History and Purpose of the Camporee

A Legacy of Scouting Adventure

The camporee has been a cornerstone of Scouting since the early days of the movement, providing an opportunity for Scouts to gather, compete, and grow in outdoor skills. The first National Camporee in the United States took place in 1935, but the tradition of Scouts coming together for skill-based competition and adventure dates back even further. While large jamborees bring together Scouts from across the nation and the world, camporees focus on regional challenges, where patrols and troops put their training to the test in an immersive, outdoor setting.

Purpose of Our Scout Weekend Camporee

This camporee is more than just a weekend in the woods—it is an ultimate test of Scout skills, teamwork, and perseverance. The event has been carefully designed to reflect the core values of Scouting while also offering a thrilling and competitive experience.

Adventure Through Exploration – Scouts will embark on a 5-mile hike, using orienteering and geocaching skills to navigate from station to station. Each stop presents a new challenge, reinforcing both traditional and modern Scouting techniques.

Skill-Based Competitions – Throughout the hike, Scouts will compete in events tied to rank advancements and core Scouting skills (See Description Below)

The Ultimate Navigation Adventure – Unlike traditional camporees, this event incorporates an interactive navigation element, where teams must locate hidden coordinates, solve puzzles, and work together to uncover clues leading to the final mystery challenge.

The Final Challenge – Teams will decode coordinates, to unlock a final treasure chest. This challenge mirrors real-world problem-solving and will test Scouts on their critical thinking, leadership, and teamwork.

The Spirit of Friendly Competition – Each patrol will compete for points, with bonus awards for teamwork, leadership, and creativity.

A Tradition of Leadership and Growth – Camporees have always been about more than competition—they shape future leaders. Scouts will not only sharpen their skills but also develop confidence, resilience, and the ability to work as a team.

As Lord Baden-Powell once said, “The most worthwhile thing is to try to put happiness into the lives of others.” This camporee aims to do just that—bringing Scouts together for a weekend of adventure, camaraderie, and personal growth, ensuring they leave better, stronger, and more prepared for future challenges.