Lenni Lenape Camp, Horseshoe Scout Reservation

For decades, the Lenni Lenape Camp within the Horseshoe Scout Reservation has served as a cornerstone of outdoor youth development and family-friendly adventure in the Maryland region. Located on the historic Mason-Dixon line in Rising Sun, Maryland, this specific campsite is part of a massive 600-acre scouting facility owned by the Chester County Council. Lenni Lenape offers a unique blend of heritage and rugged wilderness, making it a favorite for local Maryland residents who appreciate the "Spirit of the Horseshoe." While it is deeply rooted in the Scouting America tradition, the camp’s reputation for providing a peaceful, high-quality outdoor experience extends to all who seek a true connection with nature in Cecil County.

The Lenni Lenape site is characterized by its dedication to the traditional tent-camping experience. Unlike the adirondack-style shelters found in other parts of the reservation, Lenni Lenape is a premier tent site that encourages campers to master the art of ground-based camping. The site is named in honor of the Lenni-Lenape tribe, the original inhabitants of the Delaware River valley and the Octoraro Creek area. This connection to history is palpable throughout the grounds, where the winding Octoraro Creek creates a natural "horseshoe" around the property, providing a serene backdrop for reflection and learning. For local families and youth groups, Lenni Lenape represents an opportunity to step away from modern distractions and embrace a lifestyle of self-reliance and environmental stewardship.

Location and accessibility are among the top reasons Marylanders choose Lenni Lenape. Situated at 1286 Ridge Road in Rising Sun, MD 21911, the camp is easily accessible for those traveling from the Baltimore and Wilmington corridors. Despite its proximity to these urban centers, the camp feels worlds away, tucked into the rolling hills and dense forests of the Maryland-Pennsylvania border. The facility is designed to be inclusive, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a dedicated parking lot to ensure that the beauty of the reservation is available to all visitors. Navigating the reservation is made simpler by a network of well-marked forest roads and trails, though the "backcountry" feel of the Lenni Lenape site ensures that campers still feel deeply immersed in the woods.

The services offered at Lenni Lenape Camp and the broader Horseshoe Scout Reservation are comprehensive, designed to support both summer resident camping and year-round weekend excursions. The facility is professionally managed to ensure safety and comfort while preserving the rustic charm of the site. Key services include:

• Managed tent platforms and ground sites designed for durability and comfort.
• Access to a centrally located pavilion for group gatherings and protection from the elements.
• Professional-grade shooting ranges, including .22lr rifle and shotgun ranges under qualified supervision.
• Full-service dining facilities at the Allen Memorial Dining Hall for summer camp sessions.
• Waste management and sanitation services, including accessible restroom facilities located within walking distance of the sites.
• Ranger-led safety orientations and property maintenance to ensure a secure camping environment.
• Seasonal programming including the "Trailblazers" program for first-year campers and rank advancement.

The features and highlights of the Lenni Lenape Camp make it a standout destination in the Maryland outdoor landscape. From its Olympic-sized swimming pool to its technical high-ropes courses, the reservation offers an unparalleled variety of activities. For children and youth, the highlights are particularly engaging, fostering growth through play and challenge. Notable features include:

• Direct access to the Octoraro Creek, ideal for fishing, canoeing, and exploring riparian ecosystems.
• A dedicated on-site pavilion at the Lenni Lenape site, providing a lit space for evening troop meetings or rain-day activities.
• The Heistand Pool, a historic and massive outdoor swimming facility that has been a camp favorite since 1930.
• Extensive hiking trails that connect to the broader Mason-Dixon trail system, offering varied terrain for all skill levels.
• A "Hammock Garden" and specialized program areas for handicraft, nature study, and field sports.
• Traditional evening campfire ceremonies at the Achgeketum circle, featuring storied pageantry and awards.
• The "Ton-Ca-Coo" belt branding tradition, a unique heritage activity that many scouts cherish for years.
• Disc golf courses and gaga ball pits located centrally within the reservation for recreational downtime.

For those interested in scheduling a visit or learning more about the registration process for the 2026 season, contact information for the camp is essential. The physical address is 1286 Ridge Road, Rising Sun, MD 21911, USA. You can reach the main office via the Chester County Council at (610) 696-2900. It is important to note that cell phone reception within the wooded campsites is often poor, which the camp encourages as a way for participants to fully engage with the outdoor program. For emergencies or urgent coordination, the Morrison Health Lodge and the main Headquarters building serve as the primary hubs for communication.

What is worth choosing about Lenni Lenape is the perfect balance it strikes between historical tradition and modern adventure. It is an ideal choice for parents and leaders who want a "unplugged" environment that still offers high-quality, supervised activities. The Lenni Lenape site, specifically, is worth choosing for those who prefer the flexibility of tent camping but still want the security of a pavilion and nearby facilities. In the Maryland region, few places offer such a deep immersion into the scouting lifestyle while maintaining the accessibility and safety standards found at Horseshoe Scout Reservation.

Furthermore, the camp's commitment to being "good for kids" is reflected in every aspect of its design, from the child-friendly dining hall menus to the gradual difficulty of the trail systems. Choosing Lenni Lenape means choosing a legacy of excellence that has shaped generations of Marylanders. Whether you are aiming for a week-long summer resident camp or a quiet weekend of winter camping, the professional staff and scenic beauty of Rising Sun provide the perfect backdrop. It is a place where young people can grow to become leaders, and families can build memories that last a lifetime under the canopy of the Maryland woods.