Promised Land State Park will again host the popular Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. August 18 in the historic CCC section of the Pike County park that includes Pickerel Point Campground, the park museum, auditorium and Deerfield Campground. The event begins at the park amphitheater, located behind the museum, off Pickerel Point Road.

During past reunions, extending back many years, the CCC event was only partially open to the public. For the first time, Promised Land State Park will host a larger festival that celebrates the legacy of the CCC in Pennsylvania and fully incorporates the reunion.

This event marks the 79th Anniversary of the establishment of the Civilian Conservation Corps Camp S-139 at Promised Land State Park. Visitors are invited to join in a celebration of the efforts of former members of “Camp Pocono” as CCC boys from around the United States gather to tell their stories.

Promised Land’s Camp S-139 planted over a million trees; built the Pickerel Point Campground; Bear Wallow Cabins; Whittaker Lodge; and Egypt Meadow Dam. They also fought fires, plowed snow by hand, removed dead trees, built roads, and modernized the park’s day-use picnic area. Their landmark signatures are well-known throughout Pike County.

Registration of CCC members and festival guests starts at 10 a.m. The day is free and open to all. The festival will include guest speakers, music, dancing, children’s crafts, face painting, and food for purchase. Smokey Bear and Woodsy Owl also will be on hand.

For details, contact the park at 570-676-3428. For information on volunteering or hosting at booth/program at the event, contact Environmental Education Specialist Carissa Longo at park office: 570-676-0567 or send email to: PromisedLandEnvEdsp@pa.gov.

Download a flyer for the event.

(Reprinted from the August 15 DCNR Resource newsletter.)

8/20/2012