Bryant will return as camp director, while Colleen Sergent will serve as program director. Contact details for both are available on the Buckskin Council’s website. Christopher Burk will return as the climbing director, and Matt Lookadoo will take on the role of shooting sports director. Dr. Ernie Miller is the camp’s medical director, while Jamie Wilcox will oversee aquatics. Gerry Stover will direct ecology, and Andrew Murphy will manage outdoor activities.
This summer, Camp Kootaga is introducing new features, including a 95-foot climbing tower and a bouldering grotto. Located along the Hughes River, the camp offers a variety of waterfront activities, including fishing. Scouts can earn Swimming or Lifesaving merit badges at the pool or challenge themselves with the mile swim. The camp also offers programs in Nature and Cooking merit badges. First-year campers will have access to a special program to help them adjust to camp life.
Volunteers have been working since winter to get the camp ready. The pool has been cleaned and filled, and both the dining hall and lodge have been prepped. The Friends of Blennerhassett Bicycle Club has also volunteered to prepare mountain bikes for the summer season.
However, more volunteers are still needed. A mechanic is needed to assist with camp truck maintenance, and a certified electrician is required for additional work. Those interested in volunteering can contact Camp Ranger John Baker or Jim Bennon. Scheduled workdays are listed on the Camp Kootaga Facebook page, but volunteers are welcome any day.
Scouting units are also encouraged to adopt campsites to help maintain them for future use. Available campsites for adoption include Beechwood and Iroquois. Anyone interested can reach out to Kathy Wise.
Camp Kootaga is open year-round for camping and hiking, with visitors asked to check in with the Camp Ranger upon arrival. The camp is also available to host special events such as weddings, family reunions, or corporate retreats.
Scout Mike McGee shared, “Time spent with my sons at camp, sitting around the campfire with friends that last a lifetime, and watching Scouts create lasting memories and friendships.”