Camp Strake Campsite 6

Camp Strake Campsite 6 is an integral part of the sprawling and contemporary Camp Strake, a premier outdoor facility nestled in a serene rural setting, bordering the magnificent Sam Houston National Forest on three sides. This expansive property, covering 2,816 acres, is a cornerstone of the "Campgrounds & RV Parks" category, offering a wide array of services and experiences designed to cater to a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts, from individual campers to organized groups, particularly those affiliated with Scouting America.

The environment at Camp Strake Campsite 6, and indeed throughout the larger Camp Strake, is meticulously preserved and showcases the natural splendor of the East Texas Piney Woods. The campsite itself is one of 20 individual camping pavilions, each equipped with protective covers and electric power, providing a comfortable base for campers. Tent pitching and campfire building are permitted in designated areas around these pavilions, which are conveniently arranged along a horseshoe-shaped road that forms the core of the camp. The landscape is rich in biodiversity, featuring an abundance of native plants, wildflowers, and wildlife. Efforts were made during the camp's development to minimize disruption to the natural ecosystem, including the careful preservation of wildflowers. A prominent feature of the camp's environment is its 28-acre lake, fed by rainwater, runoff, and an underground well, offering a picturesque setting for various aquatic activities. Beyond the individual campsites, an extensive network of trails crisscrosses the property, inviting exploration. This includes direct access to the Lone Star Hiking Trail, Texas's longest hiking trail, a testament to a unique partnership with the United States Forest Service. The overall design of Camp Strake emphasizes the preservation of green spaces, with five lakes forming central elements within the community, providing both aesthetic beauty and recreational opportunities. The geographical location, near Coldspring, Texas, places it approximately a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Houston, making it an accessible retreat from urban life without sacrificing the sense of wilderness.

The services available at Camp Strake Campsite 6 are comprehensive, ensuring a comfortable, safe, and engaging experience for all visitors. At the heart of the camp's amenities is a state-of-the-art, air-conditioned dining hall, capable of serving hundreds of campers three meals daily. This facility is equipped with commercial-grade kitchen appliances, extensive food preparation areas, ample utensils, cooling and dry storage, and a dedicated dishwashing area, supported by two walk-in refrigerators and three freezers. Meals are provided by a professional custom food service company, with menus carefully curated and reviewed by a certified dietician to meet the high caloric and nutritional demands of active campers. Special dietary needs are accommodated through a structured system requiring advance submission of dietary forms. Beyond dining, clean and well-maintained restroom facilities and shower houses are strategically located throughout the camp, accessible from the main thoroughfares. For logistical needs, a dedicated check-in building at the camp entrance streamlines the arrival process, handling medical screenings, providing directions, and assigning campsites. While personal vehicles are directed to designated parking areas near campsites, the camp encourages foot traffic across its well-designed trail system for navigating between activity locations. Emergency services are robust, with emergency phone numbers posted throughout the camp and FM radio communication for rangers and staff. A Health Lodge within the administration building handles minor injuries and illnesses, with protocols in place for referring more serious emergencies to nearby medical facilities, such as Cleveland Emergency Hospital.

The features that distinguish Camp Strake Campsite 6 and the broader Camp Strake are numerous and designed to provide unparalleled outdoor adventures and educational opportunities. The camp boasts an impressive aquatics center, complete with a swimming pool and pool house, complemented by lake access for canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and rowboating. For those seeking elevated challenges, a 40-foot rock wall climbing tower with four climbing stations and a training pavilion awaits, alongside a thrilling double zipline that spans the 28-acre lake. The shooting sports complex is extensive, featuring the Carole and Jim Looke Shotgun Range, the Rusty and Paula Walter Rifle Range, and dedicated pistol and archery ranges, all operating under strict safety protocols and requiring qualified leadership. A significant emphasis is placed on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education, with the Eco-STEM Center offering opportunities for campers to earn merit badges in various STEM disciplines. Camp Strake's unique partnerships further set it apart; it is the only council in Scouting America with a Space Act Agreement with NASA, enabling exclusive programs like Strake Odyssey, the NASA Stars & STEM Program, the Train Like an Astronaut Program (SCUBA), and Helicopter Underwater Egress Training (HUET. Additional recreational features include mountain biking trails, 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 provides multiple merit badge pavilions, a grand pavilion for large gatherings, and various sports fields. Throughout the camp, outdoor lighting is adorned with the fleur-de-lis, symbolizing its strong connection to the Scouting movement. All facilities are designed to meet both ADA and Scouting America requirements, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all participants.

For booking and promotional information, Camp Strake Campsite 6, along with other facilities within Camp Strake, is available for weekend camping reservations, primarily catering to troops, crews, and ships. Campsite sizes vary, accommodating groups from 10 to 75 campers, with pricing typically around $100 for up to 50 campers and $125 for 51-75 campers, which includes a day usage fee. Primitive campsites are also an option, priced at approximately $50 for up to 50 campers. A day usage fee of $2 per person ($3 for out-of-council units) applies to those not camping overnight. Program areas like archery, rifle, climbing, and COPE can be reserved for additional fees, usually on a 4-hour basis. A 50% deposit is generally required for most reservations, with full payment due 14 days prior to the reservation date. Reservations typically close 5 days out, allowing for final adjustments. Beyond weekend camping, Camp Strake hosts various long-term programs, including Summer Camp, Winter Camp, STEM Camp, Camp Odyssey, ATV Experience, Full Throttle, and Trail to Eagle Camp. These week-long, council-organized overnight camps offer Scouts concentrated opportunities to earn merit badges and participate in specialized training. Promotional materials often highlight Camp Strake as a leading destination that provides unique and enriching experiences unparalleled elsewhere, underscoring its role in fostering leadership development and outdoor skills. Prospective visitors are encouraged to consult the Sam Houston Area Council website for the most current information regarding specific dates, 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 to help prepare for a safe and memorable experience at Camp Strake Campsite 6.