Campouts & Activities
Monthly Campouts
Troop 2970 goes camping once a month, typically on the third weekend of each month. These campouts provide opportunities for scouts to practice outdoor skills, work on advancement requirements, and have fun with friends in the great outdoors.
Campout Planning
Each campout is led by a Scout Lead and supported by an ASM/Adult Leader. The Scout serves as the Senior Patrol Leader for the campout and is responsible for planning the campout in coordination with the ASM/Adult Leader.
For detailed information about campout planning responsibilities and timeline, please download our campout planning guide:
Types of Campouts
Regular Campouts
Monthly weekend campouts focusing on different scout skills, outdoor activities, and advancement opportunities. These typically run from Friday evening to Sunday morning.
Summer Camp
A week-long camp experience at an established BSA camp. Scouts participate in merit badge classes, outdoor activities, and camp traditions.
High Adventure Trips
Challenging expeditions for older scouts, such as backpacking, canoeing, or visiting BSA High Adventure bases like Philmont or Sea Base.
Special Events
Participation in district or council events like camporees, where troops gather for competitions and shared activities.
Recent Campout Locations
Burke Lake Park
Activities included fishing, hiking the lake trail, and outdoor cooking.
Shenandoah National Park
Hiking, nature observation, and wilderness survival skills.
Camp Snyder
Merit badge workshops and patrol competitions.
Goshen Scout Reservation
Summer camp with swimming, boating, shooting sports, and merit badge classes.
Gear and Preparation
Essential Camping Gear
- Tent
- Sleeping bag appropriate for the season
- Sleeping pad
- Backpack or duffel bag
- Water bottles
- Mess kit (plate, bowl, cup, utensils)
- Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
- Scout uniform
- Appropriate clothing for the weather
- Rain gear
- Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
- Personal hygiene items
- Scout Handbook
- First aid kit
Detailed packing lists are provided before each campout based on the specific activities and weather conditions expected.
Campout Registration
Information about upcoming campouts is shared at troop meetings and through our Band platform. Registration typically includes:
- Permission slip
- Medical forms
- Payment for food and campsite fees
- Gear requirements