Camp DaKaNi, Camp CANOE closing after 95 years due to financial struggles

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — Camp Fire Heart of Oklahoma announced they'd be closing their doors after 95 years of serving Oklahomans and their families.

News 4 spoke with Emma Hoisington, a former camper for 17 years and a staff member shortly after that. She said when she heard the news of the closure, she was in shock.

"It's really disappointing. I knew that there was some struggle going on behind the scenes, but I really never in my mind imagined that it wouldn't be there anymore," said Hoisington.

The camp sent an email to parents and supporters. Part of the letter said, "We have not been able to restore funding or programming to the levels required to continue operations."

It also mentions the COVID-19 pandemic being a hurdle they just couldn't get over.

The camp went virtual during the Summer of 2020, but Hoisington said not many kids attended online.

I reached out to Camp Fire Oklahoma, they sent a statement to News 4 about the closure after almost 100 years:

Obviously this was not an easy decision. We are really sad for the community but grateful for the legacy of the camp and the memories we brought to everyone. We are hopeful to announce some positive and exciting news in the near future about the next steps for the camp grounds and plan to ensure it remains available for public use.

Camp Fire Oklahoma, Board of Directors

"That one [Cam Fire HOK] was really unique and it's really sad that it's not an option for parents anymore," said Hoisington.

Hoisington has since started another job, but says Camp DaKaNi made a lasting impact in her life.

Hoisington said, "I started that with one of our programs at Camp, and it really entirely shaped me into the person that I am today. I think I learned that my passion on life is working with kids now."