White Hills RC Club Field

For many of us in New York, the vast and varied landscapes offer a plethora of outdoor recreational opportunities. But for a niche and passionate community – those dedicated to the art and science of remote control (RC) aircraft – there's a particular kind of open sky that beckons. Nestled in Mahopac, at 8 New York 6N, you'll find the White Hills RC Club Field, a premier destination for RC enthusiasts and home to the renowned Westchester Radio Aero Modelers (WRAM) club. This isn't your average public park; it's a specialized facility designed specifically for the thrilling pursuit of flying model planes, helicopters, and other RC aircraft.

The White Hills RC Club Field represents decades of dedication from a passionate community. The WRAM club, established in 1956, has a rich history, built by a handful of model airplane enthusiasts who sought a dedicated space to hone their flying skills. Their hard work and commitment have made this one of the most respected and well-regarded RC clubs in the United States. For locals in New York, particularly in Westchester and Putnam counties, this field offers a unique and structured environment to enjoy a fascinating hobby that combines technical skill, precision, and the joy of flight.

Whether you're a seasoned RC pilot looking for an outstanding field to practice your aerobatics, a beginner eager to learn from experienced mentors, or simply a curious spectator, the White Hills RC Club Field provides an unparalleled experience. It's a testament to the thriving RC community in our region, offering a safe, well-maintained, and enthusiastic environment for everyone involved in this captivating hobby.

Location and Accessibility

The White Hills RC Club Field is strategically located at 8 New York 6N, Mahopac, NY 10541, USA. This address places it conveniently within Putnam County, making it easily accessible for RC enthusiasts from across New York, particularly those in Westchester, Putnam, and Dutchess counties, and even southern Connecticut.

Route 6N (New York State Route 6N) is a state highway, ensuring straightforward navigation to the field. For those traveling by car, inputting the address into a GPS will lead directly to the facility. The field is designed with accessibility for vehicles in mind, typically featuring a dedicated parking area for members and guests. As a specialized RC flying field, it's expected to have adequate space for vehicles, including those towing equipment.

While specific public transportation routes directly to the field might be limited due to its nature as a specialized recreational site, its location on a state route means it’s relatively easy to reach by personal vehicle. Mahopac itself is a well-known community, ensuring that directions to the area are generally clear.

Being a dedicated RC flying field, the surrounding area typically provides ample open airspace, essential for safe model aircraft operation. This intentional design minimizes obstacles and maximizes visibility, enhancing the overall flying experience for club members and visitors.

Services Offered

The White Hills RC Club Field, as a premier RC flying facility operated by the Westchester Radio Aero Modelers (WRAM), offers a range of specialized services tailored to the needs of remote control aircraft enthusiasts. These services go beyond what a typical public park provides, focusing on creating an optimal environment for RC flying.

• Dedicated Flying Field: The core service is providing a well-maintained and extensive flying field. This includes grass runways suitable for various types of RC aircraft, from fixed-wing planes to helicopters, catering to diverse interests within the hobby.
• Grass Pit Area: Adjacent to the runways, a grass pit area is available for pilots to set up their models, perform pre-flight checks, and make necessary adjustments. This designated space helps maintain organization and safety on the field.
• Covered Shelter: To provide comfort and protection from the elements, the field typically features a covered shelter. This is invaluable for pilots and spectators during sunny days, light rain, or when seeking shade between flights.
• Pilot Instruction Training: For newcomers to the hobby or those looking to improve their skills, pilot instruction training is often offered. This is a crucial service for safe and proficient flying, typically provided by experienced club members.
• Open Membership: The club operates with an "open membership" policy, inviting new individuals to join their ranks and become part of the RC community. This fosters growth and ensures the continuity of the club.
• Guest Pilots Welcome: While membership is encouraged, the field generally welcomes "guest pilots." This allows prospective members to experience the field, or for visiting RC enthusiasts to enjoy a day of flying under certain conditions, usually with AMA membership required.
• Spectator Area: The field provides a dedicated spectator area, indicating that the general public is welcome to watch the flying activities. This promotes the hobby and allows visitors to enjoy the impressive aerial displays in a safe environment.
• Safety Equipment: Essential safety features like fire extinguishers and first aid kits are typically on-site, demonstrating a commitment to safety protocols for all users.
• Startup Stands and Windsocks: These practical amenities facilitate safer engine starting and provide crucial wind direction and speed information, essential for RC flight.

These specialized services ensure that White Hills RC Club Field is a fully equipped and supportive environment for RC pilots of all levels.

Features / Highlights

The White Hills RC Club Field, home of the Westchester Radio Aero Modelers (WRAM), offers several distinctive features and highlights that make it a standout destination for remote control aircraft enthusiasts in New York:

• Premier RC Flying Facility: The WRAM club explicitly states that its field is "one of the premier R/C Clubs in the U.S." This speaks to the quality of the facility, the dedication of its members, and the overall flying experience it offers.
• Extensive Grass Runways: The field boasts well-maintained grass runways, providing ample space for take-offs and landings of various RC aircraft types, including fixed-wing planes and helicopters. The natural surface is ideal for safe and smooth operations.
• Diverse Aircraft Capabilities: The field permits a wide range of RC aircraft activities, including "3-D, Ducted Fan, Electric, Fixed Wing, Fuel/Gas, Helicopters, Park Flyers, Pattern, Radio Control." This versatility ensures that pilots with different interests and preferences can all enjoy the facility.
• Strong Club Community: The WRAM club has a long and storied history, dating back to 1956. This long-standing presence fosters a strong, supportive community of experienced pilots and enthusiasts. Features like "Club cookouts/picnics," "Regular Club Meetings," and "Other Planned Club Activities" highlight this vibrant social aspect.
• Commitment to Safety: The field is equipped with important safety features such as "Safety Fences, Spectator Area, Startup Stands, Windsocks, Fire Extinguisher, First Aid Kit." This commitment to safety is paramount for a hobby involving flying objects and provides peace of mind for both pilots and onlookers.
• Pilot Instruction and Mentorship: The availability of "Pilot instruction training" is a significant highlight, especially for new members or beginners. Experienced pilots can guide newcomers, ensuring they learn safe and proper flying techniques.
• Privately Owned and Maintained: The fact that the field is "Privately Owned" by the club means it's meticulously maintained to meet the specific needs of RC flying, ensuring optimal conditions for enthusiasts.
• Spectator-Friendly: With a designated "Spectator Area" and the declaration that "Spectators Welcome," the field is designed to allow the general public to safely observe the impressive RC aerial displays, making it a unique local attraction.

These features collectively underscore White Hills RC Club Field's dedication to providing a top-tier experience for the RC flying community in New York.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a specialized club and facility primarily for a hobby like remote control aircraft flying, the White Hills RC Club Field, operated by the Westchester Radio Aero Modelers (WRAM), does not offer typical commercial "promotions" or "special offers" found at retail businesses. Instead, their "offers" are structured around membership benefits, access, and community engagement. While specific deals may vary, common elements for such clubs include:

• Open Membership: The club extends an "open membership" offer, inviting new individuals to join. This is a fundamental "promotion" to grow their community and share the hobby. Membership provides full access to the field and club amenities.
• Pilot Instruction: A significant "offer" for new or aspiring pilots is the availability of "Pilot instruction training." This mentorship from experienced members provides invaluable guidance, often included with membership or at a nominal fee, making the hobby more accessible and safer for beginners.
• Guest Pilot Access: The "guest pilots welcome" policy acts as a trial "offer," allowing non-members (typically with AMA membership and a club sponsor required) to experience the field before committing to full membership. This is a great way to "try before you buy."
• Community Events: The club hosts "Club cookouts/picnics," "Informative Programs," and "Other Planned Club Activities." These social and educational events are a "promotion" of camaraderie and continuous learning within the hobby, often included as part of membership benefits.
• AMA Membership Requirement: While not a direct promotion, requiring "AMA membership" (Academy of Model Aeronautics) ensures that all pilots are covered by essential liability insurance, which is a crucial "offer" of safety and peace of mind for the individual and the club.
• Access to Premier Facilities: The sheer quality of the "outstanding field" with "Grass runways, Grass Pit Area, Covered Shelter," etc., is itself a key "offer" for RC enthusiasts seeking a top-tier flying environment.

For precise details on membership fees, instruction programs, or any special introductory benefits for new members, interested individuals should visit the official website of the Westchester Radio Aero Modelers (WRAM) or contact the club directly.

Contact Information

For those in New York interested in connecting with the White Hills RC Club Field and the Westchester Radio Aero Modelers (WRAM), here is the pertinent contact information:

• Address: 8 New York 6N, Mahopac, NY 10541, USA. (This is the physical location of the flying field.)
• Club Website: The primary and most comprehensive source of information is the official website for the Westchester Radio Aero Modelers (WRAM). Search for "WRAM.org" to find their site. The website typically provides details on membership, field rules, upcoming events, and contact forms.
• Club Contact (General): While a direct phone number for the specific field might not be publicly listed, the club's website usually provides contact information for key club officers, such as the President or Secretary. A general contact email is also common.
• Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) Listings: The White Hills Eagles RC Club Inc. (which appears to be related or another club that flies here, though WRAM is the main one associated with the given address) has a contact listed through the AMA website. For general inquiries about the White Hills Eagles RC Club, Inc., the contact might be Ron Stelmak, with a phone number (203) 895-7840 and email secretarywhercc@gmail.com. Note: Please confirm the specific club operating at 8 New York 6N with the WRAM website, as club names can sometimes be confusing or refer to different entities/locations.

It is always recommended to check the WRAM website first, as it will have the most current and accurate information for the White Hills RC Club Field.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For locals in New York, particularly those with a passion for or an interest in remote control aircraft, the White Hills RC Club Field at 8 New York 6N in Mahopac is an exceptionally suitable and highly valued destination. Its suitability stems from its specialized nature, its commitment to safety and community, and the unparalleled opportunities it offers for engaging in a unique and rewarding hobby.

Firstly, this is not just any open field; it is a meticulously designed and maintained facility specifically for RC flying. For enthusiasts, this means access to dedicated grass runways, pit areas, and essential infrastructure that ensures optimal flying conditions. This level of specialization is rare and invaluable, providing a safe and effective environment for pilots to practice their skills, test new models, and enjoy their hobby without interference.

Secondly, the field is home to the Westchester Radio Aero Modelers (WRAM) club, a long-standing and respected organization. This provides a strong sense of community and camaraderie. For newcomers to the hobby, the availability of pilot instruction and mentorship from experienced members is a significant advantage, fostering a supportive learning environment. Even for seasoned pilots, the club offers regular meetings, social events, and a network of fellow enthusiasts, enhancing the overall experience.

Furthermore, the emphasis on safety, with features like safety fences, designated spectator areas, and adherence to AMA guidelines, ensures that the hobby can be enjoyed responsibly by all. This creates a secure environment not only for pilots but also for curious visitors who wish to observe the impressive aerial maneuvers. The field also provides unique entertainment for the general public, allowing them to witness the precision and skill involved in RC flying.

In essence, the White Hills RC Club Field is a shining example of a specialized recreational amenity that perfectly caters to its niche. It provides a dedicated, safe, and community-driven space for RC pilots in New York to pursue their passion, making it an indispensable resource and a fascinating local attraction for anyone interested in the magic of flight.

White Hills RC Club Field

8 New York 6N, Mahopac, NY 10541, USA