Navesink Campsite HMSR 2024

Navesink Campsite, located within the expansive Hawk Mountain Scout Reservation (HMSR) in Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania, serves as a cornerstone for youth development and outdoor adventure in the region. Situated on over 700 acres of pristine forest, lake, and streams, the Navesink site is a featured destination during the Scouts BSA summer camp season. This facility is specifically designed to provide a structured yet rugged environment where young scouts can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Pennsylvania wilderness while developing essential life skills, leadership, and a deep appreciation for the environment. As a key part of the Hawk Mountain Council, the campsite is a hub for tradition and character-building exercises that have shaped generations of local youth.

The Navesink Campsite is distinguished by its well-planned layout, offering a comfortable and organized home base for units participating in the high-energy summer programs of HMSR. While the site is primarily utilized by registered scouting units, it remains an integral part of the broader educational landscape of Schuylkill County. The reservation is proud to participate in the Forest Stewardship Program through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, ensuring that every camper at Navesink is surrounded by a healthy, vibrant ecosystem. For Pennsylvania families and youth leaders, this site represents a safe, professionally managed gateway to the great outdoors, emphasizing the "Leave No Trace" philosophy and the values of the Outdoor Code.

Location and accessibility are major advantages of the Navesink Campsite within the Hawk Mountain Scout Reservation. The address is conveniently located at 402 Blue Mountain Road, Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972. It is easily accessible from major regional thoroughfares; travelers from the south can take Interstate 78 to Route 183 North, while those arriving from the north via Interstate 81 can take Route 61 to Route 183 South. Once on the reservation, Navesink is strategically positioned to provide easy access to the central program areas, including the dining hall and trading post, while still maintaining a sense of secluded woodland privacy. The reservation features a Welcome Center for check-in and clearly marked service roads that allow for the efficient transport of gear to and from the campsite.

• Full-service summer camp programming including Pathfinder (first-year camper program), Aquatics, and Shooting Sports.
• Year-round weekend unit camping availability for Scouts BSA troops, Cub Scout packs, and Venture crews.
• Access to the Miller and Reary swimming pools, as well as waterfront activities at Lake Nalaheman.
• Comprehensive merit badge instruction in areas such as Bird Study, Nature, Environmental Science, and Forestry.
• Well-stocked Trading Post (Scout Shop) providing camping gear, souvenirs, and snacks during the program season.
• On-site health suite and trained medical staff available during peak summer camp weeks.
• Dining hall services offering nutritious meals prepared for large groups and specialized dietary needs.
• Administrative support for adult leader training in Cub Scouting and Scouts BSA programs.

The features and highlights of Navesink Campsite HMSR center on providing a "five-star" scouting experience. The campsite itself features sturdy platform tents and canvas cots, eliminating the need for units to transport heavy equipment while ensuring a consistent, elevated sleeping environment. The layout of Navesink is praised for its efficiency, allowing troop leaders to maintain clear visibility and supervision of their scouts. Furthermore, the site is just a short distance from the reservation's most exciting attractions, including the climbing tower and the high-ropes COPE course, which are designed to build confidence and teamwork through physical challenge.

• Platform Tents and Cots: Professional-grade canvas sleeping accommodations provided at each site.
• Lake Nalaheman: An 11-acre man-made lake used for fishing, canoeing, and rowing instruction.
• Shooting Sports Pavilion: Safe and modern ranges for .22 caliber rifle, shotgun, and archery.
• Shultz Climbing Tower: A dedicated structure for rappelling and rock-climbing skill development.
• Nature Trails and Ecology Center: Extensive trails for hiking and a dedicated center for conservation studies.
• Campfire Circles: Designated areas for evening ceremonies, storytelling, and unit bonding.
• Modern Facilities: Access to shower houses, restrooms, and a centralized dining hall.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: The reservation includes accessible parking, restrooms, and main administrative buildings.

For youth leaders and parents in Pennsylvania looking to schedule a stay or learn more about the 2024 and 2025 summer seasons, the Hawk Mountain Council provides a comprehensive support system. It is important to remember that this is a private reservation; while non-scouting groups may utilize the facilities with appropriate insurance and agreements, all visits must be coordinated through the Council Office or the online registration portal.

• Address: 402 Blue Mountain Road, Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972, USA
• Council Office Phone: (610) 926-3406
• Reservation Phone: (570) 754-7552

What is worth choosing when it comes to Navesink Campsite at HMSR? For many Pennsylvania scouting units, the site is worth choosing for its balance of convenience and tradition. The layout is particularly "good for kids," providing enough space for patrol-level activities while keeping the group cohesive. Choosing a stay during the 2024 program year allows scouts to take advantage of the updated merit badge schedules and the specialized "Pathfinder" program, which is widely considered one of the best in the Northeast for transitioning new scouts into the outdoor lifestyle. The reservation's commitment to safety, combined with the professional oversight of the Camp Ranger team, provides parents with peace of mind that their children are learning in a secure environment.

Additionally, the Navesink site is an excellent choice for units seeking a year-round experience. While summer camp is the highlight, the beauty of Schuylkill Haven in the fall and spring is unmatched. The availability of winterized lodges and the proximity of the Appalachian Trail make it a versatile home base for both primitive tent camping and more comfortable winter retreats. By choosing Navesink, you are choosing to participate in a storied legacy of Pennsylvania scouting, supported by top-tier facilities and a dedicated community of volunteers and professionals. Would you like me to look up the specific registration dates and availability for the upcoming summer camp sessions?