Intro to Backpacking at the Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center

Have you ever been inspired by jaw-dropping images of true nature on the Internet and dreamed about pursing backpacking and explore deeper into wilderness miles and miles away from civilization and light/noise pollution? Then, don't think twice! THIS is the weekend to learn ALL you need to tackle future backpacking adventures. At the end of the 3-day program, you will learn all the essentials to take on the short weekend backpacking adventures locally or the entire Appalachian Trail in 6+ months!

There will be free time to swim, sunbathe, paddle around the lake, or simply relax. Meals are not included. You have the option of purchasing meals in advance from the dining hall or bringing your own food to cook and eat at your campsite. We recommend bringing backpacking style meals for Saturday to get the full backpacking experience.

This event is led by the chapter's Harriman Program Committee Volunteer Leaders. Paddling and yoga equipment at the camp are provided free of charge courtesy of the NY-NoJ Chapter. The camp is accessible by public transportation.

Advance registration is mandatory, Space is limited to a total of 8 participants. In the past, this event has completely sold out. For this event, we will have a two-step registration process. Step 1 will require registering on the AMC activity website. Once a leader has confirmed your registration, you will be sent a code to register and pay for your ticket and any optional meals on Eventbrite. Your registration is not complete until full payment is received. An information sheet will be sent to all paid registered participants with your confirmation email.

• Camp: $75 Members / $115 Non-Members

• Camp: $95 Members / $135 Non-Members

Rate includes 3 Days/2 nights accommodation (Fri-Sun) and program leadership provided by volunteer leaders. Meals purchased on arrival at camp may be subject to a 20% surcharge.

Rate excludes EventBrite and credit card processing fees for Non-members.

Become an AMC Member and receive a discounted rate.

We will stay at the backcountry Boulder Canyon campsite, which is only accessible by foot. All gear including drinking water must be carried in. Each tent platform can hold 2-3 two-person backpacking style tents. Platforms will be shared so please be considerate with the size of your tent. Tents are available to borrow with advanced request from the camp office. A secure bearbox for overnight food storage is available and required. Composting toilets are available at the campsite.

Check in at the camp office when you arrive. Check-in time is Friday at 3 pm. Plan to arrive by 6 pm for optional dinner. Check-out time is Sunday at 11 am, although you are welcome to enjoy the camp until 3 pm.

The camp is easily accessible by public transportation. Take either the NJ Transit train from New York Penn Station to Tuxdeo, NY, or the Shortline bus from the 42nd Street Port Authority Bus Terminal to Tuxedo, NY. Shuttles to the camp are available with advance registration only. Email the camp office to reserve a pickup or dropoff shuttle in advance at [email protected]

The camp is about 45 minutes drive from NYC with these Driving Directions to CHOC. The gate to the camp is on Lake Welch Parkway at the intersection of Pine Meadow Road. (41.217869, -74.106021). Drive up to the camp office to check-in and unload your gear. Then park in the big field.

We encourage carpooling, but do not arrange it. Try starting a ride share at www.groupcarpool.com.

Bring sleeping bag, tent, towels, yoga/hiking/swimming/paddling gear, sunscreen, bug spray, headlamp, hat, water bottle, and personal toiletries. If camping, bring your tent, sleeping pad and sleeping pad. If you need to borrow camping gear, contact the event leader. BYO Adult Beverages and snacks to share.

Join AMC for a Member Discounts

You can join AMC for only $40! To receive the members discount on this trip and enjoy all the other AMC Membership benefits just click HERE. Your membership dues are partially tax deductible.

Reservations cancelled more than 14 days in advance receive a full refund minus a $25 processing fee. Reservations cancelled 14 days or less in advance are not refundable. If the AMC must cancel a program, registrants will be notified and all fees will be refunded. Normal weather will not cancel this event.

Read more about the Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center before you go.

Read more about this program on the AMC website.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, 200 Breakneck Road, Haverstraw, United States