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Preparing for Summer Camp© Barry
Aug 3, 2003
Summer's almost over. Most likely your troop has already gone to Scout camp. My troop, however, has decided to go to camp during the last week of operation. Then I start school on August 14th (early, I know). Since the majority of Scouts go to Summer Camp earlier then the first week of August, I'll probably reprint this article early next summer so everyone gets the maximum benefit.
I will explain in this article how to get ready for Summer Camp, meaning how to choose merit badges, what to bring, etc.
Planning for Summer Camp usually starts about 6 whole months before you actually set foot in a tent. This planning involves deciding on a camp, finding out who's going, collecting a deposit (you usually get a better rate if you pay early), and a few other basic things. Later, about 1-3 months before you go, you'll have to choose merit badges or other activities.
This is a pretty complicated task. Also, camps vary on how the block scheduling works. Some camps allow you to take up to 4, others let you go up to six. For a beginner camper, I'd do about 1 or 2 badges and then a advancement course to get you up to first class. Swimming MB should the priority if you only choose one, then First Aid if you are doing two (they are both Eagle required, and required for other merit badges, too). Second year campers should do some easy boating, ecology, handicraft, shooting sports (do archery, rifle, and then shotgun), or Scoutcraft merit badges. These include Space Exploration, Canoeing, Metalwork, and Pioneering. The older scout can take on COPE courses, BSA Lifeguard, and MBs like Climbing, Lifesaving, and Sailing. This order stuff is merely advice, and if you really want to do a merit badge that is not in your year, go for it (I usually did that). Make sure all your merit badges are scheduled correctly, then fill out your blue cards. Be sure to do the pre-reqs while there's still time. A week before camp is when you should start thinking about packing. A large duffel bag should have enough room for pretty much everything (except for you sleeping bag , groundcloth, cot, etc.) Be sure to bring your full Scout uniform, plus a few class Bs (as in your troop shirts or shirts from other camps). Some camps require you wear either a class A or B at all times, so you may want to wash your shirts at some point. Bring some pairs of shorts and about one pair of long pants. Hiking shoes are also important (sandals aren't allowed, BSA policy).
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