Camp Creager

Nestled in the heart of southern New Hampshire, Camp Creager serves as a vital resource for the local youth community. This specialized campground, located in the town of Merrimack, provides a serene and rustic environment where young people can engage with nature and build character. For many residents in the Granite State, this property is better known by its former name, Camp Whip-O-Will. In recent years, it was renamed to honor Anita Creager, a legendary figure in New Hampshire scouting who dedicated over 50 years of service to mentorship and the preservation of this very land. Today, the camp remains a symbol of community dedication and outdoor education.

The history of the camp is deeply intertwined with the development of local scouting. Originally donated by James Gates in the 1970s, the 23-acre parcel was designed to be a dedicated space for local troops to practice their skills. Managed by Scouting America New Hampshire (formerly known as the Daniel Webster Council), the camp maintains a quiet, peaceful atmosphere that stands in stark contrast to the busier, more commercial recreation areas in the region. Whether you are a parent of a new scout or a seasoned troop leader, Camp Creager offers a sense of tradition and a connection to the natural beauty of the Merrimack Valley.

Location and accessibility are among the key benefits for those residing in the Merrimack and Nashua areas. Situated at 9 Rivergate Road, the camp is easily reachable for families living in Hillsboro County. Its proximity to major local routes means that scouts can enjoy a "wilderness" experience without having to travel hours into the White Mountains. The property sits alongside the Souhegan River, providing a picturesque backdrop and opportunities for nature study near the water's edge. Access to the site is straightforward, with on-site parking available for visitors and organizers, making it convenient for weekend troop outings or day-long training sessions.

Services offered at Camp Creager are designed to support a rustic, back-to-basics camping experience. Unlike large-scale resorts, the focus here is on the "Patrol Method" and traditional outdoor skills. The services provided ensure that groups can safely and effectively conduct their programs while maintaining the integrity of the natural environment. These services include:

• Designated tent sites for troop and individual group camping.
• Reservation management through the regional scouting council systems.
• Maintenance and site preservation overseen by dedicated local trustees.
• Basic restroom facilities to support overnight stays.
• Co-ed friendly facility arrangements to accommodate diverse scouting units.
• Structured camping fees designed to keep outdoor experiences affordable for local families.

The features and highlights of Camp Creager reflect its 23-acre landscape and its specific mission to serve the scouting community. The property is characterized by its wooded terrain and its relationship with the river, offering a variety of environmental features that serve as an outdoor classroom. Some of the most notable highlights include:

• The Souhegan River frontage, which offers scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere.
• The historic "Camp Whip-O-Will" legacy, preserved through the new entrance signage.
• A dedicated 23-acre forest environment that allows for privacy and immersion in nature.
• Proximity to Merrimack’s local amenities while feeling completely secluded.
• The "Anita Creager" honorary designation, celebrating over half a century of local volunteerism.
• A capacity that supports small to medium-sized groups, ensuring the land is never overcrowded.

For those looking to coordinate a visit or learn more about the specific requirements for using the land, contact information is readily available. Because the camp is managed as part of a larger network of properties, administrative inquiries are often handled through the regional office. You can reach the camp organizers or the council that manages the property at the following:

• Address: 9 Rivergate Rd, Merrimack, NH 03054, USA
• General Phone: (603) 625-6431 (Daniel Webster Council / Scouting America New Hampshire)
• Physical Location: Located off Rivergate Road near the Souhegan River.

What is worth choosing about Camp Creager is its unique commitment to the local community. In an era where many open spaces are being developed, this camp remains a protected enclave for youth to learn self-reliance and leadership. It is one of the few properties in the state specifically dedicated to the use of scouting groups, meaning that the environment is tailored to the safety and educational needs of children and young adults. Real-world feedback from visitors often highlights the "well-maintained and peaceful" nature of the grounds, making it a top choice for those who value tranquility over high-traffic tourist attractions.

Choosing Camp Creager also means supporting a legacy of local volunteerism. The property is a testament to the hard work of residents like Anita Creager and the many scouts who have performed service projects on the land over the decades. For families in Merrimack, it represents more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is a landmark of local history and a vital part of the New Hampshire outdoor tradition. Whether you are visiting for a single afternoon or a multi-day camping trip, the quiet beauty of the Souhegan River and the surrounding woods offer a perfect setting for making memories in the Granite State.