Lawson Lake Campout — Waldman Lodge

Scout skills and pioneering-focused campout with cabin-based lodging at Waldman Lodge.

📍 Location

Waldman Lodge
293 Lawson Lake Rd
Feura Bush, NY

Albany County Lawson Lake Park

Contacts

Phone: (518) 768-2560
Albany County Recreation Office

Reservation Process

  • Reserve Waldman Lodge through Albany County Parks
  • Confirm availability, capacity, and usage rules

⚠️ Insurance & Approval Requirement

Albany County requires a valid Certificate of Insurance (COI) prior to approving use of the facility.

Process:
  • COI must be obtained through council
  • BSA insurance renews annually around March 1
  • New COIs may not be available until late February
Action Steps:
  1. Contact council 4–6 weeks prior to campout
  2. Confirm status of new COI
  3. Request COI listing Albany County as certificate holder
  4. Submit COI to Albany County (RecDesk or email)
  5. Confirm approval before event
Contingency:
  • If new COI is delayed:
    • Use prior year COI temporarily if accepted
    • Confirm with Albany County before proceeding

Required Forms

  • Troop permission slips
  • Medical forms (per troop policy)
  • Certificate of Insurance (COI) submission to Albany County

Packing Notes

  • Cabin stay — no tent required (optional depending on conditions)
  • Sleeping bag required (heavier bag recommended in colder weather)
  • Standard seasonal packing list applies

Timeline

2–3 Months Out

  • Reserve Waldman Lodge
  • Begin insurance coordination with council

1 Month Out

  • Confirm COI status
  • Begin communication with Albany County

2 Weeks Out

  • Submit COI to Albany County
  • Send permission slips
  • Confirm headcount

1 Week Out

  • Final gear check
  • Weather review
  • Confirm approval and access details

Day Of

  • Confirm transportation
  • Ensure all Scouts have required gear
  • Verify lodge access (key lockbox)

⚠️ Important Notes

  • Cabin reduces exposure risk but cold weather still applies
  • Heating may be limited — plan accordingly
  • Minimal hot water capacity in lodge
  • No after-hours facility support available
  • Emergency phone connects directly to 911

Lessons Learned

  • Insurance timing is the most critical planning factor
  • Early coordination with council prevents last-minute issues
  • Cabin setup simplifies logistics significantly
  • Good entry-level campout for less experienced Scouts
  • Ideal for colder weather due to shelter
  • Avoid using lodge sinks for food waste

(Add more after future trips)