Quail Hill Scout Reservation

For youth organizations and scouting groups across New Jersey and beyond, Quail Hill Scout Reservation in Manalapan Township stands as an exemplary outdoor education and camping facility. Nestled on 200 picturesque acres of fields, streams, and woodlands, this reservation offers a robust program and a meticulously maintained environment specifically designed to foster outdoor skills, leadership, and personal growth. Whether you're a Boy Scout troop, Cub Scout pack, Girl Scout troop, or another chartered youth organization, Quail Hill provides a dedicated and well-equipped setting for memorable adventures and transformative experiences.

The reputation of Quail Hill Scout Reservation is consistently reinforced by the glowing feedback from visitors. Guests frequently praise the "exceptionally well maintained Camp" and note that "cabins recently upgraded exceeding our expectations of a youth camp." This commitment to providing top-tier facilities, even for a youth camp, truly sets Quail Hill apart. The recent addition of "pavilions to most every campsite" is a testament to their dedication to enhancing the camper experience, making it "a perfect place to go regardless of the weather."

Beyond the impressive infrastructure, the core of Quail Hill's appeal lies in its immersive natural setting. Despite being conveniently located in Monmouth County, it offers a genuine "feeling you’re in the woods," providing a serene backdrop for outdoor learning and exploration. The staff, including the Ranger, are consistently described as "accommodating, friendly, and accessible," ensuring that every group feels supported and welcomed. This combination of superior facilities, a pristine natural environment, and dedicated staff makes Quail Hill Scout Reservation an invaluable resource for developing the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts and responsible citizens in New Jersey.

Quail Hill Scout Reservation is conveniently located at 56 La Valley Drive, Manalapan Township, NJ 07726, USA. This address places it squarely within Monmouth County, a desirable central New Jersey location that makes it highly accessible for scouting units and youth groups from various parts of the state and even neighboring regions.

The reservation’s location in Manalapan Township provides a strategic balance between offering a true "in the woods" feeling and maintaining excellent accessibility via major roadways. For those traveling from the New Jersey Shore area, take NJ Route 33 West from Freehold (U.S. Route 9) for approximately six miles until you reach County Route 527A (Iron Ore Road). Turn right (north) onto Iron Ore Road and proceed for about half a mile to La Valley Drive. Turn right again onto La Valley Drive and follow it for another half mile to reach the entrance gate of the reservation.

If you're approaching from the New Jersey Turnpike, take Exit 8 to connect to Route 33 East. Continue on Route 33 East for approximately six miles until you reach Route 527A. Take the jughandle for Route 527A and proceed north as described above, following the directions to La Valley Drive. This network of major routes ensures that Quail Hill Scout Reservation is within a reasonable driving distance for a significant portion of the New Jersey population, minimizing travel time for groups and allowing more time to be spent on their outdoor programs and activities.

Quail Hill Scout Reservation provides a comprehensive range of services and facilities specifically tailored to meet the needs of youth organizations, ensuring a comfortable, educational, and engaging outdoor experience. The recent upgrades highlight their commitment to excellence.

Services Offered:

• Spacious Campsites with Pavilions: Most campsites have been upgraded with new pavilions, providing sheltered spaces that are invaluable for group activities and protection from the elements, regardless of weather conditions.
• Comfortable Cabins: The reservation offers comfortable cabins suitable for large groups, with recent upgrades that have exceeded expectations for a youth camp. Cabins are noted to have ample power outlets and can accommodate both boys and girls more than adequately, indicating flexible sleeping arrangements. Some cabins may include bunk beds and wood-burning stoves.
• Excellent Bathroom Facilities: Visitors consistently praise the "excellent bathroom facilities for a Scout facility," ensuring cleanliness and comfort, a crucial aspect for youth camps.
• Hot Showers: Access to hot showers is provided, allowing campers to refresh after a day of activities.
• Trading Post: An on-site trading post (camp store) is available, likely stocked with essentials, snacks, and perhaps scouting-related merchandise.
• Loaner Equipment: In a testament to staff accommodation, the camp staff has been known to provide loaner equipment in emergencies, saving groups from unforeseen issues.
• Well-Maintained Activity Fields and Program Areas: Program areas are "impeccably maintained," providing ideal spaces for various scouting activities and educational programs.
• Accessible and Friendly Staff: The Ranger and staff on the property are described as "accommodating, friendly, and accessible," offering support and guidance to visiting groups.
• Dedicated Program Support: Quail Hill supports a variety of scouting programs, including those focused on outdoor skills, environmental conservation, field sports (shooting-related merit badges), handicraft, and technology.

Quail Hill Scout Reservation offers a multitude of features and highlights that make it a premier destination for youth outdoor education and camping in New Jersey. These attributes contribute significantly to its appeal and the memorable experiences it provides.

Features / Highlights:

• Expansive 200-Acre Grounds: The reservation spans a picturesque landscape of fields, streams, and woodlands, providing a rich natural environment for exploration and outdoor activities.
• Nature Trails: Well-maintained "nature trails" offer opportunities for hiking, nature observation, and fostering an appreciation for the local ecosystem.
• Future Home of the NJ Scouting Museum: This addition signifies Quail Hill's growing importance as a hub for scouting history and education in New Jersey.
• Upgraded Cabins: Recently enhanced cabins provide comfortable lodging for large groups, often with ample power outlets and flexible sleeping arrangements.
• Campsite Pavilions: The addition of pavilions to most campsites provides essential covered space, making camping more comfortable regardless of weather conditions.
• Shooting Ranges: Facilities for gun and archery ranges are available, offering supervised opportunities for merit badge work and skill development in shooting sports.
• Lake/Pond for Fishing: The presence of a lake or pond offers opportunities for fishing, although one review notes the lake is about a mile from the main camping area, requiring a walk.
• Large Activity Fields: Spacious open fields are available for various group games, sports, and drills, as highlighted by kids enjoying the "big field and activities."
• Impeccably Maintained Program Areas: The dedication to maintaining activity and program areas ensures a high-quality environment for all learning and recreational pursuits.
• Secluded "In the Woods" Feeling: Despite its convenient location, the reservation successfully maintains a sense of being deep in nature, providing an authentic outdoor experience.
• Accommodates Boys and Girls: The facilities, particularly the cabins and bathrooms, are designed to "accommodate both boys and girls more than adequately," ensuring comfort and privacy for all youth campers.
• Year-Round Programs: Quail Hill hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including Klondike derbies, camporees, Order of the Arrow events, unit campouts, and training courses, beyond just summer camps.

Contact Information:

Address: 56 La Valley Dr, Manalapan Township, NJ 07726, USA

Phone: (732) 446-6521

Mobile Phone: +1 732-446-6521 (This number is consistent with the primary contact for the reservation.)

For reservations, program details, or to inquire about specific facilities, contacting the reservation office directly is recommended. Additional information may also be available through the Monmouth Council, Scouting America website.

Quail Hill Scout Reservation stands as an exceptionally suitable and valuable resource for New Jersey locals, particularly for its target audience of youth groups and scouting organizations. Its combination of strategic location, top-tier facilities, and dedicated programming makes it an ideal choice for outdoor education and character development right here in the Garden State.

Firstly, its convenient location in Manalapan Township, Monmouth County, offers remarkable accessibility for a vast majority of New Jersey residents. This proximity means that scout troops and youth groups do not need to embark on lengthy journeys to access high-quality outdoor programming. The ease of travel translates into less logistical strain for group leaders and more valuable time for participants to engage in activities and connect with nature, making it a practical choice for regular campouts and special events throughout the year.

Secondly, the consistent dedication to maintaining "exceptionally well maintained Camp" grounds and facilities, including recently upgraded cabins and "excellent bathroom facilities," directly benefits local groups. Knowing that they can rely on clean, comfortable, and well-equipped amenities is a significant factor in choosing a camping destination. The addition of pavilions to most campsites further enhances the user experience, providing practical solutions for unpredictable New Jersey weather and reinforcing the commitment to guest comfort.

Furthermore, Quail Hill's focus on youth development through diverse program areas and activities is invaluable for local communities. From shooting sports and nature trails to dedicated program areas and the upcoming NJ Scouting Museum, the reservation provides a rich environment for learning practical skills, fostering teamwork, and instilling a love for the outdoors. The accommodating and friendly staff, as highlighted by a visitor from Pennsylvania who received loaner equipment in a pinch, underscores the supportive environment that makes experiences smooth and successful for visiting groups.

In conclusion, Quail Hill Scout Reservation offers an unparalleled blend of convenience, quality facilities, and enriching outdoor programs. For New Jersey's youth organizations, it is more than just a campground; it is a meticulously managed educational outdoor hub that supports their mission of building character and fostering future leaders, all within the accessible and beautiful landscape of Central New Jersey.

Quail Hill Scout Reservation

56 La Valley Dr, Manalapan Township, NJ 07726, USA