But that once-popular Dickinson County 4-H youth camp is in jeopardy of having to close its doors for good. Five active board members now are on a mission to save the 1949 landmark that sits above Sawyer Lake.

Camp Molinare Board Member Jana Underwood, who joined the group about five years ago, said if they — as a board — are unable to generate the funds needed, the deed will be turned over to the county.

“Camp Molinare has such a history for Sagola Township,” said Kris Mulder, board member and treasurer. “That’s why we are fighting to keep it going and not give it back to the county.”

After months of research and phone calls, they were finally able to hire an accountant to re-established their 501(c)(3) status. The application has been submitted for review.

A new fire pit has been added to the back of the camp that overlooks Sawyer Lake for visitors to enjoy.

“We are hoping to hear back about our non-profit status by this summer,” Underwood said. “It may take some time to get the approval, but we are excited about the fact that he (the accountant) is optimistic about it.”

The board is now reaching out to the community for financial help.

“I feel confident we are heading in the right direction,” Underwood said. “We just hope others care as strongly about preserving the camp as we do.”

All donations that are received while the non-profit application is pending are tax-deductible.

Underwood said it wasn’t until about three years ago that the two members learned the non-profit status hadn’t been renewed. “We also found out they didn’t maintain the license to be an organized camp,” she added.

It was a tradition for campers to write their names in the walls and beams of the bunk rooms that run down each side of the hall.

Once the camp becomes fully a non-profit corporation they can also apply for grants.

Camp Molinare Board did receive a Dickinson County Community Foundation mini-grant last fall for fire extinguishers and smoke detectors.

“Normally the foundation doesn’t present funds unless they are a non-profit organization, but they took into consideration the circumstances and knew we were desperate,” Mulder said.

“This was huge for us,” she added. “Not only wouldn’t we get insured without them, we also couldn’t allow people to stay here.”

The financial strain started to take effect when the camp lost support from the county and Michigan State University-Extension.

Underwood and Mulder get the dining hall ready to close for the winter.

“COVID put a hit on Camp Molinare,” Mulder said.

As new members, they said they don’t have all the facts as to what happened and are just focused on moving forward.

A large portion of the board’s budget each year goes to the $6,000 insurance bill, which was previously paid by the county.

The board has been able to “just maintain” on the money they earn from renting the facility from May through October.

“Without a license, we are unable to run a camp, but we are still able to provide the structure and outdoor space for individuals or groups to enjoy a camping experience,” Underwood said.

Camp Molinare is available for rent to be used for a variety of gatherings or camping activities, including youth or school events, weddings, receptions, special picnics or functions, reunions and overnight retreats.

The rustic camp features a large dining hall that seats about 80 people, along with a fully equipped kitchen with gas ranges and walk-in cooler. Two dormitory-style bunk houses, each with their own indoor bathroom and showers, run down each side of the hall and can accommodate more than 20 guests.

It was a tradition for campers to write their names, along with their visit date, on the walls and beams of the bunk rooms. “Everyone that comes that has been there before always looks for their name,” said Mulder, who also served as a camp nurse and counselor.

Camp Molinare also has smaller “staff buildings” with sleeping quarters, bathrooms and showers.

“Things aren’t perfect — it’s a rustic camp,” Mulder said. “But, the people who have used the camp were very pleased.”

“For a building that old, it isn’t in that bad of shape,” Underwood added.

Those staying at the camp can take advantage of the many outdoor activities, such as swimming, canoeing, hiking, nature walks and campfires. Visitors can utilize Gus Newberg Park as well, which has RV camping with hookups and a boat landing to access the lake.

“We have several reservations in the books for this summer,” Underwood said.

“I’m so excited that it is being used for a camp again — that was our goal.”

Underwood credits board member Jennifer Carlson for her work in getting the camp rented through social media. “When Jen came on, it gave us that extra spark — I thought maybe we can keep this going,” she said.

The camp is closed over the winter months, but Mulder noted that once they are able to get the funding, proper heating and insulation will be on the top of the list.

Another priority would be to update the electrical system, as many have inquired about having a band at their functions.

“Right now we can’t support that — there are also very few outlets,” Mulder said.

As funds allow, they will look to update plumbing, windows and appliances as well.

“We realize many of these renovations are a ways out, but with the help from the local residents and businesses, it’s doable,” Underwood said.

The board has recently made some minor improvements, including painting, replacing bathroom sinks and toilets, fixing a gas line and putting in a new fire pit that overlooks the lake.

“We made it through last summer and we hope we make it through another,” Underwood said.

Joining the three women on the board are Steve Peterson and Tom Bedard. “We got a good core group — that’s what I knew it was going to take,” Underwood said.

She explained the board is the “maintainers” of Camp Molinare. Not only are they financially responsible, they are in charge of all the labor, including spring and fall cleanup projects as well as preparing the facility before and after renters.

The small group is always seeking volunteers during the camping season. “We appreciate everyone who has come out to help,” Mulder said.

The board hopes to host a Camp Molinare fundraiser this summer. Because of the emotional draw it has for so many people, they already have several volunteers interested in assisting with the event.

During Camp Molinare’s 75 years, it has welcomed thousands of youth and other renters during the spring and summer months.

“At one time Camp Molinare was the heart of the community,” Mulder said.

Although they aren’t giving up on the dream of once again being a full-fledged camp, their mindset has changed since joining the board.

“Now I just want it to survive and be something that this community can use and rally around, like it was in the day,” Underwood said.

“We want to it benefit our community. Everyone gains from bringing people to the area,” she added.

Camp Molinare also raises money through selling Dickinson County plat books. They are available at Dickinson County Courthouse, Nordic Trading Post and Nordic Grocery in Felch Township, Northern Interstate Bank in Norway, Da Hardwood Store in Hardwood, Silver Lake Resort and several BP gas stations.

An account has been set up at First National Bank in Iron Mountain for anyone wishing to make a donation to support Camp Molinare. Checks can be dropped off or mailed to 233 S. Stephenson Ave., Iron Mountain, MI 49801.

Those interested in renting the facility can go to the Camp Molinare Facebook page or email campmolinare@gmail.com.

Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 241, or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.

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