Our History
“Whereas God gave us trees as an assurance of awakening life in the springtime; comforting shade in the summer; for beauty in the fall; for warmth in the winters’ chill…for more than we can now or ever hope to account for…we will constitute ourselves protectors and conservators of this form of life and use our influence in having all others do likewise.”
This passage speaks volumes about Camp New Fork’s long-standing tradition of outdoor stewardship and its mission to inspire young people to make a lasting impact on the world around them. The camp’s origins date back to 1923, when a group of Boy Scouts set out in search of adventure, armed with little more than a few pup tents and an army pyramid tent loaned by a nearby rancher. Despite its humble beginnings, Camp New Fork quickly became a place of excitement, learning, and camaraderie. Scouts immersed themselves in the natural world, guided by visiting biologists, geologists, and even an astronomer. Thanks to their meticulous record-keeping, we have a window into the early days of this remarkable place.
Following the success of the first camp, Camp New Fork was officially established in 1924, attracting scouts primarily from Rock Springs, Green River, and Kemmerer, along with a few from Big Piney and Pinedale. Here, they learned the fundamentals of woodcraft, botany, zoology, natural history, and astronomy—each subject taught by experts in the field. This culture of education was not only preserved but also applied in a hands-on way. Throughout the 1920s and '30s, scouts and instructors built and maintained structures, some of which still stand today. In 1940, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) constructed essential fencing and small cabins for programs, storage, and housing, further enhancing the camp’s infrastructure.
By 1937, the Cache Valley Council (BSA), based in Logan, Utah, extended its reach into Southwest Wyoming. However, as scouting in the region grew, the Jim Bridger Council was formed in 1945, establishing an independent scouting presence. Over the next 74 years, Camp New Fork evolved into one of the most prominent scouting communities in the country—until its closure in 2019.
For nearly five years, the site remained largely dormant, until Wilderness Adventures acquired the operating permit from the Forest Service in the spring of 2024. This marked the realization of a lifelong dream for Tom and Catherine Holland: to become stewards of a residential camp in a pristine wilderness setting, where they could share their passion for the outdoors with the next generation. Now, on its 100th anniversary, we are honored to reopen Wyoming’s newest, oldest summer camp—continuing a century-long legacy of adventure, education, and connection to the natural world.
Experience the NEW Camp New Fork.