Masonic Camp (K20)

For New Yorkers seeking a memorable and enriching outdoor experience, Masonic Camp, also known as Camp K20, in Southfields, NY, stands out as a unique and cherished destination. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's an established overnight family camp focused on providing outdoor recreation and family fun activities, creating lasting memories for generations. As one past visitor fondly recalls, "We lived at Masonic Camp every summer. I will always remember my experiences and people there! ❤" This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the warm, community-focused atmosphere that defines Masonic Camp.

Established in 1921, Masonic Camp has a rich history of fostering connections with nature and among families. Nestled within the expansive and beautiful Harriman State Park, the camp offers a refreshing escape from the urban environment, providing access to pristine natural surroundings without requiring an arduous journey. It's a place where families can reconnect, children can explore, and groups can bond over shared outdoor adventures.

The philosophy of Masonic Camp centers around creating a holistic outdoor experience. Beyond simply offering a place to stay, the camp provides a structured yet flexible environment designed to encourage participation in a wide range of activities. Whether it's enjoying the tranquility of Breakneck Pond, engaging in group sports, or simply relaxing by a campfire under the stars, there's an activity for every member of the family or group.

What sets Masonic Camp apart is its dedication to being an overnight family camp. This focus ensures that the facilities, programs, and overall atmosphere are tailored to create a comfortable and engaging environment for all ages. It’s a place where tradition meets recreation, offering a classic summer camp feel combined with the amenities needed for a comfortable stay in the wilderness.

For New York locals, Masonic Camp represents an accessible and reliable option for escaping the city and immersing themselves in the great outdoors. It provides a structured camping experience that removes some of the complexities of planning a wilderness trip, allowing families and groups to simply arrive and enjoy the ready-made adventures. The emphasis on family fun and outdoor recreation makes it an ideal choice for creating new traditions and strengthening bonds.

In summary, Masonic Camp (K20) is more than just a campground; it’s a historic and vibrant family retreat within Harriman State Park. It offers a unique blend of outdoor activities, comfortable accommodations, and a community spirit that promises unforgettable experiences for all who visit.

Location and Accessibility

Masonic Camp (K20) is ideally situated at 19-15 Masonic Camp Road, Southfields, NY 10975, USA. This location places it squarely within the scenic confines of Harriman State Park, one of New York's largest and most popular state parks. This strategic position makes it highly accessible for residents of New York City and the surrounding metropolitan area, allowing for relatively easy travel by car.

To reach Masonic Camp by car from New York City, the journey typically involves heading north on major highways such as the Palisades Interstate Parkway or the New York State Thruway (I-87), and then connecting to local routes that lead into Southfields and deeper into Harriman State Park. Masonic Camp Road branches off one of the park's main arteries, providing direct access to the camp grounds. While specific directions should always be confirmed with a GPS or detailed map, the camp's address provides a clear navigation point.

For those considering public transportation, the Metro-North Port Jervis Line offers train service to nearby stations such as Tuxedo or Sloatsburg. From these train stations, reaching Masonic Camp would require a taxi or ride-share service, as the camp is located within the park and not directly on a public transport route. However, this combination of train and local transport can make the camp accessible even for those without personal vehicles, offering a car-free option for a nature retreat.

The camp's integration within Harriman State Park means that once visitors arrive, they have immediate access to the park's extensive network of hiking trails, fishing spots, and other outdoor recreational opportunities. Its location by the 64-acre Breakneck Pond further enhances its appeal, offering waterfront activities directly on site. This blend of accessibility and immersive natural environment makes Masonic Camp a prime choice for New Yorkers seeking an outdoor getaway.

Services Offered

Masonic Camp (K20) is designed as an overnight family camp, and as such, it offers a range of services aimed at providing a comfortable and engaging experience for its visitors. Based on its stated purpose and typical camp amenities, here are the services generally available:

• Accommodations: The camp provides a variety of overnight options to suit different preferences and group sizes. These typically include group and family cabins, offering a rustic yet comfortable stay. Additionally, tent platforms and three-sided shelters (lean-tos) may be available, providing more traditional camping experiences.
• Dining Facilities: A dining hall is typically available, providing communal meal services for campers. This fosters a sense of community and ensures convenient access to meals during stays.
• Outdoor Programs and Activities: The camp focuses on outdoor recreation and family fun. While specific programs may vary seasonally, these generally include activities such as hiking, swimming, boating (with waterfront access to Breakneck Pond), and various organized games and recreational pursuits.
• Waterfront Access: Direct access to the 64-acre Breakneck Pond is a significant service, allowing for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing opportunities on-site.
• Group Meeting Space: For organized groups, the camp offers common space for outdoor programs and group meeting areas, facilitating workshops, gatherings, and communal activities.
• Reservation System: The camp is open to the public by reservation, ensuring planned access and availability for various groups, including scouting, school, faith-based, youth groups, family reunions, and corporate outings.
• Staff Support: While not explicitly detailed, overnight camps typically have staff on-site to oversee activities, ensure safety, and provide assistance to campers.

Features / Highlights

Masonic Camp (K20) boasts several distinct features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for families and groups seeking an outdoor retreat in the New York region:

• Overnight Family Camp Focus: Its primary highlight is its dedicated mission as an overnight family camp. This ensures that the facilities, activities, and overall atmosphere are curated to provide a safe, engaging, and memorable experience for all family members, from children to adults.
• Historic Establishment: Established in 1921, the camp carries a rich history and tradition. This long-standing presence in the community contributes to its established reputation and the nostalgic experiences recounted by many past visitors.
• Prime Location within Harriman State Park: Nestled within one of New York's largest state parks, the camp offers immediate access to a vast natural playground. This means campers are surrounded by beautiful forests, mountains, and trails, enhancing the outdoor experience significantly.
• Waterfront Access to Breakneck Pond: A key feature is the direct access to the 64-acre Breakneck Pond. This allows for a variety of water-based activities such as swimming, boating (kayaking, canoeing), and fishing, providing a refreshing and engaging component to the camp experience.
• Variety of Accommodations: The camp offers diverse lodging options, including comfortable group and family cabins, as well as more traditional tent platforms and three-sided shelters. This flexibility caters to different camping preferences and ensures a suitable stay for various groups.
• Emphasis on Outdoor Recreation and Family Fun: The camp's stated focus on outdoor recreation and family fun ensures a program-rich environment. While specific daily activities may vary, the core aim is to provide opportunities for active engagement with nature and foster positive group dynamics.
• Suitable for Diverse Groups: Beyond families, Masonic Camp is a popular choice for various organized groups, including scouting, school, faith-based, youth groups, family reunions, and corporate outings. This highlights its versatility and capacity to host a wide range of gatherings.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a private camp focused on providing an outdoor experience for families and groups, Masonic Camp (K20) does not typically advertise public "promotions" or "special offers" in the same way a retail business might. Its pricing and availability are generally based on a reservation system for its various accommodations and programs. However, potential opportunities for special arrangements or group rates might exist directly through inquiry or during specific booking periods. While specific discounts aren't publicly listed, common practices for similar camps might include:

• Group Rates: Significant discounts or specialized packages may be available for large group bookings, such as for scouting troops, school trips, or corporate retreats. These would typically be negotiated directly with the camp administration.
• Early Bird Booking: Some camps offer reduced rates for reservations made well in advance of the camping season. It is advisable to inquire about such possibilities during the booking process.
• Off-Peak Season Rates: If the camp operates outside of peak summer months, there might be reduced rates for stays during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall), when demand might be lower.
• Returning Camper/Family Loyalty Programs: While not explicitly stated, some established camps offer special incentives or priority booking for families or groups who return for multiple seasons.
• Affiliation Benefits: Given its "Masonic Camp" name, there might be specific benefits or priority access for individuals or groups affiliated with Masonic organizations. This would need to be confirmed directly with the camp.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on booking, rates, or any potential special offers, it is highly recommended to contact Masonic Camp (K20) directly through their official channels or reservation portal if available.

Contact Information

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Masonic Camp (K20) and its offerings, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 19-15 Masonic Camp Road, Southfields, NY 10975, USA
• Phone: While a direct general inquiry phone number for immediate public access is not readily available through general searches, the nature of a family camp suggests that contact is typically made through a reservation system or an administrative office. For Masonic Camp, communication is often managed via email. An email address for inquiries, if available publicly, might be found on an official camp website or through the organization that manages it. For instance, some camps managed by the Masonic charitable organizations or similar groups may have a central contact. For Camp K20, email inquiries might be directed to MasonicCamp@gmail.com, as seen for a "Masonic Camp Planning Committee." It's best to verify this or look for an official camp website for the most accurate contact methods.

Given the context of a camp, it is always recommended to check their official website or the website of the managing organization for the most current contact information, especially for reservations or specific program details.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

Masonic Camp (K20) stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for New York locals, offering a unique blend of accessibility, family-oriented outdoor activities, and a refreshing escape into nature. Its strategic location in Southfields, NY, directly within the expansive Harriman State Park, means that city dwellers and suburban residents alike can easily transition from urban environments to a peaceful wilderness retreat within a relatively short drive, making it perfect for weekend getaways or longer summer stays.

The camp's explicit focus as an "overnight family camp" is a significant draw for local families. This specialization ensures that the facilities, programs, and overall atmosphere are tailored to cater to all ages, providing a safe, engaging, and structured environment where children can thrive and families can reconnect. Whether it's through organized recreational activities, shared meals in the dining hall, or simply enjoying the natural surroundings, Masonic Camp fosters a sense of community and shared experience that is invaluable.

Furthermore, the variety of accommodations, from comfortable cabins to more rustic tent platforms and lean-tos, provides flexibility to suit different preferences and budgets. This ensures that a wide range of local families and groups can find an option that fits their needs, making an outdoor adventure accessible to many. The direct waterfront access to the 64-acre Breakneck Pond is another major advantage, offering swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities right on site, enhancing the recreational value of the camp.

For New Yorkers seeking a break from the fast pace of city life, Masonic Camp provides a genuine opportunity for immersion in nature. The fresh air, scenic beauty of Harriman State Park, and the chance to engage in outdoor activities create a powerful antidote to stress, promoting physical and mental well-being. It's a place where lasting memories are made, traditions are built, and the simple joys of outdoor living can be fully embraced.

In essence, Masonic Camp (K20) is a well-established, family-friendly outdoor haven perfectly suited for locals. It combines the convenience of proximity with the richness of natural resources and a dedicated focus on communal enjoyment, making it an ideal choice for creating cherished summer experiences year after year.

Masonic Camp (K20)

19-15 Masonic Camp Road, Southfields, NY 10975, USA