There’s more information about summer camp on the Resources page, part way down. This includes stuff like how to get there, what to take, and general information about the camps. Much more information is available in the Summer Camp blog archive. See especially the Summer Camp FAQ. Troop 119 has also put together a very nice sheet of directions to camp. (Why reinvent when you can link?)
More from Scoutmaster Hank Manz:
My earlier intelligence was correct. Cash cards do not work at Camp Bell because there is no phone line to verify transactions. Only cash and, I guess, checks work there. At Hidden Valley, just about anything but barter is fine. Cash cards may be purchased by phone or they may be purchased at the Hidden Valley trading post.
Everybody got the merit badges they wanted at Hidden Valley. A couple of Scouts wanted to go for three merit badges forgetting that one of the classes is a double period which limits them to two merit badges. Of course, they may go after other merit badges in their free time. Scouts should review the requirements for the badges and if there is work that should be started at home, then do it. Rain gauges, terrariums, and the like should all be started at home. If you are taking Swimming remember that there is a requirement that requires a long sleeved shirt, belt, and pants. Check it and bring such an outfit to camp with you. Don’t know the requirements? Then go to www.meritbadge.com and check it out! While you are out there, take a look at the resource links as well. Merit badges are a great excuse to study things in detail. You don’t have to be satisfied with the minimum.
There are many more activities available via what Hidden Valley is calling the Action Center. Some of the activities are evening events for older Scouts. Some are afternoon alternatives to the troop program. For instance, mini-JLT courses will be offered. I am madly making copies of the material so that Patrol Leaders will have it in their hands shortly after they hit camp.
We will also have a full schedule of afternoon troop activities. Assault Boats and Watermelon Scramble are on the list of course, along with Troop C.O.P.E., Rifle and Archery Shoot, and a bunch more including Wiffleball. The Green Bars and JASMS claim they can whip the rest of the troop silly in Wiffleball. My bet is they can’t. We will settle this on the last Friday at Hidden Valley.
Keep the elections for SPL in mind. We usually hold those elections on the last night in camp. If you will not be there, but would like to place a name in nomination, send me an e-mail. Yes, you can send me your own name. Remember–Star Scout, probably 14 but could be younger, with an ability to lead the troop.
If you have any specific questions, send me an e-mail before Saturday evening.
Since RFK Hall will be closed Thursday night, the shirt sale is off although I think everybody who needed additional troopwear came down last Sunday. If there are still shirts needed, let me know and we will figure something out. All sizes are Adult–S, M, L, XL and 2XL.
Remember–if you are driving to camp, be there not later than 1 PM ready to check in. Have a day pack with you with a water bottle a snack if you think you need one and your Class A shirt either on or in the pack. At Hidden Valley you will want your swim suit and a towel in the pack as well.