This page provides periodic updates on the Master Planning process at Our Lady of Good Counsel Camp.

July 28, 2025 Update

As we seek to provide a foundation for long-term success for future generations, the Diocese of Saint Petersburg is pleased to share a few updates regarding the Master Planning Process at Our Lady of Good Counsel Camp.

Master Planning Committee Selects Architectural Company 

Hepner Architects, a Tampa-based company that is known for designing creative solutions that inspire young people, has been selected to plan the infrastructure, design the spaces, and create the framework for a new and improved Good Counsel Camp.  The roadmap they develop will bring the Diocese of Saint Petersburg’s vision to life for a sustainable, faith-filled, safe, and enriching experience for all campers and staff.  Master Planning will preserve the history of the Camp and secure its future for the next 30 years plus.  This is the first time that a Master Plan will be created for Good Counsel Camp.

Over the last several months, four different architectural companies have visited Good Counsel Camp to see firsthand the breadth and depth of this regional treasure, which has benefited thousands of lives over the past seven decades. Then, each of the companies spent time creating presentations for the Master Planning Committee to explain their strengths and describe how they would contribute to the success of Good Counsel Camp.

Now that a company has been selected, the first phase, known as the Discernment Phase, begins to clarify goals, scope, budget, and timeline. This initial phase can take six months or longer.

Building and Infrastructure Enhancements are Being Prioritized

The Diocese of Saint Petersburg Office of Construction is researching and implementing critical improvements that are needed to ensure smooth operations for the reopening of summer camp in 2026.

Roof Replacement: Eleven of the 12 cabins and all three bath houses have roofs that are older than 27 years old. They have exceeded their life expectancy. Roof replacements are being scheduled for August and September of this year.

Modernization of Plumbing: The campus plumbing system is nearly 80 years old. Many of the materials in place, such as cast iron, create problems as the years pass. The plumbing system and materials are currently being reviewed to determine how to ensure that the sinks, toilets, showers, and all water usage needs are reliable.

Safety and Security Upgrade: A security grant valued at $100,000 has been obtained to enhance security on campus for the safety of all campers and staff members. The Office of Construction has been diligently working to implement security recommendations and install the additional security upgrades.

Modernization of Pool Filtration and Overflow: The pool needs an overhaul of its filtration and overflow collection methods. The 93,000-gallon pool is a source of refreshment and recreation for campers. However, to ensure that it stays operational, this critical maintenance will be scheduled for completion in time for our 2026 summer program.

Thank you for your interest in receiving Good Counsel Camp Master Planning updates! Our next update will have plans relating to staffing, programming, and marketing. 

If you have questions, please contact Jeff Falanga, Interim Camp Director at jfalanga@dosp.org.

January 14, 2025 Update

We are excited to announce a new Master Planning process has started at Good Counsel Camp to update camp facilities and enhance programming. The planning process is called, “For the Good” because it’s an undertaking that is intended for the good of the Camp and future campers.  These improvements are much needed and will provide the foundation for long-term success for future generations.

The Camp’s Board of Directors recommended that Good Counsel Camp proceed as expeditiously as possible and suspend operations of the summer camp program for 2025. Bishop Gregory Parkes accepted this recommendation. This means Good Counsel Summer Camp for 7–15-year-olds is suspended for 2025.  But 2026 opportunities are expected to be better than ever before! Stay tuned because a brighter future awaits!

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