Camping is an important part of the Scouts BSA experience. The scouts learn skills that allow them to be stronger and more confident in their abilities and they also learn leadership skills along the way. The best part is that camping is FUN!!!
Camping is also scout-led, so the adults role is to ensure safety, but not tell the scouts what to do. This is the way they learn! We are a scout-led troop so that means all of the Scouts are expected to be fairly self-sufficient. There are always at least two trained adults present. The adults are always engaged with the Scouts, but the Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) – the elected scout – is in charge of the Troop. If adult Scouters are asked a question, we will ask that it’s directed to the SPL. The Scouts set up camp, run the program, cook the meals, and everything else that happens at camp. Also, please note that Adults tent in a separate part of the campsite from the Scouts.
The Troop typically camps on the third weekend of the month, but occasionally that date gets moved. The troop pays for the camping with a nominal fee for food normally, with the exception of Summer Camp which is usually $400+/-. Your son/daughter can fundraise throughout the year to pay for that. Summer camp can be completely paid for by encouraging your scout to participate in the fundraising activities. This teaches the scouting value that a scout is THRIFTY.
When traveling to/from camp, it’s always in Class A/Field uniform (without the neckerchief). The scouts meet at the trailer a Valley Community Presbyterian Church where we have our meetings around 5 or 6 on Friday (time will be announced). They will return on Sunday afternoon usually around 2. They will contact you when they are getting close to let you know when to pick them up.
Before the first camping trip, fill out the BSA Annual Medical Form. Parts A & B are required to be turned in before your first camping trip. Before summer camp or a high-adventure camp, Part C will need to be completed with the physical. The medical forms are required to be completed and updated annually.
Prior to camp, an email will be sent out confirming who is going and who the adults are that are attending as well as any camp-specific reminders. There will be an emergency point of contact as well. Please do not expect to hear from your scout during the camping trip. We want them to be focused on the camping program and “mentally present” at camp, not playing on their phones and “zoning out” and distracted. They will be having fun!!!!!!
Packing Tips
- Bring a sack dinner to eat in the car on the way to camp on Friday nights
- Packing in a duffle bag or hiking backpack is idea. Suitcases are not ideal in camp.
- Make sure that you are not packing for your scout, though because they will not know where their stuff is in the bags AND what do they learn if you do it for them????
- For all of our campouts, Scouts need a non-disposable water bottle (like a Nalgene), silverware, and a mess-kit or reusable plate, bowl, and cup.
- They should have a tent, sleeping bag, and a sleeping pad and pillow, if desired.
- If possible, we suggest a folding camp chair for campfires and sitting around the campsite.
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- If the camping is water-related, they should bring a modest swimsuit or dry-fit clothes, a towel and real water-shoes, not flip-flops.
- Pocket knives are allowed, but only if the scout has earned the “Tot’N Chip” and the blades must be less than 3′ long
Scouts should always bring their Scouts BSA Handbook as they will sometimes be working on items in their handbook while they are at camp.