Community Spotlight_Sherbrooke Lake Camp
Many residents of New Ross are aware of a treasured camp nearby our community just up and off the
Forties Road, in what is known as Franey Corner. Many would have attended this camp as children and then sent their children. Some may not be aware that Sherbrooke Lake Camp even exists. This year the Camp will be celebrating 60 years of camping and therefore is this month’s Community Spotlight.
After the closing of the Pinehurst camping grounds in the late 1950s United Church camping had come to a halt. 4 Presbyterian groups, Lunenburg-Queens, Yarmouth, Annapolis and Windsor, started searching for a new camp site. The present site was selected by a committee in 1963 and originally consisted of 1000 acres owned by the widow of the late Ira Rhodenizer. The Church was able to acquire 80 acres.
The camp includes a 20×70 main lodge with a veranda and attached 20×20 kitchen. Two cabins were originally built and not long after two more were added. Electricity came around 1967 and the chapel was started in 1969. Kentville U.C. men had a 200lb steam locomotive bell and stand made from rail totalling over 1000lbs which was brought in by oxen. The cross was erected at this time and the 3×6 sign placed by the main road. The camp had 11 cabins by 1969. The camp became a charitable organization in February 1976.
Currently there are 9 stand-alone cabins that sleep 8 campers each in the main room in 4 sets of bunkbeds. There is a change room for privacy and a backroom for the counsellor and counsellor-in-training. The cabins are new since 2017 – built by local community members and students at NSCC! The cabins maintain the natural camping experience and don’t have power. Close to each cabin is a set of latrines. Latrines decrease the carbon footprint and impact on water usage at camp!
A rustic camp nestled deep in the woods is just what kids today need! The camp is a place for kids to be themselves, to learn new skills, unplug, develop independence, meet great friends, eat home-cooked meals and everyone is welcome! Sherbrooke Lake Camp prides itself on their commitment to respect the natural environment, the waterways and the kilometre-long sandy beach where campers swim, canoe, laugh, sing and play!
Sherbrooke Lake Camp is an affirming camp with gender inclusive cabins, opportunities to explore spirituality and ask questions about faith. Regardless of faith or beliefs, campers of all backgrounds are welcome and invited to join their safe space.
Sherbrooke Lake Camp is inviting everyone to help celebrate 60 years of friendship, memories and fun with their 60th Anniversary Homecoming Weekend August 2-4, 2024. This Friday – Sunday event will offer some of Sherbrooke Lake Camp’s favorites, from campfire to Turkey Dinner, to our special candle lighting ceremony! There will also be live music on Saturday with the chance to dance late into the evening under the stars. This is a family friendly event with on-site accommodations and classic camp meals! Please check out www.sherbrookelakecamp.org for more information on this fantastic camping opportunity!
