Charitable Trust Staff recently visited Lions Camp Merrick in Nanjemoy to tour the property and learn about the many programs offered at one of Charles County’s longest running nonprofit organizations. Established as a camp for boys in the 1930’s by the Merrick family, the property later became a camp for deaf children. In the 1970’s, local Lions Clubs became managing partners, later officially acquiring the property in 1988 and turning it into the community resource it remains today. Lions Camp Merrick continues camps for deaf children, blind children, and an annual camp for youth with Diabetes that began in 1998.
Local Lions Clubs around the area hold multiple fundraising events throughout the year to support the upkeep of the property and the many camps that are held here. Lions Camp Merrick has been home to traditional overnight summer camps for deaf and blind children for decades. More recently, they have added camp experiences for visually impaired adults and children who are cancer survivors. Their biggest camp currently is for diabetic children, in partnership with the American Diabetes Association. Lions Camp Merrick Staff tell the Trust what a unique and heart-warming experience it is for all of their campers with special needs to be able to have a true camp experience alongside other campers who are going through the same thing and have the similar needs. Medical staff are on site to assist campers with and ensure safety, while counselors and camp staff provide all the fun that children deserve to experience growing up.
Even on the gray, rainy day that Trust staff visited Lions Camp Merrick, the beauty of the waterfront property is undeniable. Tucked along the Potomac River, the 320-acre location is a serene place to come for a variety of purposes. Besides camps for children and families, Lions Camp Merrick is a desirable venue for weddings, family reunions, corporate retreats, and more. The property features 2 full-size log cabin homes, large dining hall, commercial kitchen, offices, multiple dorm-style quarters, activity buildings, a dock, sports facilities, and lots of outdoor space with beautiful water views. Archery, ropes courses, arts & crafts, fishing, camp fires, hiking trails, and more are offered, making Lions Camp Merrick an ideal location for all kinds of events. Lions Camp Merrick Staff tell the Trust they welcome corporate partnerships/retreats as well as individual rentals. Staff want the public to know that this property with its long-rooted history of serving Charles County is here as a resource and ready for you!
How to get involved:
Lions Camp Merrick is currently seeking a new Executive Director as well as new board members.
Sponsor a camper as a business or individual.
Host your next corporate or family event at Lions Camp Merrick – cabins and all facilities are available for rent.
Donate online: https://lionscampmerrick.org/donate
Call the Lions Camp Merrick office at 301-870-5858 to inquire and get involved!