Hoyt Scout Reservation, Scouting America

hoyt scout reservation

For Connecticut residents, particularly those involved with youth organizations or simply seeking an immersive outdoor experience, Hoyt Scout Reservation in Redding, CT, stands out as a premier destination. Operated by the Connecticut Yankee Council of Scouting America, this expansive property offers a rich environment for outdoor education, wilderness skills development, and group camping. While deeply rooted in the Scouting tradition, Hoyt Scout Reservation also extends its facilities to various non-profit and even for-profit groups, and in some cases, individual families, making its natural beauty and well-equipped sites accessible to a broader community.

With its 170 acres of pristine forest and fields, Hoyt provides a unique setting for learning and recreation. Past visitors praise it as a "Great, wilderness survival weekend camporee" where activities are "kept safe and fun." Whether it's for a "Wilderness Survival Merit Badge" or just a peaceful group retreat with "lots of space to tent out," Hoyt offers a robust and engaging outdoor experience. This article will provide a comprehensive look at Hoyt Scout Reservation, detailing its strategic location, the diverse services and features it offers, potential booking information, and why it remains a highly suitable and valuable resource for locals in Connecticut.

Hoyt Scout Reservation is situated at 1 Marchant Rd, Redding, CT 06896, USA. This address places it in the scenic and relatively rural town of Redding, nestled within Fairfield County, Connecticut. Redding is known for its rolling hills, preserved open spaces, and quiet charm, providing an ideal backdrop for outdoor activities.

For Connecticut residents, Hoyt Scout Reservation is conveniently accessible from various parts of the state. From major cities like Stamford or Norwalk in southern Fairfield County, the drive is typically less than an hour. From Hartford, the state capital, the journey is generally around an hour to an hour and a half, traversing scenic routes through central and western Connecticut. Its location allows for a comfortable day trip or a multi-day stay for most Connecticut-based groups and families. While the camp offers a feeling of being immersed in nature, it's not so remote that accessibility becomes an issue. The address on Marchant Road is easily navigable via GPS, leading directly to the reservation's entrance. This ease of access makes Hoyt an attractive option for regular use by local scouting troops and other organizations, allowing them to maximize their time enjoying the outdoors rather than on long commutes.

Hoyt Scout Reservation, managed by the Connecticut Yankee Council, Scouting America, provides a range of facilities and services designed to support diverse outdoor programs and group activities. These services cater primarily to scouting units but are often available to other non-profit and sometimes for-profit organizations, as well as scouting families.

• Tent Sites: Hoyt is primarily a tent camping facility, offering numerous well-maintained tent sites. These sites typically include access to well water, fire rings for campfires, and proximity to trails and outdoor latrines. They are suitable for large groups, with ample space for multiple tents.
• Lean-To Sites: In addition to traditional tenting, the reservation features lean-to sites, which provide a more sheltered, rustic camping experience. These usually consist of open-front shelters designed to accommodate several campers.
• Pavilions: The camp has three pavilions (including the Jackson Pavilion and Grant Pavilion), which offer covered spaces with picnic tables. These are excellent for group gatherings, outdoor meals, and programmatic activities. Some pavilions also offer electricity, well water, and are near fire rings and latrines.
• Heated Cabins: For colder weather or more comfortable indoor use, Hoyt offers heated cabins, such as the Carter Cabin and Ranger Station.
  • Carter Cabin: This facility includes a kitchen, bathrooms, and a fireplace, making it suitable for training sessions, meetings, and overnight sleeping on sleeping pads.
  • Ranger Station: Also heated, this cabin offers a training room and allows for sleeping on sleeping pads.
• Well Water: Access to well water is available at various points throughout the camp, crucial for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.
• Latrines: Outdoor latrines are conveniently located near camping areas and pavilions. For specific events or larger groups, portable toilets may need to be reserved, ordered, and paid for by the unit.
• Program Areas: Hoyt features dedicated areas for various outdoor activities, including:
  • Rifle Range: Available for day use, requiring certified staff.
  • Archery Range: Also for day use, requiring certified staff.
  • Tomahawk Yard: Available for half-day use, with equipment provided.
  • Washington Amphitheatre: An outdoor space suitable for presentations, ceremonies, and campfires.
• Trail System: An extensive network of trails, including yellow, blue, red, orange, and white trails, is maintained for hiking, exploration, and orienteering.
• Gate/Cabin Access: Combinations for unlocking gates and cabins are provided by the camp registrar prior to a stay.

It's important for groups to note that specific availability and conditions for these services vary, and reservations are essential, particularly for specialized program areas or cabins.

Hoyt Scout Reservation offers a wealth of features and highlights that make it a standout outdoor destination, particularly for youth development and group activities in Connecticut:

• Expansive and Pristine Natural Setting: Spanning 170 acres of "pristine forest and fields," Hoyt provides a true wilderness experience. This vast natural environment is ideal for immersion in nature, outdoor education, and traditional camping activities.
• Dedicated to Youth Development: As a facility of Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts of America), Hoyt is specifically designed to support the aims of scouting, fostering leadership, self-reliance, and outdoor skills in youth. This creates a safe and purpose-driven environment.
• Diverse Camping Options: Whether groups prefer rustic tenting, sheltered lean-tos, or more comfortable heated cabins, Hoyt offers flexible accommodation options to suit various needs and weather conditions, making it suitable for year-round use for some activities.
• Well-Equipped Program Areas: The presence of dedicated ranges for rifle, archery, and tomahawk throwing, along with an amphitheater, provides structured opportunities for skill development and engaging activities, often under certified supervision.
• Extensive Trail System: The well-marked network of hiking trails within the reservation allows for varied outdoor adventures, from short nature walks to longer treks for merit badge requirements or group exploration. These trails are excellent for activities like geocaching, scavenger hunts, and orienteering.
• Facilitates Wilderness Survival Skills: Reviews highlight its suitability for "wilderness survival weekend camporee" events, underscoring its natural features that support hands-on learning of essential outdoor survival techniques.
• Group-Friendly Facilities: With multiple pavilions, a heated training cabin, and ample tenting space, Hoyt is well-equipped to host large groups, offering spaces for gatherings, meals, and educational sessions.
• Year-Round Potential: While "very cold" conditions were noted in a winter camporee, the availability of heated cabins means activities can continue even in colder months, extending the usability of the reservation beyond just warm seasons.
• Historical Significance: The reservation is named in honor of John Sherman Hoyt, a dedicated Scouter and one of the original founders of the Boy Scouts of America, adding a layer of historical significance to the grounds.

Hoyt Scout Reservation, as a facility operated by the Connecticut Yankee Council, Scouting America, does not typically offer "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense. Instead, its fee structure is designed to support the operation and maintenance of the camp and its programs, with differentiated rates based on affiliation and group type. However, here's what to consider regarding pricing and potential cost-saving aspects:

• Tiered Pricing Structure: The reservation utilizes a tiered pricing system based on the type of group.
  • CYC Scouting America Units: These units (e.g., local Boy Scout troops, Cub Scout packs within the Connecticut Yankee Council) typically receive the lowest rates for tent sites, lean-to sites, pavilions, and cabin rentals. For example, tent sites might be $20.00 plus $5.00 per camper.
  • Out-of-Council Scouting America Units: Scouting units from other councils pay slightly higher rates.
  • Non-Profit Groups: Registered non-profit organizations generally have access to facilities at a rate higher than scouting units but lower than for-profit groups. For example, a tent site might be $30.00 plus $5.00 per camper.
  • For-Profit Groups: These groups incur the highest rates for facility usage.
  • CYC Scouting America Families: Individual families affiliated with the Connecticut Yankee Council may also have specific rates for certain facilities.
• Per-Camper Fees: Many fees are structured with a base site/facility fee plus an additional per-camper fee, allowing for flexibility based on group size.
• Day Use vs. Overnight Use: Rates vary for day use of facilities (like ranges or pavilions) versus overnight camping. Partial day use of cabins is also an option.
• Reservation System: Availability and reservations for most camp facilities can be checked and made online through the Connecticut Yankee Council's short-term camping reservation system. Choosing an online or offline payment option is required to save a reservation.
• Contacting Registrar for Assistance: If unable to make a reservation online, individuals can contact the Camp Registrar, Karen Caiati, at (203) 951-0234 or karen.caiati@scouting.org for assistance.
• Volunteer Opportunities: While not a direct "promotion," involvement with the Hoyt Camp Master Corps or the Hoyt Alumni Association through volunteer maintenance activities could offer a different kind of access or connection to the reservation.

Prospective users, especially non-Scouting groups or individuals, should directly consult the Connecticut Yankee Council's website or contact the camp registrar for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing and availability for their specific needs.

For inquiries regarding reservations, facility availability, specific program details, or any other questions about Hoyt Scout Reservation, you can reach out through the following contact details:

Address: 1 Marchant Rd, Redding, CT 06896, USA

Primary Phone (Connecticut Yankee Council): (203) 876-6868

Mobile Phone (Connecticut Yankee Council): +1 203-876-6868 (This is the same as the primary phone, indicating a centralized contact for the council)

Camp Registrar (for reservations and gate/cabin combinations): Karen Caiati at (203) 951-0234 or karen.caiati@scouting.org

Hoyt Scout Reservation Volunteer Ranger / Camp Master Corps Contact: Greg Zap at (203) 417-9717 or HoytScoutCamp@HotMail.com

For making reservations online, visit the Connecticut Yankee Council's short-term camping reservation portal: https://shorttermcamping.ctyankee.org/webpay/stermcamping/new

It is always recommended to contact the Camp Registrar or use the online reservation system for the most accurate and current information regarding bookings and specific requirements for your stay.

For Connecticut residents, Hoyt Scout Reservation stands as an exceptionally suitable and valuable resource for outdoor recreation, education, and group gatherings. Its primary suitability lies in its prime location in Redding, offering a substantial 170-acre natural escape that is easily accessible from many parts of the state. This means less travel time and more time spent immersed in the wilderness, whether for a quick weekend trip or an extended program.

The reservation’s core mission, deeply rooted in Scouting, ensures a well-maintained and purpose-driven environment ideal for youth development. For local Scouting units, it is an invaluable asset for earning merit badges, practicing wilderness survival skills, and fostering teamwork. However, its suitability extends beyond Scouting. The availability of diverse camping options, from primitive tent sites to comfortable heated cabins and pavilions, makes it an excellent venue for various non-profit organizations, school groups, and even families seeking a structured and safe outdoor experience for retreats, events, or simply a refreshing break from urban life.

The specialized program areas, including rifle and archery ranges, provide unique opportunities for skill-building that might not be readily available elsewhere. These, combined with the extensive hiking trails, ensure a dynamic and engaging outdoor experience for participants of all ages. While a user review mentioned it could be "very cold," the heated cabin options offer comfort, making it a viable option for year-round use for some activities. Ultimately, Hoyt Scout Reservation offers Connecticut locals a vital blend of accessibility, natural beauty, structured programming, and community-focused facilities, making it an enduring and highly recommended destination for enriching outdoor adventures.

Hoyt Scout Reservation, Scouting America

1 Marchant Rd, Redding, CT 06896, USA