Camp Burt Shurly Faces Continued Closure Due to Funding and Maintenance Issues
Camp Burt Shurly, a longtime recreational spot for Detroit area youth, remains closed for a fifth year due to persistent funding and maintenance problems. The camp, once a summer getaway for students, has faced numerous challenges that have prevented it from acquiring an operating permit.
One of the most significant issues plaguing the camp is the deteriorating condition of many of its facilities. Despite efforts to secure funding last year, the camp was unable to receive a much-needed grant to address these maintenance issues.
As the community awaits news on potential funding, the future of Camp Burt Shurly remains uncertain. However, the efforts of local lawmakers, educators, and community leaders continue, with the hope that the camp may one day reopen and once again serve the youth of Detroit.
Camp History
Since 1931 more than 200 acres on the north west side of North Lake has been used as a camp. First used as a children’s tuberculosis camp and then as a camp for the youth in the Detroit Public School System, the property remains in its natural state and is a treasure to our North Lake community.
The history of the property is as diverse and interesting as the acreage itself. In 2019 Dick and Mary Lou Frendt published an article in “The Laker” on the history of the camp. To read this article click here.
Burt Russell Shurly 1871 – 1950
Burt Shurly was a leader in the field of education and medicine. Click here for more information on his legacy and impact on North Lake.
