Why Our Heavy-Duty Metal Bunk Bed Frames Are the Best Choice for Your Camp [SPONSORED CONTENT]

Shooting Sports / Sponsored Content

Enhancing Range and Target Activities Education: 

Scouting America has long been a champion of outdoor adventure, leadership development, and conservation education. With a proud 115-year tradition, we continue to evolve, enhancing programs to inspire new generations of Scouts through meaningful experiences. Two recent major projects—at the Summit Bechtel Reserve and Philmont Scout Ranch—are setting a new standard for range and target sports education, training, and conservation awareness.

The Joe Crafton’s Sportsman’s Complex at Summit Bechtel Reserve

Redefining Shooting Sports and Conservation Awareness

At the heart of the Summit Bechtel Reserve, the newly renovated Joe Crafton’s Sportsman’s Complex stands as a state-of-the-art interpretive center that not only teaches safe and effective shooting skills but also underscores the vital role hunters play in conservation. Through the support of The NRA Foundation, this innovative facility is equipped with the latest digital learning experiences, simulations, and virtual shooting galleries that provide authentic, immersive instruction for Scouts of all experience levels.

Whether it’s learning the fundamentals of firearms safety, safe range practices, or earning their Hunter Education Certification, Scouts can walk away from this experience more confident, capable, and aware of the traditions and responsibilities that come with being a responsible sportsman.

NRA Hunter education course: https://nra.yourlearningportal.com/Course/HuntersEdActivityInfoPage

Hunter’s Hall & Crafton Skills Center: Revitalized for the Next Generation

These essential facilities at the Summit have undergone major updates, with new equipment and programming designed to:

Celebrate the Scouting America’s legacy of marksmanship and outdoor ethics.

Bridge the gap between hunting and conservation education.

Inspire through real-world success stories from adult Scouters.

Provide hands-on introduction to range activities and safety.

With over 10,000 participants projected to benefit annually, the impact of these revitalized programs reaches beyond campgrounds. They create a deeper appreciation for land stewardship, native species preservation, and the ethical use of firearms—all within the framework of year-round programming for families and Scouts.

Harlan Reloading Staff Camp at Philmont: Rebuilt and Ready

Over in the rugged high country of northeastern New Mexico, Philmont Scout Ranch—the world’s largest outdoor youth camp—has embarked on a remarkable transformation of its own. Through the support of The NRA Foundation, the Harlan Reloading Camp has been fully rehabilitated from impacts of the 2018 Ute Park Fire and is once again operational for shotshell reloading and trap shooting in the backcountry. Improvements are also underway at Sawmill for metallic cartridge reloading.

More than 17,000 Scouts will benefit from the reintroduction of the Harlan program, participating in an estimated 24,000 reloads annually. That’s more than just skill development—it’s hands-on experience in self-reliance, patience, and technical craftsmanship.

Why It Matters:

Scouting has always been committed to the safe, responsible, and intelligent use of firearms and archery. With over 2 million range and target activities merit badges awarded and 200+ camps offering range and target activities, Scouting America stands as a global leader in youth range and target education.

But more than that, these activities build life skills. They promote confidence, mental focus, physical discipline, and a strong conservation ethic. With passionate adult mentors and innovative programming, Scouts are not just learning how to shoot—they’re learning how to lead, protect, and preserve.

A Future Aimed True

The improvements made to these facilities demonstrate to the Scouting community that range and target activities education offers more than just a camp activity—it’s a pathway to personal growth, environmental stewardship, and lifelong passion.

As these programs expand and reach thousands of young people each year, one thing remains certain—Scouting’s commitment to excellence continues to blaze trails for generations to come.

Support. Inspire. Educate.
Together, we are shaping confident youth with a respect for safety, a love for the outdoors, and the skills to become tomorrow’s conservation-minded leaders.

Save the Date:
2026 NRA Range & Target Activity Training Classes
Get ready to elevate your camp’s range program with upcoming national training opportunities designed for Scouting America camp leaders and staff.

Explore range resources, training, and support at:
https://www.scouting.org/outdoor-programs/range-activities

Advancing Safe and Skill-Based Range Programs for Youth

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From Passion Project to Global Partner: The Black Pug Software Story

In 2011, two dedicated volunteers at the Simon Kenton Council noticed a significant gap in their existing software: it simply wasn’t providing the data and facility rental management capabilities they needed. With backgrounds in technology, they knew they could do better. What started as a focused effort to support their own Council quickly blossomed into a powerful realization: this solution could benefit many Councils. And just like that, Black Pug Software was born.

Why “Black Pug”? A Story of Tenacity
The name “Black Pug Software” isn’t random; it’s a nod to the founders’ beloved family pets. Pugs, though small, are renowned for their tenacious spirit, fearlessly taking on challenges no matter the size. This became a fitting metaphor for the new company, ready to enter a market dominated by larger, established players. Like their canine muses, Black Pug Software was determined to prove that a smaller, agile team could make a significant impact.

Growing with Scouting America, Globally
Since its beginnings in 2011, Black Pug Software has expanded its reach from a few Councils to supporting Scouting America Councils worldwide. Despite this growth, their commitment remains unwavering: to exclusively serve Scouting America. Their products are meticulously crafted to meet the diverse needs of Councils of all sizes, with a continuous stream of innovative features designed to enhance the Scouting experience.

Tailored Solutions for Every Council Need
Black Pug Software offers a comprehensive suite of products designed to streamline operations and enhance efficiency for Councils:

Camp Reservation System: This system simplifies weekend camping, allowing Units and external groups to reserve everything from individual campsites to entire camps or specific ranges.
Scouting Event System: From training sessions and fundraisers to summer camps and day camps, this system expertly manages a wide array of activities.
Trading Post System: Councils can effortlessly sell products online, offering both shipping and in-store pickup options for customers.
Point of Sale (POS) System: Designed to replace existing Council POS systems, this robust solution handles registrations, customer payments, and inventory sales with ease.

Innovation at the Heart of Our Software
Beyond these core systems, Black Pug Software is continually developing innovative solutions that directly address the unique challenges faced by Scouting America Councils. We understand the importance of seamless integration and data accuracy, which is why we’ve developed features like:

PeopleSoft Upload Option: This critical feature streamlines the transfer of financial and other essential data directly into your Council’s PeopleSoft system, reducing manual entry errors and saving valuable time.
Automatic Member Validation: Our system goes beyond simple registration by automatically validating members. This includes confirming the membership status of your own Council members attending local events, as well as seamlessly validating out-of-council members whose home Councils have uploaded their
membership data. This ensures accurate participant lists and proper compliance for all events.
Advanced Inventory Tracking: Go beyond basic sales with our sophisticated inventory tracking capabilities. Councils can monitor stock levels in real-time, manage multiple locations, and gain insights into popular items, optimizing purchasing and reducing waste.
Scoutbook Merit Badge Data Import: This innovative feature allows for the seamless import of merit badge data directly into Scoutbook, simplifying record-keeping for summer camps and other programs. This eliminates duplicate data entry and ensures accurate tracking of Scout achievements.
Integrated Donation Collections: Facilitate fundraising efforts with ease through our donation collection feature. Councils can securely accept donations online, track donor/sponsor information, and generate reports, all within the same platform.

Our Commitment: Listening and Evolving
Today, Black Pug Software proudly supports over half of all Scouting America Councils. We believe our success is directly tied to the success of the Councils we serve. That’s why we maintain close, collaborative relationships, actively listening to feedback and using it to continually refine and enhance our products. This collaborative approach ensures that Black Pug Software remains a leading provider of tailored solutions that truly meet the evolving needs of all Councils within Scouting America, helping them focus on what matters most: empowering the next generation of leaders.

Camping / Sponsored Content

Preserving the Spirit of Camp with Stronger Tents for the Next Generation

For many Scouts, the first glimpse of canvas tents lined up across a meadow is when the magic of camp begins. Those familiar green roofs and wooden decks are more than just places to sleep—they are symbols of adventure, teamwork, and traditions that stretch back generations.

Yet across the country, camps are facing a challenge. Canvas that has weathered countless summers is starting to fray. Frames that have stood through storms are growing tired. Inventories shrink, and the thought of “starting over” with new equipment can feel overwhelming—financially and culturally. That’s where Mscapes comes in. Our team believes strongly in preserving the traditions of Scout camping while providing practical tools to keep those traditions alive for the next generation. Instead of asking camps to replace everything at once, we focus on extending the life of the tents you already know and love. One way we do this is by offering replacement canvas covers that fit right onto existing frames. Whether your camp has classic Diamond Brand tents or a mix of other designs, our covers are made from durable, weather-resistant fabrics that extend the life of your tent inventory. A simple swap keeps Scouts dry at night and programs running strong—all without the need for costly overhauls.

For camps where frames are the concern, we provide upgraded steel and aluminum systems built to today’s safety standards but designed to maintain the look and feel everyone recognizes. In most cases, existing decks and platforms can remain the same, saving time and labor while keeping your camp footprint intact. But Mscapes doesn’t stop at repairs and replacements. We know that camp directors face the tough job of balancing budgets while delivering the mission. That’s why we also partner with councils to design revenue-generating options. A growing number of camps have started opening select tent sites to families during the off-season. Parents, siblings, and community members get to experience the same tents Scouts use, often for the first time. These rentals provide steady income that offsets maintenance costs and, in many cases, spark fresh interest in the Scouting movement.

At one council, families booked weekends in the very tents their Scouts camped in all summer long. The experience strengthened connections between parents and the program and created new stories to share around family dinner tables. For the camp, it was a simple way to stretch budgets further—without losing an ounce of tradition. We also understand that change can feel daunting. Budgets are often approved years ahead. Volunteers can be cautious about “too much, too fast.” And the calendar always seems to be counting down to the next summer. That’s why our philosophy is to help camps take incremental, affordable steps forward. Some start with covers. Others focus on frames. Many add rentals when the timing feels right. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach—just practical solutions that honor the culture you already cherish. Because at the end of the day, a Scout tent is more than canvas and poles. It’s a first campfire, a rainy night turned into a memory, and friendships that last long after summer ends. Preserving that spirit is at the heart of everything we do.

At Mscapes, we are honored to walk alongside Scouting America in this journey. Together, we can keep those tent cities standing tall—ensuring that every Scout, now and in the future, has a place to dream, discover, and belong.

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ALPS Mountaineering: Supporting Wilderness Stewardship at Philmont Scout Ranch

At the heart of Philmont Scout Ranch lies more than just rugged mountains and endless trails—it’s a place where youth discover responsibility, stewardship, and the spirit of adventure. Since 1939, over a million Scouts and advisors take part in treks across this legendary New Mexico backcountry, guided by principles of conservation and Leave No Trace ethics.

Championing Outdoor Preparedness with ALPS Mountaineering

ALPS Mountaineering has long been committed to helping Scouting families access high-quality outdoor equipment at affordable prices. Through their Hiker Direct program, Scouts, Scout leaders, and staff receive exclusive discounts on essential gear. This initiative ensures every participant—whether it’s a Ranger, Advisor, or youth crew member—is better prepared for the challenges of the trail.  Being prepared isn’t just a motto; it’s the foundation of every great adventure. ALPS Mountaineering’s support empowers participants to focus on the journey and the values behind it: stewardship, responsibility, and respect for the wilderness.

Recommended Gear for a High Adventure Trek 

The right gear can make all the difference. Below is a recommended gear list, curated with the backcountry demands in mind:

Essential Personal Gear

Backpack (60–75 liters) – Comfortable and durable for multi-day treks.

- link to: https://alpsmountaineering.com/packs/internals.html?capacity_liters_multi[2]=50-75

Lightweight tent – ALPS Mountaineering’s backpacking tents are designed for weather resistance and easy setup.

- link to: https://alpsmountaineering.com/tents/backpacking.html

Sleeping bag (20°F rating) – Synthetic or down, lightweight yet warm.

- link to: https://alpsmountaineering.com/sleeping-bags/mummy.html

Sleeping pad – For comfort and insulation from the ground.

- link to: https://alpsmountaineering.com/sleeping-pads.html

Clothing Layers

Moisture-wicking base layers – Quick-dry shirts and lightweight pants.

Insulating mid-layer – Fleece or puffy jacket for chilly evenings.

Rain gear – Lightweight, waterproof jacket and pants.

Hat & gloves – For sun protection and warmth.

Cooking & Camp Gear

Lightweight camp stove – For efficient meal prep.

Mess kit & utensils – Compact and durable.

Water filtration system – Critical for hydration on trail.

Bear-proof food storage – Required  for safety.

Wilderness Pledge Tools

Crew journal or notebook – To lead discussions on Leave No Trace principles.

Reusable bags – For packing out all trash and minimizing waste.

Small first-aid kit – To support the crew in following safety procedures.

A Partnership with Purpose

ALPS Mountaineering’s sponsorship of the Wilderness Pledge Guia Program reflects more than just supplying gear—it’s a commitment to teaching the next generation how to care for the land they explore. From exclusive discounts through Hiker Direct, to their active presence at national Scouting events, ALPS continues to empower youth and leaders with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive outdoors.  Together, Philmont and ALPS Mountaineering are building a legacy: not only of adventure, but of stewardship, conservation, and preparedness.

Central to this partnership is the Wilderness Pledge Guia Program, where each crew designates a leader to help guide their team in living out the Philmont Wilderness Pledge and the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace. ALPS Mountaineering is proud to serve as the official conservation sponsor of this program, helping Scouts develop not just skills for adventure, but values for a lifetime.

Learn more about the Hiker Direct program and explore exclusive gear designed for Scouts at https://alpsmountaineering.com/hikerdirectinfo .”

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Why Our Heavy-Duty Metal Bunk Bed Frames Are the Best Choice for Your Camp [SPONSORED CONTENT]

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