Camp Minsi Site 3 Iroquois

For those in Pennsylvania seeking an exceptional group outdoor experience, Camp Minsi Site 3 Iroquois presents a prime opportunity within the celebrated Camp Minsi Scout Reservation. Located in Coolbaugh Township, PA, this particular campsite is a well-integrated component of a sprawling 1,200-acre wilderness camp. The reservation itself lies gracefully along the pristine shores of the 314-acre Stillwater Lake, offering a picturesque backdrop for adventure and reflection. While "Site 3 Iroquois" denotes a specific, well-equipped troop campsite, it provides access to the full spectrum of amenities and programs that make Camp Minsi a premier destination.

Camp Minsi boasts a rich history spanning over a century, serving as a cornerstone for outdoor education and recreation, primarily for youth groups associated with Scouting America. Meticulously managed by the Minsi Trails Council, the camp is dedicated to providing high-quality facilities and engaging programming that fosters personal growth, leadership skills, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. For Pennsylvanians, choosing Camp Minsi means selecting a vibrant hub where the serene beauty of the Pocono Mountains converges with thrilling aquatic pursuits, challenging hikes, and invaluable learning experiences, ensuring an unforgettable and impactful outdoor adventure for any organized group.

Camp Minsi Site 3 Iroquois is situated within the expansive Camp Minsi Scout Reservation, found at 106 Camp Minsi Road, Pocono Summit, PA 18346, USA. This address strategically places the camp within Coolbaugh Township, deep in the scenic heart of Pennsylvania's renowned Pocono Mountains region. The camp's location ensures excellent accessibility for residents throughout Pennsylvania and the wider Northeast, making it a convenient and desirable destination for those looking to escape into a natural, invigorating environment.

Reaching Camp Minsi is straightforward, with clear routes from major thoroughfares. From PA Route 22, travelers can connect to Route 33 North towards Stroudsburg, then merge onto Interstate 80 West towards Hazleton, taking Exit 3 (old Exit 8) for Route 380 North. A subsequent left turn at the stoplight onto Route 940 West for approximately 1.1 miles will lead directly to the camp entrance, which is conveniently located across from the Pocono Mountain Regional Police station. Alternatively, if approaching from the PA Route 476 NE Extension (PA Turnpike), taking Exit 95 (I-80 and Route 940) and then following Route 940 East for about 20 miles will bring you to the camp entrance on your left. This well-developed road infrastructure ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey to Camp Minsi, allowing groups to quickly immerse themselves in the pristine natural surroundings of the Poconos.

• Equipped Troop Campsites: Site 3 Iroquois, like other designated troop sites at Camp Minsi, comes fully equipped with standard canvas tents set up on raised wooden platforms. Each tent is furnished with two cots, providing a sturdy, dry, and comfortable sleeping arrangement for campers.

• Private Latrine Facilities: Every campsite, including Iroquois, features a dedicated comfort station with private flush-latrine facilities and running water, ensuring convenient and hygienic sanitation within a short distance from your sleeping area.

• Communal Site Amenities: Each site is typically outfitted with a central canopy, multiple picnic tables, and a fire circle. These communal areas are perfect for group meals, conducting site-specific activities, and enjoying traditional evening campfires under the stars.

• Central Shower Houses: Camp Minsi provides access to centrally located shower houses that feature individual, private indoor shower stalls. These facilities are maintained with separate sections for different genders to ensure privacy and comfort for all campers.

• Full Dining Hall Service: A spacious and conveniently located dining hall serves three delicious and healthy meals daily. The menu often includes a fruit and yogurt bar at breakfast and fresh salad bars at both lunch and dinner, accommodating various dietary preferences.

• On-Site Trading Post: A well-stocked Trading Post (camp store) is available on-site, offering a range of essential camping supplies, snacks, beverages, Camp Minsi apparel, craft kits, merit badge pamphlets, and other necessities for a convenient stay.

• Water Access (Seasonal at Sites): While the main camp facilities generally have year-round water access, individual campsites like Iroquois may have their water turned off seasonally (typically from mid-October through mid-April) due to weather. Frost-free water spigots are available at other central locations within the camp.

• Emergency Services Proximity: The camp benefits from its close proximity to the Pocono Mountain Regional Police (just 0.1 miles away) and other local fire and EMS services, providing reassurance and prompt response in case of any emergencies.

• Leader Amenities: A dedicated Scoutmaster lounge within the administration building offers amenities such as open wireless internet access, computers for email, and outlets for recharging electronic devices, allowing adult leaders to stay connected or manage logistics as needed.

• Stillwater Lake: A defining central feature of Camp Minsi, the 314-acre Stillwater Lake is a hub for diverse aquatic activities. Campers can enjoy swimming, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, rowing, stand-up paddleboarding, and excellent fishing opportunities (including bass, pickerel, perch, catfish, sunfish, and trout in its tailwaters).

• Extensive Trail System: The 1,200-acre camp boasts over 20 miles of well-maintained hiking and orienteering trails. These trails offer superb opportunities for nature exploration, wildlife observation, and challenging land-navigation experiences, winding through varied terrains and past historical landmarks like old ice harvesting ruins.

• Diverse Program Areas: Camp Minsi is renowned for its wide array of specialized program areas, catering to a broad spectrum of interests and skill levels, especially for youth groups:

  • Aquatics: Beyond general water sports, specific programs include water trampolines, and a unique "voyageur canoe" that can accommodate large groups.

  • ScoutCraft: Focuses on fundamental outdoor skills, pioneering projects, and traditional camping techniques.

  • Handicraft: Offers creative outlets such as woodcarving, leatherwork, basketry, pottery, art, and more.

  • Ecology-Conservation (Econ): Provides immersive environmental studies, guided nature hikes, conservation projects, and astronomy programs.

  • Shooting Sports: Features well-equipped ranges for archery, rifle, and shotgun activities, with certified instructors ensuring safety and proper technique.

  • Trail to Adventure (TTA): A nationally-recognized program specifically designed for first-year campers, helping new Scouts advance through early ranks while building essential outdoor skills.

  • High Adventure Programs: For older youth and Venturers, exciting and challenging options include whitewater rafting on the Lehigh River, mountain biking the Lehigh Gorge, treetop adventures, zip-lining, and the distinctive "Muck Hike" through the camp's swamps.

• Year-Round Camping Capability: While popular in summer, Camp Minsi offers facilities and programs suitable for year-round camping, including winterized options and activities like ice fishing, ice skating, and snowshoeing when Stillwater Lake freezes.

• Award-Winning Recognition: Camp Minsi has consistently been recognized for its excellence, earning accolades such as "Best Campground," "Best Day Camp," "Best Non-Profit," "Best Fishing Trip," and "Best River Rafting / River Trip" in the Poconos by readers of the Pocono Record.

As Camp Minsi primarily serves organized groups, especially those associated with the Minsi Trails Council and Scouting America, "promotions" are typically offered as "camperships" or group incentives designed to make the outdoor experience accessible to a wider range of youth. These initiatives underscore the Council's commitment to youth development and outdoor education.

• General Trexler Campership: This significant offer is automatically applied to the first 1,000 eligible Minsi Trails Council Scouts attending Camp Minsi's summer programs (Cub Scout, Scouts BSA, or Venturing/Sea Scouting Summer Camp). For 2025, this provides a $75 reduction on the overall camp fee (e.g., bringing a full week fee down from $480 to $405). This substantial discount is funded by a portion of the proceeds from the sale of Trexler Scout Reservation, directly benefiting local Scouts.

• Minsi Trails Council Campership: Additional financial assistance is available through an application process for Minsi Trails Council Scouts attending Camp Minsi or Cub Scout Day Camp. Approximately $10,000 is typically allocated to help families with the cost of summer camp, with applications usually due by April 1st.

• Ed Hughes Foundation Camp Scholarship Fund: This fund provides over $15,000 in assistance for Scouting America registered youth residing in specific zip codes within the old Anthracite District footprint, aiming to provide financial access to camp for more youth in need.

• Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church Camp Scholarship: A dedicated scholarship fund is available for registered Scouting America youth who are members of Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church in Whitehall, PA, offering targeted financial support for their camp attendance.

• Beaver Weekend: A unique opportunity for units to earn free camping by participating in "Beaver Day" service projects. These weekends involve helping with camp maintenance and improvements, providing a cost-effective way for groups to enjoy the camp while contributing to its upkeep.

• Early Registration Benefits: While not a direct discount on site fees, booking early for summer camp sessions or weekend camping often secures preferred dates and may sometimes come with other incentives for units.

For the most accurate and current details on these opportunities and eligibility requirements, interested groups and families should always consult the official Minsi Trails Council website or contact their office directly.

For reservations, specific inquiries about Camp Minsi Site 3 Iroquois, or general questions regarding the Camp Minsi Scout Reservation and its extensive programs, please use the following contact details:

Camp Minsi Physical Address:
106 Camp Minsi Road
Pocono Summit, PA 18346, USA
(This address is primarily for direct navigation to the camp.)

Minsi Trails Council Office (for administrative inquiries, reservations, and program information):
991 Postal Road
Allentown, PA 18109

Phone Numbers:
Minsi Trails Council Professional Office: (610) 264-8551 (Operating Hours: Monday – Friday, 10 AM – 5 PM)
Camping Director (Brian Dungan): (610) 465-8557
Office Assistant (Ashley Leeper): (610) 465-8570
Camp Minsi Ranger (John Buz): (610) 465-4504 (office) or (610) 428-5841 (cell)

Email Contacts:
For general camp inquiries: campminsi@minsitrails.org
For camping director: brian.dungan@scouting.org
For dietary needs or food service: minsicampdirector@minsitrails.org

Official Website:
For comprehensive details, program schedules, and online reservation information, visit the official Minsi Trails Council website: www.minsitrails.org (Navigate to the "Camp Minsi" section for specific camp details).

For residents across Pennsylvania, Camp Minsi Site 3 Iroquois, and by extension the entire Camp Minsi Scout Reservation, stands as an exceptionally suitable and enriching destination for group outdoor experiences. Its convenient location in Coolbaugh Township, nestled within the captivating Pocono Mountains, means that this premier camping and adventure facility is easily accessible, significantly reducing travel time and allowing groups to maximize their immersive outdoor experience. This geographic advantage makes it an ideal choice for local families, youth organizations, and community groups seeking a meaningful and impactful getaway close to home.

The suitability of Camp Minsi for locals stems from its unique blend of well-maintained facilities and diverse programming. While Site 3 Iroquois offers comfortable, equipped tent sites with private latrines and communal areas, the broader camp provides access to central shower houses and a full-service dining hall, ensuring a balance of rustic charm and essential amenities. More importantly, the sheer breadth of activities available, centered around the beautiful Stillwater Lake and its extensive trail system, guarantees that every participant, regardless of age or experience level, will find something engaging. From exhilarating aquatic sports and challenging high adventure programs to skill-building in scoutcraft, handicraft, and ecology, Camp Minsi fosters learning, teamwork, and personal growth in a safe and supportive environment.

The long-standing dedication of the Minsi Trails Council to outdoor education and youth development further solidifies Camp Minsi as a trusted and valuable resource for Pennsylvanians. The various camperships and group-focused programs demonstrate a commitment to making these experiences accessible to a wide audience. For local groups, Camp Minsi is more than just a campground; it is a regional institution that offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature, engage in adventurous pursuits, and forge lasting memories and skills, all within the stunning natural backdrop of Pennsylvania’s Poconos. It truly represents an ideal choice for any Pennsylvanian group seeking an authentic, impactful, and thoroughly enjoyable outdoor adventure.

Camp Minsi Site 3 Iroquois

Coolbaugh Township, PA 18346, USA