The Kentucky State Police continues their annual tradition of sending underprivileged children across the state to Trooper Island Camp.

It was developed as part of a long-range program of public service to the youth of Kentucky. Spearheaded by former State Police Director, Colonel James E. Bassett, the idea was to establish a permanent recreational site where trooper and child could share a week long experience. A location was selected in a secluded corner of Dale Hollow Lake near the Cumberland and Clinton County, Kentucky line, where an island was leased from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Campers participate in a variety of activities, including swimming, canoeing, and arts and crafts, and receive educational classes on subjects like boating safety, nature and internet safety. Children ages 10 to 12 are selected from each region of 16 Kentucky State Police Posts.

It is funded solely on fundraisers. Troopers are capable to bring about 500 kids a year to the island completely free.

The Kentucky State Police says the camp is a unique place for children.

“A lot of them leave the island when the camp is over with a better idea of who we (troopers) are as people. They get a chance to hang out with us and actually be able to spend time with us. It puts a personal effect on law enforcement which is very much needed.”

Many participants who have been selected to attend camp on Trooper Island later on return to be counselors for the camp. In addition, there have been others who have gone on to become Kentucky State Troopers. A plaque bearing those names is displayed on the wall in the cafeteria.

For more on this camp, visit:

https://kentuckystatepolice.org/trooper-island/