Camp Craig

Tennessee, with its rich history, diverse landscapes, and a strong tradition of outdoor recreation, offers countless opportunities for adventure and connection with nature. For many years, the state has been home to premier outdoor educational facilities, and among these, Camp Craig in Lebanon stands out as a destination renowned for its vibrant programs and supportive environment. While primarily known for its role in Scouting, Camp Craig's commitment to outdoor education and community building makes it a fascinating and important part of the local outdoor scene. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Camp Craig, highlighting its unique offerings and why it's a valuable resource for local Tennesseans, particularly those involved in youth development and outdoor pursuits.

The concept of a "campground" often evokes images of tents, campfires, and starry nights. At Camp Craig, this foundation is built upon with a structured yet exciting environment designed to foster growth, learning, and unforgettable experiences. From its historical roots within the larger Boxwell Reservation to its modern facilities and dynamic program offerings, Camp Craig is more than just a place to sleep under the stars; it's a place where character is built and skills are honed.

Camp Craig is a distinguished part of the expansive Boxwell Reservation, a significant outdoor facility owned and operated by the Middle Tennessee Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Established in 1973-74, Camp Craig was the first "new" camp at Boxwell, originally carved out of what was then Camp Light. Over the decades, it has evolved significantly, transforming from a more primitive camp lacking flush toilets in its early years to a modern facility with updated amenities. A recent staff member's review, "If you are going to Boxwell for summer camp I would 100% recommend going to Camp Craig over Stahlman, especially if your staffing. Over all the staff are so much more enthusiastic and well behaved even though we are mostly new staff this past year," speaks volumes about the positive environment and dedication found here. This feedback highlights a strong sense of community and a highly motivated team, making it a particularly appealing destination for those involved in its programs. It’s a place where learning and fun go hand-in-hand, with a strong emphasis on providing a rewarding experience for all participants.

Camp Craig is strategically located within Boxwell Reservation at 1298 Creighton Ln, Lebanon, TN 37087, USA. This address places it conveniently in Wilson County, making it easily accessible for residents across Middle Tennessee and beyond. The Boxwell Reservation itself spans over 1,100 acres on the shores of Old Hickory Lake, providing a vast natural playground. Access to Camp Craig is straightforward, typically involving navigating to Boxwell Reservation via Highway 109 from I-40 or other major routes. The clear directions and presence of Boxwell Reservation signs ensure a smooth journey. The extensive internal mapping, as noted by a staff member who contributed to Google Maps markings and pictures, further enhances navigability within the large reservation, making it easier for visitors to find their way around the various camp areas and activity locations. This accessibility is crucial for local groups and families planning visits, minimizing travel time and maximizing the time spent on activities and enjoyment of the natural surroundings.

• Structured Summer Camp Programs: As part of Boxwell Reservation, Camp Craig offers a comprehensive summer camp experience, particularly for Boy Scouts. This includes a wide array of merit badge opportunities and engaging activities designed for personal growth and skill development.
• Dining Facilities: Camp Craig is noted for having "unquestionably, the most impressive dining hall on the reservation," providing substantial and well-prepared meals for campers and staff during program sessions.
• Improved Restroom and Shower Facilities: Recent major renovations have led to new flush toilets and modern shower facilities on both upper and lower loops, significantly enhancing camper comfort compared to its earlier, more primitive setup.
• Campsites: The camp features numerous campsites for troops and groups, designed to accommodate various sizes and needs, offering a traditional outdoor living experience within the structured camp environment. Site capacities are dynamic but provide ample space.
• Program Areas: Specific program areas for merit badges and activities are available, including an improved waterfront for aquatic activities, a modern rifle range for shooting sports, and a dedicated campfire area for evening programs.
• Don Stanford Chapel: Camp Craig is home to Don Stanford Chapel, which serves as the non-denominational religious center for Boxwell Reservation, providing a peaceful space for reflection and services.
• Guidance and Staff Support: As evidenced by the review, Camp Craig benefits from enthusiastic and well-behaved staff members who are committed to providing a positive and supportive environment for all participants.

• Enthusiastic and Well-Behaved Staff: A key highlight, as noted by a 2023 staff member, is the highly enthusiastic and well-behaved staff, contributing significantly to a positive and productive camp experience.
• Extensive Merit Badge and Activity Offerings: Camp Craig provides an "absolutely amazing" array of activities and merit badges, catering to a wide range of interests and fostering skill acquisition and personal development. These can include shooting sports, aquatics, handicrafts, and more.
• Improved Facilities: Recent renovations have modernized the camp, including new flush toilets, shower facilities, an improved waterfront, and rifle range, enhancing the overall comfort and quality of the experience.
• Detailed Navigation (Google Maps): The active effort by staff to mark locations and add pictures to Google Maps makes navigating the extensive camp grounds significantly easier for visitors.
• Impressive Dining Hall: The camp boasts what is considered the most impressive dining hall on Boxwell Reservation, suggesting a high standard for meal service and communal gathering.
• Home of Don Stanford Chapel: The presence of the reservation's non-denominational religious center at Camp Craig adds a unique spiritual dimension to the camp experience.
• Continuous Improvement: The history of significant renovations, from primitive pit toilets to modern facilities, demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and providing a high-quality camping environment.
• Located within Boxwell Reservation: Being part of Boxwell means access to over 1,100 acres of rolling hills, hiking trails, and Old Hickory Lake, providing a vast natural environment for exploration and adventure.

As Camp Craig operates primarily as a facility within the Boxwell Scout Reservation, its "promotions" often come in the form of its structured summer camp programs, various training events (like IOLS and BALOO), and year-round camping opportunities offered by the Middle Tennessee Council. These programs are inherently designed to provide value through comprehensive activities, educational components, and a supportive environment. While specific individual discounts might not be advertised in a typical retail sense, groups and units booking through the Middle Tennessee Council may benefit from package deals, early bird registration incentives for summer camp, or specific pricing structures for different programs. For instance, training events like IOLS and BALOO have set registration fees that cover meals and program costs. It is always best for interested parties, especially Scouting units and leaders, to consult the Middle Tennessee Council's official website or contact their camping department directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information on program costs, registration deadlines, and any specific offers for their particular needs.

For detailed information regarding Camp Craig, its programs, and how to utilize its facilities, particularly for Scouting-related activities, direct contact with the Middle Tennessee Council of the Boy Scouts of America, which operates Boxwell Reservation, is recommended.

Address: 8GGP+4X, 1298 Creighton Ln, Lebanon, TN 37087, USA

While a direct phone number specifically for "Camp Craig" might not be publicly listed, as it's a section of a larger reservation, the Middle Tennessee Council's contact information for their camping department can be found on their official website. For inquiries about reservations and general information about Boxwell Reservation and its camps, you can typically find a contact email such as camping@mtcbsa.org. Additionally, specific event registrations often list contact persons for that event, such as Sandra Green for BALOO training as seen in public event listings. It's best to search for "Middle Tennessee Council Boy Scouts of America" to find their official website and direct contact details for their camping and programs departments.

For residents across Tennessee, particularly those engaged in the Scouting community or seeking structured outdoor educational experiences for youth, Camp Craig within the Boxwell Reservation offers an unparalleled resource. Its location in Lebanon makes it highly accessible for families and groups from various parts of the state, ensuring that valuable outdoor learning and recreational opportunities are within reach without extensive travel. The dedication of its staff, as highlighted by glowing reviews, ensures a supportive, enthusiastic, and well-organized environment, which is crucial for character development and positive experiences.

Camp Craig's continuous investment in its facilities, from improved restrooms to specialized program areas, demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality experience. The vast acreage of Boxwell Reservation, coupled with a wide range of merit badges and activities, means that participants can engage in diverse outdoor pursuits, learn new skills, and foster a deeper appreciation for Tennessee's natural beauty. For local families, youth leaders, and Scouting units, Camp Craig is more than just a camp; it's a cornerstone for building leadership, resilience, and a lifelong love for the outdoors. It provides a unique blend of adventure, education, and community, making it an invaluable asset for Tennessee's youth and a perfect place to create lasting memories.