Media Release: Dupont, Indiana’s Historic Camp Louis Ernst Being Restored

DUPONT, INDIANA’S HISTORIC CAMP LOUIS ERNST BEING RESTORED

For Immediate Release (Dupont, IN) - Nov. 27, 2023

Exciting news out of Dupont, Indiana! Recently, the Friends of Camp Louis Ernst, a 501C3 corporation, signed final documents allowing the non-profit group to assume control and stewardship of the former Boy Scout camp that has served over 25,000 young people since 1929. With gracious cooperation and assistance from heirs of the Ernst family, the original donors of the property, and support from Jefferson County community leaders, a whole new chapter is opening up for the use of the camp property by the youth of Southeastern Indiana.

The Friends of Camp Louis Ernst (FOCLE) was founded three years ago by former scout leaders and camp staff members who have been working diligently with Boy Scout executives to affect a smooth transfer. Restoring and developing the camp for use by local youth groups is the near-term goal. Since the 1980s, the Boy Scouts of America has only used Camp Louis Ernst for primitive overnight camping and many of the original facilities have deteriorated or actually been torn down. Work is currently underway to rebuild facilities and create better access for all young people who might enjoy the beauty and nature of this one hundred and sixty acre property. 

Future use of the camp will not be limited to area boy scout troops but will also be available for other organized programs such as Girl Scouts, 4-H, Boys & Girls Clubs, church youth groups and civic organizations. The mission emphasis will be on outdoor adventure, skills development and environmental education. 

Camp Louis Ernst has been an important part of the lives of citizens in this area for decades and represents precious memories for so many. FOCLE is dedicated to keeping the spirit of Camp Louis Ernst alive for future generations.

Camp Louis Ernst is located one mile South of Dupont, Indiana on State Road 7, halfway between North Vernon and Madison, Indiana. 

Anyone interested in supporting Camp Louis Ernst can do so by making a contribution as part of the national Giving Tuesday initiative on November 28, or donate at any other time during the year. To help with the restoration efforts at Camp Louis Ernst and make a tax-deductible contribution please contact the FOCLE fundraising chairman by mail at: FOCLE, P.O. Box 1421, Nashville, IN, 47448 or by Email to: SpinBaker@mindspring.com. Website donations are also available at: www.camplouisernst.com.

Resources

Camp Louis Ernst Website: www.camplouisernst.com
Camp Restoration Photos - Credit: Bob Mattingly - View Folder
Camp Louis Ernst Logos - View Folder

Donation Inquiries: SpinBaker@mindspring.com
Media contact: camplouisernst@gmail.com