amp Edwards has its roots in the Greater Elgin Area YMCA. The Elgin YMCA was founded in 1833. By the 1920's an increasing interest in camping was apparent and a permanent campsite was necessary.  The camp board selected E.E.Micklewright as the man in charge of creating a resident camping program. Micklewright and his family moved to Elgin in January of 1928.

Almost immediately following their move a camp committee was organized and preparations were under way.  The program was planned, the site was selected, the money was raised, contractors were hired, and construction began in June of 1929.  Only 16 months after Micklewright came to Elgin, the camp was opened with all buildings in use.  Camp Edwards was advertised as a character building camp for boys.  The original program aimed to build a strong and sturdy body, a steady and true spirit, and a clean and keen mind.  The camp fee was $15 for the two week period in 1929.  Camp Edwards was open to boys ten and older.  There were 66 campers in attendance the first summer.