The Lollipop Road

Archive for March 4th, 2010

Before the establishment of Camp David (ex Shangri-la) as a Presidential retreat by Franklin D. Roosevelt, there was another more rustic, more secluded and smaller Presidential retreat known as Rapidan Camp, or Camp Hoover as it was called from 1948 until it opened to the public in 2004.  Nestled in the wooded mountain backcountry of what would become Shenandoah National Park, this simple ”cabin” was built on a perch high above the Rapidan River.

Conceived of as an escape from the high profile business of Washington, DC, this secluded retreat would serve as Hoover’s home away from home.  He had three simple requirements – the location had to be within 100 miles from Washington, DC at an elevation of no less than 2,500 feet (to limit mosquitoes) with a stream or river nearby for fishing.  A location was found and the Hoover’s sought to purchase the land and construct a lodge along with several other buildings (13 in all) for a total cost of about $24,000. In fact, the only Government funds used to construct the camp was the labor provided by the Marine Corps.

Rapidan Camp would serve President Hoover, his family, friends and dignitaries during the four years that he was in office.  After being defeated in 1932, he donated the land and buildings to the Federal Government to (perhaps) be used by future Presidents.  In 1935, the camp officially became part of the newly completed Shenandoah National Park.

After almost a decade of non-use, the Boy Scouts of America leased the property to be used as a summer camp.  After the Boy Scouts withdrew from the lease early due to building decay and excessive operating costs, all but three of the original buildings were razed and Camp Hoover once again became a retreat for government officials.  The National Park Service took over the restoration in 2001 and in 2004 it opened to the public as part of the National Park Service’s Ranger lead tours in Shenandoah National Park.

Today, during the summer months, you can climb on board a van for the bumpy 15-minute drive from the Visitor Center at Big Meadows to Rapidan Camp.  During the guided tour, you’ll have the opportunity to see the President’s Cabin, Prime Minister’s Cabin and the Creel.  Having been carefully restored to their 1929 era glory, these structures provide a glimpse back in time to a simpler life.

You’ll have plenty of time to explore the outdoors and the exhibits before you endure the bouncing ride back to the Visitor’s Center.  Of course, that just might be the most fun part for the kids!  For the more adventurous, you can also make the 4 mile hike (each way) to the camp where park rangers are usually stationed to offer impromptu tours and answer questions.

Visiting Rapidan Camp is a great summer activity for the family.  Kids learn a bit of history while mom and dad can catch a quick rest on the porch where President Hoover sat.  If you want to take the tour, you’ll need to sign up in advance, as seats are limited.  There may be a small fee for participation.  Oh, and do bring bug spray – despite what Mr. Hoover thought, the mosquitoes do nest here. 

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