Lots of outdoor enthusiasts are familiar with the Blue Hills Reservation in Milton, the largest open space within 35 miles of Boston, with more than 7,000-plus acres to explore and enjoy, but probably the only ones who know about Camp Sayre are those associated with the Boy Scouts in some way.

For more than 50 years, the camp, located adjacent to the reservation, was used almost exclusively by the Scouts, with access allowed for some private groups, like Girls Scouts and churches. Recently, however, the camp decided to open to the general public for special programs on weekends. The varied offerings at the 108-acre facility include an outdoors ropes challenge course, rock climbing, archery, identifying edible plants, building with hand tools, cooking outdoors, starting a fire without matches, and introductory ice climbing classes.

There’s also an ongoing project to build a Wigwam in the traditional way, which visitors can pitch in on and an indoor Olympic-sized pool. In winter, an outdoor ice skating rink is built and visitors can sled and snurf on hills on the property. Most programs are either half- or full-day and quickly sell out, so advance planning is recommended.

Campsites and cabins can be booked as well. Specialty programs and events, like birthday parties, high ropes leadership training (for all levels and groups, including families), and guided canoe trips are also offered.

Another valuable program at the camp is the Outdoor Leadership Training Program, which includes Wilderness First Aid, American Red Cross and Basic First Aid, Climbing Instructor Course, Team Building, BB and Archery Instructor, Introduction to Outdoor Skills. Some are clearly aimed at adults in charge of groups, but some, like the American Red Cross and Basic First Aid, are great for anyone interested in getting these skills down. 

Blue Hills Trailside Museum

Snacks available at the museum or restaurants in nearby Milton.