Oreland Troop 1 Hawk Mountain Camp

For those in Pennsylvania seeking a true escape into nature, away from the hustle and bustle of modern life, Oreland Troop 1 Hawk Mountain Camp offers a unique and genuinely rustic camping experience. Nestled in the scenic landscape of New Ringgold, this private campground provides an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those with a passion for Scouting and a desire to connect with the natural world. It stands apart from larger, more commercialized sites, offering a back-to-basics approach that truly embraces the spirit of outdoor living.

This hidden gem, privately owned by a Scouts BSA Troop, is not to be confused with the Hawk Mountain natural area or the Hawk Mountain Scout Reservation. While those are notable destinations in their own right, Oreland Troop 1 Hawk Mountain Camp provides a distinct atmosphere, focusing on a more undeveloped and immersive wilderness experience. It's a place where the simplicity of camping is celebrated, fostering self-reliance and a deeper appreciation for the environment. Reviews from past visitors consistently highlight its "awesome" and "true rustic camping at its finest" qualities, emphasizing its untouched charm and the serenity it offers.

The camp's dedication to maintaining a traditional camping environment means visitors can expect to unplug and unwind. This approach aligns perfectly with the foundational principles of Scouting, encouraging personal growth, leadership development, and an understanding of the outdoors. Whether you're a seasoned camper looking for an authentic challenge or a family eager to introduce younger generations to the joys of unspoiled nature, this campground presents a compelling option right here in Pennsylvania.

Oreland Troop 1 Hawk Mountain Camp is conveniently located at 78 Indian Run Rd, New Ringgold, PA 17960, USA. This address places it within Schuylkill County, a region known for its picturesque mountains, valleys, and forests. The camp is situated a few miles southeast of the town of New Ringgold, making it accessible while still providing a sense of secluded tranquility. Its proximity to the Appalachian Trail and the Hawk Mountain Bird Sanctuary adds to its appeal for hikers and nature observers.

The area is generally well-served by regional roads, allowing for relatively straightforward travel by car from various parts of Pennsylvania. While the camp itself embraces a rustic character, reaching it is not an arduous journey, striking a good balance between accessibility and the feeling of getting away from it all. For those planning a visit, checking a reliable map service or GPS for the most up-to-date directions is always recommended to ensure a smooth arrival to this peaceful retreat.

• Large Dining Hall: A substantial dining hall is available, capable of seating over 100 people, providing a central gathering point for meals and activities. It features a dual fireplace, a large kitchen and prep area with a twelve-burner stove, a griddle, and three ovens, alongside two iceboxes and a wood-burning stove for comfort in cooler months.
• Multiple Camping Sites: The camp offers various sites suitable for different camping needs, including maintained grassy fields used for tenting.
• Central Latrine: A pit latrine is available, offering essential facilities for campers.
• Central Water Pump: While there is no running water, a central water pump provides access to fresh water from a 174-foot deep well.
• Event Hosting: The camp can be rented for weeks or weekends by other Scout Troops, Cub Scout Packs, and other qualified civic organizations, providing a venue for various outdoor programs and gatherings.
• Fishing Pond: An artificial fishing pond, stocked with bass and panfish, offers opportunities for anglers.
• Swimming Pond: A man-made swimming pond provides a refreshing spot for campers to cool off.
• Program Activities (for groups): For organized groups, activities can include trout fishing, shooting sports, and traditional campfire programs, depending on the specific event.
• Meals Provided (for certain events/groups): For organized group events, meals such as Friday night snack, Saturday breakfast & dinner, and Sunday breakfast may be provided, requiring campers to pack Saturday lunch.

• Rustic Environment: A core feature is its commitment to providing a true rustic camping experience with no electricity and largely undeveloped grounds, fostering self-reliance and connection with nature.
• Beautiful Open/Forest/Stream Environment: The camp boasts a stunning natural setting, encompassing broad fields, dense forests, and the Indian Run, a babbling brook that bisects the camp and is a primary natural feature.
• Indian Run: This tributary to the Little Schuylkill River flows through the camp, offering a serene backdrop and being a key reason for the camp's establishment.
• Two Ponds: The camp features an East Pond (Fishing Pond), stocked with bass and panfish, and a West Pond (Swimming Pond), offering recreational water activities.
• Adirondack Shelters (Lean-tos): Seven sturdy Adirondacks provide sleeping accommodations, with four located near the main cabin and three in individual camping areas.
• Natural Wildlife: The ponds and swampy areas host a variety of aquatic and semi-aquatic wildlife, including Green Frogs, Eastern Newt, and Northern Water Snake.
• Diverse Flora: The camp showcases a wide variety of plants, including Cardinal Flower, Red Maple, and Red-Osier Dogwood, alongside dominant trees like White Ash, Eastern White Pine, and American Sycamore, and even two state-threatened American Holly trees.
• Stone Arch Bridges: Two historic stone arch bridges span the Indian Run at either end of the camp, adding to its charm and history.
• Proximity to Appalachian Trail and Hawk Mountain Bird Sanctuary: Its location makes it an ideal base for exploring these significant natural landmarks.

As a privately owned camp primarily utilized by Oreland Troop 1 and available for rent by other qualified civic organizations and Scout groups, specific public promotions or ongoing special offers are not typically advertised in the same way a commercial campground might. However, organizations interested in utilizing the camp for their events, such as weekend camping trips or summer camps, can inquire about rental fees and availability directly. The focus of the camp is on providing a valuable, rustic outdoor experience, rather than commercial promotions. Potential users from other Scout Troops or Cub Scout Packs should contact the camp administration to discuss their specific needs and any associated costs for group rentals. The camp's mission centers around providing a foundational Scouting experience, and inquiries regarding how the camp can support such endeavors are encouraged.

For specific inquiries regarding rental of the Oreland Troop 1 Hawk Mountain Camp for other Scout Troops, Cub Scout Packs, or qualified civic organizations, interested parties should reach out directly to the individuals managing the camp's rentals. Based on available public information, inquiries for scheduling, fees, and rental instructions can typically be directed to:

• Address: 78 Indian Run Rd, New Ringgold, PA 17960, USA
• Contact Person for Rentals: Mike Weiss (as indicated in publicly available information for Hawk Mountain Camp rentals)

It is always advisable to use the provided address for any correspondence and to seek current contact details, such as a phone number or email, through the official channels of Oreland Troop 1 or related Scouting organizations, as these details can sometimes change.

For Pennsylvanians, Oreland Troop 1 Hawk Mountain Camp offers a truly unique and invaluable opportunity to experience the natural beauty of our state in its purest form. In an era increasingly dominated by digital distractions and highly developed recreational areas, this camp stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of rustic, back-to-basics camping. Its private ownership by a Scouts BSA Troop means it's managed with a deep understanding of outdoor education and personal development, making it an ideal choice for families and groups looking to instill values of self-reliance, teamwork, and an appreciation for the environment.

Locals seeking a genuine escape will find solace in the absence of electricity and running water, encouraging a deeper connection with their surroundings. The sound of the babbling Indian Run, the tranquility of the wooded areas, and the simple joys of fishing in a stocked pond or swimming in a man-made one create a profound sense of peace often missing from daily life. This is not just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an opportunity to create lasting memories around a campfire, gaze at unblemished night skies, and witness the diverse flora and fauna that call this part of Pennsylvania home.

Furthermore, its location in New Ringgold, within easy reach of many Pennsylvania communities, means that this authentic outdoor experience is not a distant dream but a tangible reality. It serves as a fantastic local resource for Scouting groups and other civic organizations, providing a ready-made, well-maintained, yet beautifully undeveloped setting for their programs. Whether it’s for a weekend retreat, a week-long summer camp, or simply a desire to rediscover the true essence of camping, Oreland Troop 1 Hawk Mountain Camp is a local treasure that embodies the spirit of Pennsylvania's outdoors and offers an unparalleled rustic adventure right in our backyard. It's a place where tradition meets nature, fostering growth and unforgettable experiences for all who visit.

Oreland Troop 1 Hawk Mountain Camp

78 Indian Run Rd, New Ringgold, PA 17960, USA