Prepare for Campouts (Campout Info & Gear)

What Gear do I need?

Chapters 8 and 9 of the Scout Handbook describe Hiking and Camping and include checklists and information for Gear and Equipment. It is best that a Scout have their own gear, but extra gear is needed, ask some of the other Scouts or the Troop if they have extra gear to loan out (we frequently do).

Personal Gear for Camping (Recommended) 

Backpack: The preferred, hands free method for carrying gear. Good backpacks have many pockets for organizing, and straps for attaching a sleeping bag, pad and tent. Limited capacity will teach the Scout to prioritize his packing and minimize bulk and weight. There is a wide range of products and prices available on the market, so take time to shop for both comfort and price. If cost is prohibitive, duffel bags or similar gear are acceptable for campouts that do not include overnight hikes.

Sleeping Bag: Bags are constructed from a wide variety of materials to satisfy a variety of weather, packing, weight and price requirements. Sleeping bags which can be packed into a stuff sack are more convenient than rolled bags with ties. You should avoid cotton bags and select one made with synthetic insulated materials. Look for a full-length zipper, batting in the lining which insulates the zipper, and the amount of quilting used to prevent the insulation from bunching or sagging. A bag insulated for a comfort range down to 20 degrees is highly recommended. For winter camping, 20-degree bags may be nested into a second bag for additional comfort, avoiding the higher cost associated with bags rated for below 0 degrees. Remember, a Scout is prepared… and thrifty!

Ground Pad: Scouts will find sleeping on the ground more comfortable and warmer when a “closed cell” pad is used under the sleeping bag. These pads are made from a heavy rubber like foam 3/8” to 1/2” thick, and approximately 24” wide by 72” long. They roll up compactly, are easily carried on the backpack, and are more comfortable, warmer and less of a nuisance than an air mattress. An alternative is a self-inflating pad, which is a foam pad inside a waterproof covering. These are about 1/2” to 3/4” thick when inflated, and the same length and width as most closed cell pads.

Rain Suit/Poncho: Scouts must be fully prepared to carry on with our outdoor program, regardless of weather conditions. Good rain gear is essential for both comfort and safety.   Avoid the thin, emergency type ponchos typically sold in store checkout lines.

Mess Kit: It’s not necessary to purchase a traditional mess kit (Although Amazon has them for fairly cheap). Pieces may be lost or broken, leaving the set incomplete. In substitution, Scouts may use plastic plates, bowls and mugs. These are lightweight and can be easily marked for identification. Mismatched silverware is also a useful substitute.

Plastic or aluminum water bottle or canteen: Each Scout must carry 1.5 to 2 quarts of water on hikes and backpacking outings. One or more water bottles that fit into a pocket of the backpack or in a hip pack are acceptable. Water is an essential item and required for all BSA and Troop activities.

Knives: A Scout may carry a folding pocket knife of a size approved by BSA. Troop 50 prohibits carrying sheath knives of any kind at all Scouting activities.

Compass: Every Scout should have a compass for practicing the orienteering skills needed to pass Second Class and First Class rank advancements.

Whistle (optional): Scouts should carry a whistle. These are used for communication only, and can save a life in the event of an emergency.

Regular Campout

To sign up for a campout, there are multiple ways of informing everyone:

• Fill out the form sent prior to the outing. Please let us know ASAP so that we know how many registered adults and Scouts will be attending. We require four (4) registered adults to attend each night of camping (2 are available to leave in case of emergency).
  IMPORTANT: Signups will close 3 days prior to the event to allow grubmaster's to plan appropriately. Late dropouts may be subject to costs and late additions may not be able to help respect planning.

• Make sure your Scout knows they are going! On the meeting prior to every campout, the boys will determine 3 things: 

  1. Who is going on the campout 

  2. Who is cooking the meals (and bringing them!) 

  3. What the sleeping arrangements are made (Who is tenting with who)

• Email or message a leader. In the event that either of the above 2 options are unavailable, reach out! Let one of the leaders know so they can pass taht information forward. It is important that we know to expect your Scout so they are not left behind!

H. Roe Bartle Scout Reservation (Summer Camp) (2025 Camping guide)

5525 NE Scout Camp Rd - Osceola, MO 64776
July 6-15, 2026 (Session 4)
Sawmill (Walnut campsite)

Packing List: packing trunk, sleeping bag, pillow, flashlights, extra batteries, bug spray, sun screen, small first aid kit, swim trunks, tooth brush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, towel, class A, class B, mess kit, boyscout book, rain coat, t-shirts 5-10, pants 5-10, underwear 5-10, socks 5-10, money, extra pair of shoes, deordarnt, WATERBOTTLE, pencil, notebook, snacks. Most of all a great attitude.

Optional: hat, pocketknife, sunglasses, work gloves, religious items, card/board games.

Address to send to troops at camp: