Boy Scouts Propose Campsite in Lemont’s Heritage Quarries

The Heritage Quarries Recreation Area could soon be home to a new youth camp and recreation site thanks to a proposed partnership between the village and local Boy Scouts.

During the Village Board’s committee of the whole meeting Monday night, Trustee Jeanette Virgilio presented a proposal from the Lemont Heritage Committee and the Lemont Boy Scouts to create a youth campsite along the Illinois and Michigan Canal.

The plan would add a camping area to a portion of the Heritage Quarries, as well as a fire bowl, barbecue pit, shelter, latrines, picnic tables and possibly a water supply.

Campgrounds would be available not just to Boy Scouts, but several youth groups in the community, Virgilio said.

“I think it’s a great opportunity to bring people down to the quarry area,” she said. “The Boy Scouts have their own resources, so it’s all about partnering with them to help expand a great amenity this town has yet to really realize.”

The Heritage Quarries Recreation Area adds an additional 3.8-mile trail extension to the existing trails along the I&M Canal. There are currently four pedestrian bridges that provide access to the public for hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities in the 100-acre preserve.

Mike Villwock, committee member for Lemont Cub Scout Troop 149, presented a draft of the plan to the board. He said the scouts are “very active and proud to serve their community” and are hopeful to make a significant contribution with the campground.

“This is a project we can really sink our teeth into to care for Mother Earth and teach the boys to continue their community service,” Villwock said.

Should the board approve the plan, Villwock said local Scouts would be able to take on certain projects as part of the cleanup and construction process.

"We want the younger guys to have some ownership of this project," he said.

In order to keep the campsite a community amenity, the village would likely draft language designating the area as a Boy Scout camp open to other youth groups.

Lemont Mayor Brian Reaves commended Virgilio and Villwock for their work on the proposal, and said he looks forward to discussing the campsite in the future.

“I think the concept is a great idea,” Reaves said. “I think the biggest issue is that the shipping canal is right there … It’s important to make sure we use every safeguard [to keep the kids safe].” 

Moving forward, Virgilio said she would be seeking input from the board so the village could formalize an ordinance, organize plans and start seeking grants.