Winter Camp Awareness (WCA) is a fantastic and informational training session offered on the USS Hornet in Alameda. As the largest Youth run event in the Golden Gate Area Council, WCA is hosted and taught by members of Yerba Buena Lodge, the local Order of the Arrow (OA) Lodge of the GGAC. The aim of this event is to teach how to camp safely in cold and frigid conditions while having the most fun. 

Scouts will be taught how to Sleep Warm, choose the proper Tent and Terrain, operate Stoves and Fuel, select Winter Foods, perform Winter First Aid, and choose proper Winter Clothing. This training is essential and will help prepare Scouts for any winter-oriented events, whether it be the upcoming Klondike Derby, your own unit-led events, or any winter events! 

Winter Camp Awareness' historic venue, the USS Hornet aircraft carrier, is a fascinating preservation of the nation's history. It is a place where Scouts can go back in time and walk in the footsteps of their country's servicemen and women. After the event, you will have the opportunity to tour the USS Hornet at your own pace.

Check-in will begin at 8:00 AM, December 6, 2025. The program starts at 9:00 AM and is expected to finish at approximately 4:30 PM. At around 12:00 PM there will be a 40-minute lunch period. Please wear closed toed shoes and warm clothing, and bring a water bottle in a small day pack. We provide an option to purchase lunch during registration that will include a hot dog, chips, fruit, and water.  Due to site limitations, we are unable to offer lunch options for other dietary needs.

Please note the following:

1. This event is not intented for Cub Scouts.
2. Registration is by UNIT only. You will stay with your registered unit throughout the day. Simply indicate the number of youth and adult attendees from your unit. 
3. Do not include any unit members who are serving on staff for the event; they will receive separate instructions to register. 
4. This event is intended for Scouting America Scouts and leaders only.
5. We encourage you to register early, as space is limited. You may register additional attendees as needed until registration closes.
6. Each unit must have a minimum of 2 adults in attendance with their unit throughout the event (YPT requirement).
7. If your unit decides to register for the event, we’ll keep you posted and more information will be provided via email at a later date.
8. OA members staffing the event, please do NOT register here. You will receive separate instructions to register.