Camping

A Letter to Camp Directors in 2025 – Thank YOU

As the last tents are packed away, the last merit badge blue cards signed (or entered into your online system), and the final closing campfires extinguished for the 2025 season, I want to take a moment to say thank you for the incredible work you have done this summer.

From months of planning and preparing your facilities, to recruiting and training staff, to the countless (and sometimes sleepless) nights you’ve spent making sure every Scout was safe and cared for, your leadership has made this summer amazing. You carried the weight of ensuring that Scouting was done right, and you did it with dedication, creativity, and heart.

Because of you, thousands of Scouts experienced moments that will stay with them for a lifetime. Somewhere this summer, a Scout learned to swim for the very first time. Another mastered a life-saving first aid skill like CPR. Someone rode a horse or fired a rifle for the first time, discovering a new passion in the process. You gave Scouts more than skills, you gave them confidence, friendships, and memories that will shape their lives.

I had the opportunity firsthand to renew my understanding of the impact that camp has on our Scouts. My youngest son took a trek to the Northern Tier. With his friends and his adult leaders they set out for the adventure of a lifetime. Armed with nothing but an idea of where they were heading, (and a great interpreter) they paddled deep into the Boundary Waters. At the end of the trip, he returned inspired and proud of all they had accomplished as a team. The growth in each of them was obvious, and it reminded me that the kinds of experiences you provide every day at camp have that same power to shape lives.

Your impact didn’t stop with the campers. You created an environment where your staff could grow, take responsibility, and become leaders. Many of those young people will look back years from now and realize the trust and responsibility you placed in them was a turning point in their lives. Some people want to say that young people are lazy or not hard working, but you saw them go above and beyond to help a fellow Scout or staff member be successful. You helped them learn to put others before themselves and to care for others in a way they may not have done before. You helped them grow and become better people.

The mission of Scouting America comes to life in your camps, and because of your efforts, lives were changed this summer. I hope you take a moment to reflect on that. In the flurry of schedules, managing today’s crisis, and delivering programs, it can be easy to forget just how deeply your work matters. But I assure you it matters more than you know.

On behalf of my son and the thousands of other Scouts you impacted this summer, thank you for your leadership, your passion, and your unwavering commitment to our youth. You have made a difference.

Yours in Scouting,
Tom Pendleton
National Director of Outdoor Programs and Properties

COPE/Climbing / National Jamboree

CASTing Call: Extend Your Summer of Scouting at the 2026 National Jamboree

For summer camp staff looking to take their experience to the next level, an exciting opportunity awaits at the 2026 National Jamboree. The Summit Climbing and Aerial Support Team (CAST) is now recruiting enthusiastic and qualified individuals to help deliver one of Scouting America’s most thrilling program areas.

Held at the Summit Bechtel Reserve, the National Jamboree is Scouting America’s largest gathering—and CAST members will be at the heart of the action, supporting high-adventure activities like climbing, zip lines, canopy tours, and challenge courses.

To be eligible, applicants must:

Be working at a council summer camp in 2026

Be 16 to 29 years old by July 21, 2026

Have a recommendation or endorsement from their camp director

Participants can choose from three staffing windows:

July 19–31

July 19–26

July 26–31
Early arrivals are welcome and encouraged!

While this is an unpaid volunteer position, CAST members will receive meals, a special CAST patch, and the chance to earn a Level 1 certification in Climbing or COPE (for those 18 and older). More importantly, they’ll gain hands-on experience running large-scale programs, connect with fellow staff from across the country, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Registration information: https://www.summitbsa.org/summitcast/

If you’re ready to climb higher and be part of something extraordinary, talk to your camp director and prepare to join CAST. This is your chance to help deliver the adventure of a lifetime at the 2026 National Jamboree.

NCAP

Continuous Improvement in NCAP

Have you ever thought, “If I were in charge of that program, I’d change a few things”?
If so, you’re not alone , and the National Camp Accreditation Program (NCAP) was built with exactly that spirit of improvement in mind.

NCAP was created to help councils assess, strengthen, and sustain their camping programs. Its purpose isn’t to shut camps down, a common misconception when it launched, but rather to ensure every council camp delivers a safe, high-quality, and memorable Scouting experience for youth.

At its core, NCAP helps councils:

Evaluate financial health, program quality, and facilities

See the real impact their camp programs have on their communities

Build strategic plans for continuous improvement

How the Process Works

Councils gather data about their camping operations, then use it to identify opportunities for growth.
Through structured forms, reviews, and planning tools, they can map out steps to elevate both their programs and facilities.

NCAP follows national standards — the baseline level of service and safety every camp should provide. These standards are reviewed annually by Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) who ensure programs meet current industry best practices. Their guidance helps guarantee that when families are deciding how their Scout should spend the summer, they can trust the program will be fun, safe, and of the highest quality.

NCAP isn’t static — it evolves. The NCAP committee actively seeks feedback through:

Focus groups with council leaders

Surveys after the authorization process

Workshops at the National Outdoor Conference

Everything is aimed at one goal: making Scouting camps better every year.

Your Voice Matters

If you have an idea for improving the NCAP process, the committee wants to hear from you. Your insights could help shape the future of Scouting’s camping programs.

Email ncap@scouting.org with your suggestions.

Bottom line: NCAP exists to help councils deliver safe, engaging, and sustainable camping experiences — and it works best when everyone contributes to the process.

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

NCAP / Properties

Finished with Summer Programs at your camp? – Now is a good time to do the CFET

When the National Camp Accreditation Program (NCAP) was introduced, a variety of changes to the Scouting America resident camping program took place. While the standards are focused on health and safety at camps, the program also added several new procedures designed to help councils evaluate the quality of their programs and facilities.

As part of the Authorization to Operate (ATO) application, submitted every 5 years, councils are required to submit the Council Facility Evaluation Tool (CFET)

https://www.scouting.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/CFET-Manual-2025-V4.2.pdf

While it is only required every 5 years, it is recommended that the document be updated every year. The council team that prepares the CFET should focus on the quality of the building at camp – – Do they do a good job of representing the Scouting brand? Do they make a good first impression? Are they in good shape & can they handle the load of the summer program? Try to look at your facilities through the eyes of a first-time Scout & their parents. What do they see & does it make them want to come back?

Pictures are a key part of the CFET. Take lots of them and be sure to focus on the good features, as well as those facilities that need repair or replacement. Photos create a record of the condition of the facilities and if updated annually, they can help the council track wear and tear and can be useful in guiding the strategic plan for the camp(s) and the council.

Another part of the camp evaluation process is the pre or post camp inspection. It is required in the standards. This document can be used to create a checklist of items that require attention prior to opening camp for the next season. It is also a great time to update the CFET photos.

The purpose of NCAP is to help councils evaluate and elevate their camps to new levels of excellence if the quality of their programs and facilities. The CFET and the pre/post camp inspection are key pieces of the goal to reach that level of excellence.

Dan Gille

Strategic Analysis and Properties Committee

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.

National Jamboree

Going to the National Jamboree with Your Scout – Why It’s Worth It (Now More Than Ever)

Every few years, Scouts from across the country gather for an unforgettable experience known as the National Jamboree. For Scouts, it’s a chance to build lifelong friendships, develop leadership skills, and experience the very best that Scouting has to offer. But for parents, guardians, or adult leaders who now have expanded opportunities to attend alongside their Scout, the experience can be just as transformative.

Here’s why going to the National Jamboree with your Scout is a decision you won’t regret, especially with new ways to participate.

-A Shared Adventure

In a time when screens dominate and family time can be rare, the Jamboree offers a unique chance to unplug and reconnect. Whether you’re cheering your Scout on as they conquer a high ropes course or swapping stories around the campfire, you’ll be part of their adventure in a way few parents ever get to experience.

–Witness Their Growth Firsthand

Scouts are constantly challenged at the Jamboree—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Being there means watching your child step outside their comfort zone, take on leadership roles, and grow more confident each day. It’s a front-row seat to their personal development and a powerful reminder of Scouting’s impact.

-Be Part of Something Bigger

The energy of the National Jamboree is unmatched. Tens of thousands of Scouts and volunteers come together to celebrate unity, service, and adventure. Being there in person—surrounded by people who believe in the mission of Scouting—reminds you that you’re part of a movement shaping the future of our youth.

-Support Their Journey

Your presence isn’t just about being there—it’s about being involved. Whether you’re helping with logistics, volunteering at a station, or simply offering encouragement, your support sends a lasting message: “I believe in you.” That message sticks with them long after the tents are packed up.

–Create Lifelong Memories

From the awe-inspiring opening show to spontaneous trading post runs and late-night laughter, the Jamboree is packed with unforgettable moments. Sharing those experiences with your Scout makes them even more meaningful—and creates memories you’ll both treasure for years to come.

New for 2026: Council Contingent Staff Member Option

In response to growing interest from councils and families, the 2026 National Jamboree now includes a new way for adults to attend: as Council Contingent Staff Members.

What’s New?

Councils may now register additional adults beyond the required contingent leaders. These adults will:

Serve as Council Contingent Staff (must be 21+)

Support Jamboree operations during the day

Remain embedded with their contingent in the evenings

Travel, eat, and camp with their contingent

Registration & Recognition

Adults serving as Council Contingent Staff Members will register through their local council as part of the contingent (council approval required). Councils must still follow the standard contingent sizes of 20 or 40.

Each Council Contingent Staff Member will receive the Participant Recognition Kit, which includes:

Two participant patches

A participant neckerchief

A 2026 National Jamboree red daypack

A special staff gift, distributed onsite

Refunds

To thank these volunteers for their service, each Council Contingent Staff Member will receive a $400 refund upon completion of the Jamboree—provided they:

Serve for 6 of the 7 program days

Complete any required pre-Jamboree training

Coordinate with their team lead to fulfill their service schedule

Refunds will be issued to the council for distribution.

Ready to Join the Adventure?

Adults now have a new way to be part of the National Jamboree through the Council Contingent Staff Member role—helping behind the scenes while staying connected with their Scouts. It’s a chance to serve, support, and make lasting memories together.

Stay tuned for registration details and learn more at jamboree.scouting.org.

National Outdoor Conference

It’s Not Too Late to Register for the National Outdoor Conference!

There’s still time to join us at the National Outdoor Conference September 17-21 at Philmont Scout Ranch. You will not want to miss this event with this year’s theme of “Rooted in the outdoors, Scouting’s path forward” as we explore how the outdoors has shaped the path of Scouting for years and continues to be our path to the future. With over 100 electives sessions there are sessions for everyone. So you don’t want to miss this opportunity to meet new friends, connect with old ones, and come away educated and inspired to meet the challenges of Scout camping.

We’re thrilled to announce our Friday night featured speaker: Jennifer Pharr Davis, internationally recognized adventurer, author, and speaker. Jennifer is best known for setting the fastest known time on the Appalachian Trail in 2011, hiking 2,190 miles in just 46 days (an average of 47 miles per day). She has trekked more than 14,000 miles across six continents, inspired audiences across the globe, and served on the President’s Council for Sports, Fitness and Nutrition.
Learn more about Jennifer at jenniferpharrdavis.com.

We’re also excited to welcome back on Thursday morning, Dr. Michael McClam, who will share valuable insights on MESH (Mental, Emotional, Social Health) and supporting camp staff. His sessions have been a highlight for many past attendees, and we’re thrilled to have him return.

Plus, you won’t want to miss Thursday night’s special guest speaker, Taylor Anderson who will take us on the journey of a lifetime – sharing her inspiring story of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and the lessons learned along the way.

And don’t forget the preconference sessions still have space open too!

Sign up today.

For more information visit the 2025 National Outdoor Conference website at https://www.scouting.org/outdoor-programs/noc/

The National Outdoor Conference is sponsored by Black Pug Software

Camping / Range & Target Activities / Safety / Shooting Sports

Pumpkins in the air?

Fall is also one of the best seasons to be outdoors in Scouting. The mornings are crisp, the afternoons are perfect for a hike, and the woods are showing their “true colors” as the leaves change. Around Scouting America, leaders and youth are pulling out the flannel shirts, unrolling sleeping bags, and heading into the beauty of fall for camping trips, service projects, and fun seasonal activities.

Fall is one of the most popular seasons for Scout Camping.

Cooler weather makes campfires more inviting, hikes more enjoyable, and sleeping outdoors beneath the stars a bit more tolerable (ever slept outside in July in Texas?). Lots of units take advantage of the cooler weather to enjoy outdoor activities like:

Weekend campouts with Dutch oven cooking or cooking over a fire

Fall service projects like trail cleanup or park beautification

Orienteering challenges in leaf-strewn forests

Harvest-themed campfires and fellowship gatherings

And while fall enjoyment is the goal, safety always at the top of Scouting’s agenda goes along with it.

The Temptation of “Pumpkin Chunkin” – And Why It’s Prohibited

It’s hard to imagine fall without pumpkins – pies, jack-o’-lanterns. Certain groups have been tempted in recent years to add “pumpkin chunkin” to their camp activities. If you are not familiar this is using catapults, trebuchets, or air cannons to shoot the pumpkins in the air.

It might look like harmless fun, but in Scouting America, it’s on the list of prohibited activities. The Guide to Safe Scouting prohibits the launching of pumpkins or other objects with tools such as air cannons or trebuchets because of the inherent danger posed by such activity. Hazards include:

High-velocity projectiles that can injure people or damage property

Unstable homemade launching devices that can collapse or misfire

Inconsistent projectile paths that make safety zones difficult to control

If it’s on the Guide to Safe Scouting “prohibited activities” list, it’s out – no exceptions. The idea isn’t to ruin the fun but to make sure everyone has fun without getting hurt while doing it.

Safe and Fun Fall Options

If you prefer a pumpkin activity that still brings the essence of the season, try:

Pumpkin decorating contests (paint, markers, and creativity encouraged!)

Pumpkin bowling with lightweight plastic pumpkins and pins – Cub Scouts vs parents makes this a hit.

Pumpkin relay races (carrying, or rolling, not tossing!)

Cooking pumpkin treats in a Dutch oven at camp

These exercises keep the focus on fun, teamwork, and seasonal spirit while still falling within Scouting America guidelines.

Enjoying the Season the Scouting Way

As leaves crunch and campfires crackle, remember that in Scouting America, adventure and safety go hand-in-hand. And with the Guide to Safe Scouting, leaders have it so everyone can head home with great memories and unscathed.

So don your fleece, stock your marshmallows and graham crakers, and get outside this fall. The weather is crisp, the trails are calling, and the adventures are waiting.

Camping / Cub Scouting

Using Camp to Recruit New Cub Scouts: Turning Outdoor Adventures into Membership Growth

Camping is one of the most effective and engaging tools for recruiting new Cub Scouts. It offers a hands-on, immersive experience that highlights the fun, adventure, and core values of Scouting which is something that’s hard to replicate in a church basement or meeting room. Whether it’s a day camp, pack campout, district family weekend, or something else, camp provides a dynamic gateway into the Scouting movement.

Here are key ways to turn camp into a powerful recruitment engine:

Invite Non-Scouts
Encourage current Cub Scouts to bring friends to camp events. A “bring-a-buddy” approach is a fun and effective way to introduce new families to the program.

Showcase the Program in Action
Use camp activities to demonstrate Scouting’s values. Let prospective Scouts and their families see the Scout Oath and Law in real-life situations.

Engage Parents
Camps provide a welcoming environment for leaders to answer questions, share stories, and build trust with new families.

Create a Welcoming Atmosphere
Train staff and volunteers to be inclusive, enthusiastic, and friendly. A warm welcome can make all the difference in helping new families feel at home.

Scouting America’s camps and properties are among its greatest assets. These outdoor spaces offer immersive, high-energy environments that showcase the very best of the Cub Scouting experience. Here are 15 practical, proven, and creative ways councils and units can use these facilities to recruit new families:

Host “Bring-a-Buddy” Day Camps or short-term camps
Create Family Camp Weekends for Newcomers
Use Camps as Open Houses
Offer Seasonal Camps (Fall Fest, Winter Wonderland, Spring Bash)
Partner with Local Organizations
Create “Cub Scout Starter Camps”
Incorporate Service Projects for Youth
Host Parent Info Nights at Campfire Rings
Use Long term Camps as a Sneak Peek
Promote Camps as “Tech-Free Adventure Zones”
Showcase Your Camp Year-Round on Social Media
Offer Scout-for-a-Day Patches
Include Registration Stations at Events
Feature Scout Testimonials and Family Stories
Invite Local Media to Cover Camp Events

Camp is more than just a fun outing, it’s a strategic opportunity to grow Scouting. By offering engaging, family-friendly outdoor experiences, camps can inspire new families to join and stay involved in Cub Scouting for years to come. With intentional planning and creative outreach, Scouting America’s camps can become powerful engines for recruitment and long-term engagement.

Properties

Winterizing Scouting America Camp Facilities

For some of us the winter coming means cold temperatures and potentially snow. But to keep our facilities in good shape we have to think about some things to ensure they are ready for next season. This includes getting the camp ready for the winter. To “Be Prepared” for the winter here are a few things you need to remember.

Winterizing a camp involves preparing the facilities and grounds for cold weather and potential winter usage by following a set of actions to protect property, equipment, and plumbing from potential damage. 

Here are some key steps for winterizing Scouting America camp facilities:

Preparing the grounds and exterior
- Clear debris: Remove leaves, branches, and any other debris from the camp area, especially around buildings, drainage systems, and pathways.
- Trim trees: Trim back tree branches that are close to buildings or power lines to prevent potential damage from winter storms.
- Inspect and repair structures: Check roofs, siding, windows, and doors for any damage that could allow water, pests, or cold air to enter and make necessary repairs to prevent more significant issues from developing during the winter months. 
Water systems
- Shut off the main water supply: Locate the main water shut-off valve, typically near the water meter, and turn off the water supply to all buildings in the camp.
- Drain all pipes: Open all faucets, including those for sinks, showers, and outdoor spigots, to drain the water from the lines.
- Blow out the lines: Use an air compressor to force any remaining water out of the pipes. This step helps prevent freezing and potential burst pipes during cold temperatures.
- Drain water heaters and tanks: Turn off the power or gas supply to water heaters, then drain them to prevent damage from freezing water.
- Winterize appliances: Drain water from dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerator lines. Consider adding non-toxic RV antifreeze to the drains of sinks, tubs, and toilet tanks to prevent any residual water from freezing. 
Interior spaces
- Remove perishables: Remove all perishable food items from refrigerators, freezers, and cabinets to avoid spoilage and pests.
- Clean thoroughly: Deep clean all cabins, kitchens, and other indoor spaces. This helps deter pests and makes for an easier re-opening in the spring.
- Secure openings: Close and lock all windows and doors securely. Seal any cracks or openings in walls, foundations, and around pipes to prevent pest entry and drafts.
- Protect textiles: Close drapes or blinds to protect furniture and other textiles from sun damage, and use mothballs or dryer sheets to deter pests in storage areas for linens and bedding. 
Equipment and tools
- Store summer recreation equipment: Clean and store boats, kayaks, and other summer recreational equipment in a protected area to avoid damage from winter weather.
- Winterize gas-powered tools: Properly clean, drain, and store lawnmowers, weed whackers, and other gas-powered tools according to manufacturer instructions. 
Other important considerations
- Communication: Clearly communicate winterization procedures and any necessary precautions to camp staff, volunteers, or anyone who might access the facilities during the off-season.
- Winter programming (optional): If the camp will be used for winter programs, ensure adequate heating is available and necessary winter gear, like snowshoes, is on hand.
- Emergency plan: Have a clear plan for emergency situations, like power outages or burst pipes during the winter months.
- Follow Scouting America guidelines: Adhere to all safety guidelines and best practices for cold-weather camping and outdoor activities outlined by Scouting America.

By diligently following these steps, you can effectively winterize your BSA summer camp facilities, ensuring their protection during the off-season and a smooth reopening in the spring. 

2025 August-September Edition