History of Camp Lakota
On June 14, 1941, the Shawnee Council, Boy Scouts of America, dedicated 225 acres south of Defiance, Ohio “to the task of helping boys retain their Scouting ideals for the guidance of their adult lives”. Ten years later, in 1951, a contest was held to name this encampment. Camp Lakota was chosen, winning out over names like Nowata and Little Turtle. The council purchased more land during the 1960s and began construction of Lake Glengary in 1969. In recognition of local Eagle Scout and former Lakota camper's accomplishment of walking on the moon that year, the council named its new outpost camp area Camp Neil Armstrong.
Today, Camp Lakota—the name commonly used for both Lakota and Neil Armstrong camps—is owned and operated by the Black Swamp Area Council, BSA. The camp covers 640 acres, including the 48 acre Lake Glengary, and is bordered on the west side by the Auglaize River. The camp houses 18 conservation-type campsites: 13 on the Lakota side of the reservation and 5 on the Neil Armstrong side. The program areas are primarily located around Lake Glengary. A typical week of camp includes 175-200 Scouts that are offered a myriad of opportunities for individual attention. Due to its large size, varied geography, and hiking and canoeing opportunities, Camp Lakota is considered by many to provide a “rustic” summer camp experience.
Scouts BSA Summer Camp
Summer Camp is the highlight for many young men and women as they progress through the Scouting program. While at camp your Scouts will experience Scouting the “Lakota way”: with the Scout Oath and Law as their guide, Lake Glengary as their scenery, and a staff fully committed to supporting your troop with a broad range of activities.
We offer training and programming in all aspects of Scouting: advancement, adult association, Scouting ideals, leadership development, and true outdoor experiences in the lush forests and varied topography of Camp Lakota. We encourage individual, patrol, and troop programs for a well-rounded Scouting experience. We focus on the whole Scouting experience that immerses Scouts in Scouting for an entire week—the Lakota Experience.
Weekend Camping
Three-fourths of the word 'Scouting' is 'Outing'. Weekend camping is available for in-council and out-of-council packs, troops and crews.