Summer Camp notes

  Several issues usually come up each year at summer camp that are overlooked by the boys (and leaders):  


The Camp requires closed toed foot wear everywhere except the water front and they enforce the rule regularly.... it's not an issue in our campsite....that just means he has to wear his sneakers or closed toed shoes all of the time with or w/out socks when he wanders to and from the camp site and the waterfront.


Hammocks are not permitted in camp...to prevent barking the trees..it is strictly enforced.


It doesn't hurt to wear some type of ear plug when he swims..though the lake water itself is not the issue.


He should bring an extra pair of glasses and wear glasses restraints as not to lose them during some activities.


He needs his Scout Book in order to be signed off  for rank advancement and/or in order to have a Scoutmaster's Conference or Board of Review.


Unless he is taking water front merit badges,with a lot of sun exposure,  sun protection is only minimal..the camp is well shaded and heat has never been a problem for us..except in making sure he stays hydrated by drinking regular amounts of water..which the leaders stress each day.


Athletes foot has never been an issue for us.


We can't over emphasize putting his medications, if he takes any on a daily basis, in a ziplock bag with his name on it (magic marker of inclosed paper ID) along with page 41 in the Summer Camp Guide (Troop Web Site) explaining the dosage or other peculiarities the medics, and our own leaders need to know about. The bag has to be turned into the Medic Hut when we get there and he will be taken there by a leader whenever the medication is required (usually around meal times or as directed).


New Scouts: 


 We will be staying in BSA tents, set on a wooden platform.   The tents  are always in excellent shape..but..if it is going to rain on a regular basis, and he may have a small leak in the roof (rare) he should bring a  $1.00 or so painter's plastic drop cloth to put over his bunk and gear if he needs it..otherwise it is not an issue.


Flash light...he will need one, either a headlamp, or a type that he can hold between his teeth while he work with his hands. He will also need it to walk to and fro in the dark if required.  There is no electricity in the camp site and the troop lanterns stay in the patrol area under the patrol by the tarp/picnic table


Don't forget a toothbrush and underarm deodorant.


One pair of green Scout socks is not enough if it is going to be wet.  Two pair should be on hand to rotate through the week.


They sell ice cream/candy/soda and souvenirs in the camp store.  He will need some spending money...but not a great deal.


Again...Remember Wednesday night is parent's night.  There will be a big campfire for the family along with the Order of the Arrow Tap Out for those Scouts and leaders chosen this year.  Bring his favorite meal, fast food, and have a picnic with him in the camp area or a spot of his choosing..take a tour of the camp with him, and don't entertain his thoughts of going home with you in case he is a little homesick.....He be home in two nights anyway.  If you are not sure of the way, ride with another parent(s). the map in the Troop Guide to camp is straight forward.  


Normally, you should arrive anytime after 4:00PM and he will meet you in the parking lot to walk you down to the camp site with your meal....in your arms..so travel light..if you will need to ride..the staff will have to authorize your driving the vehicle. If you can't make the trip, just have another parent bring his meal for him as the dining hall will not be open for supper. Watch the weather forecast for rain..and if so, be prepared for it..the roads in camp are not paved, so wear the appropriate foot wear.


Camp is a great adventure, a lot of fun,  and the only time of the year when we gather as a group in terms of esprit and camaraderie. We will be one of the largest Troops there, if not the largest, and certainly the most spirited as the boys usually are. We will have more leaders present than any time before.... Rain and some adversity only add to the experience.   As we say everyday : "don't worry..be happy......."


YiS Dan s                                       "Delivering the Promise"