The boats were used for skiing and other water-related classes that already have been filled by campers who registered early, says Auker. The classes are the most popular at the camp.
The boats were housed at a storage facility in Harvard, Illinois, about half an hour from the camp. The blaze began around 4:30 p.m. Saturday, and firefighters from 22 companies finally were able to extinguish the fire eight hours later, according to news reports.
Auker estimates the loss of all the boats at around $75,000, but is waiting for figures from insurance adjustors to determine exactly what the insurance will cover.
Among the boats destroyed were two Ski Nautiques, an American Skier, an Aquasport used for rescues, and a 24-foot pontoon boat, Auker says. The other three were older models.
The fire incinerated the boats, Auker says. The walls of the building were made of wood, but the roof was sheet metal and kept all the heat inside.
Harvard Deputy Fire Chief Steve Harter has estimated the loss of the building, which also housed other boats and antique cars, at between $500,000 and $600,000.
Firefighters suspect the blaze may have started in an electrical heater, but no cause has been officially determined, Auker says. No one was injured.
