Oreland Troop 1 Hawk Mountain Camp

For outdoor enthusiasts in Pennsylvania who crave a truly primitive experience, Oreland Troop 1 Hawk Mountain Camp offers a rare glimpse into the "old school" style of wilderness living. Located in the picturesque Schuylkill County near the town of New Ringgold, this 18-acre property is not your typical commercial campground. It is a privately owned facility, maintained and operated by one of the oldest continuously active Boy Scout troops in the state—Oreland Troop 1. While it primarily serves as a leadership development site for Scouts, the camp is also a hidden gem that can be rented by other qualifying civic organizations and youth groups looking for an authentic, off-the-grid adventure.

The philosophy of Hawk Mountain Camp is rooted in self-reliance and environmental stewardship. Unlike modernized parks that feature paved pads and Wi-Fi, this camp remains largely undeveloped, preserving the rugged charm of the Pennsylvania woods. It is a place where the crackle of a campfire and the steady flow of the Indian Run stream replace the hum of electricity. For local residents and visitors from the Philadelphia area, a trip to this camp is a deliberate step back in time, providing a restorative environment where the focus remains squarely on nature, teamwork, and outdoor skills.

The location of Oreland Troop 1 Hawk Mountain Camp is as scenic as it is strategic. Situated at 78 Indian Run Rd, New Ringgold, PA 17960, the camp sits at the northern foot of the Blue Mountain ridge. This area is famous among local Pennsylvanians for its connection to the Appalachian Trail and the world-renowned Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. Being nestled in this specific geographic corridor means that campers are surrounded by some of the most significant natural landmarks in the eastern part of the state. The camp is bisected by the Indian Run, a beautiful tributary that adds a tranquil water element to the densely forested landscape.

Accessibility is straightforward for those coming from major Pennsylvania hubs. The camp is conveniently located for those traveling from the Lehigh Valley, Reading, or Harrisburg via Route 61 and Route 895. Despite its secluded feel, it is only a short drive from the historic borough of New Ringgold. This accessibility makes it a prime choice for weekend excursions where the goal is to reach the wilderness quickly without spending an entire day on the road. The entrance on Indian Run Road leads directly into the heart of the property, where a centralized parking area serves as the jumping-off point for the various hiking trails and campsites scattered throughout the woods.

• Primitive tent sites located in both open fields and shaded forest settings.
• Rental opportunities for Scout troops, Cub Scout packs, and other qualified civic or non-profit organizations.
• A centralized wood-burning stove and a large dining hall (Hank’s Hall) for group meals and indoor activities.
• Access to a central hand-operated water pump for potable water (available seasonally).
• Maintained latrine facilities that follow a rustic, eco-friendly design.
• Organized trail maintenance and stewardship programs to preserve the local ecosystem.
• Target range facilities (available for authorized group use with qualified instructors).

The highlights of Hawk Mountain Camp center on its unique natural features and the historical legacy of the troop that built it. Every structure on the property has been constructed or restored by generations of Scouts and volunteers, giving the site a "handmade" feel that is rarely found in modern recreational facilities. The camp is particularly noted for its biodiversity, featuring a wide variety of native Pennsylvania trees, wildflowers, and aquatic life in the on-site ponds.

• Proximity to the Appalachian Trail, allowing for challenging day-hikes or overnight backpacking loops.
• Two man-made ponds—one specifically for fishing and another deeper pond suitable for supervised swimming.
• A traditional "Adirondack" style of sleeping, with several sturdy lean-tos available for campers.
• The "Indian Run" stream, which provides a serene backdrop and opportunities for nature study.
• A large, central campfire circle designed for evening programs and traditional ceremonies.
• Gender-neutral restrooms and basic accessibility features near the main pavilion.
• A completely "unplugged" environment with no electricity, promoting a true connection with the outdoors.

To learn more about the camp, inquire about rental dates for your organization, or support the ongoing stewardship of the property, you can contact the leadership of Oreland Troop 1. As the facility is privately managed, it is essential to coordinate all visits in advance to ensure the gate is accessible and the site is prepared for your group.

Address: 78 Indian Run Rd, New Ringgold, PA 17960, USA

Website: oreland1.org/hawk-mountain-camp/

What makes Oreland Troop 1 Hawk Mountain Camp worth choosing is the opportunity to experience Pennsylvania as it was meant to be seen. In a world that is increasingly digital and connected, there is profound value in a place that enforces a "leave no trace" and "unplugged" lifestyle. It is worth choosing for the organization that wants to teach its members the value of hard work, from pumping their own water to cooking over an open flame. This camp is a living classroom where the lessons of the forest are taught through direct experience.

Furthermore, the camp is worth choosing because of the sense of community that permeates the grounds. Knowing that you are staying at a site built and maintained by volunteers for over 60 years adds a layer of respect and tradition to any camping trip. For the local Pennsylvania user, this isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's a piece of local history. Whether you are looking for a basecamp to explore the nearby hawk-watching lookouts or a quiet place to teach your group the basics of forest survival, Hawk Mountain Camp provides the perfect, rustic stage for your next outdoor chapter.

In summary, Oreland Troop 1 Hawk Mountain Camp stands as a beacon for traditional, primitive camping in Schuylkill County. Its combination of historic significance, direct access to major hiking arteries, and a commitment to rustic simplicity makes it one of the most authentic outdoor destinations in the region. For those who believe that "true" camping involves a little bit of dirt and a lot of stars, this New Ringgold sanctuary is an unsurpassed choice.