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).

Recommended Personal Gear for Camping

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 Coat/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. A light, reusable rain coat is the preferred choice for scouting.

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 purchased from a thrift store. 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 a minimum of 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 Troop activities.

Knives: A Scout may carry a folding pocket knife. 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.

Flashlight: Battery operated headlamp with redlight function is critical for numerous actitvities while camping (washing mess kits being among the top). Consider a small secondary source. Cheap rechargeable work lights are easy to get on Amazon.

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

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

• THE EASIEST WAY is to 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. Late additions may not be possible - to respect planning.

• Make sure your Scout knows they are going! The Scout must communicate this to the Senior Patrol Leader. On the meeting prior to every campout, the boys will determine 3 things: 

  1. Who is going

  2. Who is cooking (more importantly... who is bringing food!) 

  3. Sleeping arrangements (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 that information forward. It is important that we know to expect your Scout so they are not left behind!

Backpacking Campout

Ready to trade the trail for a true adventure? A backpacking campout is where the real spirit of Scouting comes alive. It’s more than just a trip; it’s a chance to test your limits and discover what you’re truly capable of. There is a unique sense of pride that comes from carrying everything you need on your back and reaching a secluded campsite that most people will never see.

Beyond the challenge, backpacking is the ultimate team-building experience. Whether you’re helping a friend adjust their pack or gathered around a small stove for a hard-earned meal, these are the moments where lifelong friendships are forged. You’ll return home with more than just stories—you’ll return with the confidence of a true woodsman. Pack light, lace up your boots, and get ready for a journey you’ll never forget!

Below is a recommended list of items that could help your scout pack for the event:

• Backpack (with pack liner to keep important things dry inside – this can be as simple as a large trash bag)

• Tent (with ground cloth) – to be split among hikers, but make sure your group has all of the parts.

• Sleeping bag

• Sleeping pad

• Headlamp or small flashlight with batteries

• Small First Aid Kit (Band-Aids, etc. in a small Ziplock will work– other items are less important because we have a Troop First Ait Kit)

• Small knife

• Toothbrush/Toothpaste Tablets

• Toilet Paper (don’t pack a whole roll, but pack enough) / cat hole trowel (possibly not needed if camping near bathrooms)

• Plastic bag for trash (leave no trace)

• A couple of Ziplock bags to keep electronics dry

• Off “Wipes” (a couple of these are way lighter than a can of bug spray)

• Travel size sunscreen

• Travel size deodorant (not essential, but respectful of others)

• Travel size hand sanitizer

• Small Ziplock with a few wet wipes inside

• Puffy Jacket (if it’s going to be cooler); Gloves (if its going to be cold)

• Raincoat (if warmer, count this as the jacket and leave the gloves at home)

• Cap/Hat

• Extra clothes (pack an extra set of socks, undies, and one set of clean/dry clothes to change into and sleep in after hiking. You don’t need PJs.)

• Handkerchief to tie to backpack for wiping sweat or washing face

• Backpacking stove (if grub master) with cooking cup and fuel

• Food supplies (grub master will supply to be split among packs)

• Water purifier (not everyone will need this)

• Lighter/matches

• Knife & Spork

• Food Cozie

• Whistle

Seems like a long list, but most of this is small, lightweight and will easily fit in a pack.

Adult consideration:

• Trekking poles

• Ultralight camping chair (luxury item)

• Phone charger/power supply

• Some duct tape wrapped around trekking poles, because you never know when you may need to do a repair

• Claritin and Advil (because old)

H. Roe Bartle Scout Reservation (Summer Camp) (2026 Camping guide)

The Highlight of the Scouting Year: Why Your Scout Belongs at Bartle

Ask any seasoned Scout about their favorite memory, and they will almost certainly tell you it was summer camp. Camp H. Roe Bartle isn't just an event on the calendar—it is THE HIGHLIGHT of the entire Scouting experience.

While camp is packed full of unforgettable adventures, outdoor fun, and camaraderie, it also serves as a powerful catalyst for personal growth. Here is why investing in this experience is one of the best things you can do for your Scout this year:

• A Safe Leap Toward Independence: At Bartle, Scouts step into a bigger world. They become responsible for their own daily schedules, from waking up on time to navigating camp and attending their chosen merit badge sessions. If your Scout needs a gentle push toward self-reliance, camp offers the perfect, structured environment to build that confidence. Parents are always amazed at how quickly Scouts "figure it out" when given the chance.

• True Troop Connection: There is no substitute for the bonds formed around a camp cookfire or during a long hike. Spending an uninterrupted week living, eating, and working together fast-tracks friendships and helps your Scout truly feel like an integral part of the Troop family.

• A Formative Experience: The challenges conquered and skills learned at Bartle stay with a young person long after the tents are packed away. It is a safe, supportive space where they can test their limits, discover their capabilities, and return home standing just a little bit taller.

Summer camp is where the values of Scouting truly come to life. Give your Scout the gift of adventure, independence, and lifelong memories—encourage them to join us at Bartle this summer!

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, Scouting book, rain coat, t-shirts 5-10, pants 5-10, underwear 5-10, socks 5-10, money, extra pair of shoes, deordarent, 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: