Camp Dart-Lo Lodge Modernization Project

Camp Dart-Lo is our 51-acre wooded day camp in north Spokane, located along the Little Spokane River. The camp has been in operation as a Camp Fire camp since 1945.

The camp's main Lodge was built in 1947, with the intention of the building being used during the summer season only. Other than necessary repairs and maintenance, very little construction work has been done on the Lodge since it was built. It is long overdue for a major overhaul. The modernization will bring the building's original footprint to one level and make it ADA accessible. Wheelchair accessible restrooms, a new kitchen, reception area and health room will be added. On the exterior, an ADA driveway, entrance and ramps will be added. Currently the closest restrooms are 75 yards from the Lodge. A major challenge is that water to the Lodge must be shut off from November to April, making it impossible to use the Lodge year-round. Updates to the sewer system from the lodge will accommodate the restrooms and a commercial dishwasher in the kitchen. The health room will allow camp staff to isolate and care for children who become ill at camp. Currently they use a cot in the corner of the small office space. A new HVAC system and weatherization, such as double paned windows, will also allow the Lodge to be used for year-round programming. Currently the Lodge is not air conditioned and is heated with a wood stove. The reception area will provide a secure point for parents signing in/out children and accepting general deliveries.

PROGRESS REPORT as of May 1, 2018:  Building permits have been issued to complete Camp Dart-Lo's Lodge modernization. DCI Engineers is currently working on a new septic design that would service both the renovated Lodge and the existing Flush restrooms. Construction is moving forward this spring and will work around the summer camping season. Construction is expected to be completed prior to the 2019 camping season.

The total budget for this project is approximately $370,000. Currently Camp Fire Inland Northwest has secured just over $354,000 in private donations and grants. Grants awarded include $131,000 from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, $60,000 from the Harriet Cheney Cowles Foundation, $20,000 from the Inland Northwest Community Foundation and $5,000 from Spokane Kiwanis Charities Foundation. Northeast Kiwanis Club is sponsoring the building of the rear deck. Additional fundraising efforts are currently underway. Special appreciation goes to Doug Mitchell of MMEC Architects and DCI Engineers for volunteering their services. Walker Construction is overseeing the construction.

There are a variety of ways YOU can help support this project:

We are actively looking for tradespeople in carpentry, flooring, electrical and plumbing to donate their time and expertise. Each volunteer hour will drastically reduce the amount of cash needed to complete the project.

 If you would like to support the Camp Dart-Lo Modernization project with a gift of money or time, please contact Steve Jurich, Executive Director, at 509-747-6191 or sjurich@campfireinc.org.