Troop 529 Camp & Trips

Summer and Winter Camp

Camp and scouting are a perfect match, much like cookies and milk. When people reminisce about their scouting days, they're often thinking about those moments of growth and camaraderie experienced in the great outdoors. Imagine...

• Scouts leaping into a chilly lake as steam rises from the surface, with the morning sun just beginning to peek over the horizon.

• A young archer drawing a bowstring taut, aiming at a bull’s-eye 30 feet away.

• Hikers moving quietly along a brushy trail, hoping to catch a glimpse of a stag before it bounds off into the forest.

• Teams racing to tip over a rival patrol’s canoe during spirited camp games.

• The scent of smoke rising from a campfire as a hundred scouts sing in cheerful, off-key harmony.

• The distant sound of rifles and shotguns firing at targets.

• Watching songs and skits around a bonfire while awards are handed out.

These are the cherished memories of scouts who have experienced summer camp. Beyond the fun, camp provides crucial benefits: a break from the constant noise of technology, a chance for scouts to reflect on their lives, and an opportunity to build self-worth and independence. It’s a place to forge deeper friendships in a safe, supportive environment.

Camp offers a retreat from the fast-paced world of media and technology, providing a “protected environment” that fosters significant personal growth. Without the distractions of television, radio, and video games, time at camp takes on new meaning, laying the groundwork for change.

At camp, scouts have the space to reflect on their place in life. They develop strong personal values and character as they make decisions impacting others, ponder their relationship with God, and engage in patriotic activities related to American citizenship.

Through service, scouts gain a sense of self-worth and usefulness. Many contribute by cleaning campsites, helping with meal cleanup, and serving food. Camp also fosters meaningful relationships, where friendships extend beyond peers to include adult leaders who mentor and guide. Scouts often seek advice from these leaders during camp.

Learning at scout camp is an exciting adventure. It’s an outdoor classroom where scouts test their skills and bravery, tackling new challenges with enthusiasm. Campers are motivated by the concept of mastery, similar to the appeal of video games, leading to productive and creative outcomes. Most scouts work together on badges or tasks, earning merit badges along the way.

Camps are designed to encourage teamwork and social interaction in ways that are rare outside the camp environment. Scouts collaborate on accomplishments, engage in group decision-making, and resolve conflicts together.

Parents notice the positive changes in their children after camp. The majority of parents observe that their sons return from camp more confident, safe, and skilled.

But it's not all about hard work! Camp is also filled with laughter around the campfire, fun breaks at the trading post, friendly games, and cheering on friends during water carnival events. Summer camp isn’t just a week away from home; it’s a FUN, ADVENTUROUS experience you don’t want to miss!