Henderson Scout Reservation, Maryland, NY

Henderson Scout Reservation, often simply called Camp Henderson, represents a truly unique and significant piece of New York's natural and historical landscape. Located in the picturesque northern Catskill Mountains region, this expansive property has served generations as an outdoor haven. While its operational status has recently transitioned from a traditional Boy Scout summer camp, its intrinsic value as an irreplaceable natural asset—featuring vast woodlands, substantial water frontage, and existing infrastructure—makes it a focal point for conservation efforts and future public enjoyment for locals across the entire New York region.

The camp’s enduring legacy of fostering a love for the outdoors is evident in the fond memories shared by former attendees. Customers frequently recall the "amazing facility, staff and atmosphere," where "scouts love it here, year after year." The site is praised for its "beautiful lakeside spot," described as "very peaceful and relaxing," leaving many with the desire to "love to go again." These testimonials speak to the powerful, positive impact of the property’s environment, which remains today.

While the former owner, the Leatherstocking Council of the Boy Scouts of America, made the difficult decision to sell the camp, the process has sparked a collaborative effort among local organizations, environmental trusts, and government agencies to secure its future. The aim is to protect its significant natural resources from development and eventually reopen it, likely as a conservation area or public recreation hub. New Yorkers are actively working to ensure this slice of unspoiled nature remains accessible, preserving its character as a cherished place for outdoor adventure and family retreat.

The approximately 668-acre property is an outstanding example of the diverse ecosystems found in Upstate New York, making it an ideal candidate for long-term conservation and controlled, sustainable public use. It presents a rare opportunity to preserve a large, undeveloped tract of land that directly benefits the regional environment and the quality of life for its residents.

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Location and Accessibility

Henderson Scout Reservation is situated on Crumhorn Mountain, straddling the towns of Maryland and Milford in Otsego County, New York. This central location places it strategically within the state’s beautiful landscape, making it a manageable and appealing destination for New York residents seeking a wilderness experience without traveling out of state. The camp is located:

Approximately 15-20 minutes from the historic and culturally rich village of Cooperstown, home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, The Farmers’ Museum, and the Fenimore Art Museum.
Within the northern Catskill Mountains region, offering excellent access to a range of hiking and outdoor exploration opportunities.
Immediately adjacent to the Susquehanna State Forest, which encompasses an additional 423 acres and provides over a mile of frontage on the Susquehanna River, significantly expanding the overall recreational footprint of the area.

The official property address is: 509 Boy Scout Rd, Maryland, NY 12116, USA. This address places it conveniently near major regional highways, yet deep enough into the countryside to feel completely immersed in nature.

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Current Status and Potential Services Offered

As the property transitions from a private Scout camp to a future public/conservation-oriented site, the services will evolve. Based on its rich history and the proposed plans by conservation groups like the Otsego Land Trust, the site features extensive infrastructure and could potentially offer the following amenities and services once fully reopened for public access (note: current access should be verified through conservation group announcements):

A 10,000-square-foot former dining hall, which is in good condition and could be repurposed as a community or environmental education center.
Existing lodging and infrastructure, including various buildings and cabins suitable for group retreats, workforce training, or simple overnight stays.
Dedicated areas and structures that previously supported extensive outdoor programming, such as a rock climbing tower and a craft building.
Potential for organized educational programs focusing on environmental stewardship and clean/green energy, led by organizations like the Otsego County Conservation Association.
Facilities designed for year-round use and large group capacity, based on its history as a major summer camp.

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Features / Highlights of the Natural Property

The natural features of Henderson Scout Reservation are its greatest assets, providing a stunning backdrop for any visitor. The 668-acre parcel is dominated by unspoiled nature, offering a diverse array of outdoor activities and significant ecological value.

Crumhorn Lake: The property features significant frontage on Crumhorn Lake, providing a scenic, peaceful environment for water-based recreation.
Abundant Woodlands: The hillsides are entirely wooded, comprising approximately 525 acres of mixed hardwoods (oak, maple, cherry, beech) and softwoods (white pine, hemlock), offering rich biodiversity and tremendous capacity for carbon capture.
Extensive Water Resources: The site includes 63 acres of federal wetlands and over 11,000 feet of frontage on New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) classified streams.
Proximity to Susquehanna State Forest: Direct adjacency to this large State Forest offers seamless access to even more public land for hunting, hiking, boating, and fishing along the Susquehanna River.
Existing Trail Network: The former camp infrastructure includes miles of established hiking and biking trails, offering immediate recreational opportunities throughout the property’s varied terrain.
Historic and Cultural Proximity: The camp is just a short drive from Cooperstown’s world-renowned cultural attractions, allowing visitors to combine a peaceful natural retreat with enriching historical and artistic outings.

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Contact Information

While the property is currently listed for sale and under negotiation for conservation, a general contact number and the physical address are as follows. For the most current information regarding public access, conservation efforts, or the sale status, it is recommended to contact local conservation organizations such as the Otsego Land Trust.

Address: 509 Boy Scout Rd, Maryland, NY 12116, USA

Phone: (800) 778-6813

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Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For residents of New York State, the future of Henderson Scout Reservation represents an incredibly exciting prospect for local-area outdoor enjoyment. Its suitability for New Yorkers stems from multiple factors, making it an ideal escape from the bustle of city or suburban life and an accessible hub for nature and recreation.

First, its geographic location in the heart of Otsego County offers a profound sense of natural escape while remaining accessible to New York City, Central New York, and the Capital Region. It is a genuine 'getaway' spot that doesn't require interstate travel to find truly unspoiled wilderness.

Second, the sheer scale and natural features of the property—nearly 700 acres bordering a State Forest, with a significant lake and streams—provide an unparalleled canvas for a vast range of outdoor activities. Whether you are an avid hiker, a dedicated angler, a family looking for a weekend camping trip, or a conservationist seeking a quiet place to observe nature, the grounds cater to a wide audience. The previous history as a Scout camp indicates that the land is proven ground for character-building, community, and outdoor education.

Finally, the current movement led by local land trusts and government agencies to conserve the property ensures that its natural beauty will be protected in perpetuity. This collaborative effort to protect the land's high conservation value for climate resiliency and public good is a direct benefit to all New York citizens. As the future plans come to fruition, Henderson Scout Reservation is poised to transform into a premier, protected destination—a peaceful, natural retreat and educational resource for every resident of New York, solidifying its place as a vital component of the region’s outdoor recreational heritage.