Percy Dempsey Boy Scout Private campground

- 958 Woods Ferry Rd, Lebanon, TN 37087

Tennessee's stunning natural landscapes, from its majestic mountains to its serene lakes, provide an exceptional backdrop for outdoor adventures and educational experiences. For decades, the state has been a pivotal location for youth development programs, particularly those focused on instilling values of self-reliance, leadership, and a deep appreciation for nature. Among the most significant facilities dedicated to this purpose is the Percy Dempsey Boy Scout Private Campground, nestled within the expansive Boxwell Reservation in Lebanon, TN. This isn't your typical public campground; it's a specialized, private facility primarily designed to serve the needs of Scouting units and similar organized groups, offering a rich environment for learning and growth.

This article aims to provide local Tennesseans, especially those with connections to Scouting or youth outdoor programs, with a detailed and informative overview of Percy Dempsey Boy Scout Private Campground. We'll delve into its beautiful location, the comprehensive services it offers, and the unique features that make it a standout destination for developing outdoor skills and fostering character. The feedback, "Beautiful location," underscores the natural appeal of this dedicated outdoor space.

Percy Dempsey Boy Scout Private Campground is an integral part of the renowned Boxwell Reservation, a significant property owned and operated by the Middle Tennessee Council of the Boy Scouts of America. This camp, dedicated to the memory of the late Percy Dempsey Sr., a revered Scoutmaster, serves as a vital hub for Scouting activities, including summer camps, weekend camping, and various training events. It is important to note that as a "private campground" designed for Boy Scout operations, it is not generally open to the public for individual or family camping in the same way a state park or commercial campground would be. Instead, access is typically granted to registered Scouting units and approved groups.

The camp provides a structured and supportive environment where youth can engage in a wide array of outdoor skills, merit badge programs, and leadership development activities. The "Beautiful location" review highlights the natural allure of the camp, emphasizing the scenic backdrop for these enriching experiences. Percy Dempsey campground embodies the spirit of Scouting, offering a space where young individuals can learn, grow, and connect with the natural world in a meaningful way, all within a safe and well-managed setting.

Percy Dempsey Boy Scout Private Campground is located at 958 Woods Ferry Rd, Lebanon, TN 37087, USA. This address places it squarely within the vast Boxwell Reservation, which spans over 1,100 acres on the shores of Old Hickory Lake in Wilson County. The location is highly accessible for Scouting units and groups coming from across Middle Tennessee, with convenient connections to major highways. From Nashville and other surrounding communities, travelers can reach Boxwell Reservation, and subsequently Percy Dempsey, via routes like State Highway 109, which connects to I-40.

While the reservation itself is extensive, dedicated internal roads and clear signage within Boxwell guide visitors to the various camp areas, including Percy Dempsey. The remote yet accessible nature of the location provides the perfect balance: a feeling of being immersed in the wilderness, yet within reasonable driving distance for local groups. For access outside of regular check-in/check-out times, contact with the camp Ranger at (615) 945-1479 is required, indicating a well-managed and secure facility that prioritizes the safety and organization of its guests. This careful management ensures that the "beautiful location" remains pristine and conducive to outdoor activities.

As a private campground primarily for Boy Scout activities, Percy Dempsey offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to meet the needs of large groups and structured programs:

• Designated Campsites: Numerous well-maintained campsites designed to accommodate Scout troops and other groups, providing ample space for tents, gear, and patrol areas.
• Access to Program Areas: Campers have access to various specialized program areas within Boxwell Reservation, including aquatic centers for swimming, canoeing, and fishing on Old Hickory Lake, and shooting ranges for archery and rifle sports.
• Dining Hall Access: While not a daily service for all campers, the camp facilities include dining halls for large group meals during major events like summer camp, ensuring efficient feeding for hundreds of participants.
• Restroom and Shower Facilities: Access to clean and functional restroom and shower facilities, crucial for the comfort of large groups during multi-day programs.
• Service Project Opportunities: Groups are encouraged to engage in service projects, such as trail maintenance or facility improvements, which can be arranged by contacting the camp Ranger. This fosters a sense of responsibility and contribution.
• Administrative Support: A dedicated Admin Building ("Crab") serves as a check-in point and hub for administrative support, ensuring smooth operations for visiting groups.
• Waste Management: Clear guidelines and facilities for trash disposal, including dumpsters located behind the Maintenance area ("compound"), to maintain the cleanliness and environmental integrity of the campground.
• Fire Management: Provision of fire barrels (which must be returned after use) and clear instructions for extinguishing fires completely, promoting safety and responsible fire practices.
• Ranger Assistance: A dedicated Camp Ranger is available (contactable via phone) to assist with access outside set hours, facility inquiries, and coordination of service projects, providing essential on-site support.

• Stunning Natural Beauty: As echoed by the customer review, the "Beautiful location" is a primary highlight, offering rolling hills, extensive woodlands, and access to Old Hickory Lake, providing a picturesque backdrop for all activities.
• Extensive Land Area: Part of the 1,100-acre Boxwell Reservation, Percy Dempsey offers vast open spaces for exploration, hiking trails, and a true immersion in the wilderness.
• Focus on Youth Development: The camp's primary purpose is to provide an environment for Boy Scouts and other youth groups to learn outdoor skills, develop leadership qualities, and earn merit badges through structured programs.
• Variety of Activities: Opportunities for a wide range of outdoor pursuits, including swimming, canoeing, kayaking, fishing on Old Hickory Lake, hiking, archery, and rifle shooting.
• Dedicated Facilities: Access to specialized facilities like dining halls, improved restrooms, and program-specific areas ensures a well-rounded and comfortable camping experience for groups.
• Experienced Staff Support: The presence of a Camp Ranger and potentially other staff ensures effective management, safety, and assistance for visiting units.
• Commitment to Cleanliness: Clear rules and facilities for maintaining a clean campsite, with expectations for groups to leave the area cleaner than they found it, reinforcing environmental responsibility.
• Historical Significance: Named in honor of a long-serving Scoutmaster, the camp carries a legacy of dedication to Scouting and youth mentorship in Middle Tennessee.

As Percy Dempsey is a private campground primarily used by the Boy Scouts of America's Middle Tennessee Council, promotions and special offers are typically integrated into their official program fees and registration processes for Scouting events. It's not a commercial campground that offers public discounts or seasonal promotions in the traditional sense. However, the "offers" it provides are in the form of structured, value-driven programs:

• Summer Camp Packages: The annual summer camp programs offer comprehensive packages that include lodging, meals, instruction for numerous merit badges, and access to all camp facilities for a set fee per Scout and adult leader.
• Winter Camp Programs: Similar to summer camp, winter camping events provide a focused opportunity for skill development during colder months.
• Training Course Inclusions: Fees for leader training courses (such as IOLS or BALOO) often include facility usage, meals, and necessary program materials.
• Group Rates: The pricing structure is inherently designed for groups, offering a cost-effective way for Scout troops and other youth organizations to utilize extensive facilities and experienced staff.
• Camperships: The Middle Tennessee Council often provides "camperships" or financial assistance to Scouts who might otherwise be unable to attend camp due to financial difficulties, ensuring accessibility for all.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on program fees, registration deadlines, and any available financial aid, interested parties should consult the official website of the Middle Tennessee Council, Boy Scouts of America, or contact their camping department directly.

For inquiries regarding Percy Dempsey Boy Scout Private Campground, particularly for Scouting units and approved groups, it is best to contact the Middle Tennessee Council, Boy Scouts of America, which manages the Boxwell Reservation.

Address: 958 Woods Ferry Rd, Lebanon, TN 37087, USA

Phone: (615) 945-1479 (This number is noted as the Camp Ranger's contact for access outside of set hours, making it a reliable point of contact for operational inquiries.)

Mobile Phone: +1 615-945-1479 (Same as above, confirming mobile access for inquiries.)

For broader administrative or program-related questions, the Middle Tennessee Council's main office or camping department would be the appropriate point of contact, typically found on their official website (e.g., mtcbsa.org).

For local Tennesseans, particularly those involved with or interested in youth development through outdoor experiences, Percy Dempsey Boy Scout Private Campground is an invaluable asset. While not a public campground for spontaneous family trips, its suitability lies in its dedicated purpose and exceptional facilities for Scouting units and other organized youth groups. Located conveniently in Lebanon within the sprawling Boxwell Reservation, it offers a truly immersive and educational outdoor environment that is easily accessible from across Middle Tennessee.

The "Beautiful location" provides a pristine natural classroom where young people can learn vital outdoor skills, develop leadership abilities, and foster a deep respect for nature. From diverse program offerings to well-maintained facilities and dedicated staff, every aspect of Percy Dempsey is designed to create a safe, supportive, and enriching experience. For parents looking for structured, character-building opportunities for their children, or for Scout leaders planning their next troop adventure, this campground offers a premier destination. It’s a place where lifelong memories are forged, essential life skills are acquired, and the values of teamwork and responsibility are instilled, all within the stunning natural beauty of Tennessee. Percy Dempsey is a cornerstone for shaping future leaders and responsible citizens from within our own communities.

Percy Dempsey Boy Scout Private campground

958 Woods Ferry Rd, Lebanon, TN 37087, USA