High Rock Girl Scout Camp

High Rock Girl Scout Camp represents a unique and tranquil piece of New York City’s natural history. Nestled within the expansive greenery of Staten Island, this site serves as a vital escape for local youth and nature enthusiasts alike. Originally part of a larger tract of land that once hosted Boy Scout activities, the property was transitioned to the Girl Scouts Council of Greater New York in the early 1950s. Today, it remains a cornerstone of the Staten Island Greenbelt, integrated into the lush landscapes of High Rock Park. This park is frequently described as one of the most peaceful places in the five boroughs, offering a rare "walk in the woods" feeling that makes it hard to believe you are still within the city limits.

The camp and its surrounding parkland are recognized as a National Environmental Education Landmark. This designation highlights the area’s commitment to preserving biodiversity and providing educational opportunities for children. Whether you are looking for a place for a day hike or a youth-oriented outdoor adventure, High Rock provides a backdrop of deep woods, quiet ponds, and rolling hills. The legacy of the camp is deeply intertwined with local conservation efforts, as dedicated citizens fought to protect this land from urban development in the 1960s, ensuring that future generations of New Yorkers could continue to enjoy its pristine beauty.

High Rock Girl Scout Camp is located in the heart of Staten Island, specifically within High Rock Park. The area is easily accessible for residents of New York City and the surrounding metropolitan region. For those traveling by car, the camp is situated near Nevada Avenue and Rockland Avenue, making it a convenient destination for families coming from various parts of Staten Island or across the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. Its position within the 2,800-acre Greenbelt means that it is part of a massive interconnected system of parks and natural areas.

• Centrally located in Staten Island, NY 10306, near the Greenbelt Conservancy headquarters.
• Accessible via local roads with parking facilities available at the Nevada Avenue entrance.
• Proximity to public transportation, though walking from nearby bus stops through the park trails is common.
• Connected to a vast network of hiking trails that span the Staten Island Greenbelt.

As a facility with a long-standing history of serving youth, High Rock focuses on providing a safe and engaging environment for children to learn about the great outdoors. While the specific overnight camping programs often align with the Girl Scouts of Greater New York schedules, the area provides a variety of services geared toward environmental literacy and recreational enjoyment. The camp atmosphere is designed to build confidence and "I've got this" attitudes in young participants through hands-on interaction with nature.

• Environmental education programs designed for school groups and youth organizations.
• Guided nature hikes led by knowledgeable staff and Urban Park Rangers.
• Youth-centric camping facilities that focus on safety and character building.
• Interpretive signage and educational displays throughout the park to help visitors identify local flora and fauna.
• Space for community gatherings and special events hosted by the Greenbelt Conservancy.

The highlights of High Rock Girl Scout Camp extend beyond just the campsite itself. The entire High Rock Park area is a "Forever Wild" site, meaning it is protected from development and rich in biodiversity. Campers and visitors can explore five different ponds, including the well-known Walker Pond and Loosestrife Swamp. One of the most famous landmarks nearby is Moses' Mountain, a 260-foot hill that provides a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of the New York Harbor and the surrounding landscape.

• Five tranquil ponds and diverse wetland ecosystems perfect for birdwatching.
• The famous Moses' Mountain, offering some of the best panoramic views in New York City.
• Rich wildlife sightings, including red-tailed hawks, owls, blue herons, and deer.
• Six distinct walking trails, including the Gretta Moulton Trail, which passes through rare persimmon groves.
• The historic stone house that serves as the headquarters for the Greenbelt Conservancy.
• Dedicated "Good for kids" atmosphere with safe, well-marked paths and educational resources.

If you are looking to plan a visit or learn more about the specific programs offered at this location, you can reach out through the following contact details. Please note that while the park is generally open to the public, specific camping facilities may require advanced registration through the Girl Scouts or the Greenbelt Conservancy.

Address: 200 Nevada Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10306, USA

Phone: +1 718-667-2165 (Greenbelt Conservancy Headquarters)

Choosing High Rock Girl Scout Camp means choosing a legacy of conservation and a high standard of outdoor education. For New York City parents, it offers a way for children to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the natural one without needing to leave the city. The camp emphasizes safety and progressive skill building, ensuring that every child feels supported as they try new things. Furthermore, by visiting and supporting this site, you are contributing to the preservation of Staten Island’s "Forever Wild" spaces, keeping the city’s green lungs healthy and vibrant for everyone. It is a place where history meets nature, providing a peaceful sanctuary for those who want to experience the quieter side of New York.