The 4-H Camp Ohio Youth Education Center is nestled along the Rocky Fork Stream approximately ten miles east of Utica, Ohio. It is situated on more than 500 acres in the beautiful rolling hills of northern Licking County.
Approximately 8,000 youth and adults camp annually. These user groups are primarily from 4-H and school groups. In addition, 4-H Camp Ohio provides a wonderful retreat and workshop setting for civic organizations, businesses, scout groups, family reunions, and others.
4-H Camp Ohio was established in 1928 when several 4-H Extension Agents (now titled as Educators) each contributed $500 of their own money to buy 129 acres for $1,632.67. This unselfish act was done to give young people in central Ohio a readily accessible camp that could offer excellent programs from which the campers could learn.
Members of the Extension staff signed notes for $800 to finance the operation the first summer, 1928, at 4-H Camp Ohio. One hundred forty-four Extension workers invested in mortgage debenture notes to finance the original swimming pool which was built in 1936.
The Hawke Farm (92 acres) was purchased for $8,500. The Hersman property (11 acres) was purchased for $1,500. The Colville Farm (81 acres) was purchased for $50,000 in 1974.
4-H Camp Ohio now has more than 310 acres in land holdings. It has summer facilities for 300 and winterized facilities for 200 resident campers. Staff cabins (Bull Pen and Cow Palace) hold six men and ten women.
The camp provides a camping home for thirteen counties and one statewide 4-H camping programs with more than 4,800 4-H members being served yearly. Over 2,000 additional youth are served through resident outdoor education school camps from Coshocton, Franklin, Licking, Marion and Muskingum Counties. Field trip groups, weekend retreats and conferences are also part of the camping population.
Since July 1978, 4-H Camp Ohio has received accreditation from the American Camp Association. It is the top national youth camping association in the United States.