Introduction:
Once again, Camp
Chawanakee is on the cutting edge of Scout Camp Technology with its first
annual, interactive, computerized leader’s guide. This edition features several links to video features as
well as to the various forms you will need to enjoy your stay at Camp
Chawanakee.
www.chawanakee.com Links you to the Chawanakee
website where you will need to sign up for all merit badges and is another
location for camp forms and merit badge information. (requires internet connection)
www.sequoiacouncilbsa.com Links
you to the Sequoia Council BSA website where you will find information about
the sponsoring council for Camp Chawanakee. (requires internet connection)
www.weatherunderground.com Links
you to a handy weather reporting website.
Just type in 93664 where it asks for a zip code and it will give you
current and up to 10 day forecasts for Camp Chawanakee. (requires internet
connection)
Local
Tour Permit –A copy of the completed local tour permit will be
required of all troops upon check in at the office. You will need to start this process at least one month prior
to arrival at camp, in order to avoid delays. (requires adobe reader, if you
don’t have adobe reader, click the adobe link at the bottom of this page for a
free download. (requires internet connection))
Class
1 and 2 Medical Form which is required of all participants 39 years of age
and younger. (requires adobe reader, if you don’t have adobe reader, click the
adobe link at the bottom of this page for a free download. (requires internet
connection))
Class
3 Medical Form which is required of all participants 40 years of age and
older. (requires adobe reader, if you don’t have adobe reader, click the adobe
link at the bottom of this page for a free download. (requires internet
connection))
Authorization
and Consent Form which is required for ALL participants 17 years of age and
younger.
Troop
Roster which is required for check in at camp.
Dear
Scoutmaster,
We
want to personally express our gratitude to you for choosing Camp Chawanakee in
2006. Your troop is about to
experience on of the finest Boy Scout camps in the nation
Your
Scouts can join in the fun and adventures of camp by being a part of swimming,
boating, hiking, horseback riding, field sports, and much more. The beauty and majesty of camp will act
as a natural backdrop for an exceptional learning experience. Our experienced Camp Chawanakee staff
is eager to help make your summer experience a rewarding and meaningful
one. Our program staff is well
versed in the Scouting program.
Serving your troop is our number one priority. This guide contains a wealth of information to help your
troop receive the programs it expects at Camp Chawanakee. We are continuing to fine-tune our
offerings at camp and this guide will help you understand the changes we made
for 2006. Remember a Scout is
prepared! This guide supersedes
all other Camp Chawanakee Leader’s guides issued by Camp Chawanakee, read it
carefully and feel free to email the camp management team at mgerardi@sbcglobal.net or gcameron169@hotmail.com if you have
any questions.
Again, thank you for
choosing Camp Chawanakee; we look forward to meeting all of you this summer.
In
the Spirit of Scouting,
Garth Cameron Jon
Livaudais
Garth
Cameron Jon
Livaudais
Camp
Director Program
Director
|
Visit our Council Website at Get Updated Information at |
|
Sequoia Council BSA 6005 N. Tamera Ave. 221
N. Encina St. Fresno, CA 93711 Visalia,
CA 93291 (559) 320-2100 (559)
732-3424 |
Quick Reference Guide
Quick Reference Guide
|
Camp
Calendar: Session 1 June
11-17 Session
4 July 2-8 Session
7 July 23-29 Session 2 June
18-24 Session
5 July 9-15 Session
8 July 30-August 5 Session 3 June
25-July 1 Session 6 July 16-22 Session
9 August 6-12 Camp Fees: Brother
Discount $20.00 per
brother 2-5
Leaders $225 Each 6+
Leaders $315 Each Changes
to Registration numbers made within 3 weeks of your arrival at camp will be
charged a late/cancellation fee. |
Arrival Times: Saturday
Arrivals No Earlier than 5:00
P.M.
Sunday
Arrivals
12:30-1:00 P.M.
Monday
Arrivals 6:00 A.M.
Departure
Time -Everyone 9:30 A.M. on Saturday
Check
in Document Requirements:
• Photocopy of tour permit on file with your
local service center
• Medical forms-signed by a doctor and
parents (youth) or the participant (adults) for each participant.
• Parent permission forms signed by the scout’s
parents
• All payment receipts to date
• Proof of Registration/troop roster provided
by your council or a copy of a Scout’s current Registration. **All
participants must be registered members of the BSA**
General Guide to Camp Chawanakee
Before
Arrival at Camp: Please hold a familiarization meeting
with your Scouts and their parents. This is a good time to complete the
necessary paperwork that needs to be signed by the parents. Make sure that each participant
(adults too) has a B.S.A. physical form completely filled out and signed by a
doctor.
Camp Chawanakee
highlights the patrol method of camping.
Most activities will require that Scouts be organized into patrols of
approximately eight boys each before they arrive in camp. It is also recommended that these
patrols devise a name, yell, and flag.
These patrols may be different from your regular patrol structure. Smaller troops may organize into
smaller patrols, but may or may not receive one patrol site per patrol.
Arrival
on the first day: Check in will begin at 1:00 P.M. on
Sunday at the camp office.
The adult most familiar with the scouts and your troop’s finances should check
in. The rest of the troop may
start the tour while they check in.
A camp staff guide will be assigned to each unit to provide an
orientation of camp and act as your commissioner for the day. This mandatory orientation will include
medical screening (Scouts should have their own medical and permission form in
their possession, adults need their medical form only,) dining hall orientation
to find out your eating session and table number(s),) and swim test (we
recommend that participants wear their swim trunks under their uniform.) Please
ask questions, it is the best way to learn about Camp Chawanakee. Your guide will be glad to take you on
a detailed tour of camp, just ask.
A scoutmaster and SPL meeting is scheduled for 8:15 on Sunday at the
point campfire bowl to give you more important information about Camp Chawanakee. One car for every 25 boys (or fraction
thereof) may be driven, at 5 mph, in to the campsites to transport GEAR
ONLY. All cars must be returned to
the camp parking lot by 6:45 on Sunday evening. Troops arriving on Saturday will be charged an
additional fee according to the following criteria: 1-8 people $50.00, 9-15
people $75.00, 16-24 people $100.00, 25 or more people $200.00. These fees are
per troop, not per person. Saturday arriving troops must have vehicles removed
from the campsite, by 7:00 p.m. Saturday night.
Departure
on the last day: A camp staff guide will help you check
your unit out of your campsite. The head commissioner will send staff guides to
your patrol site(s) between 7:30-9:30 a.m. If you require an earlier check out, you may schedule it at
the 10:00 a.m. Friday, leader’s meeting, held in the chapel. Check out procedures (detailed at
camp.) must be completed by 9:30 a.m. on Saturday.
Transportation:
Each troop is responsible for transporting their own Scouts to and from
Chawanakee. Cars may be parked in
the Camp parking lot. Due to
limited parking space, car-pooling is highly recommended. Arrival at camp is advised to be
between 12:30 and 1:00 p.m. on Sunday.
Camp closes at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday. Troops may arrive on Saturday, after 5:00 p.m., by indicating their intentions on their
troop roster. There is a nominal fee for this privilege. Dining hall services are NOT available
for early arriving troops. B.S.A.
policy requires that no passengers be transported in truck beds or
trailers. Motorcycles and ATV’s
are not permitted in camp areas.
|
Please note that except for check in and check out, only camp approved medical and maintenance vehicles are allowed in patrol site areas. |
Tour
Permits: A tour permit giving travel plans must
be filed at your local Scout Service Center two weeks before your troop leaves
for Chawanakee. You will be asked
for a photocopy of the approved permit at check in.
Troop
Rosters: A copy of
your troop roster form must be sent to the Fresno Service Center (6005 N.
Tamera Ave., Fresno, CA 93711) two weeks prior to your arrival at camp. This
will help us better organize for your stay at camp.
Merit Badge Sign Ups: Sign up for merit
badges at www.Chawanakee.com. If you do not have a user name and
password, contact the Fresno Service Center as soon as possible. User names and
passwords will be distributed after January 17, to troops who have made their
first deposit. After you sign up,
don’t forget to print a flat list of your boy’s merit badge schedule.
Medical
Forms: All
participants attending Camp Chawanakee (adults too) must have the appropriate
B.S.A. medical form (Class3 #4412A for adults 40 and over and Class
1/2 #34414 for anyone 39 years old or younger.) A doctor MUST sign the form. These forms may be obtained at
your local council office, by clicking the blue links above, or online at at www.Chawanakee.com. Class
3 #4412A forms are good for
one year only and must be updated within 12 months to be valid. Class 1/2 #34414 forms are
good for three years provided that the front portion, which includes a parent
signature, is updated annually
and attached to the doctor signed Class
1/2 #34414 form.
Medical forms from prior years ARE NOT kept on file. Each participant must bring the
appropriate, valid form, with them to camp. A check of this form is a mandatory part of check in, no
one may participate in any camp activity until his or her medical form is
completed and turned in.
Dining
Services: Camp will serve meals “family style”
for Breakfast and Dinner in two shifts each. You will be assigned to a shift and table(s) when you go
through dining hall orientation at check in. To properly use the dining hall, troops need to send one
“Table Steward” per assigned table to the dining hall at least 15 minutes
before their shift begins. The
steward will be responsible for preparing the troops eating
accommodations. The steward will
stay after everyone is dismissed to do clean up. Te dining hall steward will us
the P.A. system to give directions for each step. Scouts will be required to listen for and follow all
instructions.
Lunch
Meals: Lunch is eaten
in your campsite. Each troop
should send at least 2 stewards per patrol to the back of the dining hall to
pick up lunch. Should there be a shortage of food or too much, please send a
runner to the dining hall with that information. Two lunches will need to be cooked in the campsite. Charcoal
will be provided for these meals, but charcoal lighter is not permitted, please
plan on lighting your charcoal with a “stack” or other method. Make sure to bring your Patrol Cooking Gear. To clean up, simply put any trash and excess non-storable food
in the provided trashcans and wash out the bus tub and pitcher. The bus tub
must be returned to the dining hall loading dock immediately after lunch. Pitchers should be returned after lunch
on Friday. Scouts need to
bring their own eating equipment for lunch. Any
storable food (PB&J, bread, condiments, cookies, etc.) may be kept in your
campsite for later use, FYI wildlife will enjoy your snacks if not properly
stored.)
|
Special
meals: Campers requiring
special dietary meals need to bring those already prepared (heat and
serve) meals to the dining hall at check-in. These meals must be labeled
with the campers name, troop number, shift number, and the meal it is
replacing. Please indicate
whether microwave or oven warming is required. Have your table steward as for the meal when setup
begins. Limited refrigerator
and freezer space is available. |
Friday Barbecue: Camp
Chawanakee ends each session with an out-of-this world Barbecue on Friday
night. For this meal only, there
will be one shift of eating (right after flags.) Guests may pay at the door or buy a meal ticket from the
Trading Post. A plate, fork, and
cup will be provided .
Fires: A Scout is careful with fire in the
woods. Please follow all fire
safety guidelines closely:
Use only the designated campfire circle
in the traditional campsites to build fires
Fire control tools may be checked out
from the head commissioner at 8:00 a.m. on Monday
Smoking is prohibited in any area of camp
where Scouts are present. Smoking
is also prohibited in any building or tent.
NO OPEN FLAMES IN ANY TENT NO EXCEPTIONS
Both state and county agencies prohibit
the use of fireworks in camp. Fireworks
are not to be brought to camp for any reason. Violators of this policy will be
sent home and the appropriate law enforcement agencies contacted.
Personal firearms of any caliber and
ammunition are not to be brought to camp.
Fire pits may not be constructed in the
patrol sites unless direct written permission is granted by the Camp Facilities
Director and Camp Director. U.S.
Forest Service guidelines will be followed for any fire built in camp.
Campsite fires must be kept small. Flames should be no higher than two feet.
Your
Patrol Site: Patrol site equipment consists of four
tents, eight cots, eight mattresses, one stand alone BBQ, and one picnic table.
It is recommended that troops bring their own dining flies. Garbage cans will be strategically
placed for easy access by patrol sites.
Full garbage cans should be placed next to the road by 5:00 p.m. each
evening for pick up.
Commissioner
Service: Commissioners are one of the key
ingredients for the unit to have an outstanding week. Any needs concerns, and /or suggestions should be directed
to your commissioner. Campsites
will be inspected by the commissioner daily in accordance with a schedule set
up between them and your Senior Patrol Leader. Campsite inspection scores are a
key component to determining who wins the coveted “thumb-stick” award.
Participants: All leaders and scouts must be registered
members of the B.S.A. A copy of your council roster or individual registration
card is acceptable proof of this. Acceptance in this program is the same for
everyone without regard for race, color, national origin, sex, age, or
handicap.
Senior
Patrol Leaders: SPL’s
are the leader of the troop. It is
essential for each trop to have one elected. SPL’s will attend daily meetings with the Head
Commissioner. Meetings are held
daily, at the dining hall, at 1:15 p.m.
Scoutmaster
Meetings: A joint Scoutmaster and SPL meeting is
scheduled for Sunday evening at 8:15 p.m., at the point campfire bowl. Scoutmaster meetings are scheduled for
Tuesday and Friday morning at 10:00 a.m. in the chapel. A scoutmaster social is scheduled for
7:15 p.m. on Wednesday evening.
Adult
Leadership: Every troop is required to have a
minimum of two adults supervising their unit through the entire week. One adult must be 21 or older, the
second adult must be at least 18 year so age. Troops who rotate adult leadership must make sure that this
requirement is met the entire time they are at camp. Units not meeting this standard will not be allowed to
participate in any Camp Chawanakee activity. All visitors and late
arrivals must check in at the camp office upon arrival at camp.
Adult
Features: Designated shower and rest room
facilities on the point are reserved for adult leaders only. Adults will stay in strategically
placed tenting near their patrols, which will house from two to four adults
four the same gender. At camp we
offer a variety of activities and training for your adult leaders such as:
Safe Swim Defense
Safety Afloat
Youth Protection
Climb on Safely
Golf Tournament
Internet Access (during
designated times)
A pay phone
Risk Zone Training
Trading
Post: the Trading Post provides goods, camp
souvenirs, food, drinks, and candy for the needs of Scouts during their week at
camp. Remember that certain Merit Badges do require the purchase of supplies
(See Merit Badge Listings.) Merit
Bade advancement items are available including pamphlets, handbooks, kits, and
targets. It is suggested that
$50.00 to $60.00 should meet the needs of most scouts, but be prepared to bring
more for a thrilling horse ride and a beautiful camp T-shirt. Special Chawanakee merchandise will be
available for sale at the Trading Post.
It is also suggested that the Scoutmaster or an adult leader is the
banker for the week. Scouts should
turn in their money to him/her and he/she should distribute that money on an as
needed basis back to the scout.
Mail:
Mail is delivered into camp once a day. Letters or postcards can take anywhere from one to three
extra days to get to camp. Scouts are encouraged to write home at least once
during their stay. Address your
mail in the following manner (be sure to include troop number, session, and
campsite also be sure parents are aware of this information so they can write
their Scouts at camp:) It is suggested that you photo copy this page and
distribute it to all parents prior to leaving for camp.)
 |
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CAMP PHONE NUMBERS-FOR BUSINESS USE ONLY |
|
|
CAMP FAX |
(559) 841-8181 |
|
CAMP OFFICE |
(559) 841-2117 |
|
COUNCIL OFFICE |
(559) 320-2100 |
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DINING HALL(Special Meal Requests) |
(559) 841-5354 |
Telephones:
the adult leaders may make outgoing calls from the Trading Post using
the pay phone. Scouts are not allowed to use the pay phone unless their unit
leader is present.
Messages and faxes
may be left for individual until leaders and scouts, but must include the person’s name, campsite, and unit number.
Messages are placed in the unit’s box, unless described as an emergency,
in which case every effort will be made to contact the unit leader or scout as
soon as possible. In any case,
messages may take up to a day to get to the person they are intended for.
Mobile phones may
be used from camp, but leaders must provide their own mobile phones and phone
service agreements. Not all
carriers service the Shaver Lake area.
Medical
Support: A first aid
person is present at camp at all times to treat medical emergencies and handle
minor problems. Arrangements
have been made with a local doctor and hospital for treatment of emergency
cases. In accordance with B.S.A.
National Policy all prescription medicines brought to camp, with the exception
of emergency use medicines such as an inhaler or bee sting kit, must be locked
up by the camp medical officer. Adult
leaders will be responsible for making sure Scouts receive the proper
medication at the proper times.
Uniforms: Have your Scouts in full uniform for
morning and evening flag ceremonies each day, as well as the closing
campfire. Through the day,
encourage them to wear Scout shorts and either a unit T-Shirt, ca camp T-shirt,
or other Scout related shirt. The
Boy Scout uniform is an important part o f the B.S.A. A scout should wear it proudly and properly. Scouts should arrive and leave
camp in full class A uniform.
What to Bring to Camp
Each troop,
patrol, and Scout should “Be Prepared” to bring certain items to camp in order
to have a successful camping experience.
The following is a suggested list of what to bring.
|
Personal
Overnight Camping Gear
• Scout outdoor essentials
• Clothing for the Season (Weather changes
daily at Chawanakee most of the time it is warm and sunny but, “Be Prepared”
for all kinds of weather, including rain and cold weather.)
• Extra Shoes/Boots
• Pack
• Sleeping bag or 2-3 blankets
• Foam sleeping pad or air mattress (we do
provide mattresses)
• Ground Cloth
• Eating Kit (Spoon, Fork, Knife, Plate,
Bowl, Cup)
•
Toilet
Articles (Soap, Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Dental Floss, Comb/Brush, Washcloth,
and Towel)
• Scout Uniform (to be worn to camp)
Personal
Extras you may want to
take
|
• Watch |
•
Trading
Post Money |
|
• Camera and Film |
•
OA Sash |
|
• Insect Repellent |
•
Pillow |
|
• Sunglasses |
•
Fishing
Equipment |
|
• Binoculars |
•
Bathing
Suit |
|
•
Water
Socks |
2006 Schedules
6:00
p.m.-6:45 p.m. Dinner
Shift 1
6:45
p.m.-7:00 p.m. Retreat
7:00
p.m.-7:45 p.m. Dinner
Shift 2
8:15
p.m.-9:15 p.m. S.M./S.P.L.
Meeting
10:15
p.m.-6:15 p.m. Quiet
Time
Monday-Friday
7:30
a.m.-7:45 a.m. Flag
Raising
7:45
a.m.-8:15 a.m. Breakfast
Shift 2
8:30
a.m.-9:20 a.m. Merit
Badge Period 1
9:30
a.m.-10:20 a.m. Merit
Badge Period 2
10:30
a.m.-11:20 a.m. Merit
Badge Period 3
11:30
a.m.-12:20 p.m. Merit
Badge Period 4
12:30
p.m.-2:00 p.m. Lunch
and Patrol Time
1:15
p.m.-2:00 p.m. SPL
Meeting at the Veranda
2:15
p.m.-3:00 p.m. Merit
Badge Period 5
3:00
p.m.-4:45 p.m. Open
Time
5:00
p.m.-5:45 p.m. Dinner
Shift 1
5:45
p.m.-6:00 p.m. Retreat
6:00
p.m.-6:45 p.m. Dinner
Shift 2
7:00
p.m.-8:00 p.m. Open
Time
8:45
p.m.-9:45 p.m. Evening
Activities
10:15
p.m.-6:15 p.m. Quiet
Time
Saturday
6:45
a.m.-7:15 a.m. Breakfast
Shift 1
7:30
a.m.-7:45 a.m. Flag
Raising
7:45
a.m.-8:15 a.m. Breakfast
Shift 2
7:30
a.m.-9:30 a.m. Check
Out
Schedules
are subject to change upon arrival in camp. Changes will be submitted in writing as you check in.
Camp Program
Camp
Chawanakee is proud to have one of the most diversified and exciting programs
of any west coast camp. The
following pages will walk you through our program. Take some time to review it in detail so you can be informed
as to what is going on and of new activities for 2006.
Things you should know about our Merit Badge Program:
The following is
information you need to know about the Chawanakee Merit Badge Program. Details of this program are covered at www.chawanakee.com. Due to late merit badge requirement
changes from the National Office to some merit badge requirements, check the
website frequently for updates.
Those who register their email address at this site will receive an
email when updates occur.
Difficulty
Rating: This
is a Ten Point scale that is used to reference which merit badges are
appropriate for younger Scouts. It
is our recommendation that younger Scouts take merit badges whose difficulty
ratings do not exceed 5 nor take more than 3 merit badges. Younger Scouts are encouraged to
participate in the Trail to First Class Program.
Pre-Requisites: These are items that need to be given
attention to before arriving at camp.
These requirements must be completed (and signed off on his blue card)
by the Scout before camp with an approved merit badge counselor in their home
city. These are items that either cannot be satisfactorily completed at camp or
are otherwise inappropriate in the camp setting.
Recommended Requirements: These are requirements that may prove
extremely difficult to complete at camp due to time constraints or weather
related issues. You may want your
Scouts to complete these requirements prior to camp to ensure completion of the
merit badge.
Cost: Certain merit badges have a cost or costs
that are over and above those covered by the basic camp fee. Make sure Scouts are prepared to cover
any costs of their desired merit badges.
Period Taught:
This refers to the period during the day that a merit badge is taught. The www.chawanakee.com website will not allow you to sign up
for a period in which the merit badge is not taught. (note, some merit badges require more than one period to
complete.)
Location: This is a handy way to tell where to meet for a merit badge on the first day of instruction.
Merit Badge Sign Up: To help ensure your scouts get the program
they want and to promote fairness to all, all merit badges must be signed up
for at www.chawanakee.com. Due to equipment and
quality concerns, many classes have a cap on the number of scouts each period
will hold, please signup early, all sign ups are on a first come-first serve
basis.
Age Requirements: National Standards requires each scout camp to have an older
boy program, therefore, some merit badges are limited to Scouts 14 and older;
please check those merit badges that apply. Please do not ask for waivers on age requirements.
Changes to
schedule may be made at camp, but cannot be guaranteed.
|
Merit Badges
Offered at Camp Chawanakee Astronomy Art Backpacking Basketry Camping Canoeing Citizenship
in the Nation Citizenship
in the World Climbing Communications Computers Emergency
Preparedness Environmental
Science Fire Safety First Aid Fish and
Wildlife Management Fishing Forestry Geology Hiking Horsemanship Indian Lore |
Merit Badges
Offered at Camp Chawanakee Leatherwork Lifesaving Mammal Study Motor Boating Nature Oceanography Orienteering Photography Pioneering Pottery Reptile and
Amphibian Study Rifle
Shooting Rowing Shotgun
Shooting Small Boat
Sailing Soil and
Water Conservation Space
Exploration Swimming Theater Weather Wilderness
Survival Wood Carving |
Campfires:
Opening Campfire: Start your week off right on Monday night when our staff puts on the opening
campfire for your entertainment and enjoyment. Troop guides will lead troops to
the campfire.
Commissioner
Intertroop Campfire:
On Wednesday night, Commissioners will host an inter-troop campfire in a
pre-designated campfire bowl. Each troop should have a skit, song, or cheer to
perform at the campfire. The best songs and skits will be chosen to perform for
Friday night’s campfire.
Tribe of Chawanakee
Campfire: On Thursday
night the spirit of the Native Americans who inhabited this land when Camp
Chawanakee was just a dream will come out to induct new members into the tribe
and to advance in rank those who have returned. The highlight of this campfire is the reading of the legend
followed by a customized induction ceremony for the rank you are advancing
to. End the evening listening to
the sage advice of the mighty Sachem.
Scouts must either have completed their service hours prior this
campfire, or swear on their honor as a scout that they will before they leave. Adults are welcome too!
Closing Campfire: Friday evening at the Point Campfire Bowl
there will be a variety show second to none and you provide the songs and
skits. That’s right, the troops are the main attraction here so plan to
participate. The highlight of the campfire is a Flag Retirement Ceremony so
wear your cleanest Class-A uniform.
General Program
Chawanakee Open: Two and a half! If you think all of the activities at camp are for the
Scouts then you haven’t played in the Chawanakee Open. Tee off with the rest of
the adult leaders on Wednesday with your custom made club, we provide the ball
(tennis ball.) Lauded by many
leaders as the most fun they’ve had at camp we hope you join us for the Seventh
annual Chawanakee Open.
Wacky Tourist Friday: Make sure to bring plenty of items to
decorate yourself and your campsite in wacky tourist duds. The tackier the better! The afternoon wraps up with our
famous chuck-wagon style Barbecue.
Chawanadayze:
Chawanadayze is our exciting fast paced camp wide games. After our Opening Ceremonies at the
Waterfront, the troops will break up into their patrols and compete in
competitions that will test the leadership of your patrol leaders and the
skills of your scouts. Awards will
be presented, on a Patrol basis, for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd
in individual events and one overall prize. Leaders are invited to the rifle range to try their hand at
Black Powder Shooting or you may want to find your way to the climbing wall to
test your intestinal fortitude against 52 feet of vertical fun.
Special Events and Activities
C.O.P.E.: Difficulty
Level: 10
Pre-requisite:
14 Years Old or older
Cost:
None
Adult
C.O.P.E. held period 5
Location:
Fire Bell Rock
C.O.P.E. (Challenging
Outdoor Personal Encounters) is a course for older boys who want to learn about
themselves and teamwork. Through games and physical challenges the boys learn
the importance of working together while at the same time learning of their
potential. Many boys don’t know
how much they can do until they face a
40-foot drop and slide down our zip-line, one of the biggest in the
Western Region.
Rock Climbing: Pre-requisite:
14 Years Old or older
Cost:
None
Merit
Badge Period Held: 1&2, 3&4
Free
Climb from 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Location:
Climbing Wall
Our 52-foot
climbing tower is for older boys who want to learn about themselves and
teamwork. The boys learn the
importance of working together while at the same time learning how well they
can climb. Our climbing tower has
three “faces” to choose from, each with its own unique challenges.
Trail
to First Class: Difficulty
Level: 4
Pre-requisite:
None
Cost:
None
Merit
Badge Period Held:
Period
1- Tenderfoot, Period 2- Second Class
Period
3- First Class, Period 4- Tenderfoot
Period
5- Second Class
Location:
Eagle Lodge
Adults are
strongly encouraged to accompany their Scouts to this program area. New or younger Scouts along with their
adult leaders will receive an opportunity to learn the skills needed to achieve
the rank of First Class. They will
work together on a variety of
activities and skill including nature, hiking, orienteering, pioneering, first
aid, and more. A printout, given
out at the Wednesday Scoutmaster Social, will give you an update on what your
scout has been taught so far. A
final progress report will be a part of your check out packet on Saturday.
Kayaking: Difficulty
Level: 2
Pre-requisite:
Pass Swimmer Test
Cost:
None
Merit
Badge Period Held: Upon Request
Location:
Waterfront
One of the most
popular waterfront activities at Camp Chawanakee is kayaking. With our numerous
kayaks, Scouts and Scouters alike will have the opportunity to enjoy beautiful
Shaver Lake.
Mile
Swim: Difficulty
Level: 8
Pre-requisite:
Pass Swimmer Test, Endurance
4+
hours to complete
Cost:
$3.00 (optional for patch)
Merit
Badge Period Held: Early Morning,
Afternoon
Open Time
Location:
Waterfront
This test of
strength and endurance is a four-day event. To adjust to the altitude of
Chawanakee scouts will be required to swim 200 yards, then ¼ of a mile, ½ mile
and then the full mile. Scouts
must be successful on each preceding leg to advance to the next. Each leg MUST
be swum on a different day. Each
swimmer will be required to provide a skilled rower and spotter to ensure their
safety and success. Only one swimmer per boat is allowed.
B.S.A.
Lifeguard: Difficulty
Level: 10
Merit
Badge, First Aid Merit Badge, Proof
of
C.P.R. Certification, 14 years old or older
Adults
must have equivalent skills to merit
Badges.
Recommended: CPR Certification
Cost:
$3.00 (optional for patch)
Merit
Badge Period Held: 3 & 4 & 5, plus
Open
Time.
Location:
Waterfront
A B.S.A. Lifeguard
can be a vital part for Troop outings.
Our staff will help show your future lifeguards the proper techniques on
how to keep a safe waterfront.
Strong and responsible swimmers age 14 and older are required. Adults are welcome to participate. In order to complete this program, you
MUST be CPR certified. This
certification MAY NOT be offered at camp.
B.S.A. Lifeguard is a three-year
certification.
Snorkeling B.S.A.: Difficulty
Level: 7
Pre-requisite:
Pass Swimmer Test
Cost:
$3.00 (Optional for Patch)
Merit
Badge Period Held: 5th Session
Location:
Waterfront
Learn how to
snorkel at Camp Chawanakee and see the underwater world of Shaver Lake. After learning the basics of camp you
will be able to take your newly learned skills with you anywhere.
Polar Bear Swim: Difficulty
Level: 1
Pre-requisite:
Getting Up Early and cold
Tolerance!
Cost:
$3.00 for patch
Merit
Badge Period Held: 6:00:32 a.m.
Location:
Waterfront
As you and the
birds awaken in the early morning you will see the steam rising off of Shaver
Lake. All of the brave souls in camp will meet at the waterfront and swim in
sub-arctic waters. Don’t worry we
won’t let such bravery go un-rewarded.
Trails of Chawanakee
Difficulty
Level: 10
Pre-requisite:
None
Cost:
$3.00 for the patch (optional)
Merit
Badge Period Held: Anytime you can!
Location:
Mile Swim- Waterfront, All other
Trails-
On the Fleur de-lis on the dining
Hall
side of the bridge.
Cat
Eye Trail: This
night trail allows you to follow the path of the cat. The eyes you see guide you to the end of the trail where
your super adventure ends.
Nature
Trail: This self-guided tour takes you through the
beautiful meadow of Chawanakee.
Along the trail you will find signs that will explain the flora and
fauna that can be seen throughout camp.
If you have any questions, the trail goes through the nature area.
Warrior
Trail: This trail calls for your knowledge of
orienteering. Pick up the bearings
at the Scoutcraft Area and set out with your buddy to find out where the
warriors went.
Adventure
Trail: The
most rigorous of the Trails of Chawanakee is the adventure trail. This three-mile trek takes you through
the beautiful back country of Chawanakee.
Just follow the green arrows and dots to find your way! Beware the evil
red, yellow, and blue dots and arrows that try to lead you the wrong way. Catch your breath before going up
Heart Attack Hill!
Mile
Swim: (See previous
description.)
Chieftain
Run: The
Chieftain Run is the latest trail to be added to the Trails of Chawanakee.
Scouts and Scouters will wake early to take an early morning jog to the
entrance of Family Camp. Show your
strength and ambition and join us for the Chieftain Run!
An award is given
at the closing campfire for any Scout or Scouter who successfully completes all
five trails and the mile swim. A scorecard is available in the Scoutcraft area
and must be completed and turned in by the 10:00 a.m. Scoutmaster meeting on
Friday.
Paul Bunyon Award: Difficulty
Level: 5
Cost:
None
Merit
Badge Period Held: Open Time
Location:
Scoutcraft
Follow the spirit
of Paul Bunyan, Scouts will learn the proper care of and safety with wood
cutting tools. Those who complete
the experience earn the right to wear the Paul Bunyan patch on his uniform.
Horse
Trail Rides: Difficulty
Level: 3
Cost:
$15.00
Merit
Badge Period Held: 3:30 p.m., 5:00 p.m..
and
6:30 p.m. Mon-Thurs.
Location:
Horse Corral
Take a hose ride
through the forests of Chawanakee and observe the flora and fauna. On your
one-hour ride perhaps you will see a coyote or a herd of deer. The number of riders is limited to 8
per trail ride. For the safety of riders and horses, there is a 225 lb. rider
weight limit. Take a later ride and you could see the sun set over the
beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Keep in mind which shift of dinner you have when signing up for evening
times.
Canoe
Outpost: Difficulty Level:
1
Pre-requisite:
For Canoe- Pass Swimmer Test
For
Rowboat- Arrange with Commissioner
Two
Deep Leadership
Cost:
$3.00 for optional patch
Merit
Badge Period Held:
First
Shift Dinner- 6:45 p.m., Second Shift
Dinner-
7:30 p.m.
Location:
Waterfront
The Canoe Outpost
is a chance to get out of camp and see what is on the other side of beautiful
Shaver Lake. Troops have the
opportunity to paddle or row across the lake and camp under the stars. A
cracker barrel will be provided for your troop’s enjoyment. While on the other
side, troops can spend their evening enjoying leisure activities such as
fishing, exploring, practicing your Scout skills or just have a good ol’
campfire. Two Deep Leadership is
required for the Canoe Outpost.
Sorry, swimming is not allowed.
Special Awards and
Recognition
Pioneer
Hike: This honor is bestowed upon a boy in
your troop that has exemplified the Scout Oath and Law. The Pioneer hike takes place after
Friday’s campfire. Pioneer hikers
spend the evening under the stars and will write a short essay. Each troop is allowed to send ONLY ONE scout. Turn in the Scout’s name to the Program
Director at the 10:00 a.m. Friday Leader’s meeting.
Honor
Troop: An honor troop is one that adheres to
the Scout Oath and Law in all their dealings. Honor troops show scout spirit, have high inspection scores,
use the patrol method, and participate in programs and meetings. All honor
troops will be recognized at the Closing Campfire.
Spirited
Arrow Award: The
purpose of the Spirited Arrow award is to encourage Scout Spirit. The troop
with the most enthusiasm and always doing their best will be given this
award. Judgment will be based on
Patrols having flags, patrol yells, doing good turns, wearing the proper
uniform at proper times, and Scouts simply doing their best to take pride in
Scouting, but most of all, HAVING FUN!
Tribe of Chawanakee
The Tribe of
Chawanakee is Camp Chawanakee’s honor service organization. This program is
designed to recognize Scouts and Scouters who exemplify the Boy Scout and
Chawanakee’s ideals of Scout helpfulness.
All Scouts and Scouters who attend camp are eligible for
membership. ON Thursday night, all
of the hard work from the week will culminate in a ceremony and campfire that
will strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and Scout Spirit. The ranks and corresponding requirements
are:
Hunter: 1) One Week at Camp Chawanakee
2)
One hour or work on a service project
Warrior: 1) Earned Hunter
2)
Two summers at Camp Chawanakee
3) Two hours of a work on a service
project
Chief: 1) Earned Warrior
2)
Three summers at Camp Chawanakee
3) Three hours of a work on a service project
Medicine Man: 1) Earned Chief
2)
Four summers at Camp Chawanakee
3) Four hours of a work on a service project
Sachem: 1) Earned Medicine Man
2)
Five summers at Camp Chawanakee
3) Plan, organize, and complete an
approved service
project, of at least 5 hours.
(Please contact the
camp commissioner for
assistance.)
All ranks require Scouts to show
Scout Spirit
the entire time they are at camp.