The original Friday the 13th (1980), a low-budget horror film that spawned a multi-million dollar franchise, was primarily filmed in and around Blairstown, New Jersey. The iconic Camp Crystal Lake, the backdrop for much of the terror, is actually Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco, a still-operating Boy Scout camp.
A Deep Dive into Camp Crystal Lake: From Fiction to Reality
The success of Friday the 13th lies not just in its gruesome effects, but in its unsettlingly real setting. The filmmakers chose a location that felt both isolated and familiar, a place of youthful innocence transformed into a scene of unimaginable horror. Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco provided the perfect atmosphere.
Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco: The Heart of the Nightmare
Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco (short for North Bergen Boy Scout Council) is located in Hardwick Township, near Blairstown. Its sprawling grounds, dense forests, and shimmering lake provided the ideal canvas for director Sean S. Cunningham to paint his terrifying vision. Many of the most memorable scenes, including the iconic dock murders and the climactic confrontation with Mrs. Voorhees, were shot within the camp’s boundaries.
Beyond the Camp: Exploring Blairstown and Beyond
While Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco served as the primary filming location, the surrounding town of Blairstown also played a significant role. Various establishing shots, including those depicting the town and its local businesses, were filmed in Blairstown. Furthermore, certain scenes were shot in nearby areas, contributing to the overall sense of authenticity and rural isolation.
Unveiling the Secrets: Frequently Asked Questions About the Filming of Friday the 13th
The enduring popularity of Friday the 13th has led to countless questions about its production, particularly regarding its filming locations. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions, answered in detail:
FAQ 1: Is Camp Crystal Lake a real place?
While Camp Crystal Lake is a fictional place, the setting used in the film, Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco, is very real. It continues to operate as a Boy Scout camp and is not open to the public for tours or filming purposes, except under very specific circumstances (often for charity events).
FAQ 2: Can I visit Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco?
Generally, no. As a working Boy Scout camp, Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco is not open to the general public. However, the camp occasionally holds special events, often for charity, that allow fans to visit the filming locations. These events are highly sought after and require advance booking. Check fan sites and social media for information.
FAQ 3: What scenes were filmed at Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco?
A vast majority of the scenes depicting Camp Crystal Lake were filmed at Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco. This includes the scenes around the lake, the cabins, the dining hall, the archery range, and the infamous shower scene. In essence, almost everything you see that represents “Camp Crystal Lake” is No-Be-Bo-Sco.
FAQ 4: Were any other locations used for filming besides Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco and Blairstown?
Yes, while Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco was the primary location, some supplemental scenes were filmed in other areas of New Jersey. The cemetery scene, for example, was filmed in Hope, New Jersey. Specific interior shots might have also been filmed in soundstages or other locations that remain unconfirmed.
FAQ 5: How did the filmmakers secure permission to film at Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco?
The filmmakers approached the Boy Scout council with a compelling proposal, emphasizing the film’s potential for generating revenue for the camp. They agreed to follow strict rules and regulations to minimize disruption to the camp’s operations. The low budget of the film also influenced the decision, as the camp likely offered a more affordable option than a dedicated film set.
FAQ 6: Are there any noticeable differences between the camp in the movie and the real Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco?
Yes, there are some subtle differences. The filmmakers made some modifications to the camp to enhance the film’s atmosphere. This included adding dilapidated structures, strategically placing props, and altering the lighting to create a more unsettling environment. The camp has also undergone changes over the years since the filming, with some structures being renovated or replaced.
FAQ 7: How has the filming of Friday the 13th affected Blairstown and Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco?
The filming of Friday the 13th has had a significant cultural and economic impact on both Blairstown and Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco. Blairstown has become a popular destination for horror fans, with local businesses capitalizing on the film’s legacy. Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco benefits from the occasional charitable events held there, and its connection to the iconic film has solidified its place in pop culture history.
FAQ 8: What happened to the original props and set pieces from the film?
The fate of many of the original props and set pieces is largely unknown. Some props may have been reused in subsequent films, while others may have been lost or destroyed over time. Dedicated fans and collectors have attempted to track down and preserve what remains, but authentic, verifiable props are rare and highly valued.
FAQ 9: Was the Crystal Lake Diner shown in the film a real diner in Blairstown?
Yes, the Crystal Lake Diner, a prominent landmark in the film, was a real diner in Blairstown. It’s actually called the Blairstown Diner and it still operates today. It’s a popular spot for fans to visit and grab a bite to eat while reliving the film’s iconic moments.
FAQ 10: Did any of the locals from Blairstown appear as extras in the film?
Yes, many locals from Blairstown and the surrounding areas were cast as extras in Friday the 13th. This added to the film’s sense of authenticity and provided the community with a unique opportunity to participate in the making of a classic horror movie.
FAQ 11: Are there any documentaries or behind-the-scenes footage that show the filming locations in more detail?
Several documentaries and behind-the-scenes features provide glimpses into the filming locations of Friday the 13th. These include documentaries like “Crystal Lake Memories: The Complete History of Friday the 13th” which features interviews with the cast and crew and showcases footage of the filming locations.
FAQ 12: How has the depiction of Camp Crystal Lake influenced other horror films and summer camp settings in pop culture?
The depiction of Camp Crystal Lake in Friday the 13th has had a profound influence on other horror films and summer camp settings in pop culture. It established a template for slasher films set in isolated locations, where youthful innocence is juxtaposed with gruesome violence. The imagery of the secluded camp, the dark lake, and the lurking killer has become a recurring motif in the horror genre. The film’s success demonstrated the power of this setting to create suspense and terror, influencing countless other works in film, television, and literature.