Winter Camp

 

Adult Leadership

Meetings

Deadline for Outstanding Balances

All outstanding fees must be paid on or before December 1^st. Any troops not paying the full balance by that date risk having their registration canceled and all deposits being forfeited.

Camperships

A limited number of camperships are available each year for Scouts with severe financial hardships. Troops should encourage Scouts to earn their own way through unit fundraisers. Campership applications must be submitted before fees are paid.

Campership Application

Refund Policy

The council refund policy can be found at shacbsa.org/refund.

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​​​Updates:

• Questions and Support
• Request Supplies (e.g., for merit badge classes or program areas) (due December 13^th)
• Printing ( submit printing requests to Laquitta.Monroe@scouting.org by no later than Friday, December 20^th at noon.

One of the many unique aspects of winter camp is that the entire staff is composed of volunteers. Dedicated volunteers take time away from work and their families in order to provide an outstanding program for the hundreds of Scouts who attend camp each year. Over 250 staff members are needed to provide the best possible program for the Scouts. Staff positions include serving as a merit badge counselor, service crew member or camp commissioner. Volunteers are also needed to help in the dining hall, trading post, quartermaster store, business office, and program areas. 

In order to be able to provide adequate staff for our camp, all troops attending winter camp need to provide at least one person from that troop to serve as a volunteer staffer for every six Scouts registered for camp, or any portion thereof. For example, if a troop is bringing just four Scouts to camp, they need one person from the troop to serve on staff for winter camp. If a troop is bringing eight Scouts to camp, two people must serve on staff. For troops bringing up to 12 Scouts, this shouldn’t pose a major issue, as each troop should be bringing at least two adults to camp to meet two-deep leadership requirements. Rest assured that any adult leader who agrees to staff at winter camp will not have the ability to supervise and advise their troop adversely affected. The greatest need for most staffers is during times when most Scouts are busy at merit badge classes or enjoying activity periods.

Prospective staff members must be at least 15 years of age (certain staff positions have more stringent age requirements). Interested persons may apply for staff. Applications are approved by the camp director and must be submitted on or before November 15^th.

Option 1: Volunteer Staff (attending with their troop)

Option 2: Volunteer Staff (attending on their own)

Youth Staff and CITs

Staff Housing

Staff will camp with their troop. Staff not attending with their troop will camp in the staff campsite.

Important Staff Deadlines

Staff Arrival

Staff not attending can arrive between 8:00 am - 12:00 pm.  Staff attending with their troop can arrive with their troop.

Staff Housing

Staff attending with their unit will camp with their unit. There are limited number of spots for cabins for staff attending independently. Request a cabin in the online staff registration link.

Merit Badge Counselors - Rosters

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Rosters will be provided to the counselor.  Rosters are to be turned in daily to HQ, so a copy can be made and advancements entered into Doubleknot.

• ✓ = advancement is complete
• ✓ Done column = the entire badge is complete (individual advancements do not need to be checked) 

Blue cards are not used. A few weeks after camp, all of the completed requirements will be posted directly into Scoutbook. The adult that registered the unit can also log in to Doubleknot and pull a report of advancements completed at camp.       

Supplies

If you need any supplies in order to make your merit badge class a success, please compose a need and wish list and submit the request by December 13^th so the supplies can be ordered and shipped in time for camp! 

Request Supplies

Printing: Printing requests need to be sent to Laquitta.Monroe@scouting.org by December 20^th at noon.

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​​​Super Troop is a temporary troop of Scouts from troops around the council. Super Troop allows Scouts to attend camp individually if their unit is not attending.

Super Troop Registration

The parent/guardian typically registers Scouts for Super Troop. Register as a troop and then select Scout with Super Troop.

There cannot be more than three Scouts in the same troop; if there are more than three Scouts, the troop must provide a second registered adult and register as a traditional troop. 

All Super Troop campers must:

• ​​​Have permission from their Scoutmaster to attend.  The Scoutmaster must ensure the Scout's readiness to attend winter camp. 
• Have the maturity to camp on their own, and be able to abide by the camp rules and follow the schedule independently.
• Have attended several campouts with their troop, and have solid camping skills including being capable if camping in rainy and cold weather.
• Must bring a current Annual Health and Medical Record (parts A, B1, B2, C) signed by a healthcare provider

Super Troop Leadership

Adult supervision will be provided by a volunteer Scoutmaster and parents attending Super Troop with their Scout. 

All adults attending:

• Must be a Scouting America-registered leader with their troop. 
• Must submit a criminal background check form
• Must have proof of current Youth Protection Training (taken at my.scouting.org). To print proof of YPT training, login to your my.scouting.org account. In the upper right corner, click on the person icon and then click on, “My Training.” Click on the printer icon, a new browser tab opens containing a pdf file that you can then print to a printer or download to your computer. 
• Must bring a current Annual Health and Medical Record (parts A, B1, B2, C) signed by a healthcare provider
• Can participate in adult activities (e.g., Scoutmaster Chuck Wagon Cookoff) and trainings
• Can serve as a volunteer staff member 

There is a leader's lounge that you can work in during the day.  It has tables, electricity, coffee. There is Wifi at camp. The adults will help the Super Troop Scoutmaster lead the Super Troop youth leaders. The adults will help ensure the Scouts get to their merit badge classes and meals, have the opportunity to participate in evening activities, and STAY HYDRATED throughout the week. 

Super Troop Structure

Super Troop will be run as a traditional troop. A senior patrol leader (SPL), and assistant SLP will be elected. Scouts who want to be considered for a leadership position should have a two-minute speech prepared expressing why they are suited for the job. Scouts will be divided into patrols and elect a patrol leader.  There will be elections for both the girl troop and boy troop. 

Super Troop may be asked to help serve a meal, lead a grace or help with a flag ceremony. Like all troops and camp, Super Troop will be responsible for cleaning bath houses, disposing of trash and maintaining our campsite. Please talk with your Scout about that responsibility of pitching in and helping with these tasks. 

Dropoff / Pickup

Dropoff: Scouts can be dropped off at Camp Strake on December 26^th between 2:00 - 4:00 pm. Super Troop will be in Campsites 9 and 10. Scouts do not need to wear their uniform to camp. Parents can drive to the campsite and help the Scouts unload their gear. Most parents pick up their Scouts after the campfire.

Pickup: Scouts are to be picked up on December 30^th between 5:30 - 7:00 pm. Parents must check-out with the Super Troop Scoutmaster; parents will be given a check-out ticket by the Super Troop Scoutmaster that will need to be given to security staff at the check-out building (by the front gate).

Merit badge classes end at 5:15 pm. Dinner is either at 5:45 or 7:00 pm, depending on their assigned shift. The closing campfire is at 8:00 pm. Please ensure your Scout knows when you plan to pick them up so they can have their gear packed and help clean up the campsite before departure. Parents can drive to the campsite to load up the gear. 

Leaving early: if your Scout needs to leave camp for any reason, it is CRITICAL that you communicate with the Super Troop Scoutmaster. 

What to Bring

• ​​​See the participant packing list and winter camping hints
• Mark all items with the Scout's name
• Do not bring valuables
• Don't forget the rain gear and lots of warm clothes. See the winter camping tips in the Participant Guide

• Medications.  Bring any needed medications in their original container and make sure they are listed on the medical form. In addition, bring a completed Routine & Drug Administration Record so the camp staff can document when medications are administered. Medications will be administered by the camp medic. Scouts are allowed to carry an inhaler or epi pen. Learn more about medications in the Participant Guide.

• Cracker Barrel – Scouts are ALWAYS hungry and we would love to be able to host cracker barrel in the evenings. Please send snacks for 12 (or more). Try to avoid nuts and consider some gluten free items.

• ​Medical Forms - Bring one copy of the Annual Health and Medical Record (Parts A, B1, B2, and C) completely filled out and signed by a healthcare provider.. Unlike troops, Super Troop does not keep a copy in the campsite. Everything medical is handled by the camp medic (see specific instructions below about how to properly fill out the forms). Learn more about medical forms and medications.

• Special Diets need to be included in the online registration. Learn more about special diets in the Participant Guide. Please let the Super Troop Scoutmaster know about any dietary restrictions so they can ensure the Scout knows how to navigate the dining room.

• Schedule. Please print a copy of your Scout's merit badge schedule. Go to http://app.doubleknot.com/signon/2509, click on the Registration tab, Reports drop-down, and select Unit Schedule with page breaks. Send an email to camp support if schedule changes are needed. Schedule changes can be made at HQ upon arrival.

Tents

​​​Super Troop will be camping in the two campsites at Camp Strake with canvas tents set up year-round. Participants will be assigned to tents with two campers (adults and Scouts) per tent following guidelines (e.g., separate tenting arrangements for male and female adults as well as for male and female youth; youth sharing tents must be no more than two years apart in age; youth and adults tent separately; spouses may share tents). Super Troop campers can bring their own tent (with rain fly and stakes). Cots are not provided. Cots can be rented. Pay for the cot at HQ or the trading post and pick it up at the QM.

Homesickness

According to the American Camp Association, most campers report at least some homesick feelings during one day of their camp stay. Common symptoms include mild depression, anxiety, withdrawn behavior, somatic—or physical—complaints, and misbehavior. Sometimes a Scout gets homesick and wants to leave early. Parents should contact the Super Troop Scoutmaster if Scouts contact them and exhibit any signs of homesickness during camp so that the adult leaders can assess the Scouts’ needs and provide positive coping outlets. Some of these strategies might be to get them involved in fun activities, encourage them to talk with other Scouts or a leader about their feelings, remind them of the fun things they have done or will do at camp, and provide special fun tasks each day. Learn more about homesickness.

Merit Badge Completions

A few weeks after camp, advancements completed will be uploaded in Scoutbook and any advancements completed during camp will be checked as completed. The unit leader will then approve the merit badge requirements completed. Learn more about the merit badge process at camp at /winter-camp/#program.

Questions

For questions, contact us using the support email. About a week before camp, the contact email of the Super Troop Scoutmaster will be emailed to campers.

 

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Printable View

• Packing List
• Meals & Special Diets
• Medical Forms and Medications

Scouts are expected to live the principles of the Scout Oath and Law.

Participant Packing List

​Camp App

We are thrilled to introduce our brand-new camp app, which will serve as a vital communication tool for all camp attendees, offering convenient access to essential resources such as the camp map, schedule, program updates, emergency announcements, and much more. You can find it by searching "Sam Houston Area Council" on both Apple and Android platforms.

Personal Possessions

Camp is an outdoor experience. A Scout misses a full outdoor experience by electronic devices. Personal items such as electronics should not be brought to camp. In all cases, personal valuables (watches, wallets, money) should not be in the open at camp. It is virtually impossible to provide security for these items. It is recommended that each unit bring a lockable storage container to secure valuables while an adult is not in the campsite. All items must be permanently marked with Scout's name and troop number. No adult or Scout should ever leave any electronic device unattended while charging anywhere at camp.

Winter Camping Tips

​​​Participants are expected to come to camp prepared for variable weather. Although temperatures average between 40 to 60 degrees during winter camp, temperatures have been known to dip as low as 19 degrees and rise as high as 80 degrees.

Sources: Winter camping tips and tricks to help you enjoy the fourth season, Eight essentials for staying warm while cold-weather camping, Outdoor Smarts: How to Keep Warm in Camping's Fourth Season; How to Stay Warm With the Right Winter Gear

Dressing for the cold. When dressing for cold weather, focus on a layering system including the three Ws: wicking, warmth and wind. Your base layer should be wicking (like an athletic shirt), an insulating layer should be warming (like fleece or wool) and an exterior layer should block the wind. Use clothing you have, focusing on the right combination of fabrics.

• Wicking Layer or Base. Also commonly known as long underwear, the base layer is worn closest to your skin. Its main job is to wick away sweat and moisture so your skin stays dry. Wear it relatively tight to the skin and use only wool or synthetic base layers. Never use cotton because it will not keep you warm once it’s wet, whether from sweat or precipitation. These base layers come in various weights, from heavy for frigid conditions to lightweight for warmer temps and activities that cause a lot of sweating, such as strenuous hiking and cross-country skiing. It’s a good idea to have one extra pair of base layers to change into every night at camp.

• Warmth Layer or Insulation. The insulation layer is worn atop the base layer and is designed to provide the majority of your insulation. It should be made of fleece, wool, down or synthetic insulation and can be a pullover, zip-up jacket or vest, depending on how much insulation you need.

• Windproofing Layer or Shell. The outermost layer, the shell jacket and pants protect you from wind and wet conditions. There are two types of shells: the hard shell is a lightweight layer that’s windproof and waterproof, capable of handling heavy rain and very wet conditions; a softshell is made of a more flexible, soft-faced material that’s windproof yet highly breathable, and water-resistant enough to protect you against everything except a heavy downpour.

Mittens. Mittens are warmer than gloves. If insulated mittens get wet, they stay that way. Wool mitts worn inside leather or nylon shells are removable for faster drying. Wool gloves are needed for dexterity when cooking.

Sleeping. Be sure to change into dry clothes for sleeping — moisture retained in field clothes will cause chilling. For overnight warmth, wear wool, polypropylene, or polyester (never cotton!) long johns, socks, and a balaclava to bed. Place a scarf across your neck to seal drafts.

Sleeping bags. Two sleeping bags — one placed inside the other — should provide enough warmth down to about zero degrees. If you don’t have a closed-cell foam pad to use as a sleeping mat, try half-inch-thick foam carpet padding.

Ground cloth. In warmer months, a plastic ground cloth should be used inside your tent to stay dry. However, in winter, use the ground cloth beneath your tent to keep it from freezing to the ground.

Toes cold? Put on a hat. Your body loses up to half of its total heat in 40-degree temperatures. So, when it’s below freezing and your head is uncovered, you could be radiating more than three-fourths of your overall body heat from your head.

Baggy clothes are back in style at least in the freezing-cold wilderness. Your body heats itself most efficiently when it’s enveloped in a layer of warm air. If your clothes are too tight, you’re strangling the cold right out of your body. Dressing in loose layers helps aid this convection layer of air. Tight clothes or too-tight boots can also restrict blood flow.

The three W’s. Every cold-weather camper needs to dress for the occasion. You’ll need a wicking layer (long underwear), a “warm” layer (fleece), and a “wind” layer (waterproof shell).

Stay hydrated. In winter, you may not be aware of how much you’re sweating. A gulp of ice-cold water is hardly appetizing, but it is important to keep drinking. Hot drinks and soup are great ways to replenish liquids, electrolytes, and heat. Keep extra tea bags on hand, as well as bouillon cubes, and hand out hot drinks liberally, especially at the end of the day when energy is low. 

Camp Program 

Learn more about the exciting program and merit badges being offered at winter camp.

Camp Program       Merit Badge Schedule        

Meals

​The air-conditioned dining hall seats 450 people. All meals are served in the dining hall. The dining hall has commercial gas stoves and ovens, food preparation areas, plenty of utensils and cooling supplies, a dry goods storage area, a dishwashing area, two walk-in refrigerators, three freezers, and much more. High-quality and nutritious meals will be provided on-site by a professional custom food service company. All menus have been reviewed by a certified dietician and are designed to provide active and healthy youth and adults with the nutrition and calorie intake needed for camping.

There is a salad bar and pasta bar at every meal. Seconds are available after everyone has been served, so there is plenty of food for everyone. Snacks are available for purchase in the Trading Post.

Special Dietary Needs

​Allergies and special diets are common concerns. If a Scout requires a special diet, the unit leader must enter the information in the online registration system at least two weeks prior to arrival. The camp's food service providers are very experienced with accommodating most diets; however, not all diets can be accommodated. The unit leader will provide a parent and/or adult participant's email and phone number in the online registration system whenever a special diet is requested; the food service provider might contact the adult participant or a Scout's parent/guardian to discuss unique special requests.

The following diets can be accommodated: vegetarian, kosher, halal, no pork, no beef, gluten-free, nut-free, soy-free, dairy-free, and lactose intolerant. Shellfish is not served at camp. The only peanut product served in the dining hall are peanut butter in the extra food bar. Not all diets can be accommodated; if the camper has a unique request, the details should be entered into the online registration system along with an email and the food service provider will let them know if the request cannot be accommodated.

• While at camp, participants could participant in many dining styles such as family-style dining, cafeteria-style dining, and/or self-serve bars.
• It is the expectation that all campers have the necessary knowledge of their diet and can manage their food choices.
• Camp staff cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment. Careful consideration needs to be taken for campers with severe allergies, particularly those susceptible to airborne transmission.
• If a camper has a severe allergy or dietary restriction, contact the camp directors to discuss if the camp staff is properly equipped to manage needs.
• While the staff works to meet all dietary requirements, food is prepared in an area with milk, eggs, peanut, tree nut, wheat, soy, fish, and cross-contamination may occur.
• Upon arrival at camp and prior to their first meal eaten, it is the camper's responsibility to identify themselves to the kitchen staff; then cooperate in helping the camp staff meet their need(s).

Depending on the need, it may be necessary for campers with special dietary requirements to bring food items to supplement items available at camp. Participants with special diets can request access to refrigerators, freezers, and microwaves to heat food, but actual cooking must be done at the campsite.   

Annual Health and Medical Record

​​​Because winter camp is longer than 72 hours, every participant must have Parts A, B1, B2, and C, even if they will be at camp for less than 72 hours. The form must be completed in its entirety and must contain all applicable signatures. All entries must be completed in ink. Changes are allowed but should be dated and initialed by the person changing the form. Forms can be downloaded at www.scouting.org/scoutsource/healthandsafety/ahmr.aspx. The form must be completely filled out; part C must be signed by a healthcare provider.

Health and Medical Record

Forms must be completed annually. An AHMR is valid through the end of the 12^th month from the date it was administered by the medical provider. For example, a physical administered on December 1, 2023, would be valid until December 31, 2024. There is no provision for the administration of a physical examination to be done at camp. If a Scout does not have an Annual Health and Medical Record, they will either have to secure one from an area doctor at their expense or return home.

Please carefully review all Annual Health and Medical Records prior to check-in. Common errors made on the Annual Health and Medical Record:

• ​​​Part A - Consent to Treat. Ensure the form is signed and dated by adult participants or the parent of Scouts under age 18. All signatures must be dated on or after 12/1/2023. Digital signatures must contain the proper digital information; cutting and pasting is not allowed. Authorization for a Scout to leave camp with an adult is at the bottom of the page.
• Part B1 - Contact Information and Health History.  Emergency contact information should be complete and include phone numbers. The health history should be complete with all lines marked either Yes or No.  In order to be able to treat youth in camp for more than immediate life-threatening conditions, our medical staff must have signed consent of a parent or guardian of a youth as contained in Part B. Also, adults who cannot otherwise consent due to incapacity must have signed this page in order for our medical staff to provide more than stabilization treatment.
• Part B2 - Allergies, Medications, and Immunizations.  List allergies to food, plants, medications, and insects on the form. If an EpiPen needs to be carried by the Scout or Scouter, it MUST be noted on the form. Any medication taken regularly should be listed. If the parent/adult guardian authorizes Over-the-Counter medication (OTC) to be given, the line must be signed, dated, and checked “Yes”.Complete the form rather than attaching an immunization record. Immunizations – currently requires only the Tetanus immunization, and it (or updated boosters) must have been received within the last 10 years. A check of “Yes” and the latest date must be listed. The Texas Department of Health will not accept “Up-to-Date,” “Current,” or “On-file.” Please do not attach shot records to the AHMR. 
• Part B2 - Non-prescription medications.  Ensure the non-prescription medication question is checked (Yes or No) on Part B2 of the medical record whether non-prescription medications (e.g., acetaminophen, antibiotic ointment, antacids, antihistamine, hydrocortisone cream) can be administered at camp. If the option to allow non-prescription medication is not checked, then it will be necessary for the unit leader of camp medical officer to attempt to contact the parent or guardian for permission to administer such medications. If they are unable to reach a parent/guardian, then the Scout will need further medical evaluation by the designated camp physician or hospital facility.
• Part C - Pre-participation Physical. All participants must complete a pre-participation physical on or after December 1, 2023. The form must be signed/dated by the health professional. Ensure that the healthcare provider completing Part C dates the form when signing.
• Using a current form. Download the latest form (revised 2019) at www.scouting.org/scoutsource/HealthandSafety/ahmr.aspx.
• Do not provide original forms. While the camp staff will try to return forms, it is best to provide copies. The forms are destroyed after camp.
• ​​​Digital signatures (or e-signatures) must be backed by an Adobe digital certificate. Approved digital signatures will have a certificate-based signature box (similar to the example on the right) on the signature line. Altered forms with signatures in a script font are not allowed.
• FAQs about the Annual Health and Medical Record
• Read about important medical risk factors 

Prescription and Non-Prescription Medications

All medication is the responsibility of either the individual taking the medication or that individual’s parent or guardian. A leader, after obtaining all the necessary information and permission, can agree to accept the responsibility of making sure a youth takes the necessary medication at the appropriate time, but Scouting America does not mandate or necessarily encourage the leader to do so. (Source)

• Scouts and adults who require medication must have all medications listed on the Annual Health and Medical Record. Be sure to check (Yes or No) on Part B2 of the Annual Health and Medical Record whether non-prescription medications (e.g., acetaminophen, antibiotic ointment, antacids, antihistamine, hydrocortisone cream) can be administered at camp. 
• Bring enough of the medication in sufficient quantities in the original container to last throughout camp, but only send the amount of medication needed at camp. If requested, most pharmacists will provide a second labeled container for medications so only the needed prescription can be sent to camp and the remainder can be kept at home in a labeled container.
• ​​​Keep the medications in the original prescription bottle/container. 
• Place all medications in a zip-lock-type plastic bag with the Scout’s name on it. 
• Include a filled-out copy of the Routine Drug Administration Record. 
• Make sure the prescriptions are not expired, including inhalers and EpiPens.
• Make sure that youth with asthma inhalers or epinephrine auto-injectors have what they need when they need it. They should know how to use the medicines, and they should report the use to an adult.
• All information on administration, including any specialized equipment or medication (e.g., insulin injections, insulin pumps, and emergency medications) should be provided to unit leaders.
• Campers should not stop taking any maintenance medications unless instructed to do so by their doctor.
• If a medication needs to be refrigerated, contact the camp health officer.
• Emergency medications that may be needed for an emergency or on an urgent basis may be carried by the youth participant. A buddy or a responsible adult should be sure the youth has the emergency medication. • The youth participant must notify the adult leader immediately upon self-administering the emergency medication. • In many cases, an evaluation or further treatment by a healthcare provider may be needed after the use of some emergency medications, e.g., epinephrine, even if the youth member feels OK. It may also be necessary to obtain an additional supply if no additional doses are available. • Planning should address how the emergency medication will be administered and include how to develop the adult leader’s comfort in assisting the youth if necessary. • The parent or guardian should be notified of the use of emergency medication.

Unit leaders will collect, store, dispense, and document/record medications for their Scouts. Unit leaders are to store the medications in a locked container kept in a locked vehicle. Units will receive a medication record sheet upon check-in on the first day of camp from the camp medic. 

Routine Drug Administration Record       Medication Use in Scouting       Safe Use of Medication in Scouting

Buddy System

All Scouts should adhere to the buddy system throughout the camp. No Scout should ever be found wandering through camp alone. This can be difficult if the Scout doesn't have scheduled classes with fellow members of their troop. The troop leadership is encouraged to attempt to pair Scouts in classes as much as possible. If this is not feasible, the Scout should walk with other Scouts in the class to the location of the merit badge class. Due to the number of Scouts and the short amount of time between classes, this should be a relatively simple exercise.

Youth Leaving and Returning

Parents are encouraged to allow Scouts to remain at camp all week. This reduces unnecessary traffic in and out of camp and allows youth to have the complete camp experience with their troop. Youth will only be allowed to check out from camp prior to final checkout by an adult authorized on Part B of the Annual Health and Medical Record. Please ensure that parents in your troop have included all authorized adults on this form. Without this authorization on the form, only an adult from the Scout’s troop registered for camp or the parent signing the form will be allowed to remove the child from camp prior to the final checkout.

No one, including a Scout leader or parent, will be allowed to leave camp with a person under the age of 18 without having checked out at the winter camp office and receiving a ticket which will be given to a security team member before leaving camp.

During checkout, on the last day of camp, adult leaders will receive exit tickets for all youth in their troop from their camp commissioner once they have successfully checked out.

Nonparticipants in Camp

For liability reasons, unregistered youth, younger siblings or friends, that are not registered as a member of Scouting America in a troop, crew, or ship are not allowed to participate in camp programs. 

Lost and Found

If any lost items are found, they should be turned in at the winter camp office as soon as is reasonably possible. Likewise, if anyone from your troop has lost an item while at winter camp, check with the winter camp office to determine if it has been returned there.

Lost items will be kept in the winter camp office through the end of winter camp. After winter camp, the camp director will dispose of the items left at camp (e.g., donated to a non-profit organization, returned to the council office, thrown in the trash). The council, nor its staff, shall be held responsible for any lost items.

Do not bring valuables to camp. To assist in returning items to their rightful owner, please ensure that all items brought to camp have the owner’s name and troop number marked on them.

Trading Post

​​​The trading post is located in the camp headquarters building and is stocked with merit badge pamphlets, t-shirts, Scouting literature, handicraft supplies, camp patches, mugs, camping equipment, cold drinks, ice cream, drinks and candy. The trading posts accept cash, and credit cards. Scouts who want to purchase a pocket knife must show their Totin' Chip. Hours for the trading post can be found on the doors to the trading post. There are no pre-orders of camp t-shirts and hats; these items will be sold onsite.

Illegal Substances 

Smoking or vaping by youth at any Scouting event will not be tolerated. If a youth is caught smoking at winter camp, the youth’s parents or guardians will be contacted by phone and shall be required to pick the youth up from camp immediately. The consumption, possession or use of alcohol or illegal drugs or controlled substances at camp is not permitted. All local, state, and federal laws will be followed when a violation involving the above substances is reported. Violators will be asked to leave the camp immediately.

Questions

Parents of campers should contact their troop leaders with questions about winter camp. Many of the adult leaders attending winter camp are quite experienced and can answer questions.

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Campsites 

​​​​Campsites are nestled in shaded areas throughout the camp. Each campsite has a large covered pavilion with picnic tables, 2 electrical plugs, a bulletin board, a fire pit, and a water spigot. There are no washers and dryers at camp (laundromats are located in Livingston, TX). 

All campsites will contain single-gender units. Brother and sister units will not be allowed to share a campsite; each unit must have a minimum of two-deep leadership and enough leaders to provide adequate and appropriate leadership.  

Campsite assignments will be provided to units when they check in on December 26^th.   

The camp commissioner will campsite assignments based on the troop's size; multiple troops will share a campsite. Requests to camp close to another unit (e.g., so brother and sister units can share equipment) and requests to share a campsite with another unit can be made during registration, but there are no guarantees that the request can be accommodated. Generators of any type are not permitted. The pavilions located in each campsite have electricity.

​Shower houses are located along the main campsite road and are shared by three or four campsites. Each stall in the shower house is ADA-compliant and has a toilet, sink, and shower facility. There are no gender-specific stalls in these shower houses.

Google Map  

Recommended Troop Equipment

Required Paperwork / Deadlines

Health, Medical, and Safety Issues

General Information

Meals

Camp Arrival and Check-in

There are two methods through which check-in by a troop may be accomplished: early check-in at the Cockrell Scout Center, or on-site check-in at Camp Strake.

• December 10, 2024  |  6-8 pm  |  Cockrell Scout Center
• December 11, 2024  |  6-8 pm  |  Cockrell Scout Center
• December 14, 2024  |  10 am-3 pm  |  Cockrell Scout Center
• December 13-15, 2024  |  Camp Strake
• December 16, 2024  |  6-8:00 pm  |  Cockrell Scout Center

Check-out

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Topics: 

• Merit Badge Classes
• First-Year Camper (FYC) Program
• Activities (theme night, campfire, career fair, competitions)
• Order of the Arrow
• Troop Recognition (e.g., Iceberg Award, patch segments) 

Merit Badge Classes

​​​Units can use the Merit Badge Selection Form for Scouts and adults to provide information needed for registration.

Before printing or emailing, add the due date and whom the form needs to be returned to at the top of the page.

Classes that are full will not show up in the online registration (Doubleknot).

2024 Merit Badge Selection Form          Camp Schedule    

 

Merit Badges

​​​The highlight of any camp is the program offered at that camp. In addition to numerous merit badge classes offered at winter camp, there is an energetic program staff that is dedicated entirely to planning great activities all week long.

Dozens of different merit badges will be offered including many Eagle Scout-required merit badges.

Best of all, many of our merit badges are taught by adults with decades of experience in the field the merit badge aims to cover. 

Class periods will be scheduled for Scouts to earn merit badges, work on skills toward the trail to First Class rank or participate in an activity period.

Some classes have extremely limited space due to facilities or equipment (e.g., rifle shooting, shotgun shooting, archery, and welding). Please do not sign up a Scout for a merit badge that they have already started with another counselor or that they have already earned. This is unfair to other Scouts who wish to begin the process of earning the merit badge at winter camp.

In some cases, the merit badges cannot be completed during camp. Scouts will receive partial credit for any merit badge showing the requirements they completed. Troops should plan their program to help their Scouts complete the merit badges after camp.

Please keep in mind that, on occasion, merit badge classes may need to be canceled based on lack of interest or merit badge instructors. Scouts should be flexible in their goals for earning merit badges while at winter camp. While it is rare, sometimes a class must be canceled or merged.

Once a merit badge class is full, Scouts will not be allowed to register for the class. An Application for Merit Badges (blue cards) is not required; after camp, all of the completed requirements will be posted directly into Scoutbook. All fees associated with the merit badge program are included in the individual camp fee. No additional fees for program materials will be charged. 

    Merit Badges, Schedules, and Prerequisites

Prerequisites, Requirements Not Covered, Partials and Completions

​​​Attending a merit badge class does not guarantee that a Scout will complete the merit badge, but it is an opportunity for Scouts to meet with qualified counselors, to help them work on the requirements needed to complete a merit badge. Scouts should be ready to take notes and come prepared with notetaking materials and writing utensils. Remember one goal of the merit badge advancement system is to develop individual growth and initiative. 

Prerequisites: All Scouts are to read the merit badge book prior to winter camp. Merit Badge books can be purchased at an area Scout Shop. Scouts are to be prepared to answer the questions to each of the requirements before camp; Scouts are highly encouraged to print and complete the worksheets available at http://usscouts.org/usscouts/mb/worksheets/list.asp to help them prepare. Some merit badges require additional prerequisites to be must be completed before the merit badge fair.

Requirements not covered: Some of the requirements cannot be completed during the class. The Scout should bring documentation of requirements not covered. If the Scout does not complete the requirements not covered and take documentation to the class, the Scout will receive a partial completion of the merit badge. 

Partials: If the Scout does not complete the requirements not covered and bring documentation to the class, the Scout will receive a partial completion of the merit badge. The partial completion will be noted on the blue card, given to the Scout at the completion of the class. Scouts will need to complete the badge with a registered merit badge counselor approved for that particular badge back with their unit. Merit badge counselors are not usually available to serve as a counselor after merit badge fair ends unless arrangements are made. Find a list of merit badge counselors by logging into http://scoutbook.scouting.org with your my.scouting userID and password, click on My Dashboard, Administration, your unit and scroll down the page. Remember that a youth member must not meet one-on-one with an adult. Sessions with counselors must take place where others can view the interaction, or the Scout must have a buddy: a friend, parent, guardian, brother, sister, or other relatives—or better yet, another Scout working on the same badge. 

Merit Badge Add/Drop

The Scoutmaster or designee should advise Scouts before selecting merit badges. Class sizes are limited. Merit badges can be added or dropped online.

The unit leader who registered the unit will need to log in to Doubleknot to make class changes. Troop leaders can submit a request to add another adult access to edit the troop's registration, make payments and pull reports. 

To update or modify registration and/or to make a payment, go to https://samhoustonbsa.doubleknot.com/signon/2690 (instructions; questions and support). Only classes that have space available appear in the online registration system.

The unit leader can log in to the registration system to pull reports of class schedules and advancements completed at camp.

After the merit badge registration system closes, changes can only be made at the winter camp office on December 26^th before 5:00 pm. The following rules will apply:

• Only one form may be turned in per unit.
• The form must be signed by the acting Scoutmaster for the troop
• The form must be filled out completely.
• Schedules will not be reprinted for troops making changes in camp.
• No changes will be accepted after 5:00 pm on December 26^th.

Merit badge instructors are advised not to allow any Scouts to take their class unless they are listed on the roster. 

Select / Edit Merit Badge Classes

First-Year Camper Program (FYC)

The First-Year Camper Program is a program for first-year Scouts that emphasizes the adventure of Scouting is fun and active and supports the patrol method. Scouts are formed into patrols with Scouts from other troops. As a patrol, they will have the opportunity to learn Scouting skills. The FYC instructors do not sign off on any skills. The Scout must then demonstrate the skills learned to their Scout leader. After demonstrating proficiency in each skill, the Scoutmaster or designee will then sign off the requirements in the Scout Handbook and Scoutbook. Sign up Scouts for this program in the online registration system just like signing up the Scouts for merit badge classes.

Scouts are given an opportunity to work on skills these skills:

Tenderfoot: 1c, 2b, 2c, 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 5a, 5b, 5c, 7a, 8, Totin Chip, Firm’n Chit
Second Class: 1b, 1c, 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 2f, 2g, 3a, 3c, 3d, 4, 5a, 5c, 5d, 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 8a, 8b, 9a,9b
First Class: 1b, 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 7a, 7b, 7c. 7d, 7f, 9a

Scout Attendance and Merit Badge Completions

The unit leader who registered the unit can log in to Doubleknot to pull reports and review advancements completed during camp. The winter camp merit badge counselors will input advancements completed in the evenings during free time. 

On December 29^th, Scoutmasters will be given a report for their Scouts that shows daily attendance and progress on their merit badge completion. Any incorrect information should be discussed directly with their merit badge counselor.

Please resolve any issues or discrepancies with your merit badge report before leaving camp. Counselors are available to help during camp.

How to Pull Reports

A few weeks after camp, advancements completed will be uploaded in Scoutbook and any advancements completed during camp will be checked as completed. The unit leader will then approve the merit badge requirements completed.  

Leaders Meeting

Every day, there will be a separate meeting for Scoutmasters and senior patrol leaders. These meetings are important to get updates to the daily schedule and to discuss any opportunities for improvement to the camp or program.

Order of the Arrow (OA)

Activities

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Mission Lone Star - High Adventure Program

Mission Lone Star is a high adventure program for Scouts ages 14+. Register Scouts for this program in the online registration system when signing up the Scouts for merit badge classes. There is an extra $275 fee (the actual cost is being subsidized by a donor). The program includes:

• Trip to NASA + travel ($125 value)
• Train Like an Astronaut Program ($300 value)
• ATV training and riding for Scouts ages 14+ ($75 value)
• Zip lining
• High ropes course
• COPE
• Climbing
• Shooting sports
• Primitive camping on the Lone Star Trail

Zipline / COPE / High Ropes

COPE stands for Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience. It comprises group initiative games and low-course and high-course activities. Some activities involve a group challenge, while others test individual skills and agility; only a few require athletic strength. Participants climb, swing, balance, jump, rappel, and think of solutions to various activities. Each event is designed to encourage participants to do their best. The low course elements promote teamwork, problem-solving, trust, communication, decision-making, and leadership skills. For each scenario, the instructor will provide general instructions encouraging participants to work together to devise a solution. On the high ropes course, Scouts move across suspended platforms and obstacles in midair. There are two different routes to choose from with different levels of difficulty. Scouts wear a harness and use a belay or clip-on clip-off system, so Scouts can take leaps of faith without worrying about what will happen if they misjudge the gaps. The zipline offers Scouts a bird’s eye view of camp while soaring over the beautiful lake on one of two 850’ zip lines.   

ATV Training

​​​Participants will learn how to properly ride all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). The ATV program allows participants to learn how to properly ride all-terrain vehicles (ATV)  and explore Camp Strake's trails while learning to drive the crème de la crème of ATV equipment. Participants also receive safety instruction vetted by a company with 60 years of industry expertise. Once training is completed, Scouts will ride the ATVs on the trails with the instructors.

For ATV riding, participants must bring:

• several long sleeve shirts and long pants (recommend bringing 1 set/day)
• ankle-high boots
• other items recommended: riding gloves, head bandana, and a bag to carry muddy clothes.  
• ATV Consent Form (signed by a parent/guardian)
• documentation of completion of part 1 of the ATV Safety Institute E-Course online before camp. There is no charge to take the 1-2.5 hour course (direct link). 

NASA Trip / Train Like an Astronaut Program (SCUBA)

​​​Train like an astronaut by performing several analog missions at the Williams Pool. Complete underwater tests where astronauts first trained in this historic pool! Control underwater SeaRay Robotics to discover the difficulty of controlling CSA’s CanadaArm in Space. Train Like an Astronaut by completing several portions of the Functional Task Test, a real test that astronauts must conduct before and after space travel. Includes:

• Challenges at William’s Pool
• A chance to send postcards to space via a Blue Origin Rocket
• A gift bag including a Space Center exclusive Estes Rocket kit
• Guided tours through the Space Center Houston
• General admission ticket to Space Center Houston
• Permission Slip

Lone Star Mission: What to Bring

• Participant list items in Participant Guide

• For ATV riding, participants must bring:

• several long sleeve shirts and long pants
• ankle-high boots
• other items recommended: ATV face mask, riding gloves, head bandana, and a bag to carry muddy clothes. 
• ATV Consent Form (signed by a parent/guardian)
• Complete the ATV Safety Institute E-Course online before camp. There is no charge to take the 1-2.5 hour course (direct link).

• For the primitive campout:

• sleeping bag (tents will be provided)
• day pack/backpack to carry overnight items.

• For the NASA Trip

• Permission Slip for NASA Trip: Diver Medical Participant Questionnaire and NAUI Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims and Express Assumption of Risk Agreement. For Scouts that answer Questions 1-10 Diver Medical Participant Questionnaire as NO, then no additional evaluation is needed, and the parent must sign this form. For those that answer yes to any questions to any of the ten questions then additional physician evaluation is needed. Field uniform

​​​Camperships

Camperships are available each year for Scouts who have severe financial hardships. Troops should encourage Scouts to earn their own way through unit fundraisers. Camperships are available to those with demonstrated family financial need.

Campership Application

 

 

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2023 Schedule

The 2024 schedule will be released soon. During camp, the schedule and any changes will be posted on Camp App (search "Sam Houston Area Council" on Apple or Android platforms)

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​​​Parents of campers should contact their unit leaders with questions about winter camp. Many of the adult leaders attending winter camp are quite experienced and can answer questions.

 

 

Unit leaders can contact us for questions and support.

    Questions and Support

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Mission Statement 

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