Sherburne County Camp

For generations of Minnesotans, the name Sherburne County Camp evokes cherished memories of summer adventures, camaraderie, and growth. This isn't your typical public campground with individual sites for rent; instead, Sherburne County Camp is primarily known for its rich history as a dedicated youth camp, particularly its strong ties to 4-H programs. While it has faced challenges, including a devastating fire, the spirit of this place and its commitment to providing enriching outdoor experiences for young people remains a vital part of the Big Lake community. For locals, this camp represents more than just a location; it's a legacy of learning, friendship, and connection with Minnesota's natural environment.

Sherburne County Camp is located at 16885 Day Use Rd, Big Lake, MN 55309, USA. This address places it squarely within the scenic Sand Dunes State Forest area, which is known for its diverse landscapes of oak savanna, prairie, and pine forests. The camp's location near Big Lake, approximately an hour's drive northwest of the Twin Cities, makes it highly accessible for many families and youth groups across Central Minnesota. Its proximity to Ann Lake and the broader Sand Dunes State Forest means participants have direct access to a wealth of natural resources for outdoor activities and environmental education. The blend of a semi-secluded natural setting with reasonable driving access from major population centers ensures that Sherburne County Camp remains a convenient and practical choice for youth programs within the state.

Given that Sherburne County Camp primarily functions as a youth camp, its services are tailored to group programs and educational outdoor experiences, rather than individual campsite rentals for the general public. Based on its history and purpose, typical services and facilities would have included, and are aimed at being rebuilt to include:

• Dormitory/Cabin Accommodations: Historically, the camp provided dormitory-style lodging or cabins for youth campers and counselors. Following a fire in 2018, there have been ongoing efforts to rebuild a larger, modern facility to accommodate more youth, designed to double the previous capacity for overnight stays.

• Dining Facilities: Camps typically include a dining hall or kitchen facilities to prepare and serve meals for large groups of campers.

• Recreational Areas: Dedicated spaces for group activities, sports, and outdoor play, such as open fields, and potentially multi-purpose recreation buildings.

• Restroom and Shower Facilities: Essential for extended stays, communal restrooms and shower facilities would be part of the camp's infrastructure, designed to cater to youth groups.

• Program Support: Staff and resources dedicated to facilitating various youth programs, including educational sessions, team-building exercises, and guided outdoor activities.

• Outdoor Spaces: Open areas for games, campfires, and assembly, often with designated fire pits and picnic tables for group use.

• Accessibility: While not explicitly detailed for all past facilities, modern rebuilding efforts would likely incorporate accessibility features to ensure broader participation.

It is important to note that public reviews referencing "campground" may sometimes be conflating the youth camp's broader property with general public camping. The core function and available services are geared towards organized youth programming.

Sherburne County Camp's features and highlights are deeply intertwined with its mission as a youth outdoor education and recreational facility:

• Strong 4-H Roots: The camp has a long-standing history as a significant location for 4-H summer camps and other youth development programs. Many Minnesotans fondly remember their formative years spent here as campers and counselors, highlighting its profound impact on generations.

• Focus on Youth Development: The primary feature of this camp is its dedication to providing a safe, engaging, and educational environment for young people to learn about nature, develop life skills, and build character through outdoor activities.

• Natural Setting within Sand Dunes State Forest: The camp's location offers direct access to the diverse ecosystems of Sand Dunes State Forest, including its unique sand dunes, oak savannas, and pine forests. This provides a rich natural classroom for environmental education and exploration.

• Proximity to Ann Lake: While reviews specifically mention "Lake Ann was a disappointment" in one context (possibly regarding fishing conditions or access on a particular visit, and likely referring to Ann Lake which is adjacent to the state forest area), the camp's location near Ann Lake would generally offer opportunities for water-based activities suitable for youth, such as swimming or non-motorized boating, depending on specific camp programming and lake conditions.

• Resilience and Rebuilding Efforts: A significant highlight is the community's determination to rebuild the camp after a devastating fire in 2018. This collective effort to restore a beloved institution underscores its importance to local youth and families, promising a renewed and enhanced facility for future generations.

• Community Support: The outpouring of support and anticipation for the camp's reopening after the fire demonstrates its cherished status within the Sherburne County community and beyond.

• Educational and Recreational Programs: While not detailed in current public reviews as features of a general campground, historical and future operations would focus on various programs like nature hikes, wildlife observation, team-building challenges, and traditional camp activities.

• Safe and Controlled Environment: As a dedicated youth camp, it provides a structured and supervised environment, which is a key feature for parents and guardians sending their children to programs here.

For information regarding Sherburne County Camp, including its rebuilding progress, program schedules, and potential opportunities for involvement, please use the following contact details:

Address: 16885 Day Use Rd, Big Lake, MN 55309, USA

Phone: (612) 202-6225

Mobile Phone: +1 612-202-6225

It is recommended to reach out directly to the camp or related Sherburne County 4-H organizations for the most current information on its operational status and program offerings, especially given the historical rebuilding efforts.

Sherburne County Camp holds a special place in the hearts of many Minnesotans, making it profoundly suitable for locals, particularly youth and their families. Its primary suitability stems from its historical role as a bedrock for youth development, especially through 4-H programs. For generations, this camp has provided a foundational outdoor experience, fostering independence, teamwork, and an appreciation for Minnesota's natural environment. The shared memories of past campers and counselors create a unique sense of community ownership and nostalgia. Even after the unfortunate fire, the determination to rebuild and enhance the facilities underscores its enduring value to the local populace. For parents in Minnesota seeking safe, structured, and enriching summer experiences for their children, Sherburne County Camp represents a trusted institution. Its location within the Sand Dunes State Forest offers unparalleled access to nature, making it an ideal setting for environmental education and outdoor recreation. While it functions as a dedicated youth camp rather than a public campground with individual site rentals, its legacy and ongoing efforts ensure it will continue to be a vital local resource, shaping young Minnesotans' lives through memorable outdoor adventures and fostering a deep connection to our state's beautiful landscapes.

Sherburne County Camp

16885 Day Use Rd, Big Lake, MN 55309, USA