Trooper Island gives kids new impression of troopers

Each summer hundreds of Kentucky children spend time at Trooper Island Camp with troopers and other area law enforcement officers who volunteer their time to make a positive impact on area youth, youth who often have a negative impression of law enforcement prior to their week at camp.

TFC Craig Sutton helps campers after they
received Trooper Island Camp caps and T-shirts.

“Many of the children who attend have a negative image of troopers and law enforcement in general, and some may not be able to attend another camp due to various reasons,” said TFC Craig Sutton, director of the camp. “Everything we do as camp leaders is purpose-driven to make a lifelong impact on these children.”

Tpr. Toby Coyle and campers clown around during a water relay.

And after a week of camp, Sutton said the change is unmistakable, and the children often long to stay in the safe and fun environment of Trooper Island.

Trooper Island, accessible only by boat, began in 1965
with land leased from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Trooper Island Camp was developed in 1965 by the Kentucky State Police as part of a long-range program of public service to the youth of Kentucky. Spearheaded by former KSP director, Col. James E. Bassett, the idea was to establish a permanent recreational site where troopers and children could share a weeklong experience.

A location was selected in a secluded corner of Dale Hollow Lake in southern Kentucky, where an island was leased from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and a non-profit charitable corporation was formed.

Boys and girls, ages 10 to 12, are selected from each of the 16 post areas. Each trooper selects children that may not otherwise have the opportunity to attend a camp. Camp is funded by tax-deductible donations, at no cost to campers.

Sgt. J.W. Gibson plays kickball with the campers.

The program is geared toward the development of the campers’ self image, including exercise, nutritious meals, classroom study, and non-denominational chapel services. Campers learn about accident and fire prevention, first aid, conservation, hygiene, good citizenship, drug abuse, and leadership, and they also enjoy movies, swimming, archery, firearms safety, basketball, boating, softball, volleyball, and horseshoes.

Tpr. Chris Chenault, left, Tpr. Toby Coyle, and Sgt. Cindy Langer,
far right in visor, enjoy a relay race with campers.

Specialized camps have been held in the past for children with phenylketonuria, heart complications, visual impairments, and those who are deaf.

Volunteer instructors come from many state agencies and nearby communities.

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