About Us
Discover the Rich History and Amenities of Maryland’s Oldest 4-H Camp
182 Acres
The camp spans a total of 182 acres.
Historic Significance
It is the oldest 4-H camp in Maryland and one of the oldest continuously operating 4-H camps in the United States.
Active Tree Farm
The camp includes a 150-acre tree farm adjacent to Rocks State Park and Deer Creek, recognized multiple times as “Harford County Tree Farm of the Year.”
Historic Structures
The oldest structure on the property is the Springhouse. The Kefauver family played a significant role in constructing the first large camp building, which remains in use today as a storage facility. Originally built as a dormitory for both boys’ and girls’ camps, this building was later joined by another, now known as the Craft Building.
Dining Facilities
Rocks Lodge was built in 1950 and served as the camp dining hall until the completion of Deer Creek Overlook in 2008, which now fulfills that role.
Swimming Pool
Originally spring-fed and located where the current Daughton Pavilion stands, the swimming pool was relocated to its present site in 1960 and underwent renovations in 2018.
Caretaker’s House
Constructed on a separate parcel of land in the late 1960s, the Caretaker’s House shares a driveway with the camp. The Camp Caretaker resides here, overseeing camp operations and assisting with maintenance and seasonal preparations.
Harford County 4-H Fair
The camp served as the venue for the Harford County 4-H Fair from 1961 to 1987, utilizing various buildings and pavilions for events.
Exhibit and Event Spaces
The dormitories functioned as the indoor exhibit hall, while Rocks Lodge provided meals for fair attendees. The current Ferncliff Pavilion was originally a show ring with a dirt floor, and the Archery Pavilion previously housed livestock. Additionally, a white wooden fence near the show pavilion was used for tying larger animals under the walnut trees.
