We typically establish a meet-up time at the church, where parents drop off their Scout(s). From there, Scouts pack up and prepare to depart. Each Scout is assigned to a vehicle and will always travel in groups of at least two or three. Scouts are required to travel to and from the outing in their Class "A" uniform.
Scouts and adults are never alone together under any circumstances. We strictly follow a “two-deep leadership” policy, which ensures that at least two adults and two Scouts are present at all times.
Before departure, each Scout will select a buddy of the same biological gender and within two years of age. Buddies must remain together throughout the event—no Scout should ever be alone.
Most of our outings involve tent camping. Cabin accommodations are rare and typically limited to special trips, such as the annual ski/snowboard outing in March.
Throughout the outing, Scouts work within their assigned patrols. Usually, at least one adult is assigned to each patrol to support the Scout in Charge and Patrol Leaders, helping to ensure a safe and smooth experience for everyone.
Meals
Meals are planned at the patrol level. Each patrol is responsible for planning its own meals for the outing and assigning roles such as grocery shopping, cooking, and cleanup. Every Scout is expected to take on a job and actively contribute to the patrol’s success. Patrol Leaders will assign duties within their patrols to ensure all responsibilities are covered.
Adults will operate in their own patrol and follow the same expectations—planning, cooking, and cleaning up after their own meals, just like the Scouts.
Sleeping Arrangements
Scouts may only share a tent with others who are no more than two years older and of the same biological gender.
At night, boys and girls sleep in separate, designated areas, with adult tents placed in between for supervision and safety.
Returning from an Outing
After returning from an event, all participating Scouts are expected to help clean and store the group’s gear. This process usually takes about an hour. If a Scout needs to leave early, they may be assigned an item to clean at home and return at the next meeting.
** Please note that phones and electronics are not permitted during campouts or meetings. Scouts may use a phone to call for pickup once we return, but we strongly prefer that no electronics be brought at all. When they are, Scouts often end up playing games when they think no one is watching or staying up late in their tents—both of which can interfere with the experience. To avoid distractions and help Scouts stay engaged with their patrols and the outdoor program, we will be requiring all devices to remain in the vehicle they arrived in for the duration of the outing.
Each trip may vary slightly based on the destination and season, but this list offers a solid starting point. As Scouts attend more events, they’ll naturally refine their personal gear and figure out what works best for them.
We typically car camp, so Scouts won’t need to carry their full packs long distances—just to and from the vehicles. That said, they should always have a day pack and a water bottle with them for daytime activities.
This list is designed to promote self-reliance, preparedness, and comfort in the outdoors. Over time, Scouts will gain the experience needed to adjust it to fit their individual preferences.
Essentials
Day pack (small backpack for daytime use)
Reusable water bottle (1–2 liters, filled)
Main pack or duffel bag (for clothes and gear)
Sleeping bag (appropriate for weather)
Sleeping pad or foam mat
Camping Pillow (optional, small or inflatable)
Scout Gear
Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
Mess kit (plate, bowl, cup, fork/spoon)
Notebook and pen (for notes, journaling, or badge work)
Scout 10 Essentials
Scout Essentials in their Day Pack
Pocketknife (once the Scout earns their Totin chip)
Rain Gear (light weight that can fit in a backpack as a "just in case", Frogg Toggs are relatively inexpensive, plastic pancho, or even a really large trash bag works)
Trail Food (trail mix)
Flashlight (small)
headlamp for night time use around camp
Extra clothing (stored in a dry bag, such as a trash bag incase it rains)
First-aid kit (personal)
Sun protection (sun screen)
Map and compass
Matches and fire starters
Fire blanket (not part of the essentials, but I think it is a good thing to have since there are some really small light weight blankets on the market)
Main Pack:
Sleep System:
Sleeping bag
sleeping mat
camping (inflatable or small) pillow
Clothing (they will mostly be in uniform, but other clothing for bed time and personal time)
extra shirt (quick-dry or cotton)
1 long-sleeve shirt
extra pairs of pants/shorts
1 pair of pajamas or sleepwear
Underwear and socks (1 pair per day, plus one extra)
Warm layers (fleece, hoodie, or jacket)
Class "B" uniform shirt
Class "A" uniform shirt
Personal hygiene items
Toiletry kit (toothbrush, toothpaste, comb/brush, etc.)
Towel and washcloth
Sunscreen and lip balm
Bug spray
Feel free to have your Scout pack anything you think might be helpful or that we may have missed.