Girl Scouts Honor Camp Robinwood’s Trailblazing Legacy During Black History Month

Hidden among the towering pines of Montgomery County, Camp Robinwood has been a place of adventure and growth for generations of Girl Scouts. But beyond the nature trails and campfire songs, this historic site tells a powerful story of resilience, community, and progress.

Established in 1949 during the era of segregation, Camp Robinwood was one of the first Girl Scout camps in Texas to welcome Black Girl Scouts—a reality made possible by a group of determined community leaders who believed that every girl deserved the chance to explore the outdoors and build leadership skills. Today, in recognition of its deep historical significance, Camp Robinwood has been honored with a Texas Historical Commission Historical Marker, a tribute to its 75-year legacy of inclusion and empowerment.

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A Camp Built on Determination and Vision

In the late 1940s, Black Girl Scouts in Houston faced significant barriers. While Girl Scouting had always promoted values of leadership and inclusion, the realities of segregation meant that Black troops had no local camp to call their own. The nearest available site was in Oklahoma—hundreds of miles away.

Four prominent Black leaders in Houston—Clarence Dupree, Hobart Taylor Sr., Carter Wesley, and James Jemison—refused to accept this reality. As businessmen, philanthropists, and civil rights advocates, they saw an opportunity to create a camp where all Girl Scouts, regardless of race, could learn, grow, and belong. They spearheaded a fundraising campaign that led to the purchase of the land for Camp Robinwood, ensuring that future generations of girls would never be turned away from a scouting experience because of their race.

(Source: GSSJ)

Their dedication was cemented in the original deed for the camp, which boldly stated: “No Girl Scout shall ever be denied use of said property because of her race, color, or creed.”

A Place Where Generations Have Grown

Since its opening, thousands of girls have spent their summers at Camp Robinwood, learning survival skills, canoeing across the lake, and forming lifelong friendships. For many, it was the first time they had ever slept under the stars, hiked through the woods, or felt the rush of accomplishment after building a fire on their own.

Mary Vitek, CEO of the Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council (GSSJC), reflected on the camp’s significance: “Robinwood is more than a camp—it’s a symbol of what can happen when a community comes together to create change. The historical marker ensures that the story of the leaders who made this camp possible will never be forgotten.”

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The recognition comes as GSSJC celebrates Black History Month, reflecting on the trailblazers who made scouting more inclusive and honoring the impact that Black Girl Scouts have had on the movement.

A Legacy That Lives On

Last December, as part of Camp Robinwood’s 75th anniversary, GSSJC hosted a dedication ceremony for the Texas Historical Commission Historical Marker. The event brought together former campers, current scouts, and community leaders, many of whom shared personal stories of how the camp shaped their confidence, independence, and sense of belonging.

For those who attended, it was more than just a celebration of history—it was a reminder of the power of access and opportunity. “This place gave me my voice,” said one former camper. “It taught me to believe in myself, and that’s something I carried with me long after I left.”

(Source: GSSJ)

As Black History Month continues, GSSJC invites the community to reflect on Camp Robinwood’s history and celebrate the leaders who fought for change. The camp stands today as a living testament to what is possible when people work together to create opportunities for all.

To learn more about Camp Robinwood and other Girl Scout properties, visit gssjc.org.