Camp Tri-Mount, East Jewett, NY

For New York residents looking to fully unplug and immerse themselves in a genuine, wooded environment, Camp Tri-Mount stands as a hidden gem nestled high in the Catskill Mountains. This is not the typical commercial campground with Wi-Fi hotspots and concrete pads; this 500-acre facility, owned and operated by the Rip Van Winkle Council of Scouting America, is a dedicated Scout Reservation that opens its extensive resources for year-round camping and group rentals. The camp’s long history, dating back to 1946, has earned it a reputation for providing an outstanding, traditional outdoor program, especially for those who appreciate a truly rustic experience.

Camp Tri-Mount is intentionally located "way up in the mountains and away from the lights and noise of an urban area," offering a level of tranquility increasingly difficult to find near major metro hubs. Visitors come here for the authenticity of the deep woods. While you won't find pavement, sidewalks, or a typical leisure pool, you will find miles of hiking trails, a beautiful lake for aquatics, and a vast array of specialized program facilities. Whether you are a long-time scouting leader, a local looking for an off-season cabin retreat, or a family wanting to introduce children to the untamed nature of the Catskills, Camp Tri-Mount provides the infrastructure for an unforgettable adventure. The recent replacement of many cots and tents shows a commitment to maintaining a comfortable, though still rustic, stay.

The true value of Camp Tri-Mount lies in its rich program areas, which are typically only found in well-funded youth organizations. From target sports to boating and high ropes, this reservation provides a wealth of activities that go far beyond standard public campgrounds. It serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding New York State lands, with world-class ski areas and the Hudson River just a short drive away.

Location and Accessibility

Camp Tri-Mount is located deep within the picturesque Northern Catskill Mountains, providing a true mountain retreat experience in Greene County, New York.

Address: 261 Boyscout Rd, East Jewett, NY 12424, USA

Remote Catskills Setting: The camp's location in East Jewett places it in a secluded, wilderness setting, far from suburban noise and light pollution, perfect for star-gazing and fully appreciating the mountain environment. Its remote nature is a core part of the experience.
Road Access: While the camp road is unpaved (261 Boy Scout Rd), the reservation is generally accessible, though guests should be prepared for typical mountain roads. The camp map confirms that the facility is designed to be easily navigated by visitors.
Proximity to Major Attractions: Despite its remote feel, Camp Tri-Mount is conveniently located only a short drive from major Catskills destinations. It is near world-class ski resorts (like Hunter Mountain) and various New York State lands, making it an excellent base camp for off-site explorations, including preparing for major treks like the famous Philmont Scout Ranch.
Ownership: The camp is owned and operated by the Rip Van Winkle Council of Scouting America, meaning its facilities are maintained to high standards for safety and youth development.

Services Offered

Camp Tri-Mount offers a range of facilities and accommodations that cater to various groups, from organized youth units to families seeking a rustic getaway.

Year-Round Accommodations: The camp provides versatile camping options, including traditional campsites with platform tents (available during the summer), Adirondack shelters (lean-tos), and numerous primitive tent camping areas.
Rustic Cabin Rentals: For off-season or group retreats, the reservation offers seven cabins/lodges designed to accommodate 10 to 20 persons each. These structures are designed for rustic comfort, equipped with double bunks, mattresses, and are heated with propane stoves. A separate, outstanding cabin is available for families.
Water and Heating: Water is accessible from frost-free hydrants year-round. The various lodges are heated, allowing for comfortable winter use.
Specialty Programs: During the summer and specialty weekends, the camp hosts merit badge academies and focused programs (like rifle/archery, orienteering, and first aid) led by experienced staff and registered merit badge counselors, supplementing traditional unit programs.
Dining Facilities: The camp features a central Dining Hall (Gelder Hall) and a Trading Post, typically used during summer resident camp, with year-round use often requiring groups to manage their own meals.

Features / Highlights

The reservation’s primary appeal is its vast array of engaging, skill-building activities and its natural environment:

Waterfront Programs: The camp features a private lake that is the centerpiece for aquatics. Activities include swimming, rowing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddle-boarding, all with necessary safety infrastructure and equipment.
Shooting Sports Excellence: Camp Tri-Mount boasts an outstanding shooting sports program, offering activities at dedicated ranges for rifle, shotgun, pistol, black powder, and archery. These activities are taught under strict safety guidelines by trained instructors.
High Adventure Facilities: The camp includes a COPE (Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience) course, which is a high-ropes course designed to develop leadership, teamwork, and personal courage—a significant asset for groups and leadership training.
Extensive Hiking Trails: The property is threaded with miles of hiking trails, perfect for both short nature walks and long, rigorous treks into the adjacent Catskill wilderness.
Unique Camp Structures: In addition to standard camping, the camp includes specialized facilities like the Nature Lodge, Handicraft Lodge, and a Health Lodge, all supporting a diverse range of educational and recreational programs.
Rustic Charm: The entire camp is defined by its deep woods, unpaved terrain, and lack of modern distractions, appealing directly to those seeking an authentic, traditional camp experience where outdoor skills are paramount.

Contact Information

For booking camp sites, cabins, or inquiring about specialty programs, New York residents should contact the Rip Van Winkle Council office.

Address: 261 Boyscout Rd, East Jewett, NY 12424, USA

Camp Phone: (518) 589-6208

Mobile Phone: +1 518-589-6208

Council Office: (Check the Rip Van Winkle Council website for current off-season contact details and reservation links.)

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

Camp Tri-Mount is perfectly suited for New York locals who understand and appreciate the value of traditional, rustic outdoor education and recreation. This is a place where youth, families, and groups can truly disconnect from digital life and focus on practical outdoor skills. For decades, it has served as a safe, structured environment for young people to learn rifle and archery, master rowing and canoeing, and develop leadership on the COPE course. The availability of year-round cabin rentals extends its utility far beyond the summer season, making it an excellent, affordable choice for a winter retreat or a springtime training weekend.

For New Yorkers, the camp offers a taste of true Catskill wilderness without the need for an extensive, remote expedition. It’s an easy, safe entry point into serious outdoor programming. By choosing Camp Tri-Mount, local users are not only securing a beautiful mountain setting but are also accessing unique facilities like the shooting ranges and ropes courses that are simply unavailable at most public campgrounds. If your goal is skill development, group cohesion, or simply a deep, quiet communion with the Catskills, Camp Tri-Mount offers a purposeful and rewarding experience that is truly a jewel in the region.