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The Search for Big Mack
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The Search for Big Mack 2023

Up to 10 HOURS of map/compass navigation
in the rhododendron thickets of Camp Powhatan!




2023 Results (Click for larger image)


The Search for Big Mack will continue in Sept 2024!


The Legend of Big Mack

Legend has it that Big Mack was a lead miner who lived near Camp Powhatan, located in the rhododendron-covered hills near Hiwassee, Virginia during the mid 1800s. He was known as a hardworking and independent man who loved the outdoors and spent much of his time exploring and searching for gold in the surrounding wilderness near Tiny Town.

One day, while out on hunting for gold, Big Mack got disoriented and lost his way. Despite his extensive knowledge of the local terrain, he was unable to find his way back to camp or civilization. As days turned into weeks and weeks turned into months, there was no sign of Big Mack, and many assumed he had perished in the wilderness.

However, rumors soon began to circulate that Big Mack had not died but had instead become lost in time, wandering through the wilderness as a ghostly apparition. According to some accounts, he could be seen at night, roaming the woods still looking for gold. Others claimed that he had become a protector of the land, keeping watch over the forests and warning others of the dangers.

Over time, the legend of Big Mack grew, and he became a fixture of local folklore. They named the small creek where Big Mack panned for gold "Big Mack's Creek". Miners and outdoors enthusiasts would often tell stories of encountering his ghostly figure while hiking in the area, and some claimed to have heard his voice calling out "I'm rich" in the night.

Despite the many tales and sightings of Big Mack, his true fate remains unknown. Whether he perished in the wilderness, became a ghostly guardian of the land, or possibly made the big strike and secretly moved away, his story continues to captivate and intrigue those who venture into the wild rhododendron thickets of Camp Powhatan.

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