Scouting's founders recognized early on that camping
provided one of the best opportunities for
developing character and helping a boy become a
man. In fact, the Boy Scouts of America is
widely credited with making camping a part of
mainstream America.
Each year, more than 600,000 boys camp at one of
the 423 Scout camps and 258 high-adventure camps
across North America. While Scouts still learn
many of the same skills that have been taught
for generations, a week at camp is more than
just hiking and swimming.
In fact, a recent study by New York-based Harris
Interactive revealed that Boy Scout summer camp
increases a youth's self-confidence, improves
their decision-making abilities, and helps them
develop conflict-resolution skills.
The study, titled the
Boy Scouts of America Summer Camp Outcomes Study
also revealed that while at camp:
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80 percent of Boy Scouts participated in a
decision-making processes.
-
69 percent reflected on their personal
relationships with God.
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68 percent reflected on their personal
principles and values.
At a time when television, video games, and negative peer
pressure interfere with a child's ability to
make sound decisions, parents are looking for
ways to help their youth successfully navigate
these challenging times; Scout camp offers a
safe haven for today's youth.
Ultimately, camping provides an experience that
reinforces personal values and character,
increases self-esteem, and builds friendships.
Camping, like Scouting, is adventure plus.
Everyone is encouraged to promote Camping in your unit.
Our Ema'O Mahpe Lodge underwrites the cost of
all Certificates & Ribbons for both the Cub
Scout National Summertime Pack Award as well as
the Boy Scout National Camping Award (both the
annual ribbons & the Cumulative Ribbons). Our
lodge also hands out at the Program Preview
conference a Summer Camp promotional Pack to
every troop with posters and other promotional
material. At the Enid Council Service Center we
have more information on the Harris study
referenced above, even table tents for your next
Pack or Troop Banquet that you can pick up from
us free of charge. In the Spring our O.A. Camp
Promotion Teams and Camp Staff Venture Crew are
available to make presentations to any Troop
about all of the fun & excitement available at
our Will Rogers Summer Camp.
If you are interested in using or camping at one of the
scout reservations please fill out
the appropriate form.
