Henderson Scout Reservation

For decades, Henderson Scout Reservation has served as a cornerstone of outdoor adventure and character development in the heart of New York’s scenic Otsego County. Nestled on the peaceful slopes of Crumhorn Mountain in Maryland, NY, this expansive 668-acre property offers a quintessential camping experience that blends rugged natural beauty with structured recreational opportunities. While it is widely recognized as a primary facility for the Boy Scouts of America, Henderson Scout Reservation also opens its doors to various youth groups and organizations, providing a safe and inspiring environment for campers to reconnect with nature and build lifelong skills.

The atmosphere at Henderson is defined by its stunning lakeside location and the deep sense of history that permeates the grounds. Overlooking the pristine Crumhorn Lake, the campground provides a serene backdrop for both high-energy activities and quiet reflection. Local New York residents and scouting units from across the region return year after year, drawn by the reservation’s commitment to excellence in facility management and its welcoming, professional staff. Whether you are navigating the waters of the lake or exploring the miles of wooded trails, Henderson Scout Reservation represents the very best of the Empire State’s outdoor heritage.

Location and Accessibility

Henderson Scout Reservation is conveniently located at 509 Boy Scout Road, Maryland, NY 12116. Its strategic position in Central New York makes it easily accessible for families and units traveling from Albany, Oneonta, and the surrounding Mohawk Valley. The campground is situated just 15 minutes away from the historic village of Cooperstown, providing campers with the unique opportunity to combine their wilderness stay with visits to world-renowned landmarks like the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum and the Farmers' Museum.

Accessibility is a key focus for the reservation, ensuring that the joys of camping are available to everyone. The facility features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a dedicated wheelchair-accessible parking lot, allowing for easier navigation for guests with mobility needs. Within the camp, main thoroughfares are well-maintained, and the layout is designed to be inclusive, with accessible restrooms situated conveniently near primary activity hubs. For those arriving by car, the reservation provides ample on-site parking to accommodate both individual families and large troop transport vehicles.

Services Offered

• Traditional Summer Camp Programs: The reservation offers comprehensive summer sessions focused on merit badge achievement and rank advancement for scouts of all ages.
• Year-Round Facility Rentals: Beyond the summer season, the camp is available for weekend retreats, winter camping, and group gatherings, offering diverse lodging options from tent sites to cabins.
• Waterfront Management: Professional lifeguards and instructors oversee a wide range of aquatic services on Crumhorn Lake, ensuring a safe environment for swimming and boating.
• Educational Workshops: Staff-led programs provide instruction in essential life skills, including first aid, environmental science, and outdoor survival techniques.
• Dining Services: During peak program weeks, the state-of-the-art 10,000 square-foot dining hall provides nutritious, family-style meals for hundreds of campers and staff.
• Administrative Support: A dedicated camp office is available to assist with registrations, planning, and coordination for visiting units and community organizations.

Features and Highlights

• Crumhorn Lake: A beautiful 60-acre private lake serves as the center for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming activities.
• Extensive Trail Network: Over six miles of groomed hiking and nature trails wind through the property, bordering the Susquehanna State Forest for even more exploration.
• Modern Dining Hall: The newly constructed main dining facility features a commercial kitchen and rustic architecture, capable of seating nearly 300 guests with views of the lake.
• Shooting Sports Ranges: Dedicated areas for archery, rifle, and shotgun shooting allow campers to practice precision and safety under expert supervision.
• Climbing and COPE Courses: For those seeking a challenge, the camp features climbing structures designed to build confidence and teamwork.
• Traditional Campfire Circles: Multiple designated campfire areas provide the perfect setting for evening songs, storytelling, and community bonding.
• Diverse Sleeping Quarters: Accommodations range from primitive tent sites and lean-tos to a 50-person bunkhouse and specialized cabins like the "Hendos" worker housing.
• Proximity to Cooperstown: The camp’s location allows for easy day trips to regional cultural and historical attractions just 12 miles away.

Contact Information

Address: 509 Boy Scout Rd, Maryland, NY 12116, USA

Phone: (800) 778-6813

Organization: Leatherstocking Council, Boy Scouts of America

What is worth choosing

Choosing Henderson Scout Reservation is worth it for anyone seeking an authentic, high-quality outdoor experience that prioritizes both education and enjoyment. What sets this campground apart from others in the New York region is its "all-in-one" approach to adventure. Because the reservation is professionally managed by the Leatherstocking Council, visitors benefit from an infrastructure that is specifically designed for large-group safety and engagement, which is often missing from smaller, private campgrounds. The sheer variety of merit badge opportunities—over 50 in a single season—makes it an unbeatable choice for young scouts looking to advance their journey while having fun.

Additionally, the peaceful atmosphere of Crumhorn Lake provides a level of tranquility that is increasingly hard to find. Local reviews frequently highlight the "amazing facility" and the "peaceful lakeside spot" as reasons for their continued loyalty. Whether you are a parent looking for a kid-friendly environment where your children can learn self-reliance or a group leader searching for a retreat that offers both modern amenities and deep woods seclusion, Henderson Scout Reservation delivers. Its proximity to Cooperstown adds an extra layer of value, allowing your camping trip to become a comprehensive exploration of New York’s central heartland. By choosing Henderson, you are not just booking a campsite; you are investing in a tradition of excellence that has shaped generations of New Yorkers.

Ultimately, Henderson Scout Reservation remains a premier destination because it understands the balance between tradition and modernization. From the classic evening campfires to the high-speed training lodges and modern dining facilities, it provides a comfortable yet challenging environment. If you value a campground that offers professional staff, diverse activities, and one of the most beautiful lakefront views in the state, this Maryland, NY gem is the clear choice for your next outdoor excursion.