The following story has been submitted by the Logan County History Center.
By: Mary E. Mortimer
Dick and Pat Stanford fulfilled their dream of owning a family campground in August 1973 when they purchased 50 acres on County Road 111 in Rushcreek Township. Their vision included not only an RV park, but also a venue for western square dancing. As they traveled down the narrow half-mile lane in their little Volkswagen, anticipation grew about their new purchase. When they reached the end of the lane and saw how beautiful the land was, they knew they had made the right choice and decided to name their new campground The Back 40.
Using an old dump truck, backhoe, and mower, they cleared a five-mile entrance, installed electrical service, drilled a well, and ran water lines. In October 1973, they placed a mobile home on the property as their residence.
In 1974, a 48-by-84-foot concrete slab was constructed to support western square dancing, with significant assistance from Fred Ensley, a concrete finisher and square dance caller. Prior to the completion of the clubhouse, open-air dances were held with Mr. Ensley serving as caller. The construction of the clubhouse was a collaborative effort with help from many volunteers. The completed facility included an office and concession stand and later served as a regular practice and event venue for the Hi Point See Saw Square Dance Club. The Stanfords also hosted line and round dances for many years.
The Back 40 Campground initially opened with approximately 50 campsites. The Stanfords constructed two lakes, one designated for fishing and the other for swimming. Each year, they hosted a Bittersweet Festival on the final weekend of the camping season, typically around Columbus Day in October. Dick pulled a wagon with a tractor for the hayride, and they gathered bittersweet along the roadsides to decorate the clubhouse. The celebration also included a potluck dinner and hog roast and served as a gathering to express appreciation to family, friends, and campers for their continued support throughout the season.
The Stanfords enjoyed managing the campground for more than twenty years, leaving a lasting legacy through their dedication and hard work. The campground’s success was built on word‑of‑mouth referrals that cultivated a strong community of loyal, returning campers, many of whom formed lasting friendships.
In 2017, Duane and Michelle Dancer purchased the Back 40 Campground. Since then, the campground has continued to expand, now offering more than 80 campsites and enhanced amenities, while preserving the welcoming atmosphere established by founders Dick and Pat Stanford.
Information and photos courtesy of Pat Stanford and Duane & Michelle Dancer from a September 2021 interview.
Visit the Logan County History Center to learn more interesting aspects of Logan County History. The History Center is open for tours Wednesday – Sunday from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Admission is free.
