Grouse Track - FSR 3220

Camp Raco was Michigan's first Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) facility, established in 1933 to provide jobs during the Great Depression. Young men built roads, planted trees, and worked on conservation projects. During World War II, Camp Raco was converted into a prisoner of war (POW) camp housing around 267 German prisoners. After the war, the buildings were removed, leaving only foundations and a chimney. Civilian Conservation Corps Era (1933-1942) Purpose: As part of President Roosevelt's New Deal, the CCC aimed to provide employment and train young men in conservation work. Establishment: Camp Raco was established in the Hiawatha National Forest in the Upper Peninsula, designated as Company 667. Activities: Enrollees performed work such as planting trees, constructing truck trails and campgrounds, and fighting forest fires. Impact: The CCC program, with camps like Raco, helped restore the land and provided economic relief during the Great Depression. World War II Era (Post-1942) POW Camp: After the CCC camp closed in 1942, the facilities were repurposed for use as a German POW camp. Prisoner Labor: Approximately 267 German prisoners of war captured in North Africa were held at Raco. They were contracted out for work in agriculture and forestry, providing labor for local industries and helping to alleviate wartime labor shortages. Conditions: The POWs were generally well-behaved, and conditions at Camp Raco were reported to be better than those in some Russian POW camps. Post-War Period Dismantlement: Following the war, the camp's buildings were removed. Remnants: Today, the former Camp Raco is known for its historical foundations and a prominent chimney, marking a site of significant historical importance in the Upper Peninsula.