Camp Naish Climbing Tower

Hello, fellow Kansans! Are you seeking an unparalleled outdoor adventure experience, perhaps for a youth group, a family outing, or a unique event? Look no further than Camp Naish, home to the impressive Climbing Tower, nestled right here in Edwardsville, Kansas. This isn't just a typical campground; it's a vast and vibrant outdoor education and recreation facility, primarily known as the Theodore Naish Scout Reservation, a cornerstone of outdoor programming for the Heart of America Council, Boy Scouts of America.

While its primary function is supporting Scouting programs, Camp Naish offers a glimpse into a world of adventure and connection with nature that can extend to various groups and activities. Its iconic Climbing Tower, a focal point for many visitors, symbolizes the spirit of challenge and achievement that permeates the camp. We understand that as locals, you're always on the lookout for unique and enriching experiences within our state, and Camp Naish certainly delivers on that front.

This article will provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Camp Naish and its celebrated Climbing Tower. We'll delve into its vast location and how it contributes to the overall experience, touch upon the types of services and amenities generally available within such a facility, and highlight the exciting features that make it a truly special place in Kansas. Based on available public data and visitor reviews, we aim to offer you a comprehensive picture, helping you envision your next adventure at this remarkable Kansas destination.

Camp Naish, officially known as the Theodore Naish Scout Reservation, is located in Edwardsville, Kansas, with its address listed as 1100 Martinek Lane, Bonner Springs, KS 66111, USA. It's important to note that while the provided address lists Edwardsville, the general area and official Boy Scouts of America materials often reference Bonner Springs, as the camp spans a large area. This expansive property covers over 1,100 acres (approximately 850 acres owned by the Heart of America Council, Boy Scouts of America, and an additional 350 acres on long-term lease), making it one of the largest and most significant outdoor facilities in the region.

The camp is situated amidst rolling hills, some rising over 1,000 feet above sea level, making them among the highest points in Wyandotte County. These hills are predominantly covered in dense oak/hickory forests, creating a rich natural environment that feels far removed from urban areas, despite its relative proximity to Kansas City. The underlying rock structure of limestone formations is particularly common in the South Camp, adding to the unique geological features of the area.

Accessibility to Camp Naish is generally straightforward via major highways. It's located about 30 minutes west of Kansas City and is five miles from the junction of I-435 and K-32. Clear driving directions are provided on Scouting resources, guiding visitors to the main entrance. While the terrain within the camp itself is hilly and wooded, the main access points and roads are well-maintained for vehicular entry. This combination of vast natural acreage and convenient access makes Camp Naish an ideal location for immersive outdoor programs and events in Kansas.

As a premier Scout reservation, Camp Naish offers a wide array of services primarily geared towards youth development and outdoor education, but these translate into comprehensive facilities for any organized group utilizing the camp. While specific "campground" services like individual RV hookups for public use might not be its primary focus, the infrastructure supports various forms of outdoor accommodation and activity.

• Designated Camping Areas/Fields: The camp features numerous designated camping areas, including open fields suitable for large group camping, as mentioned by visitors who camped near the Climbing Tower. These areas are designed to accommodate large groups for events like camporees.
• Program Facilities: Camp Naish is equipped with extensive program facilities that support a wide range of activities. This includes ranges for BB guns and archery, a nature area, and specialized activity zones.
• Dining Hall: A large dining hall (reportedly 800-seat capacity) is available for catered meals, especially during larger camp programs, providing a central gathering and eating space.
• Pool Facility: A modern pool facility is on-site, complete with shower and restroom facilities, offering opportunities for aquatic recreation, particularly during warmer months.
• Restroom and Shower Facilities: Throughout the camp, and especially near main activity areas and designated camping zones, there are likely centralized restroom and shower facilities to support campers and participants.
• Program Leadership and Staff: As a Boy Scout camp, it provides experienced program leadership and staff to facilitate activities, ensure safety, and guide participants through various adventures.
• Trading Post/Camp Store: A trading post or camp store is typically available, offering camping supplies, snacks, souvenirs, and essential items for campers.

• The Climbing Tower: A prominent feature, the Climbing Tower provides an exciting and challenging activity for participants, offering a unique opportunity for adventure and skill development. Reviews highlight its presence as a key activity point.
• Vast Natural Environment: Spanning over 1,100 acres, the camp offers an immersive natural setting with dense oak/hickory forests, rolling hills, and limestone outcroppings. This provides ample space for hiking, exploration, and connecting with nature.
• Program Diversity: Camp Naish offers a wide array of activities beyond just climbing, including archery, BB gun ranges, a simulated mine, a pirate-themed water park (at Cub World), and a nature area. For Scouting programs, over 40 merit badges and activities are available.
• High Adventure Opportunities: Features like the Rimrock Trek, a three-day, two-night high adventure trek, appeal to those seeking more challenging wilderness experiences.
• Historical Significance: The camp has a rich history, operating as a Boy Scout summer camp since 1925, with the land's history tracing back even further to Native American visits. This adds a layer of heritage and tradition to the outdoor experience.
• "Top 10 Camp" Recognition: Camp Naish has been recognized by Scout Life Magazine as one of their "Top 10" Summer Camps, a testament to its quality and reputation in outdoor programming.
• Dedicated Facilities: Beyond individual campsites, the camp boasts dedicated buildings for administration, dining, and specialized activity areas, all designed to support large-scale outdoor programs.
• Community and Group Focus: The camp is an ideal location for large groups, district camporees, and youth organizations, fostering a sense of community and shared adventure, as evidenced by visitor reviews.

For direct inquiries regarding Camp Naish, including information about its facilities, program availability, reservations for groups, or specific details about the Climbing Tower, it is best to contact the Heart of America Council, Boy Scouts of America, which operates the Theodore Naish Scout Reservation.

Address: 1100 Martinek Lane, Bonner Springs, KS 66111 (while the provided address mentions Edwardsville, official Scouting resources list Bonner Springs for the main camp).

For direct contact, the general phone number for the Heart of America Council is typically the best starting point, or the direct camp number if available:

Heart of America Council, BSA: (816) 569-4930

Theodore Naish Scout Reservation direct line: (913) 422-1035

You can also find more specific contact information for Reservation Directors or Rangers through the Heart of America Council's official website, which is the primary source for program schedules, fees, and detailed camp information. It is always recommended to check their official website or call directly for the most current information regarding public access, group bookings, and available activities.

For Kansans, Camp Naish, with its impressive Climbing Tower and expansive wilderness, is a truly unique and valuable local resource. While primarily serving the Boy Scouts of America, its very existence and the scale of its facilities make it a beacon for outdoor adventure and skill development right here in our state. It's perfectly suited for local groups, youth organizations, and even families seeking a structured and engaging outdoor experience that goes beyond traditional camping.

The ability to engage in activities like climbing, archery, and exploring vast forested hills within such a well-maintained and program-rich environment is a significant draw. For parents in Kansas, Camp Naish represents an opportunity for their children to develop character, leadership, and outdoor skills in a safe and inspiring setting. The reviews highlight the sense of fun and community experienced during camporees, underscoring its suitability for fostering positive group dynamics and memorable shared adventures.

Furthermore, its convenient location near Kansas City makes it easily accessible for many Kansans, allowing for significant outdoor immersion without extensive travel. The dedication to maintaining over 1,100 acres of diverse natural landscape—from dense forests to limestone outcroppings—provides a genuine wilderness feel that is a true asset to our state. Camp Naish isn't just a camp; it's a legacy of outdoor education and a vibrant hub for adventure that continues to inspire and challenge locals, making it an invaluable part of Kansas's outdoor recreation landscape.

Camp Naish Climbing Tower

Edwardsville, KS 66111, USA