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MALLORYTOWN - Rock Island Camp & RV Park was born from a dream sketched on a napkin by lifelong friends William (Bill) Hallett and Robert (Bob) Race in 2008. Today, it remains true to their vision.
Opened in 2014 in Front of Yonge Township, the campground
features 180 acres of rolling granite hills and pristine forest with Temperance Lake Bay to the north and Graham Lake to the south. Known for fishing, kayaking, canoeing and hiking, it's named after the single island on Graham Lake and embodies the founders' relationship with nature and community.
Carrying on Bill's legacy are his true love and wife Rosemary,
their three children Kimberly, Kelly, and Joseph with son-in-law Jason Welburn. "There was no doubt in my mind of our next steps, we eagerly jumped in," Kim adds. “We provide the close-to-nature lifestyle and sustainable practices that people crave." "The campground, it's a labor of love. This place is joyful: all of our campers are special people," says Rose, her eyes sparkling with pride.
To boost business revenue beyond RV campsite rentals, the general store stocks camping needs like snacks, dry goods, board games, fishing supplies, swim toys and RV décor. Branded attire is available to take the chill off a cool night. Fresh baked items are available. Loyalty campaigns introduce social media followers to the brand and rewards them.
The future is to continue employing locally and ultimately accommodate more visitors. "There's so much potential here. Currently, 22 acres are developed. We have plans for growth, with RV camping and to host resort-style events that are open to the community,” says Kim. Seasonal and transient campers along with members of the community share unique experiences through word of mouth and social channels. People come for a day, a week, or the season, always good to make reservations in advance. Fishing gear and kayak rentals available. Watch for upcoming events such as Yuk Yuk’s – Dinner and Show on June 8th.
“Rock Island Camp reflects exactly what my father wanted,” Kelly shared, while Kim concurred, "To see it grow while staying true to the values that built the dream." There’s no Rock quite like this Rock, as they say here. The Hallett family is committed to ensuring that Rock Island's unique essence endures for generations.
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