We are Camp Kno-Koma

Camp Kno-Koma was started in 1950 under the direction of Dr. George P. Heffner. The camp was held at Camp Cliffside in Alum Creek, and was attended by 33 campers between the ages of 6 and 16. It was a totally free camp, and the money for it was raised by Dr. Heffner going up and down Capitol Street in Charleston, WV and soliciting money from every merchant. The cost for operating this camp of 33 children was $852.18. Dr. Heffner continued to serve as the camp medical director until 1963 when he moved his practice to Florida. It was at that point that Dr. R. N. O’Dell took over the medical direction of the camp. He served with the camp until 1968, when it was taken over by Dr. William G. Klingberg. Dr. Klingberg led the camp from 1968 until 1983. It was during that time that Dr. Rick Blum was brought onboard as the medical director. Dr. Blum started with the camp in 1981 and continues as its medical director to present day.

In the past, Camp Kno-Koma has seen many changes, and has been held at many locations. In its history, the camp has gone from its original location of Camp Cliffside, to Camp Camelot, to Camp Caesar, then Camp Galahad. The camp then went back to Camp Caesar where it ran until 1987. From 1958 until 1987 the camp was held for two weeks at the various locations throughout the state. During these early years of existence, there were two people that maintained a constant presence with the camp. They were Mary Connolly, and Dot Arthur. Mary Connolly served the camp from 1950 until 1987. During this time she helped in many planning activities, and fundraising efforts. She also served as the treasurer for the majority of the last part of her association.