Located in between two active camps in the heart of Sussex County, lie two abandoned camps. There are the remains of a road which leads to one of the camps, and there’s evidence of recent vehicular traffic, but this camp has not seen use for at least 2-3 decades if not more. I’m still researching it’s name and history, so for now, I can only provide photographs. You can see all of them here on Flickr but below are a few teaser shots.
We hiked from the other camp (the one which doesn’t have road access, and followed a trail, but went the wrong way at the fork. Then the trail disappeared and we couldn’t find any more blazes. We knew it was at the base of a ridge so we followed the base of the ridge, mainly following deer trails. We encountered a snake, several tree frogs, but luckily no bears. We found bear scat and even owl vomit along the way before finally hitting the camp itself. At that very moment, the batteries on my camera died, and I did not have any spares as the camera gave me no warning at all. Luckily the boy scout leader who was leading the way gave me his batteries (since he didn’t have a memory card in his camera rendering it useless anyway) We had hiked (bushwhacked really) nearly 2 hours, and over the course of the day covered 7-8 miles.
Enjoy the pics…
The Lostinjersey Blog 
Posted by Michael Bender on October 4, 2023 at 6:35 PM
https://m.facebook.com/photo.php/?photo_id=7028133013883522
Hoping this map of Camp Alhtaha shows in the link above
Posted by Michael Bender on October 4, 2023 at 6:27 PM
The previous Camp Ahtala was located on the shores of Lake Hopatcong in the Northwoods section of Hopatcong Borough
Posted by John "Brad" Stiles on August 5, 2023 at 1:42 PM
Best to ALL of You who loved Camp ALHTAHA as much as I did/do! It was such a big part of Who I am. I t would be great to have a reunion there for all the “Lovers of Alhtaha”. Brad Stiles
Posted by john tranes on August 5, 2023 at 2:44 PM
I would gladly come if it could be arranged
john
Posted by Richard Steeg on August 5, 2023 at 2:47 PM
I loved this camp. I spent many summers there as a scout. One summer on staff. My Dad, brother and I would lead a crew every spring and fall to set up and take down the water system.
Posted by Robert Kral on September 17, 2023 at 9:39 PM
Your Dad and Neil Marie were my first scoutmasters in 56, your brother Charlie was my senior patrol leader. Altaha was my first summer camp and we spent many winter weekends there as well. After your Dad “retired “ my dad became scoutmaster and Al Markisz Also. All and all many fond memories.
Posted by Joel Blender on August 5, 2023 at 4:23 PM
I’d would be interested., although the camp will look nothing like it did back then I’d like to walk the grounds and reminisce .
Posted by Bob Scarito on September 20, 2023 at 1:53 PM
I remember you-I was in Professional Scouting at that time
1963-1967-was at Camp Altaha-Bob Scarito
Posted by Joe Neapolitan, Jr. on September 6, 2022 at 11:48 AM
RICHARD STEEG I bet my name sounds familiar? I am trying to find a picture of your dad pinning my Eagle on me. I was there when Altaha closed down. Hope all is well. Say hi to Charlie for me.
Posted by Larry Wall Jr. on September 3, 2022 at 1:27 PM
One of those camps was probably BSA Camp Alhtaha that was active till 1971. Our Boy Scout council had purchased a camp, 1400 acres that opened in 1972 in Cuddebackville, New York known today as Camp Turrell.
There was a store in the way to the camp called Palladini’s that we used to pick the keys up for the camp. When I was a Cub Scout our families used to camp on Labor Day weekend to set the camp and buildings up for the winter.
Prior to 1972, I spent many summers for a week earning merit badges on my way to Eagle Scout.
There was a Admin/Health Lodge, a Dining Hall, a Nature lodge where I attained my last Nature merit badge, access to the waterfront where we would stand out on the dock pointing out assorted constellations in the sky. The lake I swam to attain a 1-mile swimming badge, go out in canoes, row boats, and star/sail fish sailboats, and swimming.
Many years of fun in that camp. I think on the other side of the lake was a YMCA camp.
Best regards,
Larry Wall
Yuma, Arizona
Posted by Alan Brooks on September 3, 2022 at 2:03 PM
Just wondering which Troop you were a part of. I was with Troops 10 an 20 out of Haledon NJ and I occassionally would go with Troop 18 out of East Paterson (now Elwood Park) NJ.
Posted by a.Maiuro on April 30, 2023 at 1:14 PM
There was a Boy Scout Camp called Camp Towadena right close to Fairview Lake. I was there as a boyscout two times in the 1950’s. Troop 9 alexander Hamilton Council.
Posted by Brad Stiles on January 4, 2021 at 3:14 PM
Thank You for the memories. I attended Alhtaha in ’57 and worked on staff ’60-’65 in Campcraft and Waterfront. In ’65 I fell from the top of the flagpole and years earlier wrote the song used by another staffer to woo one of the girls who lived across the lake.
Posted by Joel Blender on January 4, 2021 at 3:38 PM
Then you were there when I attended.. lots of great memories .. one day I might just have to revisit however perhaps it’s better to just remember the camp as it was in its day!
Posted by Rick Steeg on January 4, 2021 at 4:33 PM
Brad, I was there the day you fell from the flagpole. It was very scary for all the campers present. I renember your dog just sitting on the spot you landed. I hope you and your family are well.
Posted by John Tranes on March 5, 2021 at 12:00 AM
Brad, I was a counselor 63 – 64, I remember years later I think you told me you were bit by a rattler. First year was a nature counselor, second year on the water front. I believe that other staffer was walt carroll.
Posted by Larry Wall Jr. on September 3, 2022 at 1:32 PM
I remember Shaler Ventries as the Nature Counselor when I attended
Posted by Walter Carroll on March 5, 2021 at 5:47 PM
Hi Dr. Brad, It was 64, when you wrote the song “My Bonnie lies over Lake Fairview”.
A few of the several waterfront staff between 61 & 64 were Mr. Walter Wash (61&62), Dan Gastiger (62), Steve Bircher (64), John Tranes (64), and (I believe) Charlie Griffith (62?) and Bob Caukin (phonetic spelling)(63?-64?)
Posted by Jim Boland on August 30, 2021 at 6:03 PM
I remember Camp Altaha well. Many good times as both a camper and counselor. Only camp I know that had the big swing trapeze at the waterfront. Did the mile swim in Fairview lake several times. If I remember correctly, Brad and I were tentmates one year.
Posted by Joel Blender on August 30, 2021 at 8:44 PM
I also remember a large wooden board right in front of the dock where our swim badges were hung. I can still picture exactly how it looked!
Posted by Dan Brantner. Troop 56 East Paterson NJ. Later changed to Elmwood Park on October 28, 2021 at 4:34 PM
Wow, what memories. I attended Camp Alhtaha from 64-69. Fond memories of beautiful Fairview lake, the buddy board, and being dared to make the “mile swim” One of the proudest moments of my young life was having my buddy tag being colored in to signify success.
Posted by Joel Blender on October 28, 2021 at 7:07 PM
Hi Dan,
I hadn’t remember shirt the mile swim until u mentioned it., I made the swim and can still picture the buddy badge colored in.. I believe the badges were made if wood! Great memories about a special time during our childhood..
Posted by Larry Wall Jr. on September 3, 2022 at 1:39 PM
I attended there with Troop 71 from North Haledon, NJ.
So much fun at camp Alhtaha! I was on 1st year camp staff at the new Camp Turrell in 1972.
Posted by Robert Diffin on September 3, 2022 at 1:45 PM
I loved that place. Every morning mess hall…Good morning Uncle Bill! I was troop 18 from East Paterson
Posted by Paul Bonsignore on February 22, 2022 at 11:35 AM
Went to Camp Altaha in 1958 with Troop 71 of North Haledon. Years earlier my father went to the adjacent Camp Towadena as a boy scout.
🎩
Posted by Larry Wall Jr. on September 3, 2022 at 1:41 PM
I was in Troop 71 from 67-73. I attained Eagle Scout in 1972.
Posted by Terry Spisak on June 22, 2022 at 1:51 PM
I have to echo the thank you for the memories sentiment. I experienced scouting with Troop 107 Pines Lake, Wayne, NJ. Mr. Roy Bardowell and Mr. Kulik were our scoutmasters. I attended Camp Altaha from 1966-1972–actually a councilor on the water front my last year. All I remember of the camp leadership was a gentleman by going by the name of “Uncle Bill”? Great memories—-nice camp- loved to sail the lake after dinner when I was working on the waterfront as a swimming and life saving instructor for those merit badges.
Posted by Larry Wall Jr. on September 3, 2022 at 2:05 PM
I remember Roy Bardowell. My dad Larry Wall Sr. And him were commissioners together.
Good old Uncle Bill Liddie, activities director at camp standing on The podium in front of everyone prior to eating or after eating singing the “One Finger, One Thumb” by the wiggles.
The poor guy fell off the podium and fortunately I don’t recall if he got hurt or not.
Posted by Nick Rando on August 24, 2023 at 7:08 PM
Terry—I was a 12 year old 1st class scout with Troop 211 in Totowa in 1972 & was probably one of the kids you yelled at in the lake! 😂
(As a pretty good swimmer I got my ”Swimmer” certification badge my first day.) I do remember a gentleman called Uncle Bill, and Smiley, who was the Mess Hall manager. (All scouts each had to be waiters and serve dinner one evening). I remember good times swimming, sailing, hiking, the Trading Post, the pavilions, singing songs like “Sippin’ Cider Through a Straw” and even of course the “beautiful” latrines!
Posted by Drew Andry on July 28, 2022 at 8:44 PM
I went to Boy Scout camp at Camp Althaha several times from 1955 to 1957. Loved hiking the Appalachian trail. Went on a winter camping trip in 1958 with my Boy Scout troop # 11, from Little Falls,NJ. If my mind serves me right there were 10 or 12 Boy Scouts & 2 leaders for what was supposed to be a 3 day camp out. It snowed the 1st night. We were having a ball. The 2 night we got about 2 more feet of snow. We were stranded but as teenagers still having a ball. We finally got into the mess hall . We were able to fine extra food in the food storage locker & had a nice fire going in the big fire place.. Two days later we were rescued. Our parents were worried sick, but we had a ball. Now I worry about my 13 grandkids.
Posted by Toby Levy on January 12, 2023 at 11:22 AM
I remember you at Camp Althaha.
Posted by Bob Scarito on January 20, 2023 at 1:49 PM
I remember you-Brad-I was professional Scouter.
Left Jersey to work for Scouts on Long Island NY
With growing family could not survive financially.
Got into be Real Estate-Still doing it-Family
business now-Bob Scarito
Posted by Hal Stimson on March 5, 2023 at 11:47 AM
Hey Brad, we worked together at Camp Altaha in the old days. I have fond memories of our summers there. Hal Stimson
Posted by John "Brad" Stiles on August 14, 2023 at 9:42 PM
Hi Bob, Great to hear Your name! I remember Your energy as a Distrist Executive assigned to help run the camp. Seeing You made me want to be a professional Scouter. My brother Rich told me You had written on this blog and wanted me to say Hi from both He and I. Best to You!!
Posted by John "Brad" Stiles on August 14, 2023 at 9:48 PM
Hi Hal, Yes we did work together and I share those fond memories. I can think of no better way to spend a summer! Brad
Posted by Rick Steeg on October 12, 2020 at 6:54 PM
The log cabin was called the Fox Hole. The gentleman who taught nature was Shailer Ventres.
Posted by Joel Blender on October 12, 2020 at 10:14 PM
I remember that the Fox Hole had a wood burning stove in it! We went there to warm during a winter weekend and I left my gloves on the stove and the felt lining on the palm burnt
Posted by Alan Brooks on October 13, 2020 at 7:06 AM
We did a weekend winter camp and used the cabin. We loaded up the stove and the place became very warm. I took a top bunk even though it made the Devil sweat but about 2 AM the fire went out and the temp dropped but the warmest place was up high. While we were hiking out I had forgotten my gloves and suffered mild frostbite on my fingers. I have never had warm hands since.
Posted by jim hanzakos on July 23, 2019 at 10:51 AM
I was there from Hawthorne in the fifties. We sang: give me rival dogfood arff arff artt artt, at lunch time. I remember one boy stepped on a copperhead coming back from a nightly campfire but he was not bitten. They had several copperheads in aquariums in captivity that we looked at too. We swam in the lake and some caught pets like spotted salamanders and in one case, flying squirrels. We had one boy who needed an ass whoopin, he dumped over the aquarium of salamanders and they all died. And he did a few other things like that. I remember his name but wont mention it, but he had white hair! It was a good experience and first time away from home for me. Got me ready for six years later when I left home for the Navy. I still have the Ahltahha patch and my BS hat. I misplaced my scout handbook but over the years I used it for research. Lot of good info in there about, knots, animal tracks, etc. Listed as Newton, NJ but I thought I remembered Stillwater as where it was located. Is that close by or is my memory just off.
Posted by Alan Brooks on July 23, 2019 at 1:12 PM
In case anyone is interested, I recently sold some Alhtaha items to https://www.tradingeagles.com/ He has a lot of other scout items as well. Mention my name and you will not get any special treatment. 🙂
Posted by Robert Speiser on October 19, 2020 at 3:39 PM
A couple years ago I got one of the newer Boy Scout Handbooks at a yard sale..more than just nostalgia, it is handy outdoor guidebook for knots, measuring heights of trees, fire making skills, camping, etc. I never was able to make a fire by bow & spindle method even with my Dad in our backyard!
Posted by Alan Brooks on October 19, 2020 at 7:07 PM
Note one of my earlier posts. I did a “Jamboree” with Troop 18. There was a fire starting competition. I had never used flint and steel to make a fire. I set up the fire with the other scouts and two strikes later the tinder was lit. We won that competition by more than ten minutes. Never touched the flint and steel again. Hey, quit while you are ahead, right? 🙂
Posted by Robert Diffin on March 5, 2021 at 3:07 PM
Alan, I was with troop 18 when we went to Morane State park jamboree in 1973. Good time. I loved Altaha in the early seventies.
Posted by RICHARD STEEG on March 11, 2019 at 11:24 PM
I have many memories of Camp Altaha. I started my involvement when I was very young. We would go there with my Dad and George Chavanne to set up and take down the water system in the camp. We continued doing this until the camp was sold in davor of Camp Turrel. I went to summer camp from 1962 through 1968 and served on the staff in 1969. I could still draw a detailed map of the camp from memory. I truly loved that place.
Posted by Joel blender on March 12, 2019 at 7:25 AM
Hi Rich… We were actually there at the same time. I believe we were both in Troop 56 at Gilbert. I’d love to go back and see the old camp at leas pt what is left of it.. have you though about doing that.
Posted by RICHARD STEEG on March 12, 2019 at 8:03 AM
I actually drove up there a few years ago. I couldn’t get ito the camp as the camp road was not passable. I got involved with Scouting again with my son. Whike at a council leaders meeting, I ran into Walt Carroll who was the waterfront director when we were at Altaha. He said that he had hiked into the camp and most f the buildings were gone.
Posted by Alan Brooks on March 12, 2019 at 7:30 AM
I attended the camp around the same time. My uncle was an Assistant Scoutmaster with Troop 18 of East Paterson (I can’t bring myself to call it Elmwood Park) so I had the opportunity to attend with them and with my own Troops 10 and 20 of Haledon.
Posted by RICHARD STEEG on March 12, 2019 at 8:05 AM
I was with troop 56 in EP. My Dad was the Scoutmaster and later became a council commissioner.
Posted by Robert Diffin on March 12, 2019 at 8:55 AM
I remember Steeg working in the barn to give us hay for our stuffed mattresses. I was in troop 18 also. My dad become the scoutmaster.
Posted by Alan Brooks on March 12, 2019 at 9:19 AM
My uncle was Charles Barnes. I remember him making his full headdress for Order of the Arrow and extensive patch and neckerchief collection but unfortunately, when he passed, his wife disposed of his entire collection.
Posted by RICHARD STEEG on March 12, 2019 at 9:23 AM
Your uncle and my Dad were very good friends
Posted by Robert Diffin on March 12, 2019 at 9:26 AM
I remember my dad mentioning a Dick Steeg. When we were growing up everybody was Mr. or Mrs.. We never new the first names.
Posted by RICHARD STEEG on March 12, 2019 at 9:30 AM
That is my dad. Too bad all your uncles stuff was lost. I was able to keep much if dad’s scouting stuff.
Posted by Robert Diffin on March 12, 2019 at 10:32 AM
Rich, that was Barnes uncle. Im Bob Diffin. I think Sam Langer or Mr. Pechanic was our scoutmaster our first years there.
Posted by Alan Brooks on March 12, 2019 at 8:03 PM
That’s great to hear. Thanks for the reply. Sadly, I don’t have any photos from back then or any pix of him.
Posted by Robert Speiser on October 5, 2020 at 5:59 PM
yes I was there in 60’s Troop 20 Haledon, NJ
Posted by Alan on October 5, 2020 at 9:29 PM
Bob Speiser, Manchester Regional Class 1970?
Posted by robert speiser on October 7, 2020 at 5:47 PM
scout master was Fred? Windiler something like that. Yes, Class of 1969. I put my foot through window at h.s. in ’67…still hobble a bit. I live in VT now after many years in Pacific NW. Does anyone know the name of the LAKE camp was at? trying to find on google map.
Posted by Tom Swartz on October 7, 2020 at 5:50 PM
Fairview Lake?
Posted by Joel Blender on October 7, 2020 at 5:52 PM
Yes Fairview
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Posted by Alan Brooks on October 7, 2020 at 7:32 PM
Bob, You HAVE to remember “NA” from the scout manual. I agree it was Fred Windler, he was HUGE and his brother was even bigger. We hung during scouts but never outside. I left 20 to join 10 because I became an acolyte at that church. Earned Eagle in 69. Married 48 years today. Good to hear from you. Stay healthy.
Posted by Robert Speiser on October 14, 2020 at 4:20 PM
Congrats to Al the Al! married high school sweetheart???
Posted by Alan Brooks on October 14, 2020 at 7:25 PM
Nope, robbed the cradle of a family that lived across the street from a good friend of mine who lived just on the edge of Haledon and Totowa.
Posted by robert speiser on November 2, 2020 at 4:04 PM
does anyone know what “ALTAHA” means? is it native American (lenni Lenape word?) or just made up or acronym?
Posted by Tom Swartz on November 2, 2020 at 6:26 PM
A google search indicates that alhtaha is the Indian word for “be prepared”. My dad used to say that Alhtaha was the camp with the last laugh.
Posted by Richard Steeg on November 2, 2020 at 7:34 PM
I knew your Dad very well. He always had a clever quip.
Posted by Alan C Brooks on November 2, 2020 at 8:34 PM
It is an American Indian word for “Be Prepared”. The following is a great reference about NJ scouting
Click to access 1960-vol-5-no-3-feb.pdf
Posted by robert speiser on November 4, 2020 at 4:07 PM
mucho gracias ! it has been a very long time. must have forgot meaning.
Posted by Alan Brooks on October 6, 2020 at 4:12 AM
Bob, If it is you, you have to remember “N A” from the Boy Scout manual.
Posted by robert speiser on October 7, 2020 at 5:49 PM
Yes…nude ass… big smile
Posted by Alan Brooks on October 7, 2020 at 7:33 PM
BINGO!
Posted by Robert Speiser on October 12, 2020 at 3:55 PM
ol’ Alan, always the kidder, you haven’t changed much. do you have a Facebook page. I do, send “friend” request if want. Mr. Windler had a size 16 foot! we used to kid that if we acted up we’d get a Size 16!
Posted by Alan Brooks on October 12, 2020 at 8:26 PM
I believe his brother’s shoe size was 17 and he stood about a head taller as well. Good to hear from you. Sorry, no FB account.
Posted by Robert Speiser on October 14, 2020 at 4:26 PM
Scoutmaster took us on a hike one afternoon, after lunch, at Altaha..west of lake. trail rocky incline.it was really hot/sunny/humid. Mr. Windler had us turn back after couple hrs, declaring we were complaining too much. I bet HE was the one suffering the most and wanted out!..come to think about it now. that is a stupid time to go hiking in mid-summer.
Posted by Robert Speiser on October 19, 2020 at 3:44 PM
Al- that is coming back to me a bit, ScoutMaster’s brother..he sure was a big dude.
Posted by Alan C Brooks on October 19, 2020 at 7:30 PM
About a head taller than his brother.
Posted by Thomas H Baker on March 18, 2019 at 11:51 AM
Hi Rich, Did you have a brother Charlie? I worked in the Kitchen in 1969-70 and Nature with Shailor Ventres in 1971. As I recall, Charlie worked in the kitchen. I was from Troop 44 in West Milford.
Posted by Ed Modzel on August 29, 2020 at 9:38 PM
Hey Tom, how are ya? Just tracking down some memories of Camp Altaha. I went there 2 years in 66 & 67 I believe. Also went there for a weekend in the winter.
Posted by RICHARD STEEG on August 30, 2020 at 9:36 AM
Ed,yes Charlie is my brother. I believe the year he was on staff, he worked as the camp maintenance man. I was also on staff as the manager of the Trading Post.
My Dad, Chalie and me along with a small group of friends would go to the camp every spring to set up the water system and then take it down again in the fall. I had many good times in that camp
Posted by Alan Brooks on June 22, 2022 at 2:11 PM
For anyone interested, here is a site that has some great collectables, even from Altaha, NoBeBosCo, etc.
https://www.tradingeagles.com/ Please spred this around, Thanks
Posted by Dan Brantner on October 28, 2021 at 4:40 PM
Rick Steeg from Miller Ave in East Paterson? Dan Brantner from 108 Miller Ave. If you read this, just know how much I learned from your father and how many great memories I have from those days. Remember hiking on the Cable Trail and getting lost?
Posted by Joel Blender on June 29, 2018 at 10:17 AM
I was also from East Patterson Troop 56 out of Gilbert Avenue school I was there probably two years before you and I thought about going back to visit the site perhaps I might find someone else interested in doing it with me it’s great to reminisce about the special times spent there
Posted by Bob Kirchmer on November 18, 2018 at 9:09 PM
Any scout or staff member of the old Camp Towadena that would like to get together for a “good ole days” get together post your name here and let’s try to set something up. I was a scout and staff member for 14 years. I posted a memory of Towadena further down on this site . Read it if you are interested. I would like to connect with some old friends and scouts and staff who were at Towadena.
Posted by Joel Blender on May 10, 2018 at 10:45 PM
I also attended in those years .. From EP as well 2weeks . We used Gilbert Ave for our troop meetings
I still remember in detail how the camp laid out.
The cable trail was a highlight . Winter weekends and Order of the Arrow!
I would like to go back and walk through it done day
Posted by Michael Bender on November 25, 2018 at 9:48 PM
Can you draw a map? My late father lived across the cove. He was only 5 in 1930 and used to row over to the camp kitchen for breakfast.
Posted by Sergio F. on May 10, 2018 at 2:41 PM
I attended Camp Altaha in 1968 and then again in July of 1969 with Troop 18 from East Paterson, now Elmwood Park. In 1969 I remember watching Apollo 11 land on the moon on a 12″ B&W TV in the middle of the night in the dinning hall. The Camp Director was called Uncle Bill who sung a song he made up called Sweet Ivory Soap. Great memories. Now I’m a Scoutmaster for T440 in Houston Tx. and I sing Sweet Ivory Soap to my Scouts.
Posted by Alan Brooks on May 10, 2018 at 8:58 PM
I can’t remember the exact year, about ’62-’64, I helped out Troop 18 at an event in East Paterson. (I was never comfortable with the name change either). My uncle, Charles Barnes, was an assistant scoutmaster at the time. I also attended Camp Alhtaha with Troop 18 as well as my home Troop 10.
Posted by Robert diffin on June 29, 2018 at 10:05 AM
I too was there with troop 18. Is this Claudes little brother?
Posted by Alan on June 29, 2018 at 12:02 PM
Sorry, no I’m not.
Posted by Robert diffin on June 29, 2018 at 12:33 PM
Thanks. Do you remember the leaders of troop 18. I was there till 1974 or 1975. Made Eagle. Your name?
Posted by Alan on June 29, 2018 at 6:38 PM
I was sort of a “drop in” at one or two of the local “jamborees” and events with Troop 18 back in ’65-’66. My uncle, Charles Barnes was an assistant scout master at the time. I also attended two weeks of summer camp at Alhtaha with Troop 18 around the same year. My regular troop was originally Troop 20 and then Troop 10 both in Haledon NJ
Posted by Robert Speiser on October 12, 2020 at 4:04 PM
My best guess is I attended summer of 1965 before start h.s., but might be ’64. We listened to Beatles songs playing on radio on way home from Camp. My tent-mate was black kid from Paterson, cool guy..he put his feet in chilly lake water in morning and declared “Goodnight in the Morning!”..I never forgot that.
Posted by Jerry Levy on August 3, 2017 at 11:43 AM
In 1955 I was 17 and on the staff of Altaha. As camp was getting ready to close,about August 17 we were warned that Hurricane Diane was likely to hit the camp area. We had the campers move their double decker bunks into the mess hall and use the truck to move what ever we could. We all hunkered down in the mess hall. After it passed we found tent in trees and trees on tents but luckily no one was hurt. The campers left the day after the storm but the staff spent several days closing up in what felt like being never endingly soaked. At least it was warm.
Posted by Robert Jones on October 2, 2017 at 2:39 PM
I was there as waterfront director. It was I who directed all the campers to the mess hall, and I drove bessy the brockway ( camp truck ). I remember Camp Altaha very well.
Posted by Gerald Levy on October 3, 2017 at 1:53 PM
I don’t remember you but its been sometime and a lot has happened since then. I was the hike director and remember working on a deck that led to the lake. After the storm my folks came with some dry uniforms and took me to Schiff Scout reservation for a training course.
Posted by Rick P on January 22, 2018 at 11:15 PM
Hello. I was a scout from troop 3 in Paterson and spent summers at Alhtaha as a camper in ‘58-‘59 then kitchen staff ‘61-‘62. Gerry Levy sounds familiar. My dad was on Alhtaha counsel. Guy Portman. A polish fellow “Kawalski” I think was the swim director. Many good memories at that camp. We were all sweet on a girl “Dawn” who lived across the lake. The camp doc’s signature remedy was always “tea, toast, no swim”. I thought it closed because of a dam project was scheduled. I remember the green p/u truck. Taught myself to drive in that thing. Thanks for the reminiscing.
Posted by Gerald Levy on January 25, 2018 at 1:08 PM
I was always Jerry Levy with a J. My last year at Altaha was 1955. In 1956 I worked at the Ford Plant in Mahwah, N.J. In the fall of 1956 I started College at BGSU in Ohio. I was never back to Altaha.
Posted by rick on February 3, 2018 at 9:31 AM
My mistake Jerry. Anyway, you were there a while before I was. I do remember a hike to Camp Nobebosco, which I think was up near the Appalachian Trail. The waterfront director’s name was Wasakawski, not Kawalski. I remember the deck to the lake as well.
Posted by Alan on January 19, 2020 at 8:24 AM
We used to do a hike from Camp Alhtaha to I believe NoBeBosCo that use to come down a mountain side where there was a large “cable” that you held to assist with the climb. We called it the “cable trail”.
Posted by Joel on January 19, 2020 at 11:46 AM
I remember all those details ! your memory serves u well! I often think of that cable trail hike! I have thought about taking a ride up there Just to see the old camp or whatever remains.
Posted by Robert Diffin on January 20, 2020 at 9:37 AM
I still remember that cable with trees growing around. It wasnt bolted in, it was growing in. Was the general store where we bought an “across the board”?
Posted by Tom Swartz on November 12, 2018 at 10:39 AM
I have fond memories of Camp Alhtaha in the 1960s. My dad was Doc Swartz, a leader of Troop 71 in North Haledon. Spent a lot of time at the waterfront on Fairview Lake (where I did 4 laps across for my mile swim) and the dining hall (can still recall the “grace” placards on the wall and their words). Dr. Herschel prescribed brown soap for any malady (as legend had it), though it wouldn’t have helped the ax blade cut I endured on my hand. When we broke camp, there were more than a few snakes under the tent platforms. Our family and friends would go there on Labor Day weekends and take residence in the series of 4-5 cabins facing the waterfront. And that popular general store on Fairview Lake Road had pinball machines, hot meals, and fishing supplies including live bait.
Posted by Thomas H Baker on November 13, 2018 at 2:25 AM
Brown Zoap, No Svim. I remember the Doc well.
Posted by Paul Misko on December 28, 2017 at 3:25 PM
Hi, I just found a camp alhtaha mug, and a neckerchief. anyone interested? I had gone to camp Aheka as kid.
Paul M.
Posted by Robert Speiser on October 12, 2020 at 4:07 PM
I’m wondering was there a girl’s camp at south end of the lake (at same time) or is that just my imagination….?
Posted by Alan Brooks on October 12, 2020 at 8:30 PM
I know there was some type of camp across the lake. I saw it when I was rowing for a kid trying for the “mile swim”.
Posted by Joel Blender on October 12, 2020 at 9:39 PM
I do remember the mile swim. Think I needed to do it for swimming merit badge.,
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Posted by Alan Brooks on October 13, 2020 at 7:26 AM
It was one of those things I always wanted to do but never did. Regrets, I’ve had a few…sorry, flashback song. 🙂
Posted by Rick Steeg on October 13, 2020 at 10:01 AM
The Mile Swim. In one of my last years at camp, I had my Eagle and a Palm so I wasn’t taking any Merit Badge courses. I decided to do the Mile Swim, and did it 5 times that week!
Posted by Alan Brooks on October 13, 2020 at 1:50 PM
Show off 🙂
Posted by Rick Steeg on October 13, 2020 at 2:17 PM
Not showing off, I was just bored!
Posted by George Gikas on November 12, 2016 at 10:41 PM
Great memories for me at Camp Towadena in the late 50s for couple summers..
In the evening at revelry when activities were closing for the day each Camp on Fairview Lake would play their signature trumpet tune that soundelike a phonetic sound of the name of the camp,
Posted by Paul Merolla on January 14, 2018 at 10:52 PM
I too had a chance to stay at Camp Towadena in the 50’s. Mr. King was the swimming, boating and canoe instructor. He lived in a house down by the lake. I also was taken in the Order of the Arrow at this camp. Used to be well organized.
Posted by Jim on June 16, 2016 at 4:33 AM
I went to Camp Alhtaha in 1969 & 70 with Troop 15 Paterson. The rumor was it was sold to a country club. Camp Terrill was opened in 1971 to replace it. My scoutmaster was so upset with Camp Terrill that we went on a bus trip to Washington in 71 with the camp money raised. I remember the first building you saw when entering Alhtaha was the ranger building, with the only pay phone. As you went down the road there was a mess hall on the right and trading post on the left. Both summers the troop got food poisoning. My Order of the Arrow was 24 hours of silence while giving free labor to set up camp. The Council had enough money to keep that camp open. Never should have closed it.
Posted by jim on June 16, 2016 at 4:55 AM
I would have sworn Alhtaha was on Rt 517. One day our troop hiked to a neighboring camp. We made a left at the main road, hiked a short distance at which point the road made a 270 degree hairpin turn and crossed over itself. The other camp was a short distance fom the hairpin. I was driving rt 517 two years ago and hit that strech of road and the memories came flooding back.
Posted by Alan Brooks on June 16, 2016 at 6:06 AM
Not sure of the route but I do remember there was a small general store on the right a mile or so before the dirt road entrance to the camp, which was on the left about mid way up a hill. The general store had one or two pinball machines and was a good place to pick up “supplies” before entering the camp for 1-2 weeks.
Posted by jim on June 17, 2016 at 4:58 AM
Ah, we didn’t know about the general store. The trading post was our only source of junk food and it was the most popular building in camp. Do you remember in 1969 Alhtaha having an experimental campsite with psychedelic colored tents, just past the mess hall? Never understood what that was about. Took many pictures that year but can’t find any of them.
Posted by Alan Brooks on June 17, 2016 at 10:38 AM
Don’t remember the tent. One winter we did a week-end winter camp. We used the log cabin down near the lake for the over night. The pot belly stove was the only heat and we loaded it til it glowed. About 2 AM it went out and the cabin froze up. What a hoot. We tried to cook stew but forgot that potatoes take a little longer to cook so they were raw, we ate them anyway. While packing out on Sunday I didn’t were gloves and froze up all my fingers. Had to stay at the ranger station for several hours til they started to have feeling again. Live and learn.
Posted by Tom Swartz on January 18, 2020 at 7:13 PM
Go to google maps, put in coordinates 41.071282, -74.888267 and use “street view” to see the abandoned general store remains.
Posted by Alan on January 18, 2020 at 8:51 PM
Wow, Thanks. It has been 50 years since I last saw that store. At least I have my memories from when it was thriving.
Posted by Richard Steeg on January 18, 2020 at 11:43 PM
The general store was owned by the Paladini family. They pumped Sinclair gas out front.
Posted by Alan on January 19, 2020 at 8:19 AM
As I said, this store was the “must stop” on the way to Alhtaha. We stocked up on “junk food” and played the pinball machine. Sad to see it in the condition it is in now so I will remember it as it was.
Posted by Alan Brooks on February 17, 2016 at 5:48 PM
Earned many a merit badge there ~65-69. Spent summers with scouts from troop 10 and with troop 18 and troop 20. My uncle was ASM of 18 and 10. Long live the “Bug Juice”!
Posted by Alan Brooks on April 12, 2016 at 4:51 PM
As an aside, one year there were two brothers from another troop. I do not remember which troop. However, their name was very memorable. Their sir name was “Luker” I believe their first names were Keith and Steve but we all called them “Slucker and Klucker” If either of you see this post please respond. It’s been quite a while.
Posted by Robert Speiser on October 19, 2020 at 3:52 PM
Alan, was there a kid a bit older than us, in our Troop called Chuck? Keene? He was a cool guy.
Posted by George Rhodes on May 11, 2016 at 7:25 PM
Spent some of my summers from 62 to 66 at Camp Towadena. Did my Order of the Arrow initiation in the swamp leading down to the lake. Couldn’t get enough of scouts from troop 13 (Weehawken) but we enjoyed stays with provisional troops. One year we had a drought and caught about 50-75 snakes in one week not to mention a small forest fire between the two camps. I remember racoons sneaking into our tents and robbing us of our cookies and snacks. Those memories will always have a warm place in my heart!
Posted by Bob Kirchmer on November 18, 2018 at 8:44 PM
I was a scout and counselor at Towadena from 1963 till the camp closed and moved to Rock Hill PA. I was the athletic, nature, archery rifle and Program Director at Towedena and Rock Hill. Great memories of Mr. King and Mr Pierce and our cook Mrs Earle. Remember when lightning struck Pete DelVechios tent and bugle. Great wildlife especially the timber rattlers and copperheads. We had great staff members like John Neumann, Teddy Nareen, Bob Brundage, Pat Arrimini, and many more. The days at Towadena we’re the best days of my life.
Posted by Robert Diffin on March 12, 2019 at 9:01 AM
Who was your uncle. My dad is Simon diffin and he became SM around 1970
Posted by Brian Murphy on August 5, 2015 at 12:23 PM
I spent part of the summer of 1967 at Camp Towedena. The picture of the cabin on the bottom of your blog page was the nurses cabin. I remember very clearly, I stabbed my leg with a pocket knife and I was carried to this cabin – where the nurse applied sulfur in the wound and clipped the skin together. Of course, all the other campers were mad at me, as they all had to give up their pocket knives.
Posted by Adam Herchold on December 25, 2015 at 9:50 PM
There was no nurses cabin. My dad was the doctor, he often used sulpha powder to treat lacerations. On one occasion when he was at Camp Altaha, because he was the doctor for both camps, a scout came in with a laceration. I butterflied the wound, and sent him to the hospital in Newton. The doctors there liked the job I did, and didn’t give the scout stitches. This cabin was the first aid station, and living quarters for the doctor and his family.
Posted by Adam Herchold on December 25, 2015 at 10:47 PM
Correction – Camp Alhtaha
Posted by DB on January 17, 2016 at 2:35 AM
I was there too in 67 and 68. and I was examined by a nurse, in a cabin, I was brought there after having been beaten by some of the other boys. So there was some type of cabin where a nurse was stationed at Towadena. I saw that picture on another website and it looked familiar. However, it’s been 48 years, so it’s difficult to tell if that’s the one.
Posted by Tom Swartz on November 12, 2018 at 10:48 AM
I didn’t know how to spell your dad’s name, but I loved his accent and personality. He likewise dispatched me to Newton hospital when I had a run-in with an axe blade. He got a reputation for prescribing brown soap, not sure how that came about. My dad Doc Swartz knew him well.
Posted by George Rhodes on March 18, 2019 at 11:39 AM
Tom, Back in the early 60’s there was one scout nicknamed “Butter Ball”. I believe that he also ran into the wrong end of an axe and was sent packing to a local hospital. Was that you?
Posted by RICHARD STEEG on March 18, 2019 at 12:09 PM
Tom, Charlie is my younger brother. He worked on staff as the camp handyman. I was on staff as the manager of the Trading Post. Tom Swartz, both me and my Dad kmew your Dad very well. I remember one year while I was on the staff of JLTC, I had tge pleasured of sharing a tent with Doc. He was truly one if the best nen I ever met.
Posted by jay Farrell on June 29, 2015 at 3:52 PM
Hey, my stepfather Bob Rein, was a camp director of camp Alhtaha in the late ‘ 60’s, is there anyone out here know anyone else who went there?
Posted by Joel on November 24, 2015 at 11:06 PM
I went to Camp altaha in 1964-1967 does anyone know if a camp still exists? Is there a way to get an address of the camp?
Posted by Adam Herchold on December 25, 2015 at 11:12 PM
Most, if not all, of Camp Alhtaha is now owned by the YMCA that was at one end of the lake. You take 206N to StillwaterRd. to 521S to Fairview Lake Rd. Google it. When you’re on Fairview Lake Rd. you don’t want to go to YMCA, you’re looking for a dirt road on your left that was the original entrance to Camp Alhtaha and Camp Towadena, about a mile up this dirt road, maybe two, is Alhtaha. I believe the Y uses the former Headquarters building for it’s own purposes. But, during off season, I didn’t see anyone around. Be unobtrusive and enjoy reliving your childhood. My directions aren’t great, but use Google for Fairview Lake, Stillwater NJ, and you should find it without too much difficulty. Just be careful of bears. Saw a lot of scat around, and so far it’s been a mild winter.
Posted by Joel on December 26, 2015 at 6:51 AM
Thank you Adam..I am definitely going to take a ride and visit the camp. I have certain images of the camp that have stayed with me all these years….wooden planked stairs that lead down from the dining hall..the discs we would hang on a board when we were in the lake swimming. I also remember the ” cable ” trail … I will be sure to let you know when I visit and what I find there! Thanks again!
Posted by Adam Herchold on December 26, 2015 at 12:27 PM
Please do. I plan to go there again soon. On the dirt road that leads to Alhtaha, the first left turn leads to the Bond cabin, a great family who owned property on the lake. If you don’t take that turn and continue straight on the road, the rifle range is on the right, and the Headquarters building is another quarter to half a mile up the road on the left. The parade ground is up a short road on the right. I don’t know Alhtaha as well as Towadena, because we lived at Towadena, and I was a scout and counselor at Towadena, but I would walk to Alhtaha with my Dad most every day to be with him on first aid calls, etc. My mother and Mrs. Gabriel cooked for the scouts one summer when the cook at Alhtaha quit the day before the camp opened. Mr. Gabriel was the Camp Director at the time we were there, and the scouts ate really well that summer. If you have time, go to Towadena too, just up the road. All the best!
Posted by Joel on December 26, 2015 at 1:44 PM
Once again thanks for the information.. Btw where are you from? Perhaps when you plan on going I would go as well…Its probably been close to 50 years since I was there and may need some help navigating..
Posted by Adam Herchold on January 4, 2016 at 12:42 AM
Busy time right now; but next week looks like a good week weather wise if you want to venture forth. I probably won’t be up there for a few months unless I just pop up for grins on a decent day. Enjpy!
Posted by lostinjersey on December 30, 2015 at 10:18 AM
when I went there I hiked thru the woods from nobebosco, was led by a scout leader who was familiar. took us forever and a day but we got there. we exited out thru the road that led to what I assume is the YMCA based on your description. we had been out a while and were out of water so we headed into a building, asked for water. they were very cool about it.
Posted by Adam Herchold on December 25, 2015 at 11:15 PM
He must have taken Mr. Gabriel’s place. My dad was the camp doctor during this time period.
Posted by Chris Myers on April 12, 2016 at 4:12 PM
Jay: I worked with Bob and your Mom (Ma) at both Alhtaha and Silver Lake YMCA. Both gone now, but great memories. Let’s connect. Chris Myers
Posted by Thomas H Baker on July 3, 2016 at 11:23 AM
Yes, I remember Bob well. I camped as a scout with Troop 44 from West Milford during the mid ’60s and I worked for Bob from 1967 until 1970 as a camp counselor at Alhtaha. Bob always had Dog with him.
Posted by RICHARD STEEG on March 18, 2019 at 11:58 AM
Tom, Charlie is my younger brother. He worked on staff as the camp handyman. I was on staff as the manager of the Trading Post.
Posted by John Tranes on May 27, 2015 at 5:43 PM
I believe camp towadena was just south of camp altaha, but altaha was one camp, not three,
Posted by John Tranes on May 26, 2015 at 4:19 PM
Camp Altaha was an old apple orchard, and had a barn, health hut, administration building, and I believe that log cabin, which was used as a nature hut. Also had a rifle/bow and arrow range. Worked there in the summers of 63-64. Believe part of the camp is now owned by the YMCA of orange.
Posted by Adam Herchold on December 25, 2015 at 11:18 PM
You’re absolutely right. I still remember the rifle range with the .22 rifles with the peep scopes.
Posted by Thomas H Baker on July 3, 2016 at 11:19 AM
Yeah, remember to skinny little guy who ran the range. He’d hold up the .22 and ask “what is this?” and most kids would say “it’s a gun” and he’d go “No. It’s a rifle.”
Posted by Charles Winschuh on November 23, 2017 at 10:29 AM
John Donnelen(retired military) ran the rifle range. Rifles were Mossberg Model 320B single shot .22 rifles made by Mossberg for Boy Scout camps. 1967.
Posted by Tom Baker on November 24, 2017 at 2:50 PM
Thanks for the info Charles.
Posted by Robert Speiser on October 12, 2020 at 4:17 PM
I remember the Nature Hut and naturalist, gentleman about 60? Learned my first edible wild plant from him…SHEEP SORREL ! that was about 1965.
Posted by Alan Brooks on October 12, 2020 at 8:34 PM
When Glenn (Troop 10) and I were there in the Summer of I believe 68 or 69, we were approached by a photographer who was doing the camp advertisement pamphlet. He took a picture of Glenn and me at the archery range. I still have the pamphlet. (I am still as good looking but not quite as thin.)
Posted by Walter Carroll on November 24, 2020 at 6:23 PM
Hi John, I was on the Camp Alhtaha waterfront staff 61, 62, 63 & 64. Most years we lived in two man tents. Those four summers were the best summers of my life. II believe you were my tentmate during 64.
Posted by John Tranes on March 5, 2021 at 12:36 AM
Hi Walt, I think you may be right about that tent mate stuff. I believe You and Brad Stiles were athletic competitors that year. I hope you are well. Lots of good memories of camp.
Posted by Walter Carroll on March 5, 2021 at 1:53 PM
Hi John, We were 64 tent mates; I had the left bunk & you had the right. Steve Bircher was in the next tent, He called you “chooch” as in train. The waterfront director may have been Bob Caughin (phonetic). The Brad Stiles song was “My Bonnie lies over Lake Fairview”. Brad became the waterfront director for 65. He and I were both in Ship 121. I still do scouts here for the Northern NJ Council (Passaic, Bergen, Essex & Hudson Counties). My troop goes to Nobebosco. I will be going to National Camping School next month to renew my BSA Aquatic Instructor certification. Still working full time. Alhtaha was sold to the YMCA. I visited Alhtaha a few years ago; it still looked great. Camps Towedena and Kenettawapack are part of the Delaware River Park. I looked for you on Classmates,com, but was not able to find you. Stay well & safe. Walter
Posted by John Tranes on March 6, 2021 at 9:23 PM
Hi Walt, Yes we were tent mates in 64, and yes those summers were great, really missed them too, and Steve bircher was in the next tent. The waterfront director was Bob Cauglin, I believe he was a teacher, never got along with him though, and your right about the nickname. Really hated it but learned early in life not to fight it. I believe Mike Cervine, another counselor from my troop started that nickname calling at camp. My scout master Tom Stoddard was up there too that year. That year I graduated high school, After that summer I told my father that I wanted to go back in 65, but he absolutely forbade me to, said I had to go to work. Litlte did he know how hard we worked during those staff rest periods. Haven’t ever seen or been in contact with anyone from camp except brad stiles one summer in the late 60’s. Retired now, married 43 years, have two sons, and seven grand children, 5 boys and two girls. Had a heart attack (tachycardia) last year, but my cardiologist says I am alright now. Good luck with your Aquatic Instructor Certification. Maybe we could get together sometime. Stay safe and well.
John
Posted by Richard Commaille on September 11, 2013 at 8:54 AM
I actually attended Towedena as a scout in the early 60’s. Altaha was actually 3 camps. Kenetawapec and Nobebosco were close by. Towedena was owned by Alexander Hamilton Council, NJ. Somewhere, I have pix of the camp when it was active. My understanding was they closed it because they were going to flood Fairview lake and make it a reservoir. I guess that never happened. I’ll try and remember more facts. rlcpa@aol.com
Posted by Bruce on November 5, 2012 at 10:30 AM
Most likely Towedena, or Alhatha which were on Fairview Lake and near each other.
Posted by Robert Speiser on October 19, 2020 at 3:58 PM
a friend of mine from Ramsey, NJ said his brothers were scouts at NoBeBosCo and that camp was situated on nearby Sand Pond.
Posted by Alan C Brooks on October 19, 2020 at 7:35 PM
Don’t remember a Chuck or Keene. We used to hike to NoBeBosCo to buy patches. Want to see some of my old stuff? Check this link https://www.tradingeagles.com/ I sold him all my old stuff.
Posted by Ryan on March 23, 2011 at 12:39 PM
hey. im doing a project on abandoned houses in sussex county for my art history class and was wondering if you could give a more detailed description on where this campground is. I’d aprreciate if you emailed me the details. thanks!
-Ryan
Posted by lostinjersey on April 5, 2011 at 12:22 PM
i wish i could. I dont have coordinates. I dont think you can get in there though. it’s somewhere between camp nobebosco and some other camp of some kind. I dont know the name of the other camp and I dont think you are allowed to park there except for camp business which you won’t have any…. sorry
Posted by paul on February 26, 2010 at 6:19 PM
Was this kineta wa pec. A boy scaount camp west of still water, nj?
Posted by lostinjersey on February 28, 2010 at 8:49 PM
its not far from nobebosco is all I know cause thats where me and the scouts were camping at the time. very very close to whatever is the enarest camp that is still active. maybe a 5 minute walk from there, and 45-50 mins from nobebosco.