NHSCOT​ Finalizes Purchase Of Camp Spaulding In Penacook; Future Home Of 'Camp Caledonia'

CONCORD, NH — The people who bring you the annual NH Highland Games & Festival are taking exciting steps to create a permanent home for year-round activities centered on Scottish Celtic culture.

NHSCOT has closed on the former Camp Spaulding property in Concord and has launched a campaign to repurpose the 57-acre summer camp into a hub for Scottish culture, events, and activities, called Camp Caledonia.

“As our organization celebrates its 50th anniversary, we are thrilled to launch a new chapter in our story,” Terri Wiltse, the executive director for NHSCOT, said. “Once fully operational, this property will cement our legacy as a destination for the next 50 years.”

NHSCOT has launched a $3.7 million capital campaign to complete the project. It will include many varied activities, such as Scottish music, dance, athletics, Gaelic language programs and more. The facility will also serve as a destination for a wide range of events. NHSCOT intends to host workshops and fun activities centered on the Scottish culture.

The Highland Games & Festival will continue to operate each September at Loon Mountain in Lincoln, but this Concord headquarters will aim to enhance the public’s connection to Scottish traditions throughout the year.

“We believe this will boost tourism to the Capitol region and continue to raise awareness around our history,” Wiltse said. “The property we’ve identified offers a unique and rare opportunity: it is well-suited for our needs, centrally located, and has the potential to be transformed into a vibrant must-see place to visit.”

NHSCOT leaders are confident this will boost tourism, increase jobs through both the construction and operation of Camp Caledonia, and be a welcomed addition to Concord. Located at the corner of Bog Road and River Road, the wooded property is envisioned to be a welcoming space for visitors and an ideal permanent headquarters for the administrative offices of NHSCOT. Construction and renovation will begin soon with a targeted opening in the Spring of 2026.

Submitted by NHSCOT