Camping Merit Badge – A complete guide - Path to Eagle (2024)

What’s Scouting without camping? Camping is one of Scouting’s time honored traditions and one of the most important skills for any scout. It’s no wonder then that the camping merit badge is required for anyone hoping the achieve the rank of Eagle. The camping merit badge will teach you how to camp safely, skillfully and have fun doing it. Due to the requirement of having 20 nights spend camping this merit badge will likely not be the first eagle required badge but still can be done fairly early if you are an eager camper.

Timeframe/Difficulty

The camping merit can be one of the most time consuming badges. For Scouts who don’t camp often, racking up 20 nights under the days could take upwards of 2 years. Most of the other requirements are completed during these 20 days and nights camping, and the others can be done fairly easily. For that reason I cannot give an appropriate time approximation as it will vary wildly based on how long it takes for you to spend 20 nights camping

As far as difficulty, I give camping a 5/10. While there are some requirements that might challenge, there is nothing in the camping merit badge that a motivated and perseverant Scout can’t overcome.

Tips for Success

Tip #1

Track your camping nights starting at the beginning of Scouts. Knowing when, where and for how long you camped will be extremely helpful as you work on this badge. My troop gave out binders to first year Scouts with a camping log in the back. I would recommend you set aside a binder or note book for Scouting and keep track of your camping nights as well as service hours. Be sure to record the dates, place and # of nights you spent camping.

Tip #2

Try to complete a camping requirement each outing. Due to most camping requirements having to be done on camping trips, it will be easiest to spread out across multiple outings rather than trying to cram them all into one.

Tip #3

Complete this badge with a buddy or your patrol. Quite a few of camping’s requirements involve doing things with your patrol so it would make the most sense to complete the badge as a patrol, or at the very least a buddy. This also means that you will have someone to ask for help if you ever need it.

Full Guide

***This guide is only intended as a starting point for your research. Directly copying the information offered here is plagiarism. Doing your own research will allow you to get the most out of this badge and maintain the 12 points of the scout law. A scout is trustworthy!***

Requirement 1

1. Do the following

a. Explain to your counselor the most likely hazards you may encounter while participating in camping activities and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, and respond to these hazards

b. Discuss with your counselor why it is important to be aware of weather conditions before and during your camping activities. Tell how you can prepare should the weather turn bad during your campouts.

c. Show that you know first aid for and how to prevent injuries or illnesses that could occur while camping, including hypothermia, frostbite, heat reactions, dehydration, altitude sickness, insect stings, tick bites, snakebite, blisters, and hyperventilation.

The classic first aid requirement. This requirement will probably seem repetitive to the seasoned merit badge earner as almost all outdoor badges start will a requirement similar to this one. Regardless, it is still important to keep safety in mind when camping.

Hazards

Heading out into the woods presents many hazards to the unprepared camper. These could include –

1. Animals
   
2. Weather
   
3. Ticks/Mosquitoes
   
4. Dehydration
   
5. Getting lost
   

Pick a few of these and make a plan for how you can anticipate, prevent mitigate and respond to each hazard. For example, to plan for animals, first do some research and find out what animals inhabit the area you will be camping. This will allow you to anticipate potential hazards. To prevent animal hazards, travel diligently and keep open food items in waterproof containers or hang them in bear bag. If you are camping in bear country, you could mitigate and respond to a potential bear hazard by carrying bear spray and knowing how to identify a bear quickly. I like the saying “Brown get down, black attack.” Brown and Grizzly bears are generally more aggressive and it is best to attempt to ride an attack from them out. In contrary black bears are more timid and yelling and making noise will often scare them away. Do similar depths of research for a few other hazards and you’ll have 1a complete!

Weather

Weather can make or break your camping trip. Nobody like a soggy sleep bag. That is why it is important to be aware of the expected weather conditions before you start your camping trip. If the weather calls for rain, make sure that you both have and bring a functioning rain fly as well as water proof tent and properly fitting rain gear(You should still bring these things even if the forecast doesn’t call for rain. Meteorologists are wrong more than they are right. After spending a few too many campouts thoroughly soggy, I always carry my rain gear with my in my day pack and I would recommend you do that same. While your camping be aware of any extreme weather warnings in your area. Extreme storms can fall trees and create other hazards that are very dangerous to campers. Make sure you have a safe place you can go or a way to quickly get to a safe place in the event of a storm.

First Aid

Being able to administer first aid is also an important skill for campers. Someone will almost certainly get injured on your camping trip, whether it be scraped knee or rolled ankle, and it’s important to be able to cure these basic ailments so that your camping trip doesn’t have to be cut short.

Hypothermia

Hypothermia is caused by prolonged exposure to cold conditions and lowering in body temperature. If not properly treated, it can be fatal. A person might have hypothermia if they have any of the following symptoms: uncontrolled shivering, slurred or slowed speech, confusion or memory loss, or blued or pale skin. A person might not know they are hypothermic as the symptoms set on slowing and confused thinking prevents self awareness. To treat, first take the victim to the warmest place available. If you are not near any building or shelter, find a place that is out of any wind. If the victim has any wet clothes on, remove them. Wrap the victim in as many layers as possible and give them warm liquids if available. Don’t give a hypothermia victim steaming hot liquids as heating up too quickly could cause them to enter thermal shock.

Frost bite

Frost bite is caused by the freezing of skin. It is most common on limbs such as fingers or toes. Some symptoms of frostbite include: cold skin with a prickling or tingling feeling, numbness, hard or waxy skin, skin that looks red, white, bluish-white, grayish-yellow, purplish, brown or ashen. It is most important to prevent frostbite as it can cause permanent damage and even limb loss. If you or someone around you begins to feel symptoms of frostbite immediately get to a warmer place and slowly warm the affected limb. If the affected area has already gone number or has hard or waxy skin get to a doctor as quickly as possible.

Heat Reactions

There are 5 heat reactions varying in severity. This chart from the CDC gives a great overview of each and what to do if you are experience them.

Dehydration

Dehydration is a result of lack of water in the body caused by sweating and exertion without replenishing fluids. Some symptoms include : extreme thirst, dark colored urine, dizziness, confusion or fatigue. To prevent dehydration, drink lots of fluids throughout the day, especially if you are sweating. The Mayo Clinic recommends drinking whenever you feel thirsty as being a good starting point.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is caused by a sudden increase in altitude which leads to the brain getting less oxygen due to the lower pressure at higher heights. Symptoms include headache, fatigue, shortness of breath and in extreme cases difficulty walking. If you plan on camping at a altitude significantly higher than your normal altitude try to give yourself time to adjust to the new heights. Bring an over the counter anti inflammatory medicine to help with headaches. If you feel severe symptoms such as difficult breathing at rest or cognitive loss, descend to a lower altitude as soon as possible.

Insect Stings

Insect stings can varying wildly in intensity and severeness. Be aware of what insects are found in your area and what the effects of there stings are. There are 2 venomous spiders found in the US to be aware of. These are the brown recluse and black widow. Know what these spiders look like and what to do in the event of being bitten. Also be sure that you know whether or not you are allergic to common bee stings as these are the most common inset stings and if allergic could be fatal.

Tick Bites

Ticks are fact of life in the deep woods. They are small insects the jump from tall grass or trees onto warm blooded mammals. They then bite into the skin and feed off of their victims blood. Ticks can carry many dangerous diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and babesiosis. To avoid tick bites, wear long sleeves and pants whenever possible. Also, do daily tick checks on your entire body before going to sleep. Be sure to check thoroughly as ticks can often crawl into places you would never expect.

Snake Bites

Snake bites be a huge hazard if bitten by a venomous snake. Be aware of the snakes found in your area and be able to identify any venomous snakes you might encounter on your camping trip. Try to stay away from tall grass or other thick wooded areas as that is where snakes most commonly hunt. If you are bitten by a snake, clean the wound thoroughly and if you are unable to 100% identify the snake as non-venomous, contact emergency services.

Blisters

Blisters are caused by excessive pressure or rubbing on skin. They are most common on hands or feet after working with them. A blister appears as a bubble of fluid on the skin. Never pop a blister as this opens the wound and could introduce infection. Instead, apply moleskin or wrap the blister to protect it. Try to avoid putting pressure on it and let the blister go away naturally.

Hyperventilation

Hyperventilation is the name for rapid, uncontrolled breathing. It can be caused by a variety of things such as: panic, physical exertion, severe pain, or lung disease. Excessive hyperventilation can lead to loss of consciousness or even death. If afflicted, attempt to calm yourself down and control breath. The 4-7-8 breathing method discussed here can work great. If symptoms persist for over 20 minutes or worsen even when attempting to slow breathing seek professional help.

Requirement 2

2. Learn the Leave No Trace principles and the Outdoor Code and explain what they mean. Write a personal and group plan for implementing these principles on your next outing.

A core part of Scouting is learning about and developing a respect for the environment. It’s important to maintain this respect while camping. Scouts do this through the principles of Leave No Trace and the Outdoor Code. The 7 principles of Leave No Trace are –

1. Plan Ahead and Be Prepared
   
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
   
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
   
4. Leave What You Find
   
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
   
6. Respect Wildlife
   
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors
   

The Outdoor Code is as follows –

“As an American, I will do my best to –

• Be clean in my outdoor manners.
  
• Be careful with fire.
  
• Be considerate in the outdoors.
  
• Be conservation minded.”
  

I recommend you learn both of these by heart as they are extremely important and will serve you for the rest of your life. More information about Leave No Trace can be found here and here and more information about the Outdoor Code can be found here.

Once you have internalized these two doctrines you should be able to apply them to camping fairly easily.

Requirement 3

3. Make a written plan* for an overnight trek and show how to get to your camping spot by using a topographical map and one of the following:

(a) A compass

(b) A GPS receiver**

(c) A smartphone with a GPS app*

* To complete this requirement, you may use the Scout Planning Worksheet at http://troopleader.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/512-505_16_Wksht_WEB.pdf.

Being able to follow a map is an extremely important skill. Knowing how to get around while camping will serve you dividends even beyond camping. A strong directional sense can you help you in getting around cities as well as the woods.

To read a map, you first need to orientate yourself with the map. Use a directional source such as the sun(rises in the east and sets in the west) or the North Star to find your cardinal directions. If neither of those are available use a landmark such as a hill or river to orient yourself with the map. Once you know which direction is which on the map and in the real world, check the scale of the map so you know how far you can expect to travel to reach your destination. The orienteering merit badge will help you master this skill.

For the second half of this requirement, I recommend using a GPS app on your phone as you will likely already be familiar with it. Using google maps, you can input exact coordinates through the search bar as well as using 2 to plot out your course.

Create a plan that involves where you’re going to camp, how your going to get there, how far you can travel by car and how far you will have to hike, etc. The resource listed in the requirement will be a great starting point for this.

Requirement 4

Do the following:

(a) Make a duty roster showing how your patrol is organized for an actual overnight campout. List assignments for each member.

(b) Help a Scout patrol or a Webelos Scout unit in your area prepare for an actual campout, including creating the duty roster, menu planning, equipment needs, general planning, and setting up camp.

This requirement furthers our focus on planning a camping trip. Planning is the key to success. There is a reason the scout motto is something as simple as “Be Prepared!” Each part covers something a different so lets go over them separately.

Part A:

A duty roster is a way to divide up labor and ensure everything does their part on an outing. Some jobs at camp may include: Managing the fire, cooking meals, cleaning up after meals, camp cleanup, or whatever is necessary for your trip. A sample duty roster from the BSA can be found here.

Part B:

Now that you know what a duty roster is, it’s time to apply it. Teaching is one of the best ways to learn and this requirement you will become the teacher. I would recommend choosing a patrol to assist for this requirement as you probably don’t have too many connections with Webelos units. However if you have a younger sibling in Webelos this requirement could be a great chance to connect with them. For menu planning, be sure to take into account the resources available as well as the number of mouths that will need to be fed. My patrol always liked to plan an easy breakfast for the morning that we planned to leave camp to make pack up easier for us. For equipment, take into account the length of the planned trip as well as any special activities planned such as canoeing or special meals.

Hopefully this requirement will teach you how to plan a trip yourself as well as help another patrol plan a fun time camping!

Requirement 5

5. Do the following:

(a) Prepare a list of clothing you would need for overnight campouts in both warm and cold weather. Explain the term “layering.”

(b) Discuss footwear for different kinds of weather and how the right footwear is important for protecting your feet.

(c) Explain the proper care and storage of camping equipment (clothing, footwear, bedding).

(d) List the outdoor essentials necessary for any campout, and explain why each item is needed.

(e) Present yourself to your Scoutmaster with your pack for inspection. Be correctly clothed and equipped for an overnight campout.

Now’s your chance to truly prove that you’re ready for anything you might face while camping. Let’s break down each part individually.

Part a:

Being properly clothed is extremely important while camping. Clothing is your first layer of protection against the weather and any hazards you might face. Your clothing will also depend on the weather. For warm campouts, make sure you bring light breathable clothes to help prevent head related illnesses. For cold campouts, bring enough warm clothes such as sweatshirts as well as t-shirts and other under layers. Layering is a practice of weather multiple layers of clothes, such as a t-shirt, long sleeve and sweatshirt, to help stay warm and protect yourself against the environment. As a general rule, I pack according to the following list –

• T-Shirts – amount of nights +1
  
• Sweatshirts – for warm weather 1-2, for cold weather 1 for every 2 nights camping
  
• Shorts – only in warm weather – amount of nights +1
  
• Pants – for warm weather 1-2, for cold weather – amount of nights +1
  
• Socks and Underwear – amount of nights + 3
  

Make sure you consult your specific needs for your campout and always double check your list.

Part b:

Footwear is just as or more important than clothing camping. Wearing the wrong shoes or shoes that don’t fit will make your experience miserable. I usually bring 3-4 pairs of shoes to camp to make sure I’m prepared for anything

• Sneakers – for everyday getting around and comfort, best on trails or paved roads
  
• Extra pair of sneakers – nobody likes wet shoes and having a backup will keep you try even if you first pair is soggy
  
• Hiking boots – While they may not always be the most comfortable, hiking boots offer a great amount of utility and protection. I recommend investing in a good pair that you know you can trust
  
• Sandals/Slides – Closed toe shoes should always be worn when out and about while camping, but sandals and slides still have their place. I always recommend wearing shower shoes and slides work perfect for that. If you’re camping near a lake or beach sandals are perfect for avoiding getting a sand filled sneaker.
  

Protecting your feet is very important. Make sure your shoes properly fit and they stay dry(more on that later). As far as weather goes, I would recommend boots for anytime there is even a chance of rain. Boots keep you protected from water as well as the muddy conditions that will result from rain. If the forecast is dry, sneakers can be a great option for comfortably getting around

Part c:

Bringing the right things camping is only the beginning. You also need to make sure you take proper care of all your equipment. The biggest thing to remember is keep your things dry! Wet clothes, sleeping bags, shoes or tents will all make your camping experience miserable. Never leave anything you don’t want wet outside your tent overnight. Water is your enemy when camping and it will do its best to find a way to thwart your fun. You have to be proactive as let me tell you, things get wet a whole lot faster than they dry.

Part d:

Your essentials will varying based on the specific needs of your trip but here is a pretty good starting point.

1. Clothes – Discussed above.
   
2. Sleeping Materials – Depending on the length and location of your camp, this could vary from a simple sleeping mat to a full blown cot. Also make sure you bring a sleeping bag warm enough for the coldest forecasted night.
   
3. Proper Sized Tent – As a good rule of them, I always plan for gear in tents to take up the same amount of space as each person. So far example if I was camping with three people I would bring a six person tent to fit three people plus their gear.
   
4. Cooking Materials – You’ve gotta eat while camping. Make sure that you bring everything you will need to cook the full menu you prepared and that everything you’re brining works.
   
5. Flashlight – It’s gonna get dark and you need to see. Make sure you carry your flashlight with you if you plan to not be heading back to your tent before dark when going out.
   
6. Pocketknife – A pocketknife is an invaluable tool that will serve your ever purpose when used properly. Make sure it is sharp and you know how to use it
   
7. Water Bottle – It is extremely important to stay hydrated while camping.
   
8. Sun Screen and Mosquito Spray – Staying protected from the sun and bugs will make you experience much more enjoyable.
   
9. Matches or Lighter – Being able to start a fire is your ticket to warm nights, warm food as well as protection from bugs. Make sure you have earned your Firem’n Chit and take proper precautions to keep your fire safe
   

This list is only a starting point and other things may be required for your specific camping trip. Review your list at least 2-3 times to make sure you haven’t missed anything. I also like to have my dad or a friend review my list as they might think of something I didn’t. Can you think of anything my list is missing? (hint: I purposely left out at least a few things).

Part e: A great time to get this requirement is before a troop campout or summer camp. You should hopefully already have everything you need for camping and your scoutmaster will already be there.

Requirement 6

Do the following:

a. Describe the features of four types of tents, when and where they could be used, and how to care for tents. Working with another Scout, pitch a tent.

b. Discuss the importance of camp sanitation and tell why water treatment is essential. Then demonstrate two ways to treat water.

c. Describe the factors to be considered in deciding where to pitch your tent.

d. Tell the difference between internal- and external-frame packs. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each.

e. Discuss the types of sleeping bags and what kind would be suitable for different conditions. Explain the proper care of your sleeping bag and how to keep it dry. Make a comfortable ground bed.

Here’s another long requirement so I’ll go through it piece by piece.

Part a:

The 4 main types of tent are: A-Frame, Dome, Hoop and Pyramid Tents.

An A-frame tents resemble an “A” with a wide base and sides that slope in. They are usually fairly cheap and easy to set up, offering ample ground space but not a lot of headroom. Many troops use them as they are cheap and have less parts that could break or be lost as compared to other tents

A-frame tent

Dome tents are made up of multiple curved poles that form a semi-circular shells. They combine to give a large floor plan as well as lots of headroom. They can usually be set up easily and there are even some “instant” dome tents that don’t require you to assemble any poles. I personally use one of these and it has served me well for many years. While I can’t find the exact tent I use, if I was buying a new tent today, I would get this one.

Dome Tent

Hoop tents are made up of numerous circular poles that form a cylindrical body of the tent. These tents are less popular in Scouting as they are generally made for 6 or more people and can be rather difficult to set up.

Hoop Tent

Pyramid tents are the most basic tent. They are made up of a single pole in the center with fabric draped over it and pulled taught on the edges. They are generally the smallest of all tents and not used too much in Scouting. They can however be useful for backpacking or other activities that require you to carry your tent with you as they are very light and small.

Pyramid Tent

Caring for your tent is also very important. Properly caring for your tent will ensure you don’t end up with holes or a broken zipper and get to enjoy your tent for many years. Follow these tips

• Never store your tent wet
  
• Never pit your tent on sharp rocks or sticks
  
• Be careful with the tents zippers. They are usually the first things to break
  

Part b

A Scout is clean! Camp sanitation is an important part of camping. Keeping clean will keep you safe from sickness and disease. Make you abide by the Outdoor Code and principles of Leave No Trace.

Contaminated water is the most common source of sickness while camping. There are many ways to treat water and for this requirement you’ll have to demonstrate two. Some methods include:

• Boiling
  
• Iodine Tablets
  
• Filtration
  

Boiling is definitely the easiest as all you need is a fire and a pot. Make sure you filter the water through something like a t-shirt as boiling won’t remove large particles. For your second method I recommend using iodine tablets as they can be obtained rather cheaply.

Also be sure you properly dispose of any waste water. Always use eco-friendly soaps and cleaners when doing dishes and be sure to dump your waste water at least 75ft from camp.

Part c

Picking a proper spot to pitch your tent is crucial to staying dry and safe. Try to find a spot that is as flat as possible without any large rocks. Also make sure your spot is on a high area and not in pit or divot as water always flows to the lowest point. Take note of what’s above your tent as well. Loose sticks and branches can become projectile in a heavy storm.

Part d

A good pack will help you get your gear to and from camp comfortably and efficiently. There are two main types of back packs: Internal frame and external frame. Each have their own advantages and disadvantages so you’ll want to pick the right one for you.

External Frame

External frame back packs have, as the name suggests, a rigid external frame. This gives these backpacks a strong shell that can store a lot of gear. The frame also creates separation between your back and the pack which will help keep you cool. These packs are also generally cheaper than internal frame back packs. One disadvantage is external frame packs are bulkier which means they are more likely to get caught on branches or other obstacles when navigating difficult terrain.

Internal Frame

Internal frame back packs have of course a frame on inside of the pack. This creates a more form fitting pack that will keep your center of gravity close to you. An internal frame pack is a good choice for backpacking on difficult trails. They are generally more expensive that external frame packs and have slightly less room but will be more comfortable.

Part e

A good sleeping bag is also needed for camping. When selecting a bag, first determine what temperature rating you will need. Bring a bag that is rated for the coldest night you expect to stay in.

Then pick a bag that is the right size for you. If you are backpacking a smaller mummy style bag might best suit you as the pack up small and are fairly light. For a longer time frame trip, a rectangular bag that lets you spread out under the covers might be best.

You will also need to take care of your sleeping bag. The key is to keep things dry. Never store your bag wet as this create the perfect breeding ground for mold. If your sleeping bag is machine washable I recommend washing it after each trip.

There are many different ways to make a ground bed depending on what you have available. I encourage you to be creative. Your two main objectives should be to get yourself off the ground and provide some padding and insulation. For example you could use sticks laid next to each other to get off the ground and leaves or ferns for insulation and padding. This requirement can be a whole lot of fun so be sure to think outside the box.

Requirement 7

Prepare for an overnight campout with your patrol by doing the following:

a, Make a checklist of personal and patrol gear that will be needed.

b. Pack your own gear and your share of the patrol equipment and food for proper carrying. Show that your pack is right for quickly getting what is needed first, and that it has been assembled properly for comfort, weight, balance, size, and neatness.

Part a

Here are two links from my own Troop with sample packing lists for personal gear on a weekend trip and weeklong summer camp:

Be sure to adapt these lists for your own needs.

As far as patrol needs, you can find everything a patrol will need to bring camping here. (scroll down to the infographic)

Part b

Now’s your chance to showcase that packing list from part a. A great time to complete this requirement is before a summer camp or other Troop event. When packing your bag, be sure to pack in the reverse order that you will need things. In other words, pack that the things you will need first at camp at the top of your bag. Whenever possible, back the heaviest items lowest in your bag to keep your center of gravity low. For clothes, I’ve found it best to roll one day’s clothes(shirt, pants, socks, underwear) all together to keep thins organized.

Requirement 8

Do the following:

a. Explain the safety procedures for:

1. Using a propane or butane/propane stove
   
2. Using a liquid fuel stove
   
3. Proper storage of extra fuel
   

b. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different types of lightweight cooking stoves.

c. Prepare a camp menu. Explain how the menu would differ from a menu for a backpacking or float trip. Give recipes and make a food list for your patrol. Plan two breakfasts, three lunches, and two suppers. Discuss how to protect your food against bad weather, animals, and contamination.

d. While camping in the outdoors, cook at least one breakfast, one lunch, and one dinner for your patrol from the meals you have planned for requirement 8c. At least one of those meals must be a trail meal requiring the use of a lightweight stove.

Part a

Propane and butane can be great tools for quickly and easily cooking meals without the need to start a fire. All relevant safety procedures can found from the BSA here.

Part b

There are 4 main types of lightweight stoves. Those being white gas, cartridge, propane and butane. They each have unique and advantages and disadvantages.

1. White Gas
   

White gas stoves are common for backpacking in North America. They use a highly distilled fuel but may have to be preheated in order to pressurize the fuel. Some modern stoves have fuel pumps which eliminates the need for preheating

2. Cartridge
   

Cartridge stoves are the easiest to use. They use an attachable fuel cartridge that only requires you to turn a valve to turn on. They work best in warm temperatures and lose efficiency in the cold.

3. Propane
   

Propane stoves are generally larger and not fit for backpacking. They can, however, be a good choice for larger trips where you’ll be cooking for a lot of Scouts.

4. Butane
   

Butane stoves are less common in North America but common elsewhere. They burn hot but have to be preheated before being used.

Part c

Planning your food out ahead of time, as with all things when camping, is important. You should base you food menu based on the type of trip you’re taking. For example, on a backpacking trip you’ll want to bring lighter meals that are easier to prep whereas on a float trip you’ll have more freedom to bring complicated meals.

This website linked here has 35 great camp recipes that you can utilized in your camp menu. First plan your menu for each meal and then create a shopping list from those ingredients. Also take note of the cooking equipment you’ll need to prepare each meal.

To store food items while camping, I recommend using air tight plastic bags to protect against weather and animals. Also be sure to store raw meat products separately to avoid cross contamination.

Part d

Now’s your chance to demonstrate your menu from part c. Make sure you cook at least one meal with a lightweight stove and remember that cooking done for the cooking merit badge does not count for any other merit badge.

Requirement 9

Show experience in camping by doing the following:

a. Camp a total of at least 20 nights at designated Scouting activities or events. One long-term camping experience of up to six consecutive nights may be applied toward this requirement. Sleep each night under the sky or in a tent you have pitched. If the camp provides a tent that has already been pitched, you need not pitch your own tent.

b. On any of these camping experiences, you must do TWO of the following, only with proper preparation and under qualified supervision:

I. Hike up a mountain, gaining at least 1,000 vertical feet.

II. Backpack, snowshoe, or cross-country ski for at least 4 miles.

III. Take a bike trip of at least 15 miles or at least four hours.

IV. Take a nonmotorized trip on the water of at least four hours or 5 miles.

V. Plan and carry out an overnight snow camping experience.

VI. Rappel down a rappel route of 30 feet or more.

c. Perform a conservation project approved by the landowner or land managing agency. This can be done alone or with others.

Part a

There is no quick way to complete this requirement. The most important thing to do is track your nights each time you go camping. You’ll find a camping nights log in the resources section where you can track camping nights as well as experiences for part b.

Part b

Which experience you complete for this part will depend largely on where geographically you’re camping. In you’re in the mountains, I(1) should be fairly easy to complete. I personally completed requirement IV and V for my camping merit badge but this will depend largely on you.

Part c

Conservation is a great way to do duty to others and your country. As Scouts, we are called to be stewards to the environment for the next generation. For this part, I recommend that you do a project that you can personally see the effects of. Try reaching out to a local conservation organization as they will certainly be happy to have your help.

Requirement 10

Discuss how the things you did to earn this badge have taught you about personal health and safety, survival, public health, conservation, and good citizenship. In your discussion, tell how Scout spirit and the Scout Oath and Scout Law apply to camping and outdoor ethics.

This requirement is your chance to reflect on what you’ve learned from this badge. Be sure to tie this into the Scout Oath, Law and Spirit.

Conclusion

Hopefully after completing this badge, you’ll be a camping pro. Camping is a great part of Scouting but can also be a lifelong hobby. We all need a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life and an opportunity to connect with nature sometimes. As always, wishing you the best on your path to eagle!

Resources