Schramm

Schramm is a specialized camping area located within the expansive grounds of Camp John H. Ware III, which is part of the prestigious Horseshoe Scout Reservation. Situated in the tranquil rural landscape of Peach Bottom, Pennsylvania, this campground is a cornerstone of outdoor education and leadership development for youth groups throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Named after a figure significant to the local scouting history, the Schramm site provides a traditional, immersive camping experience where the focus is on self-reliance, teamwork, and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of Lancaster County. It serves as a vital resource for Pennsylvania residents seeking a structured and safe environment for group-based outdoor activities.

Unlike commercial campgrounds that cater to heavy RV traffic and high-density tourism, Schramm maintains a focus on low-impact, traditional camping. The site is nestled among mature hardwoods, offering significant shade and a sense of privacy that allows campers to feel truly disconnected from the modern world. The reservation itself spans across the Mason-Dixon line, with Schramm being one of several strategically placed campsites that allow for large-scale gatherings while preserving the "small-unit" feel of a wilderness trek. For many Pennsylvania scouts and outdoor enthusiasts, a stay at Schramm represents a rite of passage, combining the challenges of the woods with the camaraderie of the campfire.

Location and Accessibility

Schramm is located within the Camp John H. Ware III property in Peach Bottom, PA 17563. This location in southern Lancaster County is renowned for its rolling hills, proximity to the Susquehanna River, and the meandering Octoraro Creek. For Pennsylvania locals, the campground is easily accessible via Route 222 or Route 272, making it a convenient destination for those traveling from Lancaster, York, or the Greater Philadelphia area. The specific entrance to the camp leads through scenic farm country into the heavily wooded reservation, providing an immediate sense of arrival into a protected natural sanctuary.

Accessibility at Schramm is designed to balance the ruggedness of a scout camp with the logistical needs of large groups. While the site itself is a "walk-in" style to preserve the soil and vegetation, it is supported by well-maintained service roads that allow for the efficient delivery of gear and supplies. The reservation features a main Kindness Center and administrative buildings that serve as hubs for check-in and information. For those with specific mobility needs, the camp's main infrastructure is built to support accessibility, though the individual trails leading to Schramm remain largely natural and unpaved to maintain the authentic outdoor character of the site.

Services Offered

• Designated Group Campsites: Spacious areas specifically designed for youth groups, allowing for multiple tent setups and communal meeting spaces.
• Site Preparation Assistance: Support from the on-site ranger and camp staff to ensure groups are properly oriented and have access to necessary fire rings and water.
• Outdoor Leadership Programming: Access to the broader Camp Ware facilities, including staff-led training courses in woodsman skills and environmental science.
• Safety and Security: The grounds are patrolled by certified camp rangers and staff, providing a secure environment for overnight youth stays.
• Maintenance and Sanitation: Regular upkeep of communal latrines and waste disposal areas to ensure high standards of health and safety for all residents.
• Event Coordination: Support for seasonal events such as the Retreat Ceremony, where groups gather in full uniform to honor traditions.

Features and Highlights

• Authentic Tent Sites: Schramm is primarily a tent-only camping area, featuring cleared pads and natural bedding for a true "under canvas" experience.
• Octoraro Creek Access: Proximity to the creek allows for nature study, wading, and observing the unique aquatic ecosystems of southern Pennsylvania.
• Proximity to the KINDNESS Center: A short walk from one of the camp's central gathering halls, which provides sheltered space for educational programs.
• Extensive Trail System: Access to miles of marked trails that connect Schramm with other notable sites like "Buzzard’s Rock," a historic Native American shelter site.
• Wildlife Habitat: The surrounding woods are home to diverse Pennsylvania fauna, including wild turkeys, deer, and numerous bird species, ideal for nature badges.
• Dark Sky Observation: Due to the lack of light pollution in the Peach Bottom area, Schramm offers excellent opportunities for stargazing and celestial study.
• Historical Significance: The campground is situated on land with a rich history dating back to the Susquehannock tribe and early 18th-century settlers.

Contact Information

Address: Peach Bottom, PA 17563, USA (Located within Camp John H. Ware III)

Phone: For information on site availability and reservations within the Horseshoe Scout Reservation, please contact the Chester County Council at (610) 696-2900.

What is worth choosing

Choosing Schramm at Camp Ware is an excellent decision for those who prioritize tradition and a focused outdoor curriculum. In an era where many campgrounds are becoming increasingly modernized with Wi-Fi and electrical hookups at every tree, Schramm remains a place where the simplicity of the woods is the primary attraction. For Pennsylvania youth leaders, this site is worth choosing because it forces a "back-to-basics" approach that builds character and practical skills. The isolation of the site from the main "Cub Town" areas of the camp ensures that groups can conduct their own specialized programming without the distraction of larger, louder crowds.

Furthermore, the site is worth choosing for its integration into the Horseshoe Scout Reservation's vast infrastructure. Campers at Schramm aren't just staying in a field; they are part of a 95-year-old legacy of conservation. Having access to the Olympic-size Heistand pool, the professional climbing towers, and the historic dining halls provides a "best-of-both-worlds" scenario: a rustic, private sleeping area combined with world-class recreational facilities just a short hike away. For anyone seeking a meaningful, high-impact camping experience in Lancaster County, Schramm offers the perfect setting to learn, grow, and appreciate the Pennsylvania wilderness.