Camp Campbell Gard
Camp Campbell Gard is a YMCA camp on 600 acres along the Great Miami River, about six miles northeast of Hamilton, Ohio. It sits on Augspurger Road in St. Clair Township.
The camp was dedicated in 1926 to honor World War I airman Charles Campbell Gard. His father, Homer Gard, started the camp six years after Charles died. The dedication on July 1, 1926, featured remarks by former Ohio governors James M. Cox and Charles P. Taft II.
When it opened, the camp had 20 buildings. There was a large dining hall about 20 by 80 feet with electric stoves and refrigeration; five cabins (later expanded to ten) that slept 12 people each; a recreational building for rainy days; a basic playground; and a guest house with hot and cold showers. Homer Gard also made sure there were facilities to help handicapped children.
Today the camp covers 600 acres and has heating and air conditioning. The totem pole was carved by Robert McCloskey, a famous author of children's books. Alumni include David P. Smith and his brother Tony Smith. David P. Smith’s name is on a plaque at the camp. Willa McKee, a well-known women’s basketball player, has visited several times.
This page was last edited on 2 February 2026, at 09:55 (CET).