BTW is held at Camp Graham: a 4-H camp located on 70 acres of rolling woodlands along the Todd’s Fork in southwestern Ohio. Their goal is to provide a safe, rustic woodland environment where youth and caring adults learn and play, developing life skills through hands-on educational programs while making friendships that last a lifetime. They are proud to be owned by the 4-H members in Clermont, Hamilton, Montgomery, and Warren counties.
Weather
In early to mid-August, the area has an average high temperature is 85°F, and the average low-temperature is 64°F. The average heat index (a.k.a. ‘feels like’, ‘apparent temperature’), which combines relative humidity and air temperature, in August is computed to be 86.5°F. Check the forecast for SW Ohio ahead of time and plan to bring an appropriate mix of clothing, emphasizing light layers. If you aren’t dancing around a bonfire, chances are you may get a bit chilly at night. Plan to bring sleeping bags, blankets, etc. for this reason, as well. With the weather, you should plan for the unexpected. Make sure that your tent is water-repellent and leak proof. Ensure your tent and belongings are adequately secured in case of wind. Use waterproof containers to store items that might be damaged by rain. Cabins are not heated or air-conditioned, so please plan accordingly.
Terrain
The campsite has natural terrain that includes ridges, ravines, water, and uneven terrain. Please use caution when walking, especially in wet weather, and keep within the campground boundaries. Even within the campground itself, walking and hiking can be a strenuous endeavor. If you have mobility challenges, you may wish to bring a helper as staff will not be able to provide for individual assistance. Two marked nature trails are open for hiking. Please do not wander off the trails, as ravines and other terrain challenges can be treacherous. Take a buddy along when hiking, if possible.
Wildlife
You may encounter a variety of wildlife in the area. The site is home to wild animals such as deer, beaver, lizards, salamanders, turtles, coyotes, wolves, and bears. Birds such as bluebirds, scarlet tanagers, wild turkeys, and nesting hawks may be spotted. Most of the snakes one may encounter are non-poisonous – however, the eastern timber rattler is indigenous to this region. Additionally, one may encounter black widow spiders and ticks, particularly at the edges of the forest and in woodpiles, so use reasonable caution. The chance of encountering brown recluse spiders is slim, but possible in wooded areas. And, as always, one will almost invariably encounter mosquitoes, so come prepared!
Cabins
Cabins come with several bunk beds in them. A mattress pad is provided, but you are responsible for providing your own bedding. Each cabin has an overhead light, a desk, a chair, a trashcan, two low-wattage outlets, a fire extinguisher, and a walkie-talkie. There is no smoking permitted in the cabins.
Food & Drink
Ensure you have sufficient provisions to last through the event to minimize trips out of the campground. You may bring your own grill, propane cook-stove, or hibachi to cook on, or you may utilize the fire braziers provided for the cabin areas; however, you must make sure your cooking device is off the ground and not damaging the grass or soil below or around it. Picnic tables and chairs are generally not provided at the campsites, although there is seating at Sunshine’s Kitchen. You may also use the outside grill near the kitchen provided you clean it completely after your use.
Firewood and ice are available on site. Firewood is limited and free until used up. Ice can be purchased at Sunshine’s Kitchen.
Communications
Although there is a cell tower on site, cellular service can be spotty within the campground. Internet access is provided for free throughout the camp site, however, there is no guarantee on speed or reception of the signal.