Billy & Keith Johnson Scout Center

The Billy & Keith Johnson Scout Center serves as a vibrant focal point for outdoor education and adventure within the historic Ten Mile River Scout Camps. Located in the picturesque region of Narrowsburg, New York, this facility is a cornerstone of Camp Aquehonga, a destination renowned for its commitment to both tradition and modern innovation. For New York families and youth organizations, the center offers more than just a place to pitch a tent; it provides a structured yet wild environment where young people can develop leadership skills, technical knowledge, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Nestled in the rolling hills of the Sullivan County Catskills, the center acts as a gateway to 12,000 acres of pristine wilderness, making it a premier choice for those seeking an authentic scouting experience.

The center itself is an architectural and functional highlight of the camp, housing essential administrative offices and specialized program areas. It was established through generous support to broaden the scope of what a modern campground can offer. Inside, the facility is designed to support the "behind-the-scenes" operations of Camp Aquehonga while providing comfortable amenities for Scoutmasters and leaders. Outside, the building opens onto a sprawling parade field that hosts morning assemblies and community events, while the rear of the center offers sweeping views of the campsites and the lush forest canopy. This balance of professional infrastructure and rugged scenery ensures that every visitor feels supported throughout their stay in the great outdoors.

Location and accessibility are key components of the Billy & Keith Johnson Scout Center’s appeal. Situated at 115 Aquehonga Rd, Narrowsburg, NY 12764, the center is approximately 135 miles northwest of New York City, making it a manageable and scenic trip for residents of the five boroughs and surrounding suburbs. The site is easily reachable via regional routes and is well-positioned for those looking to explore the nearby Delaware River. Despite its wilderness setting, the facility prioritizes inclusivity, offering a wheelchair-accessible parking lot and pathways that ensure visitors with mobility needs can navigate the central hub. The layout of the camp around the center is designed for easy foot traffic, connecting the main administrative building to the lakefront, sports fields, and dining areas.

• State-of-the-art STEM Lab offering instruction in robotics, programming, digital technology, and communication.
• Dedicated Scoutmaster lounge featuring air conditioning and fresh coffee for adult leaders and staff.
• Trade Skills Center providing hands-on workshops for merit badges in automotive maintenance, welding, and plumbing.
• Nature and Environmental Sustainability Center focused on local ecology and conservation education.
• Administrative and food service support for the camp's signature patrol cooking programs.
• Modern restroom facilities and running water systems maintained to high cleanliness standards.
• Supervised aquatic programming at the nearby Olympic-sized swimming pool and Half Moon Lake.
• On-site specialized staff to assist with merit badge instruction and safety protocols.

The features and highlights of the center and the surrounding Camp Aquehonga are what truly set this destination apart. A primary draw is the blend of high-tech learning and high-adventure play. The camp is one of the few in the region to offer a three-story water slide at its pool, providing a thrilling break from the summer heat. For those interested in traditional skills, the Scoutcraft area features permanent pioneering structures where youth can practice complex lashings and knot-tying. The center also oversees the patrol cooking method, a hallmark of the Aquehonga experience that encourages teamwork and self-reliance by having participants prepare their own meals using fresh ingredients provided daily by the camp commissary.

• State-of-the-art STEM center that sparks curiosity in engineering and digital sciences.
• Large in-ground pool with an exhilarating twisty water slide and dedicated instructor staff.
• Access to Half Moon Lake for canoeing, kayaking, rowing, and sailing activities.
• Comprehensive Project COPE course including a 35-foot climbing wall and a high-altitude zip line.
• First Year Camper program (LEAF) designed to introduce new scouts to outdoor living.
• Miles of well-maintained hiking trails including the historic Ten Mile River Trail.
• Rifle and shotgun ranges offering fine-tuned marksmanship guidance under expert supervision.
• Scenic parade field for troop formations, flags, and local community gatherings.

For those interested in visiting or coordinating a group trip, the Billy & Keith Johnson Scout Center can be reached at its Narrowsburg location. The physical address is 115 Aquehonga Rd, Narrowsburg, NY 12764, USA. To inquire about seasonal programming, merit badge schedules, or facility availability, the camp office can be reached at (845) 252-2023. Additionally, information regarding larger events and reservations across the Ten Mile River Scout Reservation is often managed through the Greater New York Councils office, but direct inquiries to the Narrowsburg location are welcomed during the active summer season from July through August.

What is most worth choosing about the Billy & Keith Johnson Scout Center is the unparalleled variety of experiences it consolidates into one location. While many campgrounds offer either rustic isolation or modern comfort, this center provides a sophisticated bridge between the two. Choosing this destination means gaining access to specialized knowledge in the STEM and trade fields while remaining immersed in the rugged beauty of the Catskill Mountains. It is a particularly wise choice for families and groups who value the "patrol cooking" tradition, as it reinforces core values of leadership and teamwork that are hard to replicate in a dining hall setting.

Ultimately, the Billy & Keith Johnson Scout Center represents the future of the scouting movement in New York. Its continuous facility improvements—such as the recently renovated lakefront and nature center—ensure that it remains a premier destination for years to come. Whether you are coming to earn a difficult merit badge, challenge yourself on the COPE course, or simply enjoy a fresh cup of coffee in the Scoutmaster lounge while the morning mist lifts off the parade field, this center provides a professional and welcoming home base. It is a place where the next generation of New York leaders is forged in the fires of camaraderie and adventure. Would you like me to help you find more information on the specific merit badge prerequisites or hiking trail maps for the Ten Mile River area?