The Legend of Graydon Springs

Most recently known as the Camp Fire Camp "Wakahni", this area was once a thriving resort community known as Graydon Springs. During the late 1800's and early 1900's, the area was visited by the rich and famous from all over the world. This was due to the waters that poured from Graydon's twin springs had been judged the "Worlds Purest" at the St. Louis Worlds Fair. Visitors came from all over the world to bathe and drink the water from the twin springs, one pouring sulfur and the other pure mineral water. The fame of Graydon Springs grew rapidly and for many years, the Frisco Railroad ran trains daily between Graydon Springs and Chicago. Soon a Spa was constructed, built in a semi circular shape, unheard of in construction during the 1800's and was by all accounts, an outstanding and impressive structure. Eventually a hotel, a general store, blacksmith and other shops and business sprang up, making Graydon Springs of the Ozarks most thriving communities.

Following the stock market crash in the 1920's, the spa and resort fell on hard times. Over the years, many of the original buildings and structures became dilapidated and were either destroyed by wild fires or allowed to fall in to ruin. Many were tore down as the property began to change hands. The acquisition of Graydon Springs by Camp Fire came many years after the allure of spas had gone out of vogue. Last year, Good Samaritan Boys Ranch acquired this property and is in the process of restoring and improving the Camp for generations of Ozarks children to enjoy.