Camping – gardenstatecouncil.instawp.xyz

Our Mission

Organized camping is more than a night under the stars. It's a creative, educational experience that builds character through cooperative group living in the outdoors. By connecting Scouts with the natural world, it fosters meaningful growth across every dimension of life: physical, mental, spiritual, and social.

Promotes health & wellness

Outdoor activity builds healthy habits and an active, energized lifestyle.

Builds self-reliance & resourcefulness

Scouts develop confidence by learning to solve problems and rely on their own abilities.

Encourages spiritual growth

Time in nature naturally creates space for reflection and a deeper connection to the world around us.

Strengthens social bonds

Shared experiences build the sense of community and belonging that define the Scouting spirit.

Teaches citizenship

Scouts develop a sense of responsibility for one another and for the environment they share.

The Cub Scout Outdoor Program

The outdoors is where a Cub Scout's most memorable moments happen. From traditional campouts to unique "camp-in" adventures, families have countless opportunities to explore, discover, and grow together outside the walls of everyday life.

Every outdoor experience, whether pitching a tent under the stars or spending the night inside a museum or ballpark, helps Cub Scouts build a lifelong respect for the environment and the world around them.

Pack Camping

Traditional outdoor campouts that bring the Pack together in nature.

Camp-Ins

Unique overnight adventures hosted by non-Scouting organizations at one-of-a-kind locations like museums and ballparks.

Ready to plan your next adventure?

Download the current list of Garden State Council-approved locations for Pack camping and camp-in adventures.

Approved Overnight Locations for Cub Packs

The Scouts BSA Outdoor Program

Outdoor adventure is at the heart of every Scouting experience. When young people join Scouting, they're promised exactly that: the chance to explore, discover, and be inspired by the world around them. Because kids don't just enjoy the outdoors, they thrive in it.

Outdoor Adventure Resources

Conservation Publications List

Camping Publications List

Preparing Troop Leadership for Summer Camp

Camporee Guide

Trek Safely: Adventure Plan

BSA’s Annual Health and Medical Record Forms

Garden State Council Camps

Our Council camp properties are home to a wide range of activities and serve as the perfect backdrop for units to run their own programs. Visit our property reservation site to explore each camp's features and plan your next outing

Camp Reservations

Pine Hill Scout Reservation

Features

Convenient to Philadelphia
Range and Target Activities
Canoeing / Fishing
Outdoor Event Space
Tent Sites, Lean-Tos, Cabins

Learn More

Roosevelt Scout Reservation

Features

Range and Target Activities
Tent Sites, Lean-Tos, Cabins
Large Pavilion with Power
Swimming Pool (seasonal)

Learn More

Camping Awards

Camping is its own reward, but why stop there? Scouts and Scouters in Troops and Crews can earn special recognition from the Garden State Council for their time spent outdoors and the camping milestones they achieve along the way.

Winter Camper Award

Think camping is just a warm-weather activity? Think again. Scouts, Venturers, and adult leaders who camp "under canvas" for at least 4 nights between December 1 and March 30 can earn the exclusive Garden State Council Winter Camper Award.

Nights don't need to be consecutive, but daytime activities should take place mostly outdoors. Best of all, the special Council Shoulder Patch changes every year, making it a unique keepsake for every season you earn it.

Ready to brave the cold? Download the details and submission form below and pick up your patch at the Council Service Center in Westampton.

Submission Form

Scouts and adult volunteers standing behind a refreshment table at an outdoor Scouting event.

Support Our Scouting Troops

Support can take many forms: Donate through Friends of Scouting, purchase popcorn or camp cards from a local Scout, attend our Women of Achievement dinner or regional Citizenship Awards dinners, and so much more. Your support of Scouting enables Garden State Council to support the experiences of nearly 5,000 youth throughout South Jersey!

Donate