Camp Olmsted (New York) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
|
|
Camp Olmsted
|
|
Front gate of camp
|
|
| Location | Cornwall-on-Hudson, NY |
|---|---|
| Nearest city | Newburgh |
| Area | 76 acres (30 ha) |
| Built | 1901 |
| MPS | Hudson Highlands MRA |
| NRHP reference No. | 82001212 |
| Added to NRHP | November 23, 1982 |
Camp Olmsted is a special place in Cornwall-on-Hudson, New York. It serves as both a fun summer camp and a peaceful retreat center. This camp is managed by the Five Points Mission, which is a Methodist organization. You can find it along Bayview Avenue, also known as NY 218, close to the beautiful Storm King Mountain.
A Place to Get Away
Camp Olmsted was started in 1901. The Five Points Mission had been helping families in a crowded part of Manhattan since 1848. Around the year 1900, they realized that children from these families needed a break. They needed a place to escape the busy city during the hot summer months.
A kind couple, Sarah and John Olmsted, donated 21 acres of land for this purpose. The camp was first known as the Olmsted Fresh Air Home. Kids would travel from the city by taking the Hudson River Day Liner boat. After arriving in Cornwall, they would then head to the camp for their summer adventure.
Growing and Helping More Kids
In 1966, the New York City Society began helping to run the camp. Three of the camp's cabins were made suitable for winter use. This change allowed the camp to stay open all year round.
Camp Olmsted was recognized for its history in 1982. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Two years later, it received special approval from the American Camp Association. This shows that the camp meets high standards for safety and quality.
In 1998, the camp grew even larger. Two nearby properties were added, bringing the total size to 76 acres. Today, Camp Olmsted continues its mission. It runs four 12-day summer sessions for city children. It also hosts religious retreats throughout the year, offering a peaceful escape for many.
