Camp Edgewood

For generations of Louisianians, the mention of Camp Edgewood evokes memories of outdoor adventure, skill-building, and camaraderie. Nestled in the picturesque Beauregard Parish, this expansive facility has long served as a cornerstone for outdoor education and recreation, primarily for the Boy Scouts of America, but also welcoming a diverse range of other groups. As locals, we understand the profound connection to nature that defines our state, and Camp Edgewood has been a vital part of fostering that connection for countless individuals. While recent years have presented challenges, particularly due to significant storm damage, the dedicated staff and community are working tirelessly to restore this cherished outdoor haven to its former glory and beyond.

Camp Edgewood is more than just a campground; it’s a living classroom, a community gathering place, and a serene escape all rolled into one. Spanning 283 acres, its diverse landscape offers a rich environment for learning, adventure, and personal growth. From structured scouting events like the "Swamp Derby" that boys rave about, to opportunities for church groups, civic organizations, and even private parties, the camp's versatility is one of its greatest strengths. While some recent visitors have noted areas needing upkeep, the overarching sentiment is one of hope and dedication to its restoration, ensuring that future generations of Louisiana locals can continue to benefit from this incredible natural resource. It truly stands as a testament to the resilience of our community and the enduring spirit of outdoor adventure.

Camp Edgewood is strategically located at 3419 Camp Edgewood Rd, Dequincy, LA 70633, USA. This address places it squarely within Beauregard Parish, a region known for its sprawling pine forests and tranquil rural landscapes. The camp's setting provides that immersive natural experience sought by outdoor enthusiasts, effectively distancing visitors from the urban bustle while maintaining excellent accessibility.

One of the key advantages of Camp Edgewood's location is its manageable distance from various communities across Southwest Louisiana. It's situated a comfortable drive from larger cities, being approximately 30 minutes from downtown Lake Charles. This proximity is invaluable for local users, as it means less travel time and more time spent enjoying the camp's offerings. It also ensures convenient access to essential services, medical facilities, and additional supplies in nearby towns should the need arise. The specific address on Camp Edgewood Road indicates clear, direct access to the property. Roads leading to the camp are generally well-maintained, accommodating various types of vehicles, including buses for groups and trailers for those bringing camping gear. This straightforward and relatively easy accessibility makes Camp Edgewood a practical choice for day trips, weekend events, and longer stays for residents throughout our part of the state.

Camp Edgewood, as a comprehensive outdoor facility primarily managed by the Calcasieu Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America, offers a wide array of services designed to support diverse groups and activities. While individual campsite amenities vary, the overarching services of the entire camp significantly enhance the experience for all visitors.

• Extensive Campsites: The camp features 14 distinct campsites, each offering unique characteristics and varying capacities to suit different group sizes and camping preferences, accommodating both tent and potentially some RV camping setups.
• Dining Hall with Commercial Kitchen: A central and significant asset to the camp is its modern Dining Hall, equipped with a full commercial kitchen. This facility has the capacity to comfortably seat up to 250 people, making it ideal for large gatherings, events, conferences, and providing meal services for organized groups.
• Year-Round Programs: Camp Edgewood is active year-round, offering a robust calendar of council-sponsored programs, particularly on weekends and during school breaks. These programs often include structured activities, outdoor skills training, environmental education, and leadership development tailored for youth groups.
• Scout Camping Opportunities: The camp provides dedicated opportunities for Cub Scout Packs, Scouts BSA Troops, and Venture Crews to camp most weekends, offering a structured environment for character development, merit badge work, and outdoor skills training.
• Facility Rentals for Various Groups: Beyond its core scouting activities, Camp Edgewood’s facilities, including specific campsites, the dining hall, and other common areas, are available for rent by a broad spectrum of non-scouting groups. This includes church groups, civic organizations, schools, private parties, and even serves as a unique venue for weddings and corporate retreats.
• Target and Range Activities: The camp includes dedicated areas for target and range activities, featuring well-equipped archery, rifle, and shotgun ranges. These facilities provide safe and controlled environments for learning and practicing shooting sports under supervision.
• Maintenance and Restoration Efforts: A significant ongoing service is the dedicated staff's hard work in maintaining and restoring the grounds, particularly in the aftermath of storm damage. This includes clearing debris, repairing infrastructure, and working towards improving overall camp conditions, as noted by recent visitors.
• Staff Support: The camp maintains a staff presence to oversee activities, provide guidance, and assist groups with their needs during their stay, ensuring a smoother and more organized experience.

Camp Edgewood boasts several key features and highlights that make it a compelling and beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts and groups in Louisiana, even amidst its ongoing restoration efforts.

• Vast Natural Environment: Spanning 283 acres, the camp offers an expansive natural landscape with diverse terrain, including wooded areas, open fields, and various natural features. This provides ample space for hiking, exploration, and a true immersion in the Southwest Louisiana outdoors.
• Rich History and Legacy: For decades, Camp Edgewood has been a significant part of the scouting tradition in Louisiana, fostering character development, leadership, and outdoor skills for countless youth. This legacy adds a unique layer of meaning to any visit.
• Dedicated Program Areas: Beyond individual campsites, the camp includes multiple specialized program areas, such as the shooting ranges and dedicated activity zones, enhancing the versatility of the site for a wide array of educational and recreational pursuits.
• Strong Community Focus: The camp's primary mission to support youth organizations and its openness to other community groups foster a strong sense of shared purpose and camaraderie, making it an excellent venue for group bonding and collective experiences.
• Resilience and Restoration: Despite significant storm damage, the ongoing dedication of the staff and volunteers to restore and improve the camp is a powerful highlight. This commitment ensures that the facility will continue to serve the community for years to come, demonstrating remarkable resilience.
• Proximity to Lake Charles: Being only a 30-minute drive from downtown Lake Charles provides convenient access to urban amenities, emergency services, and additional cultural or dining options, offering a balanced experience of nature and convenience.
• Structured Event Capabilities: With a large dining hall and versatile campsites, Camp Edgewood is well-equipped to host large-scale events, jamborees, and multi-day programs, providing a comprehensive solution for event organizers.

As Camp Edgewood is primarily managed by the Calcasieu Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America, its "promotions" often take the form of specific program packages and tiered pricing for different user groups rather than typical commercial discounts.

For registered scouting units and members, there are often favorable rates for utilizing camp facilities and participating in council-sponsored events. The Calcasieu Area Council provides a comprehensive "Camp Edgewood Pricing Guide" which meticulously outlines the costs associated with various facility rentals, including campsites, and programs. It is highly recommended for any group, scouting or otherwise, to request this guide directly to understand the fee structure.

Additionally, the camp frequently hosts major annual events, such as "Winter Camp" or "Summer Camp," which are essentially all-inclusive packages that provide a wide array of activities, meals, and accommodations at a set price. These events represent significant value for the immersive and educational experiences they offer. For non-scouting groups, it is always advisable to inquire directly with the camp administration about off-peak season availability or potential discounts for booking multiple days, larger groups, or combining facility rentals. Direct communication with the camp staff is the most effective way to explore any available opportunities or tailored arrangements for your specific needs.

To learn more about Camp Edgewood, to make reservations, or to inquire about the diverse programs and services offered, the primary point of contact is the Calcasieu Area Council, which expertly manages the property.

Address: 3419 Camp Edgewood Rd, Dequincy, LA 70633, USA

Phone: (337) 436-3376 (This is the primary phone number for the Calcasieu Area Council Service Center, which oversees Camp Edgewood operations.)

Mobile Phone: +1 337-436-3376

It is highly recommended to contact them well in advance, especially if you are planning a group outing, organizing a special event, or during popular camping seasons, to ensure availability and to confirm any specific requirements for your stay. The dedicated staff will be happy to assist you with all your planning needs and provide the most current information regarding camp conditions and restoration progress.

For us Louisianians, Camp Edgewood represents more than just a campground; it’s a vital piece of our community’s outdoor heritage and a testament to our resilience. Its location in Beauregard Parish provides that quintessential Louisiana outdoor experience—surrounded by serene pine forests, away from the city noise, yet conveniently accessible for a short drive from across Southwest Louisiana, including a quick trip from Lake Charles. This ideal balance makes it perfectly suited for weekend getaways, educational trips, or longer retreats without the extensive travel often required for similar experiences.

What truly makes Camp Edgewood special for locals is its enduring purpose. While it’s renowned as a Boy Scout camp that has shaped countless young lives, its facilities are open and adaptable for a wide array of other local groups. Churches can hold inspiring retreats, schools can conduct unique outdoor lessons, and civic organizations can host impactful events, fostering a sense of community and shared experience that is deeply valued in Louisiana. The comprehensive services, from versatile campsites to specialized ranges and a large dining hall, ensure that various needs can be met comfortably and safely.

Acknowledging the storm damage mentioned in reviews, the ongoing and dedicated restoration efforts by the staff highlight a commitment to preserving this valuable resource for future generations. This resilience resonates strongly with our local spirit, showing that even in the face of adversity, our outdoor spaces are being nurtured back to health. Whether you’re looking to immerse your family in nature, organize a group event, or simply enjoy a quiet escape, Camp Edgewood offers a unique and meaningful opportunity to connect with Louisiana’s natural beauty and its vibrant community spirit. It's a place where new memories are forged and cherished traditions continue, right here at home.