Camp Tommy

Camp Tommy, located in the scenic town of Fishkill, New York, is a cornerstone of the historic Sharpe Reservation. Spanning over 2,000 acres of lush woodland in the Mid-Hudson Valley, this campground is much more than a simple outdoor space; it is a center for youth development, community building, and environmental stewardship. Named in honor of longtime supporter and fashion icon Tommy Hilfiger, the camp has spent decades providing transformative experiences for visitors from across the New York region. Its unique blend of rustic charm and professional-grade facilities makes it a premier choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without sacrificing the logistics necessary for large-scale events and educational programs.

For New York residents, particularly those in the Hudson Valley and New York City areas, Camp Tommy serves as an accessible sanctuary. The property is managed by The Fresh Air Fund, an organization renowned for its dedication to youth development. While the site is famous for its summer leadership programs—including the Leaders-in-Training and Counselor-in-Training initiatives—it also functions as a versatile venue for adult retreats, community gatherings, and even dog competitions. The atmosphere is one of profound tranquility, where the sounds of suburban life are replaced by the rustle of leaves and the calls of native wildlife, providing an ideal backdrop for reflection, learning, and celebration.

The layout of the camp is thoughtfully designed to utilize the natural topography of the Sharpe Reservation. With access to lakes, ponds, streams, and miles of hiking trails, visitors are encouraged to explore the diverse ecosystems of the region. The commitment to maintaining a well-kept and welcoming environment is evident in the positive testimonials from past guests, who frequently praise the staff's professionalism and the high standard of the facilities. Whether you are organizing a corporate team-building weekend, a large-scale men’s retreat, or an educational youth excursion, Camp Tommy offers the space and spirit to make every event successful.

• Location and Accessibility

Camp Tommy is situated at 436 Van Wyck Lake Rd, Fishkill, NY 12524. Its location is strategically ideal for New Yorkers, sitting approximately 65 miles north of Manhattan. This proximity allows for a manageable travel time of under two hours, making it a viable destination for weekend retreats and even single-day events. The camp is easily reached via major thoroughfares such as the Taconic State Parkway and Interstate 84, providing a straightforward route for buses, RVs, and personal vehicles.

Once on the property, accessibility is a priority. The site features a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring that guests with mobility considerations can enter and navigate the primary facility areas with ease. The internal roads and pathways are well-maintained, facilitating smooth movement throughout the camp's different sections. While the terrain is naturally hilly—consistent with the beautiful Hudson Highlands landscape—the central meeting areas and primary accommodations are designed to be functional for groups of all ages and abilities. On-site parking is plentiful, accommodating large groups for multi-day stays or high-attendance weekend competitions.

• Services Offered

• Leadership and Youth Development Programs: Home to structured summer initiatives for teens focused on social-emotional learning and professional skill-building.
• Group Retreat Hosting: The facility is available for rental by schools, youth organizations, and community groups for residential stays.
• Event Space Rental: A versatile location for weddings, weekend retreats, and specialized hobbyist events like dog sports and competitions.
• Educational Workshops: Access to environmental science classes and outdoor living skills workshops led by experienced staff.
• Professional On-site Management: A dedicated team is available to assist with logistics, facility maintenance, and safety oversight.
• Utility Infrastructure: Sites are equipped with running water and access to central restroom facilities with indoor plumbing and electricity.
• Food Service Capabilities: Seasonal access to large dining facilities capable of catering to groups of up to 50 or more participants.

• Features and Highlights

• Rustic Cabin Accommodations: Traditional wooden cabins provide an authentic camping experience, grouped to foster a sense of brotherhood and community.
• High Ropes Course: A challenging outdoor feature designed for team-building, confidence-building, and personal growth.
• Lakes and Water Access: Beautiful on-site lakes and streams offer opportunities for swimming, nature observation, and environmental education.
• Extensive Trail System: Access to over 2,000 acres of Sharpe Reservation trails, ranging from easy woodland walks to scenic mountain overlooks.
• Recreational Courts: The grounds include space for basketball, volleyball, and other team sports to keep participants active and engaged.
• Model Farm and Community Garden: Educational features that teach visitors about agriculture, nutrition, and sustainability.
• Modern Bathrooms: Centrally located facilities with indoor plumbing and showers, providing a balance of comfort in a rustic setting.

• Contact Information

For those interested in booking a retreat, inquiring about youth programs, or learning more about the facility's availability, the management can be reached through the following contact details:

• Address: 436 Van Wyck Lake Rd, Fishkill, NY 12524, USA
• Phone: (845) 897-4320
• Mobile: +1 845-897-4320

• What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Camp Tommy is highly recommended for those who want a venue that carries a legacy of social responsibility and excellence. Unlike many standard commercial campgrounds, Camp Tommy is part of a mission-driven organization, meaning your visit supports a broader effort to provide outdoor experiences to underserved youth. This spirit of purpose is tangible throughout the property, creating a more meaningful atmosphere for weddings, family gatherings, or spiritual retreats. The "brotherhood" and community-first culture established during the summer months spills over into the off-season, making it a welcoming space for all.

For organizers of large-scale events, Camp Tommy is worth choosing due to the sheer capacity and maintenance of its facilities. Past reviews highlight the success of men's weekends and competitions with over 50 participants, noting that the facilities never feel crowded and the setting remains breathtaking. The balance of price and quality is exceptional; the rates are famously reasonable for the Hudson Valley, yet the property offers the kind of "pretty views" and "well-kept facilities" often reserved for more expensive private venues. If you are a New Yorker looking for a site that offers true natural immersion without the hassle of a long-distance trek, Camp Tommy provides the perfect intersection of convenience, beauty, and value.

Ultimately, whether you are looking to pitch a tent for a rustic weekend or host a major community milestone, Camp Tommy provides the infrastructure to support your vision. Its role as a "second home" to many and a transformative escape for thousands of youth ensures that when you choose this location, you are stepping into a place that is deeply loved and carefully preserved for the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts.