Scouting America Camp Aquehonga, Narrowsburg, NY

For New York residents seeking truly immersive and growth-focused outdoor experiences in the majestic Catskill Mountains, Scouting America Camp Aquehonga represents a premier destination. Located within the sprawling 12,000-acre Ten Mile River Scout Camps (TMR) reservation in Narrowsburg, NY, Camp Aquehonga is far more than just a campground; it is an established center for youth development, adventure, and skill-building. While not a publicly reservable site for individual families in the peak summer season—it primarily serves organized Scout Troops from the Greater New York Councils—its year-round facilities offer valuable opportunities for community and Scouting groups seeking a structured, natural retreat.

Camp Aquehonga is particularly celebrated for its innovative and traditional programming. It is recognized as a premier "Patrol Cooking Camp" in the Northeast, focusing on self-sufficiency and teamwork where youth groups prepare their own meals under the guidance of adult leadership and camp staff. This hands-on approach instills confidence, responsibility, and cooperation—skills highly valued in any environment.

Beyond the rustic charm of traditional camping, Aquehonga is committed to addressing the evolving needs of today’s youth by blending time-honored outdoor skills with modern technology. The facility boasts a state-of-the-art Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) center, making it a unique location where a camper can transition from knot-tying and pioneering to robotics and digital technology in the same afternoon. The facility’s reputation for having a friendly and welcoming staff, as highlighted by local volunteers and families, further solidifies its status as a "happy place" that fosters lifelong memories and strong personal character.

For local New Yorkers—whether you are a Scout, a Unit Leader, or a community organization looking for an unparalleled venue for group retreat—Camp Aquehonga provides a deep dive into the wilderness while maintaining a focus on safety, learning, and fun. It stands as a beacon for tradition, innovation, and adventure in the heart of the Sullivan County Catskills.

Location and Accessibility

Scouting America Camp Aquehonga is nestled deep within the Catskills region, at the address: Crystal Lake Rd, Narrowsburg, NY 12764, USA. Narrowsburg is a charming town in Sullivan County, known for its scenic location along the Delaware River and its authentic, small-town Catskills vibe.

For those traveling from the New York Metropolitan Area, accessibility is convenient via major routes like the New York State Thruway (I-87) and Route 17 West, eventually connecting to local roads like Route 55 West and County Route 26 (Crystal Lake Road). The drive is an escape in itself, leading visitors through increasingly remote and beautiful landscapes, a testament to the camp’s deep-woods setting.

The camp sits on the edge of Half-Moon Lake, providing a tranquil waterfront setting while still being part of the massive TMR reservation. The camp is not directly visible from the main public roads, enhancing the feeling of a true wilderness retreat. Clear signposts guide authorized groups from the main TMR entrance on County Route 26 to the specific Aquehonga section. The closest local town with modern amenities and gas is Narrowsburg, ensuring that any necessary supplies or last-minute needs are within reasonable driving distance, balancing seclusion with practicality.

Services Offered

Camp Aquehonga offers a specialized range of services designed to support its unique youth development and patrol-cooking model. These services are meticulously organized to provide an engaging and educational camping environment.

Patrol Cooking Program: A core offering where groups (Patrols) are provided with all necessary cooking equipment (stoves, pots, utensils, etc.) and portioned ingredients to prepare their own meals, fostering leadership and teamwork.
Canvas Tent Accommodation: Campers stay in traditional canvas platform tents, typically tented in pairs, offering an authentic, comfortable, and classic summer camp shelter.
Essential Facilities: Modern shower and restroom facilities are available, ensuring cleanliness and comfort for all campers.
Aquatics Program: Access to Half-Moon Lake for canoeing, kayaking, rowing, and sailing activities, all managed under certified supervision.
Full Swimming Facility: Unlike many rustic camps, Aquehonga features a large in-ground swimming pool complete with a fun water slide.
Health and Safety: A dedicated Health Lodge and trained staff are on-site to address medical needs and ensure compliance with all safety protocols, a priority for both campers and volunteers.

Features / Highlights

What sets Camp Aquehonga apart are its advanced program features that deliver a well-rounded experience, blending outdoor adventure with 21st-century skills.

Cutting-Edge STEM Center: The Johnson Center for STEM Education offers merit badge instruction and activities in modern fields such as Robotics, Programming, and Digital Technology, providing educational value beyond traditional camping.
High Adventure COPE Course: The facility includes a comprehensive COPE (Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience) course, featuring a 35-foot climbing wall and an exhilarating Zip Line, designed to build confidence, leadership, and group dynamics.
Newly Renovated Program Areas: Continuous investments ensure a top-tier experience, with recent renovations to the Lakefront, ScoutCraft area, and Field and Shooting Sports areas, demonstrating a commitment to quality and modern instruction.
Patrol Cooking Focus: This unique model allows for increased troop development time and a customized experience, reinforcing the leadership principles advocated by the Scouting method.
Diverse Merit Badge Offerings: Campers can pursue over 40 different merit badges across various disciplines, including Nature, Trades, and Shooting Sports, supported by a knowledgeable and dedicated staff.

Contact Information

Inquiries regarding Scouting America Camp Aquehonga, including information on summer camp registration for Troops and seasonal use of the facility, are managed through the Ten Mile River Scout Camps administration.

Address: Crystal Lake Rd, Narrowsburg, NY 12764, USA

Phone: (845) 252-2023 (or the general TMR number: 845-252-2000). For official correspondence, it is recommended to contact the Greater New York Councils office, who oversee the TMR reservation.

Mobile Phone: +1 845-252-2023 (This is a repeat of the main number, provided for clarity).

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Camp Aquehonga is an ideal setting for New York locals, particularly those involved with or interested in high-quality, structured youth programs. Its suitability lies in several key factors that cater specifically to the needs and expectations of users from the greater New York region. Firstly, its location in the Sullivan County Catskills provides an accessible yet completely enveloping wilderness escape—a crucial feature for those looking to genuinely disconnect from city life.

Secondly, the camp's dual focus on traditional Scouting skills and cutting-edge STEM programs makes it an educationally robust choice. This unique combination ensures that youth not only gain essential outdoor competencies but also develop future-ready skills in a fun and engaging manner. The positive testimonials from staff and families underscore the welcoming environment and the quality of the "great experiences" and "great nature experiences" offered.

While its summer operations are primarily for organized Scouting units, the year-round availability of certain TMR facilities for weekend camping or group rentals offers New Yorkers a chance to utilize a well-maintained, historically significant, and amenity-rich property. For parents, leaders, and volunteers in the New York area, Camp Aquehonga represents an investment in character development, leadership training, and an unforgettable immersion into the best of the Catskills wilderness. It is a place where self-reliance is learned, friendships are forged, and the spirit of adventure thrives.