Groveland Twp.- At one time Gordonwood Camp and Conference Center was open year-round, attracting thousands to lakes, rolling woodlands and trails.
The 170-acre camp, located at 669 Grange Hall Road, about a mile west of M-15, was owned and operated by the Episcopal Diocese of Michigan for about 50 years, but was closed about six years ago due to a slow economy.
Now a Genesee County business owner has stepped forward and purchased the property.
The man asked that his name be withheld from the story.
‘I’m not certain about the future of the property,? he said.
‘Ultimately I’d like to re-open the camp as a facility for kids with disabilities. However, I don’t have the time or resources to make that happen right now. But that’s my goal.?
He added that some improvements have already been made to the camp.
‘There’s been a lot of trespassing and some vandalism to the buildings and grounds over the years,? he said.
‘To remedy that we’ve installed a new fence and a pretty high tech security system. We’d like to keep the camp as pristine as possible and avoid overfishing or hunting in the area.?
He said he does not have plans to use the property for commerical use.
‘There are a few buildings on the land that were used for camp. They will require significant upgrades, however.?
Bob DePalma, township supervisor, said that zoning for the property is rural estate farming.
‘Right now the property is set for single family homes. Not commercial. We are delighted to have an owner for the land and to see it active in some way.?