Pool House

- 5015 Simpson Rd SE, Rochester, MN 55904

For Minnesota locals, especially families, youth groups, and organizations seeking an enriching outdoor experience with a focus on adventure and character development, Gamehaven Scout Camp at 5015 Simpson Rd SE, Rochester, MN, offers a truly unique and comprehensive destination. While its primary mission is to serve Scouting programs, Gamehaven extends its facilities to the wider public, providing a fantastic opportunity for all to enjoy its extensive grounds and diverse amenities.

Gamehaven Scout Camp is far more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a vibrant hub of activity and learning, thoughtfully designed to encourage outdoor appreciation and personal growth. Spread across over 190 acres, the camp features a variety of terrains, from well-developed areas suitable for younger groups to more rustic sections for advanced outdoor skills. Imagine spending your days exploring vast wooded areas, practicing archery, or enjoying a refreshing dip in the camp's pool during the warmer months. Even in winter, the camp transforms into a wonderland for cold-weather camping. For Minnesota residents looking for a versatile and engaging outdoor venue, whether for a family cabin stay, a group retreat, or simply a day of outdoor fun, Gamehaven Scout Camp provides an accessible and well-maintained environment that fosters adventure and builds lasting memories.

Gamehaven Scout Camp is strategically located at 5015 Simpson Rd SE, Rochester, MN 55904, USA. This address places it approximately 5 miles southeast of the bustling city of Rochester, Minnesota, in Olmsted County. The camp's location strikes an excellent balance between providing a natural, secluded outdoor experience and ensuring convenient access to urban amenities.

For Minnesota locals, Gamehaven Scout Camp is remarkably accessible. Rochester is a major regional center, well-connected by primary highways such as US-52 and US-14, making the journey to the camp straightforward from various parts of the state. Directions to the camp are clear, typically involving a short drive from these main arteries. Despite its natural setting, the camp is surprisingly close to major conveniences; visitors can reach a Caribou Coffee or a Target store in under five minutes. This means that if you forget an essential item or simply crave a quick urban convenience, it's easily within reach. This blend of serene outdoor environment and immediate access to modern services makes Gamehaven Scout Camp an exceptionally practical and appealing destination for families and groups across Minnesota.

Gamehaven Scout Camp offers a wide array of services designed to support a variety of camping, recreational, and retreat needs, catering to both Scouting programs and public rentals. Many facilities are available year-round.

• Diverse Camping Options:
  • Developed Camp Areas: Suitable for Cub Scouts and other groups, offering a more structured camping experience.
  • Rustic Camp Areas: Designated for older groups, providing a more rugged and primitive camping environment.
  • Overnight Camping: Available both indoors in cabins/lodges and under the stars in traditional campsites.
• Cabin Rentals: Six "Family Cabins" are available, sleeping up to 4 people each. These cabins are equipped with air conditioning in summer and heat in winter, offering comfortable accommodation year-round.
• Indoor Facilities:
  • Pool House: A swimming pool available for rent during summer months, with options to include or provide a lifeguard.
  • Lodge Buildings: Various lodges (e.g., Deer Lodge, Pheasant Lodge, Community Building) for meetings, corporate retreats, or cozy overnight stays.
  • Indoor Toilets, Showers, and Handwashing: Available in facilities during the warm season, ensuring comfort and hygiene.
  • Electricity: Available in many indoor facilities and developed camping areas.
• Outdoor Program Facilities:
  • Archery Range: Designated area for archery practice.
  • BB Gun Range: A safe area for BB gun activities.
  • Shotgun 5-Stand: For more advanced shooting sports.
  • Council Ring/Fire Bowls: Communal fire pits for gatherings.
  • Play Areas: Including a "Castle Play Area" and open fields for games.
• Year-Round Operation: The camp is open for use throughout the year, accommodating various programs and rentals for different seasons.
• Ranger Services: On-site Ranger staff for maintenance and support.
• Easy Access to Conveniences: The camp's location ensures easy access to nearby stores and services for forgotten items or quick errands.
• Rosters and Liability: For group rentals, the camp requires submission of a roster for Scouts/adults or a Certificate of Liability for community groups.

Gamehaven Scout Camp boasts a multitude of features and highlights that make it a premier outdoor destination for Minnesota locals:

• Expansive and Diverse Terrain: With over 190 acres, the camp offers varied landscapes, from developed camp areas to rugged, natural sections, catering to different camping styles and adventure levels.
• Year-Round Accessibility: Unlike many seasonal campgrounds, Gamehaven is open year-round, allowing for summer camping adventures, winter programs like Polar Cubs, and comfortable cabin stays in any season.
• The "Pool House" and Swimming Pool: A significant highlight during summer, the swimming pool (available for rent with or without a lifeguard) provides a refreshing break and a popular activity for campers and groups.
• Variety of Accommodation: From traditional tent sites and rustic areas for older scouts to comfortable, heated/air-conditioned family cabins, Gamehaven offers lodging options for diverse preferences and group sizes.
• Comprehensive Program Facilities: The camp is equipped with specialized areas for outdoor skills and recreation, including archery and BB gun ranges, a shotgun 5-stand, and various sports and play fields.
• Character Development and Leadership Focus: While open to the public, the camp's Scouting roots imbue it with a strong emphasis on youth leadership, outdoor skills, and character building, making it ideal for youth organizations.
• Proximity to Rochester: Being just minutes from Rochester means campers get the best of both worlds: a natural escape with quick and easy access to urban amenities like grocery stores, restaurants, and medical facilities. This convenience greatly reduces travel stress.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Despite its size and diverse offerings, the camp is known for its well-maintained facilities, including indoor toilets, showers, and handwashing (during warm seasons), ensuring a comfortable experience.
• Adventure-Oriented Programs: The camp actively hosts various programs like Summer Cub Adventures and National Youth Leadership Training, which contribute to a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.
• Booking Flexibility: Facilities can be reserved online on a first-come, first-served basis, making it relatively easy for groups to plan their visits.

As an organization primarily focused on youth development and outdoor education, Gamehaven Scout Camp's "promotions" are typically embedded in its structured program offerings and facility rental rates rather than traditional commercial discounts. However, the value proposition lies in the comprehensive facilities and the nature of their services.

• Program-Specific Pricing: Fees for Scouting programs (e.g., Summer Cub Adventures, National Youth Leadership Training, Polar Cubs) are set based on the program's duration and activities. These offer an all-inclusive experience at a set price.
• Facility Rental Pricing:
  • Hourly Pool Rental: The pool can be rented in two-hour blocks at a per-person rate (e.g., $5/scout/block), with options for Gamehaven to provide a lifeguard or for the renter to provide one. This offers flexibility for groups wanting pool access.
  • Cabin and Lodge Rental: Various lodges and six family cabins are available for rent, with specific pricing available upon inquiry. These rentals provide comfortable, year-round indoor accommodation.
  • Property/Equipment Rental: General use of the camp property and specific equipment may have associated fees, details of which are typically found in their camp catalog or by direct inquiry.
• Membership Benefits: For registered Scouting units, access to certain facilities or preferred booking might be a benefit of their membership, offering value through their affiliation.
• Value for Groups: The ability to rent specific facilities for corporate retreats, group meetings, or family gatherings provides a cost-effective alternative to other venues, especially given the range of outdoor activities available.

For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing for specific rentals (Pool House, cabins, lodges, program areas) and to inquire about any current availability or specific terms, it is always recommended to contact Gamehaven Scout Camp directly through their provided contact information or their official website.

For inquiries, reservations, or any questions about Gamehaven Scout Camp, its facilities, programs, or rentals, please use the following contact details:

Camp Address: 5015 Simpson Rd SE, Rochester, MN 55904, USA

While a general phone number for the main Gamehaven Council office can be found, for direct camp-related inquiries, the Camp Director is often the best point of contact.

Camp Director Contact (as per public information for Gamehaven Council):

Brady Geary

Email: brady.geary@scouting.org

Phone: (507) 361-5345 (Weekdays) or (651) 341-0007 (Weekends)

You can also typically find more information and make reservations online through the Gamehaven Council's official website.

For Minnesota locals, Gamehaven Scout Camp in Rochester offers a truly outstanding and versatile destination for outdoor recreation, learning, and community building. Its suitability stems from its unique combination of expansive natural grounds, diverse facilities, year-round accessibility, and a mission-driven approach to youth and community development.

Firstly, the sheer size and variety of the camp's 190+ acres mean there's always something to explore, whether it's a rustic hiking trail or a well-equipped activity area. This provides a dynamic environment for families and groups, ensuring that every visit can offer a new adventure. The availability of everything from traditional tent camping spots to comfortable, heated cabins, along with dedicated program areas like archery ranges and a swimming pool, caters to a wide spectrum of interests and preferences, making it ideal for various family outings or group retreats.

Secondly, the camp's excellent accessibility to Rochester is a significant advantage for local residents. It allows for a feeling of genuine escape into nature without sacrificing the convenience of nearby urban amenities. This means less travel time and more time spent enjoying the outdoors, a crucial factor for weekend trips or last-minute getaways. Whether you're planning a Cub Scout adventure, a family reunion, a corporate team-building event, or simply a day of swimming and outdoor fun, Gamehaven Scout Camp provides a safe, well-maintained, and engaging environment. It truly stands as a valuable community asset, fostering a love for the outdoors and providing opportunities for growth and enjoyment for all Minnesotans.

Pool House

5015 Simpson Rd SE, Rochester, MN 55904, USA