Boys Club of New York

The Boys’ Club of New York (BCNY) operates a storied and transformative campground known as Harriman Basecamp, located in the lush environment of Southfields, New York. For over 120 years, this facility has served as a cornerstone for youth development, providing boys and young men from New York City and the surrounding regions with an immersive sleep-away camp experience. Nestled within the expansive 47,000-acre Harriman State Park, the campground offers a sanctuary where city life is replaced by the tranquil sounds of the forest and the refreshing waters of local lakes. It is a place where traditions are passed down from alumni to new members, fostering a lifelong sense of brotherhood and community service.

Harriman Basecamp is far more than just a seasonal getaway; it is a mission-driven environment designed to increase access to nature and wellness. For local New York families, this camp represents a rare opportunity for young men to develop critical life skills while fostering emotional and physical growth. The atmosphere is one of support and safety, where experienced staff partner with campers to build confidence and character. As a non-profit initiative, the camp ensures that economic barriers do not prevent young New Yorkers from experiencing the wonders of the great outdoors, making it a vital community asset for the Orange County and Hudson Valley areas.

Location and accessibility are among the key features that make this campground a preferred choice for New York residents. Situated at Arden Valley Road in Southfields, NY 10975, the camp is easily accessible from the New York State Thruway (I-87) and the Palisades Interstate Parkway. While the camp feels deeply secluded—isolated between two lakes and away from commercial land use—it is conveniently located just about an hour north of New York City. To ensure all members can reach the site regardless of their family's transportation situation, the organization provides dedicated transit services for its campers.

• Strategically located within Harriman State Park, offering direct access to the park’s extensive trail network.
• Isolated setting between two freshwater lakes, providing a private and quiet environment.
• Accessible via van or bus transportation provided by BCNY from various clubhouses in East Harlem and Flushing.
• Proximity to local medical facilities, including Good Samaritan Hospital, ensuring safety and peace of mind.
• Wheelchair accessible restroom facilities and common areas maintained to accommodate all members.
• Easy navigation for drop-offs via well-maintained park roads and clear signage.

The services offered at the Boys’ Club of New York camp are comprehensive, catering to the physical, social, and educational needs of young men aged 10 to 17. The program is structured into multiple summer sessions, each providing a balanced itinerary of adventure and reflection. A professional kitchen serves hearty and healthy meals tailored to various dietary requirements, ensuring that campers are well-fueled for their daily activities. Furthermore, the camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio, providing personalized attention and a high standard of safety throughout the stay.

• Residential sleep-away programming featuring rustic wooden cabin lodging with shared bunk rooms.
• Professional culinary services providing breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks for all participants.
• On-site health and wellness support, including an EMT on staff for emergency care and a robust homesickness protocol.
• Educational workshops in specialized facilities, such as a professional woodshop and arts pavilion.
• Structured outdoor leadership programs and restorative circles to build emotional intelligence.
• Organized sports and recreation sessions on professional-grade ball fields and courts.

Features and highlights of Harriman Basecamp allow campers to explore interests they may not have access to in an urban setting. The 11-acre private lake is a focal point for many, offering a safe environment for aquatics and fishing. Beyond the water, the camp utilizes its location to provide high-adventure activities like archery and ropes courses, all under the supervision of trained instructors. These features are designed to push campers out of their comfort zones in a safe, supportive manner, teaching them the value of perseverance and teamwork.

• A private 11-acre lake dedicated to swimming, canoeing, and fishing.
• A low-ropes challenge course designed to build team cohesion and problem-solving skills.
• Expansive basketball courts and a dedicated ball field for competitive and recreational play.
• An archery range where members can learn the discipline and focus of bowmanship.
• A professional-grade woodshop for hands-on crafting and technical skill-building.
• Immediate access to world-class hiking trails maintained by the New York State Park system.
• A game pavilion equipped with ping-pong, chess, and board games for social interaction.

For those interested in enrollment or alumni volunteering opportunities, the camp maintains an active office for inquiries. As the camp is part of a larger youth development organization, membership in a BCNY clubhouse is typically the first step for prospective campers. For immediate questions regarding the Southfields facility, the following contact information can be used:

Address: Arden Valley Rd, Southfields, NY 10975, USA

Phone: (845) 915-3638

Mobile Phone: +1 845-915-3638

What is worth choosing about the Boys’ Club of New York camp is the legacy of excellence and the unique "brotherhood" it creates. For many New York parents, choosing this camp means choosing a program that has a 120-year track record of success in mentoring young men. It is worth choosing for the holistic approach it takes to summer recreation—combining the fun of a traditional camp with the academic and character-building support that BCNY is known for across the five boroughs. The fact that the organization prioritizes inclusion, welcoming boys regardless of their family’s income or zip code, makes it a standout choice for those seeking high-quality, accessible summer opportunities.

Furthermore, the camp is worth choosing for its unparalleled location. Being situated inside Harriman State Park means campers are living in one of the most beautiful natural areas of New York State. They aren't just visiting nature; they are living within it, waking up to the sight of the mountains and the scent of the pines. For alumni and volunteers, the camp remains a point of honor, as evidenced by the dedicated individuals who return year after year to give back. Whether for the specialized STEAM programming, the championship-level aquatics, or simply the chance to roast marshmallows by a campfire, Harriman Basecamp remains a premier destination for the youth of New York.

Would you like me to provide information on how to register for a membership at one of the BCNY clubhouses to become eligible for this camp?