Camping

Cub Scout camping is a family-centric program and is a major part of Cub Scouting. Pack 28 conducts a family campout every Spring, and older scouts participate in weekend camping in the Fall and Spring. If your family has never been camping, you may wish to consider some of the information below before your first campout.

Guidelines

Cub Scout youth may tent with a parent or guardian as outlined in Scouting’s Barriers to Abuse.
- In all other programs, youth and adults tent separately.
- Spouses may share tents.
Cub Scout youth should attend the camping event with their parent(s)/ guardian(s).
- Lions and Tigers must have their adult partner present to take part.
- For all other ranks: only in exceptional circumstances, a Cub Scout whose parent or legal guardian cannot attend a unit overnight camping trip may participate under the supervision of another registered adult member of the BSA, a parent of a Cub Scout who is also attending. The unit leader and a parent or legal guardian must agree to the arrangement, and all Youth Protection policies apply. At no time may another adult accept responsibility for more than one additional “non family member” youth.
- Webelos and Arrow of Light Den Camping: Each Scout should attend with their parent(s) or guardian(s). A Webelos or Arrow of Light Scout whose parent or legal guardian cannot attend a den overnight camping trip may participate under the supervision of at least two registered leaders. The leaders and a parent or legal guardian must agree to the arrangement, and all Youth Protection policies apply.

Gear Checklist

**IMPORTANT NOTE: You can borrow items on this list until you are sure your Scout likes to camp. The Wallingford area has lots of Scout families who are able to lend gear to novice campers. Contact your Den Leader, Cubmaster, or Committee Chair for help locating equipment.

Six Essentials

The "Cub Scout Six Essentials" are necessary items for every outdoor activity like hiking and camping: First Aid Kit, Water Bottle, Flashlight, Trail Food, Sun Protection, and Whistle.

Tent**

For family camping, the family (adults and youth) shares a tent. Make sure your tent can accommodate the entire family. The capacity count on most packaging assumes that campers are sleeping very closely together with little room for gear storage – so a six-person tent will normally hold four family campers.

Tent Footprint

A tent footprint is a piece of protective fabric/material that is laid under the tent to provide a moisture barrier and protect the tent floor from abrasion and punctures.

Sleep System**

Make sure to check the weather forecast before packing your sleep system. This group typically includes:

Sleeping bag, blanket, or flat sheet (depending on weather)
Sleeping pad, mattress, or cot
Pillow

Lighting

Every camper should have their own lighting – either a lantern, flashlight, or headlamp. Also, every tent should have at least one item that can project red light for nighttime vision. Headlamps with elastic straps are helpful and keep hands free. Ensure lights are fully charged and consider bringing extra batteries.

Water Bottle

Hydration is critical in all seasons, so every camper must have a reusable Nalgene-style water bottle. A label with the camper's name is required. Cub Scout family camp will always have running, potable water available near the campsite.

Clothes

Layers of clothes are much warmer than one heavy jacket, plus they allow Scouts to adjust to changes in weather. Avoid cotton – it holds moisture. Wicking clothes that pull moisture away from the body are the best base layer. Don’t worry about name brands – wicking clothes all work the same. A wicking layer with a long-sleeved shirt, sweater, and outer jacket will keep Scouts warm.

Scouts don't normally change clothes unless forced to by rain. To be safe, pack at least one full change in your gear. Tip: fully changing into dry clothes before sleeping helps you stay warm.

Caps & Hats

Caps are helpful to keep faces protected from the sun. Knitted hats are important and are often worn to bed when camping in a tent in colder weather.

Jacket

A jacket appropriate for the weather will help Scouts keep warm.

Rain Gear

"Be Prepared" for changes in the forecast and have rain gear to help stay dry.

Gloves

Water resistant gloves are highly recommended for cooler temperatures.

Socks

Wool is better than cotton, and extra pairs are recommended for any outdoor event. A clean pair of socks is CRITICAL during cold or wet camping as wet feet can lead to long-term conditions.

Sun Protection

Sun protection, even when cloudy, is important! Sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm, and a wide-brimmed hat can help protect Scouts from the sun.

Bug Spray

Bug spray can help keep pesky insects away.

Footwear

If it is cold and wet, boots are highly recommended. Sneakers, Crocs, and other footwear do not provide the warmth and sturdiness necessary for wet weather. In addition to boots, a set of around-camp shoes (sneakers, Crocs, etc.) can make the evening more comfortable. Slip-ons are very practical around camp, especially for getting in and out of tents. Shoes must be closed toe for safety and security.

Toiletries

This is a must have – it should be a bag (can be a zip lock) with toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, comb, and other toiletries. The bag should be readily available to grab before bed and first thing in the morning. An inexpensive toiletry bag is often sturdier and may have a loop/hook for hanging in the bathroom.

Personal Mess Kit (optional)

A mess kit can contain a reusable plate, bowl, cup, and utensils. Dishes will be washed after meals. A mesh bag can be used to hang to dry after washing.

Pocket Knife

Cub Scouts don’t usually earn the right to carry a pocket knife until the latter part of their year as a Bear Scout. Once they earn their "Whittlin' Chip," they may carry a pocket knife to some activities when explicitly authorized by the supervising Leader. There are many knives available, but it's hard to beat an entry-level Victorinox "Swiss Army" knife for the purposes of Cub Scouting.

REMINDER: Cub Scouts are not permitted to carry fixed blade knives under any circumstances.

Camp Chair

On most camping evenings, the Pack gathers around a fire for s’mores, skits, and fellowship. A camp chair may make life more comfortable and enjoyable. Any outdoor chair will work.

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