Short-Term Camp Administrator Training (National Camping School Certification)

Help Pacific Harbors Council grow safe, high-quality outdoor programs. With a limited number of currently certified Short-Term Camp Administrators, we are seeking additional volunteers and event leaders who can help support camporees, trainings, family camps, Wood Badge, NYLT, and other overnight programs. This course provides the knowledge and certification needed to make that possible.

Every successful short-term camp begins with strong planning, effective leadership, and a commitment to safety.

The Short-Term Camp Administrator (STCA) Training is a National Camping School certification course designed for Scouters who plan, lead, support, or oversee council and district overnight events lasting one to three nights. This course prepares participants to administer short-term camps in accordance with the National Camp Accreditation Program (NCAP) standards and Scouting America's health, safety, and program requirements.

Examples of events that require a trained Short-Term Camp Administrator include camporees, Webelos Woods & AOL Adventures, BALOO and IOLS trainings, Wood Badge, NYLT, Order of the Arrow events, family camping weekends, and other district or council overnight programs.

During this interactive course, participants will learn how to:

• Understand and apply NCAP Short-Term Camp Standards
• Plan and administer safe, quality overnight events
• Conduct site appraisals and event safety reviews
• Complete required authorization and assessment paperwork
• Identify and mitigate program risks
• Ensure health, safety, sanitation, and emergency preparedness requirements are met
• Build a culture of continuous improvement for Scouting events
• Support event committees, program directors, and volunteers in delivering exceptional experiences for youth and families

The Short-Term Camp Administrator plays a critical role in ensuring that council and district events are conducted safely, efficiently, and in compliance with Scouting America standards. This certification is valid for two years and fulfills the National Camping School requirement to serve as a Short-Term Camp Administrator.

Who Should Attend?

This course is strongly recommended for:

• Camporee Chairs and Event Directors
• District and Council Program Volunteers
• Camping Committee Members
• Training Event Coordinators
• Order of the Arrow Event Leaders
• Wood Badge, NYLT, and Training Course Directors
• Camp Staff and Future Camp Directors
• Any Scouter interested in helping plan and operate council or district overnight events

Prerequisites

Participants must:

• Be a currently registered Scouter
• Be at least 21 years of age
• Complete any pre-course assignments provided by the instructor

Certification

Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive National Camping School Short-Term Camp Administrator certification, valid for two years.
 

This training is for individuals who have not previously been certified as Short-term Camp Administrators or those whose training has expired beyond 60 days. Training will last about 8.5 hours with interactions and discussions designed to help meet the needs of participants while conveying strategies to serve in this role. 

Certification Note: Adults of all ages are welcome to attend; however, participants must be 21 years of age or older to receive National Camping School Short-Term Camp Administrator certification.