Camp Oyo Staff Association Inc. was formed by former camp staff and supporters who wanted to give back to a place that shaped generations of Scouts. The organization was incorporated in Ohio on April 20, 1995, with original incorporators Thomas E. Leigtenheimer, James W. Kirsch, and Sam Blackburn signing the articles in August 1994.
A Camp with Deep Roots
Camp Oyo was established in 1926 in Shawnee State Forest near Portsmouth, Ohio. The name "Oyo" comes from a Native American word associated with the Ohio River region. The camp features historic log cabins, a dining hall, lake programs, and trails — many built during the Great Depression with Civilian Conservation Corps labor.
Continuing the Mission
Today, the association connects staff alumni, volunteers, and community supporters for charitable activities: preservation workdays, heritage education, and fundraising for camp stewardship. The camp continues to be operated by the Simon Kenton Council, Boy Scouts of America, at 168 Shawnee Rd., West Portsmouth, OH 45663.
Learn more about our charitable purposes on the Mission page, or get in touch to participate.