Campsite 10 (Panther)

For generations of young Alabamians, and indeed for many from across the Southeast, Camp Comer has been synonymous with outdoor adventure and character building. Nestled high atop Lookout Mountain in Mentone, Alabama, this storied Boy Scout Reservation offers a unique and immersive natural experience. Among its many well-regarded sites, Campsite 10, famously known as "Panther," stands out as a prime location for group camping, particularly for Scout troops seeking a robust and memorable outdoor experience.

This article is tailored for you, our local users in Alabama, to provide a comprehensive and factual look at Campsite 10 (Panther) within the broader context of Camp Comer. We'll detail its specific location and accessibility, highlight the services and features that make it ideal for group camping, and offer essential contact information. Based on firsthand accounts from those who have experienced it, Campsite 10 (Panther) is designed to facilitate teamwork, skill development, and a deep appreciation for Alabama's stunning natural landscapes. Whether you're a Scout leader planning an outing or simply curious about this significant outdoor education hub in our state, join us as we explore what makes Panther Site a premier destination.

Campsite 10 (Panther) is located within the expansive Camp Comer Scout Reservation, situated in Mentone, AL 35984, USA. Camp Comer itself is found at 16490 County Road 89, Mentone, AL 35984, atop Lookout Mountain in Northeast Alabama. This elevated location provides cooler summer temperatures and a distinctly mountainous atmosphere, a welcome change for many during Alabama's warmer months.

For residents across Alabama, accessing Camp Comer is relatively straightforward, though it involves navigating scenic mountain roads once off major highways. From Birmingham, the drive is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, typically via I-59 North to Exit 231 (AL Highway 117/40) and then following signs towards Mentone. From Huntsville, it’s a similar drive time, often via US-72 East to I-59 South. Even from more distant parts of the state, such as Montgomery or Mobile, the journey involves well-maintained interstate highways connecting to I-59, followed by the approach to Mentone. The camp's specific location within Mentone is further facilitated by clear signage once you are in the vicinity of Camp Comer. Its position on Lookout Mountain means that while it feels wonderfully secluded and immersed in nature, it remains accessible from key population centers, balancing the sense of remote adventure with practical travel considerations. The journey itself becomes part of the experience, leading visitors through picturesque landscapes characteristic of Northeast Alabama.

Campsite 10 (Panther), as part of the larger Camp Comer Scout Reservation, benefits from the extensive infrastructure and program support that a premier Boy Scout camp offers. These services are primarily designed to facilitate large group camping, outdoor education, and youth development, making it an excellent resource for Scout troops and similar organizations.

• Dedicated Group Camping Area: Campsite 10 (Panther) is specifically designed as a large group camping area, capable of holding "3 small troops easily." This makes it ideal for multiple patrol or troop setups.
• Permanent Year-Round Campsite: As one of Camp Comer's 16 permanent campsites, it offers consistent availability and established infrastructure throughout the year, suitable for various camping seasons.
• Basic Shelter and Facilities: Each campsite at Camp Comer, including Panther, typically includes a pavilion (as noted in a review for Panther), providing covered space for gatherings, dining, or shelter from the elements. Additionally, sites generally feature a fire ring for campfires.
• Running Water: All campsites at Camp Comer have access to running water, a crucial amenity for cooking, cleaning, and hygiene during group stays.
• Trash Cans: Designated trash receptacles are available at each site, supporting responsible waste management and helping to keep the campground clean.
• Access to Centralized Shower Facilities: While not directly at the site, Camp Comer has two large, centrally located shower facilities with on-demand hot water and flushing toilets, accessible to all campers. These are crucial for longer stays.
• Access to Dining Hall and Trading Post: Campers at Panther site have access to the main camp facilities, including a dining hall (for scheduled meals, often during summer camp sessions) and a trading post for supplies, snacks, and souvenirs.
• Program Area Proximity: Campsite 10 (Panther) is noted on camp maps as being near various program areas, which, during summer camp, would include access to merit badge instruction, leadership training, and other outdoor skills activities (e.g., Scoutcraft Area, Handicraft Shelter).
• Scoutmaster's Lounge Access: Adult leaders staying at Camp Comer have access to an air-conditioned Scoutmaster's Lounge with high-speed fiber internet and coffee, providing a comfortable space for planning and relaxation.

Campsite 10 (Panther) at Camp Comer boasts several key features and highlights that make it a highly regarded and functional camping location, particularly for organized youth groups and large gatherings. Its attributes are carefully designed to support comprehensive outdoor programs and comfortable group living.

• Generous Size for Multiple Groups: A standout feature of the Panther site is its large area, specifically noted as being able to "hold 3 small troops easily." This ample space allows for efficient setup of multiple tents, activity zones, and communal areas, fostering a sense of individual unit identity within a larger group setting.
• Shade and Natural Coverage: The presence of "Good shade" is a significant highlight, especially during Alabama's warm months. Natural tree cover provides crucial relief from the sun, making outdoor activities and relaxation much more comfortable throughout the day.
• Equipped with Pavilion and Fire Ring: The inclusion of a pavilion offers a dedicated covered space, invaluable for meal preparation, group meetings, and shelter from rain or intense sun. The fire ring provides a central point for traditional campfire activities, cooking, and fostering camaraderie.
• Part of a Premier Scout Reservation: Campsite 10 benefits immensely from being part of Camp Comer, a renowned 1,000-acre Scout camp with over 50 years of history. This means access to top-tier facilities and programming infrastructure, even if specifically designed for scouting activities.
• Scenic Lookout Mountain Setting: Located high atop Lookout Mountain, the campsite enjoys a unique mountainous atmosphere, which includes cooler summer temperatures and stunning natural beauty. This elevated position provides a distinct outdoor experience compared to lower elevation campgrounds.
• Proximity to Camp Comer Amenities: While Campsite 10 is a dedicated area, its integration within Camp Comer means convenient access to the larger reservation’s offerings, such as Lake Republic (88-acre lake for aquatics), a 50-foot climbing and rappelling tower, various shooting sports ranges, and an ecology lodge, which are typically utilized during organized camp sessions.
• Permanent and Established Site: As a permanent, year-round campsite, Panther benefits from established pathways, clear boundaries, and general maintenance that might not be present in more primitive, unmanaged camping areas.
• Focus on Group Functionality: The design of the site, with its size and amenities, clearly prioritizes the needs of groups, promoting effective organization, shared activities, and a structured outdoor experience.

For direct inquiries regarding Campsite 10 (Panther) or other facilities and programs at Camp Comer Scout Reservation, the primary contact is the Greater Alabama Council of the Boy Scouts of America, which operates the camp.

Address: Mentone, AL 35984, USA (Full address for Camp Comer: 16490 County Road 89, Mentone, AL 35984)

Phone: While individual campsite phone numbers are not typically provided, the general contact number for Camp Comer or the Greater Alabama Council is the best approach. A common number associated with Camp Comer is (256) 849-2601. For general inquiries to the Greater Alabama Council, which oversees Camp Comer, their main number is often listed as (205) 969-9019, or you can find their contact page on their official website, 1bsa.org.

It is highly recommended to contact the Greater Alabama Council or the Camp Comer administration directly, especially when planning a group outing or if you have specific questions about booking Campsite 10 (Panther) and its availability, as many aspects of the camp are geared towards organized scouting events.

For locals in Alabama, Campsite 10 (Panther) at Camp Comer offers an exceptional and highly suitable option, particularly for organized youth groups and families seeking a structured yet immersive outdoor experience. Its location high atop Lookout Mountain in Mentone provides a unique natural setting that feels both adventurous and accessible, boasting cooler temperatures and beautiful landscapes that distinguish it from many other areas in the state. This geographic advantage alone makes it a desirable escape, offering a true change of scenery and climate for many Alabamians.

What truly makes Campsite 10 (Panther) ideal for locals is its design for group functionality. The ample space, combined with essential amenities like a pavilion and fire ring, makes it perfect for scout troops, church groups, or large family gatherings. It provides the infrastructure necessary to comfortably accommodate multiple units, fostering camaraderie and shared experiences. This focus on group camping simplifies the logistics for organizers, allowing them to concentrate on programming and enjoyment rather than basic site setup. The long-standing history and reputation of Camp Comer as a premier Boy Scout reservation also offer an assurance of well-maintained facilities and a rich tradition of outdoor education.

Furthermore, while specifically designed for scouting, the broader amenities of Camp Comer—including its large lake for aquatics, climbing tower, and extensive trail systems—provide a wealth of activities that can be integrated into any group's itinerary, subject to camp policies and availability. For Alabama families and youth leaders committed to fostering a love for the outdoors, building character, and creating lasting memories, Campsite 10 (Panther) at Camp Comer represents a superb opportunity. It's more than just a place to camp; it's a gateway to adventure, learning, and connection with Alabama's natural heritage, right in our own backyard.

Campsite 10 (Panther)

Mentone, AL 35984, USA