Camp Howe

Located in the serene heart of the Pioneer Valley, Camp Howe stands as a cornerstone of the Goshen, Massachusetts community. For over 80 years, this dedicated campground and youth center has provided a transformative outdoor experience on the shores of Lower Highland Lake. Unlike traditional campgrounds that cater primarily to transient RVs, Camp Howe is a specialized residential and day-use facility designed to foster a deep sense of belonging among youth of all backgrounds and abilities. Nestled within the expansive greenery of the region, it serves as a vital resource for Massachusetts families seeking a safe, structured, and profoundly inclusive environment for their children to explore the great outdoors.

The philosophy at Camp Howe is rooted in the belief that the "camp magic" of nature should be accessible to everyone. As one of the first programs in the United States to be accredited as a national inclusive recreational program by the National Inclusion Project, it goes beyond standard outdoor recreation. The facility is meticulously designed to accommodate diverse needs, ensuring that every participant—regardless of physical ability, developmental stage, or socioeconomic background—can participate fully in the joys of lakeside living and woodland exploration. This commitment to diversity is reflected not only in the physical layout of the grounds but also in the highly trained leadership staff who prioritize emotional safety and community building alongside physical adventure.

Accessibility and Location

Camp Howe is situated at the edge of the Berkshire foothills in Goshen, MA, conveniently located for residents of Northampton, Williamsburg, and the greater Springfield area. The camp property encompasses 52 beautiful acres, yet it feels significantly larger as it is entirely surrounded by the 1,700-acre D.A.R. (Daughters of the American Revolution) State Forest. This unique positioning provides campers with unparalleled access to miles of hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and the quiet waters of the Highland Lakes. Access to the camp is straightforward via local routes, with on-site parking available for families during drop-off and pick-up periods.

Recognizing the importance of accessibility in the Massachusetts wilderness, Camp Howe has made significant investments in its infrastructure. The campground features wheelchair-accessible entrances and designated parking areas. Many of the core facility buildings, including the main office, the expansive dining hall, and several specialized camper cabins, are designed to be fully navigable for individuals with mobility limitations. This ensures that the rustic charm of the New England woods can be enjoyed without the barriers often found in more rugged terrain.

Services Offered

• Residential Overnight Programs: Weekly sessions for juniors and teens where they live in community-focused cabins and engage in a full schedule of outdoor activities.
• Day Camp Services: A comprehensive daytime program for local families, providing structured supervised activities from morning until late afternoon.
• Echo Program: A specialized, award-winning inclusion program specifically designed for youth who require additional support to successfully integrate into the camp community.
• Teen Leadership Development: Advanced programs for older youth, including Counselor-in-Training (CIT) opportunities that focus on teamwork, decision-making, and mentorship.
• Waterfront Recreation: Supervised swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding on the protected waters of Lower Highland Lake.
• Farm and Animal Education: Hands-on experiences with farm animals, teaching campers about agriculture, biology, and the responsibility of animal care.
• Outdoor Education: Lessons in "Leave No Trace" principles, environmental studies, and traditional camping skills like fire building and orienteering.

Features and Highlights

• Rustic Cabin Accommodations: 40 distinct buildings including unheated cabins equipped with electricity, bunk beds, and nearby centralized bathhouses with hot showers.
• Highland Lake Waterfront: A private beach area that serves as the hub for aquatic skills training and recreational free swimming.
• Challenge Courses: On-site climbing walls and low-ropes challenge courses designed to build confidence and promote physical coordination.
• Arts and Crafts Studio: A dedicated space for creative expression where campers can work on projects ranging from binary code jewelry to traditional woodworking.
• Community Dining Hall: A large, cathedral-ceiling multipurpose hall that seats 175 people, serving as the heart of camp meals and indoor gatherings.
• Nature Trails and Hiking: Direct access to the extensive trail network of the D.A.R. State Forest for kid-friendly hikes and advanced nature walks.
• Multicultural Environment: A diverse staff composed of international counselors, bringing global perspectives and cultural exchange to the Massachusetts woods.

Contact Information

Camp Howe is located at the following address in the beautiful hills of Western Massachusetts:

• Address: Goshen, MA 01032, USA
• Primary Phone: (413) 268-7635
• Mobile Contact: +1 413-268-7635

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Camp Howe means choosing a community that values character over competition. While many campgrounds focus solely on the physical amenities, Camp Howe is renowned for its "culture of kindness." It is the ideal choice for parents who want their children to return home not just with stories of hiking and swimming, but with increased self-esteem and a better understanding of others. The camp’s unique "Echo Program" makes it a standout choice for families of children with special needs, offering a level of professional support and integration that is rare in the summer camp industry. Furthermore, its location directly adjacent to the D.A.R. State Forest makes it a perfect "side-companion" for families who may be camping at the state park and want a high-quality, structured youth program nearby. Whether you are looking for a few weeks of summer growth or a long-term community to grow up in, this Goshen gem provides an environment where every child is encouraged to break their own personal records and be happy with exactly who they are.