Campsite 11 (Raccoon)

camp comer scout reservation

For Alabamians seeking a camping experience rooted in tradition, community, and outdoor adventure, Campsite 11 (Raccoon) at Camp Comer in Mentone offers a truly special opportunity. While primarily known as a premier Scout Reservation, Camp Comer opens its doors to various groups and sometimes individuals, providing a meticulously maintained environment that fosters a deep connection with nature and a spirit of camaraderie. Nestled atop scenic Lookout Mountain, this camp is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a destination where clean facilities, helpful staff, and a wealth of activities converge to create lasting memories.

This article is tailored specifically for local users across Alabama, aiming to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Campsite 11 (Raccoon) within the larger Camp Comer setting. We'll delve into its picturesque location, the services and facilities available, and the unique features that make it a cherished spot, particularly for those familiar with the Scouting tradition. From its well-kept grounds to its access to Lake Republic, discover why Campsite 11 (Raccoon) at Camp Comer is an ideal choice for your next refreshing and wholesome Alabama outdoor adventure.

Campsite 11 (Raccoon) is located within the larger Camp Comer Scout Reservation, situated at 16490 Co Rd 89, Mentone, AL 35984, USA. This address places it high atop Lookout Mountain in Northeast Alabama, a region renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and numerous waterfalls.

For residents across Alabama, Mentone is a charming mountain town that serves as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Access to Mentone typically involves driving on well-maintained state highways, often connecting from major interstates like I-59. From cities such as Birmingham or Huntsville, the drive is scenic and manageable, leading you into the picturesque mountain landscape.

Once in Mentone, County Road 89 will guide you towards Camp Comer. The camp itself is vast, spanning 1,000 acres, and is designed with internal roads that are generally suitable for various vehicles. The elevated location on Lookout Mountain provides "cool summer temperatures" and a refreshing atmosphere, especially welcome during Alabama's warmer months. While offering a sense of seclusion and immersion in nature, Camp Comer is still within a reasonable distance of Mentone's small town amenities and other regional attractions, such as DeSoto State Park and Little River Canyon National Preserve. This combination of a tranquil mountain setting and relatively straightforward accessibility makes Campsite 11 (Raccoon) at Camp Comer a highly appealing destination for Alabamians seeking an enriching outdoor experience.

Campsite 11 (Raccoon), as part of the well-established Camp Comer Scout Reservation, benefits from a range of services and facilities designed to support comfortable group camping and outdoor activities. These amenities contribute to the positive experiences highlighted by visitors.

• Designated Campsite Facilities: Each campsite within Camp Comer, including Campsite 11 (Raccoon), is typically equipped with essential provisions. This often includes a flagpole, a trashcan for waste management, and a faucet providing water access.
• Latrine with Washbasin: Each campsite (with a few exceptions not including Raccoon) features a latrine with a washbasin. This provides basic, dedicated restroom facilities for the campers at that specific site.
• Camp-Wide Shower and Restroom Facilities: For more comprehensive hygiene, Camp Comer boasts "two air-conditioned shower and restroom facilities for camp-wide use." These are maintained for cleanliness, as evidenced by reviews praising "clean campsites and friendly staff!"
• Pre-Established Patrol Sites: For organized groups like Scouts, patrol sites are often pre-established within each campsite, aiding in structured and efficient camp setup.
• Adirondacks and Tents on Platforms: Some campsites may include Adirondacks (three-sided shelters that sleep four) and tents on platforms (sleeping two). While specific to Campsite 11 Raccoon's exact setup would need confirmation, this is a common feature within Camp Comer.
• Central Dining Hall: The C. M. Jesperson Dining Hall serves as a central hub, providing cafeteria-style meals for campers, particularly during scheduled summer camp programs.
• Health Lodge and Camp Office: A Health Lodge with a Camp Health Officer on premises (24 hours during peak season) is located near the Camp Office, which serves as the administrative center for check-ins and general assistance.
• Trading Post: The Moran Colburn Trading Post is centrally located and well-stocked with Scouting essentials, camping gear, memorabilia, and personal hygiene items, providing convenience for campers.

Campsite 11 (Raccoon) within Camp Comer offers a variety of features and highlights that contribute to its strong appeal, particularly for those looking for a structured yet adventurous outdoor experience in Alabama.

• "Clean Campsites and Friendly Staff!": As highlighted in the customer review, the cleanliness of the campsites and the welcoming nature of the staff are significant features. A well-maintained environment and helpful personnel greatly enhance the camping experience.
• Located on Lookout Mountain: Nestled high atop Lookout Mountain, the camp enjoys a "laid back mountain atmosphere" with the benefit of "cool summer temperatures" and "wildlife abound," offering a refreshing escape from hotter lowlands.
• Access to Lake Republic: Camp Comer features the beautiful 88-acre Lake Republic, which is a central attraction. The "Waterfront Area" offers opportunities for swimming, sailing, rowing, motorboating, kayaking, and canoeing. Fishing is also permitted in Lake Republic and Lake Achunanchi, another smaller fishing lake.
• Extensive Program Facilities (Scout-focused): While primarily for Scouts, the range of facilities indicates a well-equipped camp. These include a Rappelling and Climbing Tower, multiple Shooting Sports Ranges (shotgun, rifle, archery), and a COPE (Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience) course. These facilities suggest a strong infrastructure for outdoor activities.
• Thunderbird Trail: A five-mile trail around the perimeter of Camp Comer, the Thunderbird Trail, offers "lots of adventure" and includes "fascinating rock and cave formations," providing excellent hiking opportunities directly on-site.
• Natural Beauty and Wildlife: Beyond the structured activities, the 1,000-acre property offers abundant natural beauty, with various rock formations, creeks, and diverse wildlife, including "birds, deer, rabbits, foxes," contributing to a true outdoor immersion.
• Community and Tradition: As a Scout Reservation in operation since 1966, Camp Comer has a rich history and fosters a strong sense of community and outdoor tradition, which can be appealing to families and groups.

For information regarding Campsite 11 (Raccoon) or to inquire about camping at Camp Comer, please use the following contact details. It's important to remember that Camp Comer is primarily a Scout Reservation, and off-season or non-Scout group use may require specific permits or arrangements.

• Address: 16490 Co Rd 89, Mentone, AL 35984, USA
• Phone: (256) 849-2601 (This is the direct phone number for Camp Comer, provided by the Greater Alabama Council of the Boy Scouts of America). You may also see the general Greater Alabama Council number: (205) 970-0251 for broader inquiries.
• Website: The official website for Camp Comer is managed by the Greater Alabama Council of the Boy Scouts of America. It is highly recommended to visit their website for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding camp use, available dates, facility details, and any specific requirements for non-Scout groups or individuals during the off-season. Search for "Camp Comer Greater Alabama Council" to find their official page (e.g., 1bsa.org/camp-comer/).
• Camp Use Permit: For units and families wishing to utilize Camp Comer during the off-season, a Camp Use permit is typically required and should be submitted to the Birmingham Scout Office via email. Details and the permit form are usually available on their website.

Given its primary function as a Scout camp, direct communication is best to ascertain availability and policies for non-Scout camping, particularly for specific campsites like Raccoon.

Campsite 11 (Raccoon) within Camp Comer represents an exceptionally suitable and enriching destination for locals throughout Alabama, particularly for those seeking a well-structured, clean, and family-friendly outdoor experience with a focus on active recreation. Its location atop Lookout Mountain provides a beautiful, temperate setting, offering a refreshing escape from the state's hotter climates, especially during the summer months.

For Alabamians, the assurance of "clean campsites and friendly staff!" provides a solid foundation for a comfortable and pleasant stay. While primarily a Scout camp, its reputation for excellent facilities, including robust bathhouses and access to Lake Republic, extends to all visitors. This makes it an ideal spot for families or groups looking for a quality outdoor experience without needing to rough it entirely.

The abundance of on-site activities, from water sports on Lake Republic to exploring the Thunderbird Trail and its unique rock formations, ensures there's never a dull moment. For those who appreciate an organized approach to outdoor recreation and the opportunity to engage with nature in a well-maintained environment, Campsite 11 (Raccoon) at Camp Comer offers a unique and highly recommended local getaway. It truly embodies a blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunity, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a valuable resource for Alabamians seeking memorable outdoor adventures.

Campsite 11 (Raccoon)

Mentone, AL 35984, USA