Durland Scout Reservation Visitors Center

For many New Yorkers, escaping the hustle and bustle means seeking out serene natural spaces where outdoor adventure and tranquility coexist. Nestled in the picturesque Hudson Valley, the "Durland Scout Reservation Visitors Center" in Putnam Valley, NY, represents a prime destination for such experiences. While primarily known as a hub for Scouting activities, this vast 1,400-acre property offers an incredible array of outdoor opportunities for groups, making it a hidden gem for those looking to immerse themselves in nature, engage in physical activities, and create lasting memories right here in our home state.

Durland Scout Reservation, often referred to simply as Durland, is far more than just a campground. It's a comprehensive outdoor facility boasting diverse terrain, from dense woodlands to two expansive lakes. Its commitment to providing a well-maintained and engaging environment is evident in the positive feedback from visitors, who highlight the helpful staff and the sheer variety of activities available. Whether you're part of a Scouting unit, an organized group, or simply an individual eager to explore extensive hiking trails, Durland offers a unique and enriching outdoor experience for those residing in New York.

Durland Scout Reservation is located at C585+FW, Putnam Valley, NY 10579, USA. More specifically, it’s often associated with the address 1 Clear Lake Road, Putnam Valley, NY 10579. This location places it squarely within Putnam County, a beautiful area of the Hudson Valley known for its rolling hills, forests, and numerous lakes. Its proximity to New York City and surrounding suburban areas makes it an easily accessible escape for many New Yorkers.

The reservation's strategic position offers excellent accessibility and is bordered by Clarence Fahnestock State Park, a significant natural advantage. This means additional miles of hiking trails and more opportunities for outdoor exploration beyond Durland’s already extensive property, including a section of the Appalachian Trail.

For those traveling to Durland, major roadways provide convenient access. Directions often suggest routes from the Bronx-Whitestone Bridge, involving parkways like the Hutchinson, Cross County, Sprain Brook, and Taconic State Parkway, leading to Peekskill Hollow Road. This makes it a straightforward drive for most of the downstate New York population.

Beyond the immediate natural surroundings, Durland's location in Putnam Valley offers proximity to various local attractions and conveniences:

• Towns and Amenities: Nearby towns such as Carmel, Peekskill, and Mahopac offer access to grocery stores, restaurants, and other essential services.

• Cultural and Historical Sites: The Hudson Valley is rich in history and culture, with numerous historical sites, art galleries, and museums within a reasonable driving distance.

• Additional Outdoor Activities: Beyond Fahnestock State Park, the region offers other state parks, reservoirs for fishing and boating (where permitted), and diverse landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts.

This combination of a secluded natural setting with convenient regional access makes Durland Scout Reservation an ideal spot for an outdoor retreat within New York.

Durland Scout Reservation provides a comprehensive range of services and facilities, catering primarily to Scout units and organized groups, with a focus on outdoor education and recreation.

• Diverse Camping Options: The reservation boasts a variety of accommodation types, including:

  • Large Cabins: Accommodating up to 40 people, these cabins typically feature a refrigerator, propane cooking stove, wood stove, electricity, microwave, and year-round water access. Optional propane heat is available.

  • Smaller Cabins: Designed for up to 30 people, these offer similar amenities to the larger cabins, with refrigerator, propane cooking stove, wood stove, electricity, and year-round water.

  • Tent Sites: Numerous ground sites are available for units bringing their own tents and equipment, with water and latrines located nearby.

  • Lean-To Sites: Some sites offer lean-tos, providing a semi-sheltered camping experience.

  • Wilderness Campsites: For those seeking a more rugged experience, backpacking-accessible wilderness sites are available.

• Program Area Rentals: Specific program facilities can be reserved for group activities, including Archery and BB Gun Ranges (for Troops and District/Council events only).

• Boating Opportunities: Two lakes on the property offer opportunities for boating activities, including canoes and kayaks, which can be launched from piers.

• Fishing: Fishing is available in the lakes, providing a relaxing activity for campers.

• Hiking and Backpacking: The reservation features miles of color-coded hiking trails, with options for day hikes or multi-mile backpacking trips to remote campsites.

• Year-Round Operation (Units): Durland is open for Scout units from September through June, with summer hosting Cub Scout Day Camps. Off-season camping is also available, though it might be "self-contained" with limited utility access.

• Staff Support: A dedicated Ranger maintains the property year-round, assisted by Campmasters on weekends, ensuring support and assistance for visiting units.

• Service Projects: Units are encouraged to undertake camp improvement or conservation projects, with the possibility of earning a free future campsite weekend for pre-arranged 8-hour service projects.

Durland Scout Reservation offers a wealth of features that make it a compelling destination for outdoor enthusiasts and groups in New York:

• Vast Undeveloped Land: Spanning 1,400 acres, Durland provides an expansive natural environment, with largely undeveloped land that ensures a true wilderness feel for campers and hikers.

• Extensive Trail System: The reservation boasts 18 miles of color-coded hiking trails, catering to various skill levels and offering opportunities for day hikes or longer backpacking adventures. These trails provide access to "amazing views from one of the ridgelines."

• Two Lakes for Water Activities: The presence of two large lakes allows for a variety of water-based recreation, including boating, swimming, and fishing. Kayaks and canoes are typically available for use.

• Diverse Camping Accommodation: From spacious cabins with amenities to traditional tent sites and lean-tos, Durland offers flexible camping options to suit different group sizes and preferences.

• Educational and Recreational Programs: Beyond traditional camping, the reservation provides opportunities for activities like BB gun range, archery range, geocaching, and orienteering, enriching the outdoor experience with skill-building and fun.

• Bordering Fahnestock State Park: This adjacency is a significant highlight, as it offers direct access to even more extensive natural areas and a section of the Appalachian Trail, expanding hiking and exploration possibilities.

• Helpful and Friendly Staff: Customer reviews consistently praise the "amazing service from camp master Mike" and the helpfulness of the staff, which greatly enhances the visitor experience.

• Geocaching Activity: The availability of geocaching provides a modern twist to outdoor exploration, offering a fun and engaging treasure hunt activity for kids and adults alike.

• "Flat Camping Grounds": Reviews mention "very good flat camping grounds," which is a practical benefit for setting up tents and ensuring a comfortable night's sleep.

As Durland Scout Reservation is part of the Greater Hudson Valley Council of the Boy Scouts of America, its "promotions" often come in the form of structured pricing for Scout units and occasional incentives for service. Unlike commercial campgrounds, it doesn't typically run seasonal public discounts in the traditional sense.

• In-Council vs. Out-of-Council Rates: Durland offers different pricing tiers for units belonging to the Greater Hudson Valley Council (in-council) versus those from outside councils (out-of-council). In-council units generally receive lower rates for cabins and campsites. For example, large cabins are $400 for in-council vs. $475 out-of-council per weekend, and campsites are $50 in-council vs. $60 out-of-council per weekend.

• Service Project Incentives: Units that work on a pre-arranged 8-hour service project with the Ranger can receive a free tent site for a future weekend, encouraging community involvement and property upkeep.

• Day Visit Rates: Groups interested in day trips for hiking, fishing, or geocaching can reserve a regular campsite for a day rate of $35, offering an affordable way to access the property for a shorter visit.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees and booking requirements, including any specific program-related offers, it is essential to visit the Greater Hudson Valley Council's official website or contact their Camping Department directly. Reservations are made online and can be done several months in advance.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Durland Scout Reservation, you can reach the Greater Hudson Valley Council:

Address: 1 Clear Lake Road, Putnam Valley, NY 10579, USA (though the Visitors Center is often associated with C585+FW, Putnam Valley, NY 10579).

Main Office Phone: (845) 566-7300 (Greater Hudson Valley Council Office)

Camping Department Email: GHV.Camping@scouting.org (for questions about Durland, Camp Bullowa, and Camp Read)

Website: ghvscouting.org/durland/ or the main Greater Hudson Valley Council website for overall contact information.

Specific ranger or campmaster cell numbers might be provided upon reservation for direct support during your stay.

For New Yorkers, especially those residing in the Hudson Valley and surrounding areas, Durland Scout Reservation offers an incredibly suitable and enriching outdoor experience right in our own backyard. We often seek escapes that combine the peace of nature with opportunities for activity, and Durland delivers on all fronts, making it an ideal destination for various local groups.

The sheer expanse of 1,400 acres means there's ample space to explore, providing a genuine sense of wilderness that can be hard to find close to major metropolitan areas. The "many hiking trails" cater to all levels, from casual strolls to more challenging backpacking trips, allowing locals to consistently discover new paths and experience the changing seasons. The private lakes offer a unique chance for boating, swimming, and fishing, adding diverse recreational options to a camping trip.

The positive reviews highlight the "amazing service from camp master Mike" and the general helpfulness of the staff, which instills confidence and ensures a smooth visit – a crucial aspect for any organized group or family. The inclusion of activities like geocaching provides an engaging, modern twist to outdoor exploration that appeals to all ages. While it primarily serves Scout units, the availability of cabins and campsites, along with day visit options, means that local families or community groups can often find ways to experience this remarkable property. Being able to access such a well-maintained and program-rich facility without a long drive is a significant advantage for New Yorkers looking to maximize their outdoor time. Durland Scout Reservation truly embodies the spirit of accessible adventure and community, cementing its place as a prime choice for our state’s outdoor enthusiasts.

Durland Scout Reservation Visitors Center

C585+FW, Putnam Valley, NY 10579, USA