Top Boy Scout Camps in America: A Guide for Parents and Scouts
Choosing the right Boy Scout camp can make a significant impact on the experience and personal growth of Scouts. Across the United States, there are numerous exceptional camps that offer unique experiences and programs. Here, we explore some of the top Boy Scout camps known for their facilities, activities, and overall quality.
Best Boy Scout Camps in the U.S.
Whether it’s an adventure in the mountains, a camp by the coast, or a water sports-focused experience, each of these camps provides a distinctive opportunity for Scouts to develop skills, make friends, and explore the great outdoors.
Philmont Scout Ranch - New Mexico
A premier high-adventure camp, Philmont Scout Ranch is located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of New Mexico. This camp is renowned for its extensive trail network and high-adventure programs that focus on outdoor skills and leadership.
Summit Bechtel Reserve - West Virginia
Home to the National Scout Jamboree, Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia offers a wide range of high-adventure activities including zip-lining, mountain biking, and white-water rafting. This facility is designed for both Scouts and Venturers, providing a thrilling and immersive experience in nature.
Camp Meriwether - Oregon
Located on the scenic Oregon coast, Camp Meriwether is a haven for Scouts who enjoy activities like sailing, kayaking, and hiking. This camp’s coastal location offers a unique outdoor experience that combines the excitement of the ocean with the tranquility of nature.
Camp Green Lake - Texas
Camp Green Lake, known for its diverse programming, offers a variety of merit badges, outdoor skills training, and leadership development opportunities. This Texas-based camp is perfect for Scouts who want to explore a range of activities and challenges in a supportive environment.
Camp Baldy - California
Situated in the San Bernardino Mountains, Camp Baldy is a popular destination for Scouts who enjoy hiking, camping, and nature activities. This camp emphasizes personal growth and leadership, helping Scouts build confidence and develop essential skills.
Camp Oljato - California
Camp Oljato, located in the Sierra Nevada, offers a beautiful natural setting for Scouts to engage in traditional camping, hiking, and merit badge activities. This camp is known for its friendly staff and engaging outdoor activities.
S bar F Scout Ranch - Missouri
This camp provides a mix of traditional Scouting activities and high-adventure opportunities, including canoeing, rock climbing, and wilderness survival training. The S bar F Scout Ranch is a great choice for Scouts who want a blend of classic Scouting and exciting adventure.
Camp Tahuaya - Texas
With a focus on outdoor skills, water sports, and merit badge programs, Camp Tahuaya is a well-rounded camp that offers a variety of engaging activities. The friendly staff ensures that Scouts have a fun and supportive experience.
Camp McKee - Kentucky
Offering a variety of programs including aquatics, climbing, and environmental education, Camp McKee is praised for its beautiful surroundings and well-maintained facilities. This camp provides a nurturing environment for Scouts to grow both personally and academically.
Camp Hiawatha - Michigan
Nestled in the Manistee National Forest, Camp Hiawatha features a range of outdoor activities including canoeing, fishing, and hiking. Set in a picturesque environment, this camp offers Scouts a chance to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy a memorable experience.
When choosing a camp, consider factors like location, available programs, and the age of the Scouts. Each of these camps provides a unique experience that can help Scouts develop skills, make friends, and enjoy the outdoors.