Camp Strake Campsite 19

Camp Strake Campsite 19 is a key component of the exceptional Camp Strake, a state-of-the-art camping and outdoor adventure facility. Situated in a tranquil rural area, this premier destination is uniquely bordered on three sides by the vast and scenic Sam Houston National Forest, encompassing an impressive 2,816 acres. Within the "Campgrounds & RV Parks" category, Camp Strake Campsite 19 offers an unparalleled blend of natural immersion and modern conveniences, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of visitors, from organized youth groups like Scouting America to individual campers and families seeking a profound outdoor experience.

The environment surrounding Camp Strake Campsite 19 is defined by its pristine natural setting and carefully preserved ecosystems. As one of 20 individual camping pavilions across Camp Strake, Campsite 19 provides a comfortable and sheltered base. Each pavilion is equipped with a protective cover and electric power, allowing campers to set up tents and build campfires in designated areas around them. The campsites are strategically arranged along a horseshoe-shaped road that forms the heart of the camp, promoting a communal yet spacious feel. The natural landscape is rich with diverse flora and fauna, including a variety of wild plants and flowers, which were thoughtfully preserved during the camp's development. A significant environmental feature is the 28-acre lake, sustained by rainwater, runoff, and an underground well, providing a focal point for water-based activities and enhancing the serene atmosphere. The camp boasts an extensive trail system, inviting exploration and offering direct access to the Lone Star Hiking Trail, the longest hiking trail in Texas, through a special partnership with the United States Forest Service. The commitment to maintaining vast green spaces is evident throughout the property, with five prominent lakes forming central features within the camp's design, blending recreation with ecological preservation.

Camp Strake Campsite 19, as part of the larger Camp Strake, benefits from a wide array of comprehensive services designed to ensure a comfortable, safe, and enriching stay for all guests. Central to these services is the modern, air-conditioned dining hall, capable of serving hundreds of campers three nutritious meals daily. This facility is fully equipped with commercial gas stoves and ovens, dedicated food preparation areas, ample utensils, cooling supplies, dry goods storage, a dishwashing area, two walk-in refrigerators, and three freezers. Meals are provided by a professional custom food service company, with menus meticulously reviewed by a certified dietician to meet the caloric and nutritional requirements of active individuals. Special dietary needs are also meticulously handled, with a system in place for advance submission of dietary forms. Beyond dining, visitors have access to numerous well-maintained restroom facilities and shower houses, conveniently located along the main thoroughfares to ensure cleanliness and accessibility. Upon arrival, the check-in process is streamlined through a dedicated building at the camp entrance, where medical screenings, directions, and campsite assignments are handled efficiently. While vehicles are directed to designated parking areas near assigned campsites, the camp's design minimizes the need for driving within the property, encouraging foot traffic across its extensive and well-marked trail system. Emergency protocols are robust, with emergency contact numbers visibly posted throughout the camp and staff equipped with FM radio communication. A Health Lodge within the administration building handles minor medical needs, with clear procedures for referring more serious emergencies to nearby medical facilities.

The features of Camp Strake Campsite 19 and the broader Camp Strake are exceptional, offering a rich tapestry of adventure, education, and modern amenities. The camp is renowned for its diverse program areas, which include a cutting-edge aquatics center with a swimming pool and pool house, complemented by opportunities for boating on the lake using canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and rowboats. For those seeking adrenaline, there is a 40-foot rock wall climbing tower with four stations and a training pavilion, as well as an exhilarating double zipline that spans the 28-acre lake. The extensive shooting sports complex features the Carole and Jim Looke Shotgun Range, the Rusty and Paula Walter Rifle Range, and dedicated pistol and archery ranges, all operated with strict safety protocols and requiring certified leadership. A significant emphasis is placed on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education, with the dedicated Eco-STEM Center providing facilities for campers to earn merit badges in various STEM fields. Unique partnerships further distinguish Camp Strake; it is the only council in Scouting America with a Space Act Agreement with NASA, which allows for exclusive programs such as Strake Odyssey, the NASA Stars & STEM Program, the Train Like an Astronaut Program (SCUBA), and Helicopter Underwater Egress Training (HUET). Other recreational opportunities include mountain biking, a 5K orienteering course, geocaching with ten hidden caches, a 9-hole disc golf course, Gaga ball pits, and catch-and-release fishing. The camp also features multiple merit badge pavilions, a grand pavilion capable of hosting nearly 1,000 people for ceremonies, and various sports fields. All outdoor lighting throughout the camp proudly displays the fleur-de-lis, the international symbol of scouting, reflecting its heritage and values. The camp is designed to meet both ADA and Scouting America requirements, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all participants.

For individuals and groups interested in booking and promotional information, Camp Strake Campsite 19 and other facilities within Camp Strake are primarily available for weekend camping reservations for troops, crews, and ships. Campsite sizes vary, accommodating groups from 10 to 75 campers. Typical costs are around $100 per campsite for up to 50 campers, and $125 for 51-75 campers, which includes a day usage fee. Primitive campsites are also an option at $50 per campsite for up to 50 campers. For those not camping overnight, a day usage fee of $2 per person ($3 for out-of-council units) applies. Program areas such as archery, rifle, climbing, and COPE can be reserved for additional fees, usually on a 4-hour basis. A deposit of 50% is generally required for most facility reservations, with full payment due 14 days prior to the reservation date. Reservations typically close 5 days before the event, allowing for final adjustments. Beyond weekend options, Camp Strake hosts a variety of long-term programs, including Summer Camp, Winter Camp, STEM Camp, Camp Odyssey, ATV Experience, Full Throttle, and Trail to Eagle Camp. These are week-long, council-organized overnight experiences designed to provide Scouts with concentrated opportunities to earn merit badges and engage in specialized training. Promotional materials often highlight Camp Strake as a premier destination that offers unique and transformative outdoor experiences not readily available at other camps nationwide, emphasizing its commitment to leadership development and outdoor skills. Prospective visitors are encouraged to refer to the Sam Houston Area Council website for the most up-to-date information on specific dates, detailed pricing, reservation procedures, and any ongoing promotions or special events. The website also provides essential resources such as detailed packing lists and medical form requirements, ensuring a well-prepared and enjoyable experience at Camp Strake Campsite 19.