Camp Nawakwa is located in Harriman section of the Palisades Interstate Park, not far from the NY/NJ border. Prior arrangements to visit the lodge have to be made (except for members with Nawakwa Status) as the entrances to the main access road and interior camp road are chained and locked.
Public transportation from New York City
By bus: The Shortline Bus provides service to Sloatsburg and Tuxedo, leaving from the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Click here for the current Schedule to Sloatsburg and Schedule to Tuxedo
By train: New Jersey Transit provides train service to both towns from either New York Penn Station (you have to transfer at Seacaucus Junction) or Hoboken.
Train Schedule Hoboken to Tuxedo
Once in Sloatsburg or Tuxedo, you can hike into camp. The hike is approximately one and a half to two hours long. Those new to hiking might find it easier to start in Sloatsburg and walk up Seven Lakes Drive. For those with some hiking experience, the hike in from Tuxedo, along the TMI, RD and Triangle trails, provides vistas from Claudius Smith’s den and other interesting scenery.
There usually is also a taxi service available. It is wise to check in advance for their operating hours:
Sammy’s Taxi Service – (845) 357-1249
Spirit Taxi of Rockland – (845) 368-0577
Brothers Taxi – (845) 357-4988
Sometimes the host of an organized weekend will know if someone who is offering a ride and will put you in touch with them. Ask when you sign up.
By Car from all points
This link will take you to the entrance of Harriman State park. Follow the detailed directions to the Camp from here. Click and enter your start address: Get Directions
By Car from New York City
Driving time for the 35 miles to camp is between 40-60 minutes from the George Washington Bridge (GWB).
There are three options how to drive:
1- Via GWB, Rt. 4W & Rt. 17N (the most direct route, can be congested on weekends during shopping hours).
Take the GWB upper level to New Jersey. Stay in the middle lane and follow signs for Rt. 4 West. Take 4 West for 7 miles to the exit for Rt. 17 North. Follow 17 North to Sloatsburg, and then continue as described below.
Directions from the Upper West Side
Directions from the Upper East Side
2- Via GWB, Palisades Interstate Parkway & NY Thruway (I-87) (mostly highway). Take the GWB upper level to New Jersey. Stay in the right lane and exit onto the Palisades Interstate Parkway North. Take Exit 9 to I-87 West, follow directions below.
3- Via GWB & Palisades Interstate Parkway (scenic route, takes 10 minutes longer).
Take the GWB upper level to New Jersey. Stay in the right lane and exit onto the Palisades Interstate Parkway North. Take Exit 16 Lake Welch and continue on Lake Welch Drive south to Seven Lakes Drive South. Follow signs for Sebago Beach. Continue on Seven Lakes Drive to Camp entrance.
