Parents

On Campouts

Camping is the heart of Scouting, but Boy Scouting is totally different from Cub Scouting or Webelos. Parents who attend a campout for a first time are often confused as to their proper role. In general, that role is defined by the Adult Leader in charge of the outing who will assign any specific tasks that are necessary in fulfilling the weekendâ€™s program objectives. However, there are certain elements common to all Troop campouts of which Parents should be aware.

Tenting

Scouts tent with their Patrol and not with their Parents. This is all significantly different from the Cub Scout program where Parents have a more participatory role. BSA Youth Protection Policies forbid an Adult and a boy sharing the same tent. While Youth Protection Policies may not apply to a father and son tenting together, boys in our Troop generally tent with boys, and Adults with Adults. Adults generally tent as a group in a location separate from the Scoutsâ€™ tents.

Meals

Scouts camp with their Patrol, often in a Patrol site somewhat separated from the other Patrols. Patrols plan their own menus, and cook and eat together as a team. However, Adults bring their own food, and cook and eat separately from the Scouts.

Parent Guidance

Adults on campouts may offer Scouts advice and guidance, but should should not actively assist the Scouts in performing their tasks such as, pitching tents, cooking meals, and working together as a Patrol. Adults should not interfere with the functioning of Youth Leaders, even if they make mistakes (we all learn best from our mistakes). Step in only if it is a matter of immediate safety or if the mistake will be immediately costly. If possible, involve a uniformed Adult Leader first.

However, Parents can help to assure that the campouts are safe, and that every Scout has an opportunity to enjoy his weekend. If a Parent observes any dangerous or unscoutlike behavior, he should immediately put a stop to it, and inform the Adult Leader in charge at the first opportunity.

Moms and Siblings

While all registered Leaders and Parents may attend most day outings, Troop 3:16 only permits men on campouts, except for specially designated family campouts where moms and siblings are invited.

While women are permitted on family campouts, they must use discretion in location of tents and latrine use to minimize the chance of embarrassment to themselves or to Scouts. The Troop does not permit mixed tenting on family campouts except between husband and wife.

Expenses

Each adult pays for his or her own expenses â€“ including site fees. Generally, the Troop only reimburses gasoline expenses for adults who transport Scouts to campouts.