Camp Liahona

Camp Liahona is a serene and spiritually uplifting campground located in the quiet community of Holmes, New York. Situated in the picturesque Hudson Valley, this destination serves as a primary recreational facility for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, though it is widely recognized by local residents for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty. The camp is named after the "Liahona," a compass-like object from the Book of Mormon that symbolizes divine guidance, reflecting the park's mission to provide a place where visitors can find peace and direction away from the noise of modern life. For many New Yorkers, this camp represents a rare opportunity to enjoy the lush, rolling hills of Dutchess County in an environment specifically maintained for family-friendly values and community bonding.

The campground is set amidst dense woodlands and open grassy fields, providing a versatile landscape for various outdoor activities. It operates with a focus on simplicity and the outdoors, encouraging guests to trade digital screens for sunshine and fresh air. Whether it is used for a summer youth camp, a large church picnic, or a quiet weekend of tent camping, Camp Liahona offers an experience that reminds visitors of classic childhood summer camps. The facility is well-known for its clean, quiet environment, making it a favorite for those who prioritize a respectful and calm camping atmosphere over the high-traffic noise found at more commercialized parks.

Located at 1790 NY-292, Holmes, NY 12531, USA, Camp Liahona is remarkably accessible for residents of the New York metropolitan area and the surrounding Hudson Valley. Positioned within the town of Pawling/Holmes area, the camp is a convenient drive for those traveling from Westchester, Putnam, and Dutchess Counties. Its proximity to NY-292 makes it easy to reach while still feeling secluded once you enter the property. Accessibility is a high priority for the camp, as the grounds feature a wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking lots, and wheelchair-accessible restrooms, ensuring that all members of the community can participate in events and recreation without barriers.

For visitors coming from the city, the camp is roughly a 90-minute to two-hour drive from Manhattan, depending on traffic, making it a viable option for weekend retreats. On-site parking is plentiful and organized, accommodating large groups for annual events. The entrance is clearly marked, and the drive into the heart of the camp reveals a well-maintained network of paths that connect the main activity centers with the more private camping areas. The layout is designed to be intuitive, allowing groups to navigate the facilities with ease from the moment they arrive.

• Dedicated tent sites designed for both small families and large group camping excursions.
• Seasonal swimming facilities in the on-site lake, supervised by qualified staff during camp sessions.
• Indoor and outdoor athletic facilities, including a basketball court for "shooting hoops" and open grass areas for field games.
• Professional maintenance of public restrooms and sanitation facilities throughout the grounds.
• On-site parking specifically designed for high-capacity group events and church picnics.
• Provision of clean running water at designated stations for camper convenience.
• Organized summer camp programs for youth, focusing on leadership, teamwork, and spiritual growth.
• Availability for church-wide social events and multi-ward picnics.

• Beautiful lakefront access that provides a centerpiece for summer recreation and scenic photography.
• Expansive, well-manicured grass fields perfect for "games on the grass" and large-scale social gatherings.
• A family-oriented "Good for Kids" environment that emphasizes safety and wholesome fun.
• The historic and symbolic significance of the "Liahona" theme, integrated into the camp’s peaceful aesthetic.
• Secluded, wooded areas that offer privacy for individual tent sites while remaining close to amenities.
• Proximity to local Hudson Valley landmarks and additional hiking opportunities in the nearby Appalachian Trail regions.
• Clean, well-kept public restrooms and accessible facilities that cater to diverse visitor needs.
• Frequent sightings of local wildlife, contributing to the "exceptionally beautiful" nature of the park.

If you are looking to schedule a group visit, join an annual picnic, or inquire about youth camp dates, the management at Camp Liahona is the primary point of contact. Given its affiliation with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, many reservations are handled through regional stakes, but the site remains a landmark of the Holmes community.

Address: 1790 NY-292, Holmes, NY 12531, USA

Location Note: Situated conveniently along NY-292, south of the village of Pawling.

What makes Camp Liahona worth choosing is its unique ability to foster a sense of belonging and community. In our increasingly busy and disconnected lives, this camp serves as a hub where people can reconnect with their "church family" and nature simultaneously. It is particularly worth choosing for those who want a camping experience that is grounded in values and safety. Parents can feel confident letting their children play on the fields or swim in the lake, knowing the environment is specifically curated to be kid-friendly and wholesome. The simplicity of the activities—swimming, basketball, and picnicking—strips away the complications of modern life, allowing for genuine social interaction and reflection.

Furthermore, the physical beauty of the site in Holmes is a significant draw. The Hudson Valley is famous for its rolling greenery, and Camp Liahona captures that essence perfectly. For New York residents who want a "nature reset" without traveling to the deep Adirondacks, this location offers the perfect balance. The accessible facilities ensure that grandparents and those with mobility aids can join the family for a day in the sun just as easily as the youngest children. Ultimately, Camp Liahona is worth choosing because it isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it is a place to build memories in a setting that is "exceptionally beautiful" and spiritually refreshing. Whether you are there for a day-long picnic or a week-long summer camp, the peace you find in this corner of Holmes is likely to bring you back year after year.

Would you like me to find out more about the specific reservation process for church groups or information on the nearby hiking trails in the Holmes area?