The history at Camp Dellwood runs deep, and we are excited to have you join us on this journey of history! The Camp Dellwood Wildflower Trail Patch Program kit contains everything you need to complete the kit on your own. In addition to the activities in the kit, you will receive a code to reserve a day of hiking at Camp Dellwood to complete the curriculum! This is a great opportunity to get your troop/family outside to enjoy the fresh air and learn about our history, too! (Each Girl Scout/sibling will need her/his own kit to complete the activities)
The Native Americans from the Delaware Tribe first occupied the area throughout Marion County. They mainly used this region as summer hunting grounds. Jacob and his son Isaac brought their families from North Carolina, and settled on the property in 1822. Many years later, his decedents lived in the white farmhouse just southeast of the current camp on 21st Street. The first Girl Scout troop in the Central Indiana area was created in Indianapolis, IN, in 1917. The council had established a camp at what is now 75th and College, but it was not large enough for the growing Girl Scout membership. By 1921, the council was interested in the Pugh property. Dorothy Dell, a former Girl Scout, donated the money to buy the camp. The camp was dedicated on July 7, 1926 and the first session opened on July 17th. The camp was laid out by landscape architect Lawrence Sheridan, who had put together Indianapolis’ park system carrying out and developing George Kessler’s plan. That first summer, 151 eager girls enjoyed living in the woods. The grounds had four tent units, Pugh Cabin, White House, and a large sheep barn.
In April 1986, the Marion County Soil and Water Conservation District put together a self-interpretative guide to the Camp Dellwood nature trail because they thought future generations would depend upon the knowledge and values of present generations. They hoped this trail would play a part in instilling lifelong values of stewardship and love for the land.