At the very outset, a cooperative and close relationship must exist between all campmasters and the camp ranger. The camp ranger is responsible for the upkeep, maintenance, and proper use of all camp facilities; any support he can receive in this endeavor is welcome. The precise relationship between the campmaster and the camp ranger should be stated in writing by the Scout executive, director of camping, or other person designated.
Campmasters work closely with the camp ranger, but are responsible to the head campmaster. It should be understood that the camp ranger, as a full-time employee, is responsible to the Scout executive and/or director of camping; therefore, no other person should give directives.
Campmaster Know-How Will Improve Weekend Camping
All campmasters should have or acquire a basic knowledge of the following so that they may properly assist units:
- How the patrol method is set up and used in a troop
- How the Scout advancement program works and why we have it; know the advancement program and how to assist leaders in this
- The place of the chartered organization in Scouting and its responsibilities
- How the general program of Scouting, particularly the outdoor program, contributes to the ideals of Scouting
- How a campmaster counsels group leaders in Scouting, using the methods common in commissioner service to troops
- The basic skills in Scouting and simple methods for teaching them
- The basics of health and safety in patrol and troop camping
- The camping rules and regulations of the local camp
- What to do in a camp emergency; when and where campmaster authority begins and ends
- The religious policy of the Boy Scouts of America as related to groups in camp
- The fundamentals of a good campfire program and how to coach units in this activity
- Intelligent methods and procedures in dealing with discipline problems through the group leaders
Results Possible Through the Campmaster Plan
- More interest in weekend camping
- More advancement in units
- Troop leaders receiving program ideas and training
- Wider interest and more attendance at resident camp
- Greater respect for council property and facilities, an understanding of ecology and nature
- More skills training in high-adventure activities for Explorers
- Much informal training of leaders
- More troops going to camp year-round
- Camp regulations respected (enforced)
- More program features in camp
- Less maintenance expense
- More interest in the spiritual aspects of outdoor living
- Greater pride in camp appearance, neatness
- Unit leaders acquiring some leadership skills
Campmaster Recognition
Each council is unique in how it recognizes volunteers. You may choose to have patches, hats, armbands, etc. Campmasters are key people in helping units have a successful outdoor experience. They give up special time to be with units at camp. You should honor them at recognition dinners. Recognize their spouses, as well, for the time that they have given to Scouting.
Some Typical Helps by a Campmaster
- Assist new leaders in getting the unit set up.
- Assist two units in holding an interunit campfire.
- Help develop and carry out plans for religious services, unit or campwide.
- Advise unit leaders and administer first aid.
- Meet with leaders in regard to conservation and related camp Good Turns.
- Be the supper guest of a unit.
- Organize and conduct a nature hike with leaders.
- Arrange convenient check-in/checkout schedules.
- Secure loan of camp equipment for units.