Camp John Hay: Location, History, and Travel Guide
Camp John Hay is one of Baguio City’s most beloved destinations, a sprawling, pine-scented retreat that was once an American military rest and recreation base and is today a leisure haven of cool mountain air, historic landmarks, forest trails, and family attractions. Set high in the mountains of the Cordillera, it offers a refreshing escape from the lowland heat and a glimpse into a fascinating slice of Philippine history. This guide covers what Camp John Hay is, its history, and what visitors can see and do.
Baguio City, Benguet (Cordillera)
A US military R&R base
Early 1900s
US statesman John Hay
Cool climate and pine forests
Leisure and eco-tourism hub
What Camp John Hay is
Camp John Hay is a large mountain resort and special economic zone nestled within Baguio City, the Philippines’ famous “Summer Capital.” Once a rest and recreation facility for American servicemen, it has been transformed into a public leisure destination filled with parks, forest trails, historic sites, hotels, a golf course, and family attractions, all wrapped in the crisp, pine-scented air that Baguio is loved for. Cool, green, and peaceful, it is a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy nature and history side by side.
A slice of history
Camp John Hay was established in the early twentieth century, during the American colonial period, as a rest and recreation base for United States military personnel serving in the tropics. It was named after John Hay, an American statesman who served as Secretary of State. The cool highland climate of Baguio made it the perfect retreat from the sweltering heat of the lowlands, and the camp became a cherished getaway for soldiers and officials alike.
Over the decades, Camp John Hay witnessed significant moments in history, including events during the Second World War. After the American military presence ended, the camp was turned over to the Philippines and gradually redeveloped into the leisure and tourism destination it is today, all while carefully preserving its historic character and its beautiful forest setting.
Things to see and do
Camp John Hay offers a wonderful mix of history, nature, and recreation. Visitors can easily spend a whole day exploring its many attractions.
| Attraction | What to expect |
|---|---|
| The Historical Core | Preserved American-era buildings and heritage displays |
| Bell House | A charming colonial residence with gardens and views |
| Cemetery of Negativism | A quirky, reflective spot symbolising letting go of negativity |
| Tree Top Adventure | Ziplines and canopy rides through the pine forest |
| Yellow Trail | A scenic forest walking trail among towering pines |
| Camp John Hay Golf Club | A picturesque mountain golf course |
One of the most unusual and beloved spots is the Cemetery of Negativism, a mock graveyard created decades ago as a light-hearted reminder to bury one’s negative thoughts. It is a uniquely charming stop that visitors always remember.
Nature and the great outdoors
Above all, Camp John Hay is a place to enjoy the outdoors. Its towering Benguet pine trees, cool climate, and quiet trails make it ideal for gentle walks, picnics, and simply relaxing amid nature. The scent of pine, the soft mountain light, and the birdsong create an atmosphere quite unlike anywhere in the lowlands. Families come to wander the forest paths, couples to enjoy the peaceful gardens, and adventure-seekers to try the treetop rides. It is this blend of fresh air and easy recreation that keeps visitors returning year after year.
Tips for visiting Camp John Hay
- Dress warmly, as Baguio and Camp John Hay can be genuinely cool, especially in the mornings and the cooler months.
- Go early, to enjoy the trails and attractions before the crowds, particularly on weekends and holidays.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the forest paths and exploring the grounds.
- Combine your visit with other Baguio highlights, as the city has much more to offer nearby.
- Bring a camera, for the pine forests, historic buildings, and mountain views.
Baguio, the Summer Capital
Camp John Hay is best understood as part of Baguio City, the Philippines’ cherished “Summer Capital.” Perched high in the Cordillera mountains, Baguio has long been the go-to escape for Filipinos seeking relief from the tropical heat, its cool climate, pine forests, and misty mornings offering a refreshing change of pace. A visit to Camp John Hay pairs naturally with the city’s many other attractions.
- Burnham Park, the green heart of the city, with its boating lake and gardens.
- Mines View Park, offering sweeping views over the mountains and old mining valley.
- Session Road, the lively main street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- The public market, famous for strawberries, vegetables, woven goods, and local treats.
- Cool-climate produce, from fresh strawberries to highland vegetables found nowhere else.
Together, Camp John Hay and the wider city make Baguio one of the most popular holiday destinations in the country, especially during the hot summer months and the cool Christmas season.
A retreat of history and calm
What gives Camp John Hay its special character is the way it weaves together history and tranquillity. Walking its grounds, visitors move from echoes of the American colonial past to quiet forest trails where the only sound is the wind in the pines. It is a place that invites both reflection and recreation, whether you come to learn about its storied heritage, to breathe the clean mountain air, or simply to unwind with family. That gentle, restorative atmosphere is exactly what the camp was created for over a century ago, and it remains its greatest gift to visitors today.
Best times to visit Camp John Hay
Camp John Hay is a pleasure to visit at any time of year, but the seasons each offer something different. Choosing when to go can shape the whole experience.
- Summer (March to May), when lowlanders flock to Baguio to escape the heat and the camp is at its liveliest.
- The Christmas season, when the mountain air turns crisp and cool and the city takes on a festive glow.
- Weekdays and early mornings, for quieter trails, cooler air, and a more peaceful atmosphere.
- The flower season, when Baguio’s gardens and the famous Panagbenga festival bring colour to the city.
Whenever you choose to visit, it is wise to plan ahead during peak seasons, as Baguio draws large crowds and accommodation fills quickly. A little preparation ensures you can enjoy Camp John Hay’s pine-scented calm at its very best. Whatever the season, the promise remains the same: cool air, towering pines, a touch of history, and a welcome escape into nature high above the plains.
Whether you are a history lover, a nature seeker, or a family in search of a cool mountain getaway, Camp John Hay delivers a little of everything, making it one of the most rewarding and memorable places to visit in the whole of Baguio and the Cordillera highlands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Camp John Hay?
It is located in Baguio City, in the mountains of Benguet in the Cordillera region of northern Luzon, the Philippines’ “Summer Capital.”
What was Camp John Hay originally?
It was established in the early 1900s as a rest and recreation base for American military personnel, named after US statesman John Hay.
What can you do at Camp John Hay?
Explore historic buildings, walk forest trails, try treetop ziplines, visit the Cemetery of Negativism, play golf, and enjoy the cool pine-scented air.
What is the Cemetery of Negativism?
It is a mock graveyard created as a light-hearted reminder to bury negative thoughts, and one of Camp John Hay’s most memorable and quirky attractions.
Conclusion
Camp John Hay is where history and nature meet in the cool embrace of the Cordillera pines. From its American-era landmarks to its forest trails and family attractions, it offers a refreshing, memorable escape in the heart of Baguio. For anyone visiting the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Camp John Hay is a peaceful, scenic, and storied destination not to be missed.
