Old CCC Camp Revisited Multi-cache
CapnFire: This cache has been removed. The first stage went missing several weeks ago, and it was simply time to remove the main cache. I want to thank everyone that took the time to find it and learn something about the Civilian Conservation Corps and old Camp Rhododendron.
I will try to spread the swag that was in the cache as soon as possible.
Happy Caching!
CapnFire
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(regular)
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THE POSTED COORDINATES ARE FOR A MICRO-CACHE THAT CONTAINS THE COORDINATES FOR THE MAIN CACHE. This cache is located on the CCC Annex of Coopers Rock State Forest, with permission of the WVDNR and WVDOF.
Use Exit 10 of I-68, then north on Rt. 857. After the first bend in the road, look for Quarry Run Road (CR 69/5)on the right. Go up Quarry Run Road, turning right at the "Y". The woods on both sides of the road are state property. Along the road will be at least 3 spaces where you can pull off and park - the one closest to the trail leading to the cache is at N 39 40.502', W 079 50.617'. The trails leading into the cache area are relatively flat and easy walking. This would be a suitable cache for families with older children.
During the Depression, between 1936 and 1942, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) was brought into Coopers Rock State Forest to develop the land for public use and to suppress forest fires.
The CCC built numerous structures in the Forest, often using durable American Chestnut wood from trees that succumbed to a blight that nearly wiped out the species.
The local camp, named Camp Rhododendron, was constructed on this site on Kelly Run. These young men, ages 18 to 25, were put to work building roads, structures, and bridges and planting trees, fighting fires and other arduous tasks. Most noted is their work connecting the Coopers Rock Overlook to the ridgetop so we can all enjoy the view without breaking our necks. Much of their other construction work can still be seen today, including the superintendent's residence, picnic shelters, and the WVU Forest Manager's residence. Eleven of the structures, including the rustic picnic shelters near the overlook, have been named to the National Register of Historic Places.
The micro portion of this multi-cache is located somewhere between the foundation of two buildings at least 40 feet apart, the smaller of which I'm told was the explosives building. The only remains of Camp Rhododendron are the stone and concrete building foundations. When the CCC moved into an area, they typically brought much of their camp with them in the form of heavy wall tents or pre-fab wooden walls. They would build a foundation and erect the structure over it. This would be their bunkhouse, mess hall, whatever, until time to move on......
The main cache is now a camouflaged ammo can. It contains a new log book, pencils, pens, and whatever swag was in the old container.
Thanks to the many cachers who found Old CCC Camp and for the comments on its placement. I hope this one fares as well. While you're in the area, be sure to check out the other caches and features of Coopers Rock State Forest!
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Ybbx sbe fvatyr urzybpx gerr jvgu gjb gehaxf, rlr yriry.