Brodie Mountain’s much-loved Privacy Campground, which has been a unique sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts for half a century, has embarked on a new journey under the stewardship of neighboring residents.
The 485-acre property on the eastern side of the mountain, known for its off-the-grid ethos, has changed hands in a deal that reflects not just the commercial dynamics of the private camping sector, but also the deeply personal commitment of its founder to preserve its natural integrity.
The property, which is currently celebrating its 50th season, was acquired for $325,000 by Wildwood Outdoor Resort LLC, a company led by Peter Morin and his wife, Dr. Rachaele Carver Morin. Also part of the ownership team is Morin’s sister and brother-in-law, Jan and Eric Lillie, as minority partners.
André Rambaud, the campground’s 91-year-old founder, made the decision to sell due to the complexities of maintaining the off-the-grid campsite.
The sale marks a poignant moment for Rambaud, who, despite his advancing years, has decided to remain living on the property, his home attached to the campground’s office.
Rambaud’s meticulous choice of buyer reflects his deep-seated desire to safeguard the future of the campsite.
Not driven by financial motives, Rambaud emphasized his mission to find a purchaser who would uphold the site’s natural surroundings and atmosphere. This decision highlights a sentiment that is likely familiar to many private campground owners: a heartfelt desire to see their properties continue to inspire a love for the great outdoors in future generations.
The Morin-led group, who are financing the purchase through a mortgage held by Rambaud, have plans to further this mission.
They intend to obtain a conservation easement on the majority of the land, an approach that is gaining popularity among eco-conscious private campground operators looking to permanently protect their land from future development.
Furthermore, they aim to enhance the camping experience by doubling the number of cabins and adding lean-tos and platform tents. However, glamping – a recent trend in the camping sector – does not feature in their plans, underlining their commitment to the site’s rustic charm.
The sale also included a unique facet of the campground’s history: three vintage automobiles. These cars, a 1939 Pontiac, a 1948 Citroen, and a 1951 Jeep, are housed in the camp’s bomb shelter, constructed by Rambaud during his tenure as Hancock’s civil defense director in the 1970s.
Privacy Campground is a treasure trove of stories, from its origins with Rambaud, a French immigrant and Korean War veteran, to its A-frame house, five cabins, 35 tent sites, three ponds, a recreation room, and a charming playground with a train.
The new owners, who have a long-standing relationship with the land and a deep appreciation for the outdoors, plan to establish a lasting family legacy with the property.
For them and for many private campground operators, this purchase represents more than just a business transaction. It is about connecting with nature, promoting outdoor activities, and nurturing well-being, lessons that can be valuable for operators across the sector.
In their hands, Privacy Campground looks set to continue serving as a unique haven for nature lovers for many more decades, maintaining the legacy of its founder while moving ahead with the times.
Featured image from Privacy Campground.
Have you heard about the new owners taking over at the Privacy Campground? Rachaele Carver Morin and team are spicing things up with cozy cabins, cool lean-tos, and platform tents while keeping that rustic vibe alive. And those vintage cars? They’re adding a touch of history to our starlit adventures!