What to Bring to Boy Scout Camp 🏕️

What to Bring to Boy Scout Camp 🏕️

Heading off to Boy Scout summer camp? Get ready for the best week of the year. Between the hiking, swimming, campfires, and maybe a surprise raccoon encounter, it’s going to be a blast. But here’s the thing—none of that is fun if you show up without the right gear. Whether you're going to a classic camp like Ma-Ka-Ja-Wan or somewhere else, packing smart is everything.

Clothing essentials 👕🧢

The weather at Scout camp likes to keep you on your toes. One minute it’s sunny and 85, the next you're wondering why your socks are floating. Bring layers and spares. Trust us.

• Two Scout uniforms for ceremonies and dinners

• Five or six comfortable t-shirts

• A couple of pairs of shorts

• Two pairs of long pants to keep the ticks and cold off

• A hoodie or warm pullover for the evenings

• A rain jacket or poncho that actually works

• Swimsuit for the lake, or just general chaos

• At least six pairs of socks and underwear

• Hat with a brim for sun protection

• Hiking boots or sturdy shoes

• Camp shoes like Crocs or slides for walking to the shower

Sleep setup 😴

You’re going to need some real rest after a full day of canoeing and tracking merit badge requirements. Sleeping on the ground is fine... until it’s not. Make it better.

• Sleeping bag rated for cooler temps

• Foam pad or inflatable sleeping mat

• Small pillow or something that pretends to be one

• Blanket for extra comfort

• Battery fan if your tent turns into a sauna

• Mosquito net if your camp has ambitious insects

Personal care gear 🚿

No, just because you’re in the woods doesn’t mean hygiene disappears. There’s still soap. There are still showers. Use both. Your tent buddy will thank you.

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Towel and washcloth

• Shampoo and body wash

• Deodorant

• Flip flops for the shower

• Comb or brush

• Hand sanitizer

• Laundry bag for dirty clothes or wet swimsuits

Camping gear and daytime must-haves 🎒

You’ll be bouncing from merit badge classes to meals to waterfront activities. Stay organized and prepared for anything.

• Daypack or drawstring bag

• Water bottle or hydration pack

• Flashlight or headlamp with spare batteries

• Scout knife or multitool (with Totin’ Chip, of course)

• Notebook and pencils for badge work

• Sunscreen and bug spray

• Scout handbook

• Compass for those “I swear it was this way” moments

• Ziplock bags for soggy stuff or snacks

• Camp chair or sit pad

• Watch to actually be on time

• Trash bag for laundry, gear, or last-minute cleanup

Cool extras that make you the camp MVP 😎

These items aren’t required but they’ll earn you instant legend status with your patrol.

• Card games or a deck of Uno

• Hammock for peak nap mode

• Disposable camera or digital camera

• Journal for writing about your adventure

• A book for downtime

• Trail snacks (granola bars, jerky, your secret candy stash)

• Duct tape because it's always duct tape

• Extra shoelaces

• A Sharpie with your name on it for literally everything

What to leave at home ❌

Don’t be that Scout. Keep it clean, safe, and focused on the experience.

• No electronics—yes, that includes phones

• No fireworks

• No energy drinks

• No personal axes or sheath knives unless approved

• Nothing illegal, sketchy, or distracting from the Scouting experience

• Leave the bad attitude at home, too

Tips from seasoned campers 🐾

A few extra lessons from Scouts who’ve been there, done that, and lived to earn the patch

• Pack in a duffel or storage tote with your name on it

• Use packing cubes or big zip locks to separate clothes

• Label everything—yes, even your toothbrush

• Weather changes fast. Keep a hoodie and rain gear close

• Bring a sense of humor. You’ll need it

• Don’t forget your Scout spirit

Final thoughts

Boy Scout camp is where the best memories are made. From catching your first fish to earning that tough merit badge, it’s about growth, adventure, and having a ridiculous amount of fun. When you’ve got everything you need in your pack, you can focus on what matters—trying new things, meeting new friends, and maybe roasting the perfect marshmallow.

Whether you're heading to a place like Ma-Ka-Ja-Wan or a camp closer to home, being prepared makes all the difference. So double-check your list, throw on your Scout hat, and get ready for one of the best weeks of the year. See you at camp 🎒🔥🌲