National Jamboree Troop 1412

For Ohio locals seeking a rich outdoor experience steeped in tradition and natural beauty, Camp Oyo offers a distinctive destination. Located within the scenic Camp Oyo Region of Portsmouth, OH 45662, and administered by the Simon Kenton Council of the Boy Scouts of America, this is more than just a typical campground. Camp Oyo is a historic Scout reservation renowned for its immersive outdoor programs, catering primarily to youth groups like Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts, but also often available for rental by other organizations. It's a place where the principles of self-reliance, resourcefulness, and citizenship are fostered amidst the stunning backdrop of the Shawnee State Forest. Named after what many believe to be the original Native American word for the Ohio River, Camp Oyo has a long-standing history dating back to 1926, making it a cornerstone of outdoor education in the region. Visitors can expect a well-maintained property with a blend of rustic charm and essential facilities, designed to facilitate a wide range of activities from primitive camping to organized events. Whether your interest lies in fostering leadership skills, enjoying diverse recreational opportunities, or simply immersing yourself in a peaceful natural setting, Camp Oyo provides a unique and memorable experience for all who visit, truly embodying the spirit of Ohio’s outdoors.

Camp Oyo is strategically located in the Camp Oyo Region, Portsmouth, OH 45662, USA, and notably nestled within the expansive Shawnee State Forest. This placement is a significant advantage for Ohio locals, as it offers relatively easy access to a substantial wilderness area. To reach Camp Oyo, visitors typically take State Route 52 west out of Portsmouth for about 7 miles, then turn onto State Route 125 North and follow it for approximately 6 miles to the camp entrance. Upon turning right onto the forest road, the main parking lot will be on the left, and the camp gateway on the right. This clear signage and straightforward route make the journey manageable for groups arriving by bus or families in personal vehicles. The camp's location within the Shawnee State Forest means immediate access to some of Ohio's wildest land, characterized by rugged hills, dense forests, and clear streams. Despite its immersive natural setting, it remains accessible enough for weekend trips or week-long summer programs for youth from across the Simon Kenton Council's service area. This blend of remote natural beauty with practical accessibility makes Camp Oyo an ideal and appealing destination for Ohioans seeking genuine outdoor adventures without venturing too far from home.

As a dedicated Boy Scouts of America camp, Camp Oyo offers a comprehensive range of facilities and services designed to support diverse outdoor programs and group activities:

• Camping Accommodations: The camp provides various lodging options, including traditional tent camping spaces and rustic cabins and lodges. Some cabins may feature amenities like electric heat and air conditioning.
• Dining Facilities: A rustic Dining Hall is available, capable of seating up to 200 people. A commercial kitchen, suitable for large groups or banquets, can be rented separately from the Dining Hall, often requiring specially trained staff for use.
• Restroom and Shower Facilities: Camp Oyo features a shower house and restroom facilities, including flush toilets and hot showers (in A-Loop, based on similar camp standards), essential for comfortable longer stays.
• Recreational Areas: A swimming pool with a viewing area is available (requiring a BSA or Red Cross certified lifeguard for use). The camp also offers basketball courts and various recreation areas.
• Program-Specific Facilities: Given its Scout camp nature, it likely includes ranges for activities like archery, BB guns, rifle, or shotgun shooting, and areas for nature studies, ecology, and conservation, although specific details may vary seasonally.
• Trading Post: An Oyo Trading Post is typically open during program times, offering snacks, drinks, Scouting supplies, and souvenirs.
• Water Access: While not explicitly stated for all areas, access to good water (potable) is a standard feature. A dam across Turkey Creek formed a swimming hole in earlier days, indicating historical water-based recreation.
• Logistical Support: Carts are often provided for transporting camping gear to tent sites or cabins from parking areas. Exceptions for handicapped access with vehicles are possible with administration approval.
• Onsite Ranger/Staff: A Camp Ranger or host is typically available to assist with check-in, explain rules, and provide support.
• Group Event Hosting: The facilities are well-equipped to host organized group events, youth programs, and training seminars.

Visitors are expected to adhere to BSA guidelines regarding conduct, leadership, safety, and environmental responsibility ("Leave your campsite cleaner and in better shape than you found it").

Camp Oyo's unique features and highlights stem from its rich history, natural setting, and dedication to outdoor education:

• Historic Significance: Established in 1926, Camp Oyo is one of Ohio's oldest Scout camps, with structures (like CCC-built cabins from blighted American Chestnuts) and features that reflect its long history, including a recognizable entrance gate built in 1955.
• Shawnee State Forest Integration: Its location within the Shawnee State Forest provides access to some of Ohio's "wildest land," offering dense forests, hills, gurgling brooks, and diverse flora and fauna. This proximity allows for expansive hiking, nature exploration, and wildlife observation.
• Aquatic Programs: Features a swimming pool and historical connection to Turkey Creek for water activities. Specific events like "Aquatics Weekend" highlight opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking at the lakefront.
• High Adventure Programs: For older Scouts (13+ or completed 7th grade), Camp Oyo offers a robust High Adventure Program during summer camps, including expeditions like canoeing, backpacking, caving, GPS land navigation, waterskiing, whitewater rafting, snorkeling, swimming, and shooting.
• Native American Cultural Connection: Historically, Native American culture, particularly Shawnee and Cherokee, has been central to Camp Oyo's motifs, including "Indian dancing" and "campfire ceremonies," contributing to a unique thematic experience.
• Rustic Charm & Natural Ambiance: The camp is praised for its "beauty and peace of the hill country and forests," offering cool air, cold nights, and abundant sunshine, creating an ideal "back to nature" experience.
• Versatile Rental Options: In addition to Scout programs, the camp has long been open for use by other organizations (e.g., 4-H groups), indicating its adaptability for various non-Scout group rentals.
• Well-Maintained Grounds: Visitors can expect a clean and well-kept environment, which is crucial for group camping and educational programs.

The combination of historical depth, natural immersion, and a focus on adventure makes Camp Oyo a distinguished outdoor destination in Ohio.

Phone: (740) 353-7115

Mobile Phone: +1 740-353-7115

Address: The Simon Kenton Council, Camp Oyo Region, Portsmouth, OH 45662, USA

For detailed inquiries regarding facility rentals, specific program schedules (like summer camp or aquatics weekends), availability, pricing, and current regulations (including those for non-Scout groups), it is highly recommended that you contact the Simon Kenton Council directly. Their official website (skcscouts.org) is also an excellent resource for comprehensive information about Camp Oyo and other council properties. For direct questions about the camp facilities or specific arrangements, reaching out to the Camp Ranger at (740) 858-1801 (as indicated on some booking platforms) might also be a valuable option.

For Ohio locals, Camp Oyo represents a unique and incredibly suitable destination for outdoor education, recreation, and group retreats. Its location in the Camp Oyo Region of Portsmouth, OH, within the stunning Shawnee State Forest, makes it an accessible wilderness escape for residents across the state. This proximity means families and organizations don't have to travel far to experience the profound benefits of connecting with nature. While primarily a Boy Scouts of America camp, its long history and well-established facilities often accommodate other youth and adult groups, making its enriching environment available to a wider local audience. The range of accommodations, from tent sites to lodges, coupled with a full dining hall and recreational amenities like a swimming pool, ensures that diverse needs are met, whether for a rigorous high-adventure program or a more relaxed gathering. What truly sets Camp Oyo apart for Ohioans is its deep historical roots and the immersive educational opportunities it provides. It’s a place where leadership, environmental stewardship, and outdoor skills are not just taught but lived. The chance to explore the "wildest land" in Ohio, engage in aquatic activities, or simply enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings, offers a vital antidote to modern life. Camp Oyo is more than just a place to camp; it's a legacy of outdoor learning and adventure that continues to serve the local community, fostering a deep appreciation for Ohio's natural heritage and shaping future generations of responsible citizens and outdoor enthusiasts. It is truly a treasured resource for the state's residents, offering unparalleled opportunities for growth and enjoyment in the heart of Ohio's wilderness.