Boone Campsite - Camp Rotary, Clare, MI

For generations of Michiganders, Camp Rotary in Clare has been synonymous with outdoor adventure, character building, and unforgettable experiences, particularly for youth. Within this expansive and well-regarded facility lies Boone Campsite, a specific area that plays a vital role in the camp's mission to provide immersive outdoor education and recreation. While the reviews highlight specific events and changes over time, the core essence of Boone Campsite, as part of Camp Rotary, is about providing a structured yet adventurous environment for groups, especially Scouting organizations, to thrive in Michigan's natural landscape.

Camp Rotary, as a whole, is a cornerstone of youth development in Michigan, offering programs that foster leadership, self-reliance, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors. Boone Campsite, as a dedicated area within this larger camp, contributes to this legacy by providing the foundational setting for many of these experiences. From the excitement of a "Haunted Woods" event to serving as a regular summer camp site for Boy Scout troops, it's clear that Boone Campsite is a place where young Michiganders can learn, grow, and make lasting memories in a supportive and engaging environment. It represents a part of the rich tradition of outdoor education that is so important to the fabric of Michigan's youth programs.

Location and Accessibility

Boone Campsite is located within the larger Camp Rotary property, situated in Clare, MI 48617, USA. Camp Rotary itself is a well-established and significant outdoor facility, primarily serving youth organizations like the Boy Scouts of America's Michigan Crossroads Council. While the address is given as Clare, MI, the camp is typically nestled in a more rural setting just outside the immediate city limits, providing the immersive natural environment essential for its programs.

For Michiganders, accessing Camp Rotary and subsequently Boone Campsite is generally straightforward. Clare, often referred to as the "Gateway to the North," is strategically positioned at the intersection of US-127 and US-10. This excellent highway access makes Camp Rotary relatively easy to reach from various parts of the Lower Peninsula, including major metropolitan areas like Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Lansing. The journey typically involves traveling on well-maintained state highways before transitioning to local roads that lead to the camp's entrance. The rural yet accessible location ensures that participants can quickly transition from urban or suburban environments to a natural setting, allowing them to fully engage with the outdoor programming offered at Boone Campsite. Detailed directions are usually provided to registered groups and participants to ensure smooth arrival at the extensive camp grounds.

Services Offered

As a dedicated campsite within a large, established youth camp like Camp Rotary, Boone Campsite’s services are primarily geared towards supporting organized group activities, particularly Scouting programs. While it's not a public, walk-in campground in the traditional sense, its offerings are designed to facilitate robust outdoor education and camping experiences. Based on the nature of Boy Scout camps and the provided reviews, the services at Boone Campsite would likely include:

Designated Tent Camping Areas: The primary service is providing cleared and maintained areas for groups to set up their tents. This is fundamental for the classic camping experience integral to Scouting.
Improved Outhouse Facilities: As noted in reviews, the old outhouses have been replaced with new, enclosed facilities. This indicates a commitment to providing basic, yet clean and functional, sanitation services for campers.
Access to Camp Rotary's Central Facilities: As part of the larger Camp Rotary, campers at Boone Campsite would have access to the broader camp's essential services, which typically include:
- Dining Hall (during summer camp sessions): For organized programs, meals are often provided in a central dining facility.
- Shower Houses: Central shower facilities are usually available across the main camp area to provide hot showers, a welcome amenity after outdoor activities.
- Program Areas: Access to specialized program areas, such as shooting ranges, climbing towers, craft lodges, and watercraft facilities (on Lake Rotary).
- Health Lodge: A dedicated facility with medical staff to address any health needs or emergencies during camp sessions.
- Trading Post/Camp Store: A store where campers can purchase snacks, drinks, camp souvenirs, and basic necessities.
- Administrative Support: On-site staff and administrative offices to manage camp operations and support group leaders.
Water Access: While not explicitly stated for Boone Campsite, potable water sources (like spigots or wells) would be available within reasonable proximity, either directly at the campsite or through central camp facilities.
Fire Rings: Individual or communal fire rings are standard at campsites for campfires, cooking, and warmth.
Waste Management: Designated areas or procedures for proper trash disposal would be in place to maintain the cleanliness of the campsite and the overall camp.

These services collectively ensure that Boone Campsite, as part of Camp Rotary, provides a functional and supportive environment for its primary users: youth groups engaged in outdoor education and adventure.

Features / Highlights

Boone Campsite, as an integral part of the extensive Camp Rotary, offers a range of features and highlights that make it a notable destination for youth outdoor programs and special events in Michigan. Its appeal lies in its combination of natural setting, dedicated facilities, and the broader offerings of the camp.

Dedicated Youth Camping Area: Boone Campsite is specifically designed for group camping, particularly for Scouting troops. This focus ensures that the site is equipped to handle the needs of youth groups, fostering camaraderie and structured outdoor learning.
Historical Significance with Scouting: Having served as an annual Boy Scout Summer Camp campsite since 2014, Boone Campsite holds a place in the history of countless young Michiganders' outdoor experiences. This long-standing tradition speaks to its suitability and effectiveness as a youth development environment.
"Haunted Woods" Event: A significant highlight mentioned in reviews is the "Haunted Woods" event. This indicates that Boone Campsite, or the area around it within Camp Rotary, transforms into an exciting and immersive experience, likely around Halloween. Such events demonstrate the camp's ability to host large-scale, engaging activities that attract participants beyond regular summer camp. The positive feedback ("Haunted woods was a blast. Kids did an amazing job. Highly recommend it for everyone.") underscores its success as a fun, community-oriented feature.
Natural Environment: The campsite is nestled within the natural landscape of Camp Rotary, which typically includes forested areas, trails, and proximity to Lake Rotary. This provides an authentic outdoor experience crucial for teaching wilderness skills and appreciation for nature.
Renovated Facilities: The removal of old tent cabins and the replacement of old outhouses with a new enclosed one (as per review) highlight ongoing improvements. This indicates a commitment to maintaining and upgrading facilities to enhance the camping experience for users.
Access to Camp Rotary's Diverse Programs: Campers at Boone Campsite benefit from the extensive programming and facilities offered across the larger Camp Rotary. This includes:
- Waterfront Activities: Opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing on Lake Rotary.
- Outdoor Skills Training: Archery, rifle range, climbing, rappelling, and various merit badge programs.
- Environmental Education: Programs focused on nature study, conservation, and ecology.
- Hiking Trails: Extensive trail networks for exploring the camp property.
Community and Character Building: Beyond specific activities, the fundamental feature of Boone Campsite (and Camp Rotary) is its role in fostering teamwork, leadership, and personal growth among young participants.

These features combine to make Boone Campsite a dynamic and valuable resource for youth outdoor education and special events in Michigan.

Promotions or Special Offers

As Boone Campsite is an integral part of Camp Rotary, which is primarily a facility for the Boy Scouts of America's Michigan Crossroads Council, its "promotions" and "special offers" are structured differently than a commercial campground. Instead of public discounts, access and pricing are typically tied to affiliation with Scouting or participation in specific camp programs. Here’s how "offers" generally manifest for this type of facility:

Program-Specific Fees: The primary "offer" is access to the various structured programs Camp Rotary provides throughout the year, especially the popular summer camp sessions. The fees for these programs are all-inclusive, covering instruction, lodging at sites like Boone, meals (often), and activity supplies. These fees are set by the Michigan Crossroads Council and represent the cost to participate in comprehensive youth development programs.
Group Rates for Scouting Units: For Boy Scout troops, Cub Scout packs, or Venture Crews, participation in summer camp or weekend events at Boone Campsite comes with a set fee per participant or per unit. This pricing structure is designed to make it accessible for youth organizations.
Event-Specific Pricing: For special events, such as the "Haunted Woods," there would be a specific ticket price or entry fee. These events are often open to the public and provide a unique seasonal attraction, with the fee covering the cost of the experience and contributing to camp operations.
Volunteer Opportunities: While not a monetary "offer," active involvement as a volunteer leader with a Scouting unit can provide an opportunity to experience Camp Rotary and Boone Campsite alongside youth, often with reduced or no personal cost for the adult.
Council Subsidies/Scholarships: The Michigan Crossroads Council often has programs or scholarships available to help financially assist youth who wish to attend camp but face economic barriers. This is a crucial "offer" to ensure inclusivity.

For Michiganders interested in Boone Campsite, the "offer" is primarily about enrolling in or participating with a registered Scouting unit or attending specific public events advertised by Camp Rotary. Direct inquiry through the Michigan Crossroads Council website or Camp Rotary's official channels is the best way to understand the program costs and access opportunities.

Contact Information

Boone Campsite is an area within the larger Camp Rotary, which is operated by the Michigan Crossroads Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Therefore, direct contact for Boone Campsite specifically would typically be through the main Camp Rotary or Michigan Crossroads Council administration.

Address: Camp Rotary (which includes Boone Campsite), Clare, MI 48617, USA

While a direct phone number for "Boone Campsite - Camp Rotary" isn't generally published as a standalone entity, you would contact the Michigan Crossroads Council for Camp Rotary inquiries:

Michigan Crossroads Council Phone: (517) 545-6300 (This is the general contact number for the Michigan Crossroads Council, which oversees Camp Rotary operations and programs).

For more specific information regarding Camp Rotary's programs, schedules, or events that utilize Boone Campsite (such as summer camp dates or the "Haunted Woods" event), it is highly recommended to visit the official Michigan Crossroads Council website and navigate to the Camp Rotary section. Their website will provide detailed program guides, registration information, and potentially specific contact numbers for camp directors or program coordinators.

Given its primary function as a youth camp, most communication and inquiries are handled through the overarching Boy Scouts of America Michigan Crossroads Council structure.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Boone Campsite, as an integral part of the renowned Camp Rotary in Clare, holds significant suitability for Michiganders, particularly those invested in youth development and outdoor education. For local families and community groups, Camp Rotary provides an invaluable resource for fostering essential life skills, character, and a deep appreciation for Michigan's natural environment.

Its primary suitability lies in its role as a dedicated youth camping facility. For Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, and other youth organizations across Michigan, Boone Campsite offers a structured and safe environment where young individuals can learn outdoor skills, engage in adventurous activities, and build leadership qualities. The consistent use of the site since 2014 for annual summer camps underscores its proven effectiveness and the trust placed in it by Michigan Scouting units. The ongoing improvements, such as the new enclosed outhouse, demonstrate a commitment to providing a quality experience for participants.

Beyond structured youth programs, the camp's ability to host engaging public events like the "Haunted Woods" (which garners high recommendations from locals) showcases its versatility as a community asset. This means Michiganders, even those not directly affiliated with Scouting, can experience a unique and exciting local tradition. The camp's location in Clare, the "Gateway to the North," also makes it easily accessible for families across the Lower Peninsula, minimizing travel time and maximizing the duration of their immersive experiences.

In essence, Boone Campsite, within the broader Camp Rotary, is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a vital part of Michigan's commitment to nurturing its youth through outdoor adventure, community engagement, and memorable traditions. For locals, it represents a trusted and enriching environment where the next generation of Michiganders can grow and thrive.