Provincial 4-H Camp Opens for the 40th Season

Two hundred 4-H members will embark on summer adventures as Camp Rankin opens for its 40th season on the shores of the Bras d'Or Lakes from July 1 to Aug. 3.

The provincial 4-H camp has been welcoming young people aged nine to 15 for unrivaled experiences in healthy living, leadership, and skills development.

"Camp Rankin's youth leadership program gives 4-H members a positive educational experience where they make lasting friendships," said Agriculture Minister John MacDonell. "My daughter has fond memories of her time as a 4-H member at Camp Rankin, and I'm pleased that so many young Nova Scotians get to share this experience."

In 1972, Camp Rankin was built by volunteers as a Centennial project of the Richmond County 4-H Leader's Council, which continues to maintain the camp. It was the first 4-H camp to be built in the Atlantic provinces. It is situated on 60 acres of land at Cape George, near St. Peters.

Camp Rankin's facilities include hiking trails, a beach, and a dining and recreation hall. Trained counsellors lead campers through all traditional camp activities and 4-H skills sessions.

"Attending Camp Rankin is often one of the best experiences a young person has during their time in 4-H, and many return for another year as camp staff," said Ruth Grant, senior 4-H program coordinator for the Department of Agriculture. "Members are encouraged to bring a friend to camp and promote the 4-H program as a great experience, which helps us recruit new members."

The camp was originally built to accommodate the 4-H clubs of Richmond County and surrounding area. It now hosts five five-day summer camps so that all Nova Scotia 4-H members can participate.