THE BIRTH OF BEACON LODGE - A BLIND MAN'S VISION
In 1948, Carl Shoemaker of Lewistown took the first steps in making a dream come true, establishing a summer camp for the blind. As Executive Director of the Association for the Blind, Shoemaker sought to found a local camp dedicated to the needs of the visually impaired. About 16 other similar camps were in operation nationally and were reviewed by Shoemaker.
Shoemaker was informed that a property was available near Mount Union. After inspecting the property, Shoemaker and his research team established a corporation that would oversee the purchase and development of the site. Within the next year, the first group of blind children spent time at Vacations For The Blind, Inc.
Today, this property serves as the Pennsylvania Lions Beacon Lodge Camp Inc., providing specialized recreation for special needs campers. In 2023, Beacon Lodge recently observed its 75th anniversary.
Our Facilities
Adult Camp
Consists of 9 buildings which can accommodate up to 120 people including staff. It has a Main Lodge with lodging, kitchen, and dining facilities, an Infirmary, an Arts & Crafts building, a Canteen, Camper Housing units, laundry facilities, a large gazebo, outdoor swings, seating, and a stone fire ring.
Children's Village
Consists of 16 building which can accommodate 73 people including staff. The main building houses the kitchen and dining facilities, the Unit Director's apartment, laundry facilities, and children's lounge. It also has an Infirmary, an Activities building, an Arts & Crafts and Nature Center, and 12 Cabins.
Activites
Our activity areas include Governors Green, Outdoor Bowling Alleys, Swimming Pool, Hodges Hand Car Railroad, a Pond, an Overnight Shelter, A-frames Primitive Camping, Climbing Tower, and Zip Line.
