Black Creek Scout Reservation Coastal Georgia Council

Transcription

1 Black Creek Scout Reservation Coastal Georgia Council Leader s Guide Summer 2017

2 Coastal Georgia Council Black Creek Scout Reservation 850 Poor Robin Road Sylvania, Georgia Council Office Number: Camp Website: (For all your Camp needs) Council Website: (For Council specific information) 2

3 Table of Contents Directions to BCSR 4 Camp Dates, Fees, and Reservations 5-6 Planning Your Camp Adventure 7-10 Program Suggestions for Scouts by Attendance Year 10 Packing List for Scout and Troop Camp Policies Handicap and Personal Cart Info Specifically 13 Medication Policies 14 Schedules by Days Dining Service 19 Camp Grace and Flag Ceremony Protocol 20 Family Night and Mail Call 21 Campfire and OA Call Out 22 Merit Badge Records 23 Program and Activity Areas and Information Fillable Prerequisite Completion Form 43 BCSR Honor Scout Award Campsite Life & New Evaluation Guidelines BCSR Troop Spirit Award BCSR Baden Powell Award BCSR Map 52 Just for Leaders: Training, Fun and Awards Just for YOU! Survey: Help US Serve you Better in 2018! Leave No Trace Reminder 59 Final Thoughts Before Departure 60 Visit for more information. 3

4 Welcome to Black Creek Where the Creek Life is the Best Life for Summer Camp! From I-95 Exit 109 GA Hwy 21 North- Go about 43 miles and then turn right onto Poor Robin Road. The entrance to Camp is about 1 mile. From Augusta Take US Hwy 25 South and follow it about 17 miles. Turn left on GA Hwy 21 South and follow it for approximately 30 miles. Turn right onto Poor Robin Road. The entrance to camp is about 1 mile. From I-16 Atlanta/Macon Follow I-16 to US 301 Statesboro/Claxton Exit 116. Turn left onto US 301 in about 12 miles, at the stop light you will turn right onto the 301 Bypass. Continue till the road ends at the stop sign. Take a right onto East Parrish Street. Continue about 18 miles. You will then turn right onto Hwy 21 South. Go about 3 miles. Turn left onto Poor Robin Road. The entrance to camp is about 1 mile. Visit for more information. 4

5 2017 Reservation Opportunities Black Creek Scout Reservation in the Coastal Georgia Council opened in 2012 and a 380 acre camp is located on the banks of Black Creek in Screven County, Georgia. BCSR features a private lake for swimming, all paddle and motor boat sports. Other features include a brand new 60ft climbing tower and high ropes course, low ropes, archery range, rifle range, shotgun trap shooting range, handicraft shelter, ecology area, Scoutcraft area, campfire circle and dining pavilion. The camp contains six campsites each equipped with tent platforms; two-man tents with cots, and nice fully functioning shared bathhouses with individual bathrooms and icemakers. Hammock sites have been created around camp in 3 different areas. Construction is beginning on a brand new Dining Hall and Amphitheater. Don t miss out on the zipline that ends in a giant splash in the lake as well. Some new options for 2017 are the expanded Trek Programs and Creek Nation historical GA Older Scout Program. You can find more information about these and other specifics to our programs on our website Program Weeks Staff Workdays May 30 June 3 & June 4 6, 2017 Boy Scout Week 1 June 11-17, 2017 Boy Scout Week 2 June 18-24, 2017 Boy Scout Week 3 June 25-July 1, 2017 Cub Scout Resident June 6 10, 2017 Campsites and Capacities Eagle 4 Sites 40 Max Owl 4 Sites 38 Max Falcon 4 Sites 42 Max Hawk 4 Sites 40 Max Osprey 4 Sites 40 Max Heron 4 Sites 40 Max Visit for more information. 5

6 2017 Summer Camp All Inclusive Fees and Due Dates Program Early Bird Regular Campsite Deposit $50.00 if paid by September, $ after Traditional Camper Provisional Camper Adult Fee No Discount Trek (Adult and Youth) No Discount Each Troop may send 1adult for free with 5 paid youth Fee Deposit Due Full Payment Due Campsite Deposit Jan 1, 2017 MB Sign ups go Live Early Bird Fees $50 March 1, 2017 May 1, 2017 Regular Fees $50 March 1, 2017 June 1, 2017 Adult Fees No Discount June 1, 2017 Trek No Discount May 1, 2017 New Scouts or Webelos Crossovers can receive Early Bird rate if they register and pay by May 1, Visit for more information. 6

7 Keys to Successful Summer Camp Experience 1. Have an adult assigned as the Camp Coordinator. They hold the task of collecting all camp fees and staying on schedule. 2. Schedule a camp night with your Scouts and their families. Share details about BCSR and the timeline your troop has created in conjunction with ours. Show the promo video found on the website to fire them up! If you d like a camp representative to come answer questions we d be happy to visit a Troop meeting or District Roundtable either in person or via a digital format like Skype. 3. Don t hesitate to ask questions and communicate with the Camp Director and Council through the process. Our large area makes 10 day out meetings difficult. Watch for online updates, s and other communications as camp nears. 4. Sessions for some badges have ratios for best instruction and safety concerns. Registration for class is on a first come, first serve basis. It s best to have a plan B in case the Scout s first choices are already taken. We will be able to do some additions at camp, but please remember due to camp standards and safety guidelines sometimes our hands are tied. We will do our best to get your Scouts into the majority of their first choice badges and activities. We are currently working with our reservation system to create a waitlist. Camperships Generous organizations and individuals provide Camperships for Scouts in the Coastal Georgia Council. If a Troop has such a need and has exhausted its own efforts to finance an individual Scout, they may complete the Campership application which can be found on our website and at the Council Office. No Scout should be kept from going to camp based on their financial status. Applications must be turned in by May 1, 2017 for consideration and approval by the Camping Committee. In order to get the most kids to at least one week of camp, we are unable to use campership funds towards multiple weeks. Thanks for helping us keep the outing in Scouting for many of our youth! Visit for more information. 7

8 Troop Leadership Units are required to have at least two adult leaders in camp at all times. We do allow 1 free adult per unit that sends 5+ youth. Additional leaders are $80.00 to cover food, cup, patches etc. All leaders must be registered members of the BSA and meet the qualifications for the leadership position in which they serve. Which means they MUST be trained in Youth Protection prior to attending camp. The Unit leader must be at least 21 years of age. Any additional leaders must be at least 18 years of age. Parents, committee members, and other adults who accompany a Unit to camp, must meet all of the above requirements and still submit a health form that contains parts A, B & C (Dr. Signature Portion). Adults who may be rotating and staying less than 72 hours may utilize A&B only. If necessary, the unit leaders may change during the week. If rotating is necessary, the new leader must check in at the Camp Office and the departing leader must wait until their relief arrives. Rotating leaders may use only one leader space and pay $80. They will, however, only receive one patch for the shared leader space and meal preparation will reflect the single paid adult. Additional patches are available for purchase in the Trading Post and additional meals can be purchased at $5.00 a piece. Leaders should plan to share tents since the camp will only provide one tent for every two leaders. Adult rosters are due at the time of final payment. A breakdown of male and female leaders is required. If this roster does not reflect the actual number that arrive at camp we cannot guarantee enough tent space. Of course, you are more than welcome to bring your own tent or hammock of choice. If finding the needed leadership below is an issue, we will help you work with other units to combine and assist each other with leadership requirements. The number one goal is to get Scouts to camp and do so safely! Number of Youth Number of Required Adults Visit for more information. 8

9 Provisional Scouts Scouts who are unable to attend during their Unit s week at camp, or wish to return for an additional week, should consider coming to camp with a Unit from their local area. In this effort, the Scout will likely know other boys from neighboring Troops which should help him have a more enjoyable week at camp. If this is not possible we will find a unit to place the Scout with during their stay. The Scoutmaster of the Troop hosting the Provisional Scouts will be responsible for the Scout s paperwork unless other plans are made with the administration. Multiple Week Attendance Scouts spending two or more weeks at BCSR will receive 50% off for the second and subsequent weeks camped. If a Scout wishes to do a Trek one week and standard Resident Camp the 2 nd,the Resident Camp cost will be discounted. Refund Policy All refund requests should be submitted to the Council Office in writing by the family of the camper or by the Unit leader. Any refund requests received by May 31st will be subject to a $50.00 cancellation fee for all programs. Any requests received after that date will be subject to a $75.00 cancellation fee. Requests for refunds received after the final week of camp will not be considered. Basic fees are transferrable among Scouts in the same unit. Please understand we order supplies for a week of camp up to one month before arrival day. It is very important for the Troop s Camping Coordinator to keep in contact with the Council Office or Camp Administration the weeks before camp to ensure maximum refunds as situations occur, we do understand things happen; communication is key. Visit for more information. 9

10 So You ve Registered Now What? 1. Ask the Scouts what they want to do at camp. Share a list of possible camp activities with the Scouts. 2. Get excited about going to summer camp! Find out what the Scouts would like to do together as a troop or patrol, with a friend or on their own. Plan to show us your best with spirit challenges and other group activities. The fun can start in the preparation! 3. Determine your unit advancement needs. Update your individual advancement records and have each Scout set a personal advancement goal for his time at camp. Remember to balance summer camp FUN with these needs. 4. Meet with the Unit Committee. Discuss your objectives and build the accomplishment of those goals into the program. Get the support of the committee behind you. Have the committee help you draft a list of activities for the program, and then work with your leaders and Scouts to refine that list into a program plan. 5. Use your resources. The main large Leader s Guide (that you re reading) is for prior to camp and great for gearing up the Troop. The camp website is a great resource to assist with your planning and answer your questions. The address is Additionally, the staff at the Council Office and of course your Camp Administration can be of assistance as well. We will have small pocket guides with any updates available for you in your arrival packet. Camper Specific Ideas Have First Year Campers: Try Base Camp, the FYC Program, this will help them on their rank advancement Tenderfoot through 1 st Class. Have Second Year Campers: Try to get them to visit as many areas as possible to get a well rounded experience. Have Experienced Campers: They know their favorites, sprinkle what they love with a little of what they need. Keep in mind camp should be fun, not just a merit badge school! Have Older Campers: They may have most of the badges so check out new programs like Honor Scout, Low/High COPE, Trek, Personal Watercraft or Historical Georgia. Perhaps they d benefit from the C.I.T program or being part of staff. Visit for more information. 10

11 For the Scout Suggested Packing List BSA Uniform (Troop Decision) (5) T-shirts (5) Shorts or Pants (6) Pairs of Socks Shoes (no open-toed shoes except at the shower) Scout Handbook Bandanna to use as napkin at the Dining Pavilion Rain Gear BSA Medical Form A, B & C (Dr. Signature) Blankets, Sleeping Bag or Hammock Duffel Bag Toiletries Money for Trading Post (Suggested $25-$50) Pocket Knife Swimming Trunks One towel for shower and One towel for swimming Sunscreen and Insect Repellant Water Bottle Day Pack Notebook Pen/Pencils Merit Badge Books Suggested NOT Required. Worksheets with the exception of Eagle Trek or those showing prerequisites are not necessary. For the Troop/Patrol American Flag and Troop Flag Lock box and lock for medication and valuables First Aid Kit Troop/Patrol Awnings and Entries Scoutmaster Handbook Insurance policy and forms Quartermaster trailer or supply tent Receipts and paperwork for camp Ice chest and water coolers Fans or other items. There is electricity in your shared pavilion. Please note you share this common space and electricity. Priority is given to CPAP and other medical needs. Please let us know if you need this priority placement. Visit for more information. 11

12 Knives Personal Items Most Asked About Knives are permitted to be carried when an individual can show proof of completion of a knife safety class, such as Tote N Chip. Knife style and design should be in keeping with appropriate Scouting uses. Folding pocketknives or Leatherman-type tools work best. No sheath knives are permitted. Anyone found to have threatened others with knives will be asked to leave camp. Cell Phones and Other Electronic Devices Scouts will not be permitted to be in merit badge classes with cell phones, ipods or earbuds, nor will it be the responsibility of staff members to hold onto electronic devices at aquatic facilities or while they are charging around camp. Rest assured that ample communication remains in place at camp for a Scout to contact a parent when needed, and for a parent to contact a Scout in case of an emergency. These are very expensive items that can easily be misplaced. Phones especially, can be a big player in Homesickness. If your Scouts must bring their electronic devices it s a good idea for them to turn them in to the Scoutmasters at night. Not only will it ensure a better nights rest, it also leads to fostering better mentorship opportunities with their Troop Peers and Leaders if they happen to feel a little sad or upset. Bikes Currently we grant the privilege of using bikes with helmets worn at BCSR to get around. On Sunday there will be a bike safety course held at the dining pavilion at 5:00. All bikes will be checked over by staff members and the rider for each bike will receive a special bracelet for having taken the course showing they may use their bike that week around camp. Throughout the week we ask leaders to report any misuse of bikes (excessive speed, failure to note passing etc.). We follow the three strike policy and at the third infraction the privilege of using the bike will be removed. Please bring your bikes in working order to this class. This could include checking brakes, chains and loose handle bars. We will not have time to fix bikes and our ranger staff will do their best to provide air, but this is a low priority item compared to Troop and Camper needs elsewhere. Visit for more information. 12

13 BCSR CAMP POLICIES VEHICLES AND TROOP TRAILERS: No vehicles will be permitted beyond the parking lot without prior approval from the Camp Administration. Two Vehicles will be permitted to deliver gear as the Troop Guide escorts your unit to your campsite. Only the Troop Trailer may be left at the site. HANDICAP TRANSPORTATION: Valid Handicap placards will be granted driving permission with an additional camp approved vehicle sign placed on the dashboard. Please check in with Administration to sign one out (and please make sure to return it upon leaving camp). We do appreciate a smaller vehicle such as a golf cart if you have that option. Please note ONLY THOSE WITH THE HANDICAP may use these carts and/or vehicles. It is not for all adults to ride around camp or to deliver children to classes. This is for the safety of our Scouts as we ve had some near misses and misuse. This will be strictly enforced in 2017! PERSONAL CARTS AND ATVs: No personal golf carts or ATVs are allowed unless necessary for above reasons and again with prior permission for the handicap Scout or Scouter only. The safety of our campers is top priority. SMOKING: Smoking is not permitted in any building and is restricted to areas out of the sight of campers. Please be respectful of those around you and the example we try to set for our Youth. INSURANCE: Each troop that attends summer camp must have accident insurance. If you are a Coastal Georgia Council Unit, your insurance is on file with the Council. All other Councils must provide proof of insurance upon check-in. Applications for Scouting insurance policies are available at your local Scout Center if not already included in your registration fees. HEALTH LODGE: While all precautions for the safety of Scouts will be taken. We do have a qualified Health Officers, First Responders and a Paramedic on staff in case something out of the ordinary occurs. Please contact us immediately in an emergency as we have direct radio support to Screven County Dispatch. Your Ranger and Camp Director have these radios as Screven County Fire Volunteer Personnel. Visit for more information. 13

14 MEDICATIONS: Prescription medication may be stored either at your campsite or the health lodge. If it is stored in your campsite it must be locked away. NO YOUTH MAY HOLD THEIR OWN MEDICATION. The Health Officer will be available to collect any medication you wish for them to handle or need to keep cold at check-in. If you wish for them to dispense it regularly, please schedule with them specific times and locations to meet. BUDDY SYSTEM: Scouts should try to be with a buddy at all times, though sometimes its difficult to find a buddy with the same merit badge schedule. We need to all watch out for the youth as they travel class to class. At other times, such as open and evening program, the buddy system should be enforced. FIRST AID: Please bring your unit s first aid kit. Be prepared to perform basic first aid in your campsite and then contact the Health Officer as necessary. Again, in an emergency all Area Directors carry radios and the Ranger and Camp Director have radios with direct communication with Screven County Dispatch. We do have to follow protocol not only to ensure the safety of your Scout, but also that BSA Insurance will cover the incident. FUELS: The use of liquid fuels for starting any type of fire is prohibited. All fuels, including backpacking stoves, should be stored properly. ALCOHOL AND DRUGS: The use of alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, as well as the misuse of over-the-counter or prescription drugs are prohibited and will not be tolerated on BSA Property. Violators will be asked to leave; this policy is strictly enforced. FIREWORKS: Fireworks are not permitted on camp property. PETS: No personal pets are allowed in camp. This includes on family night. Please advise your families to leave their pets at home. Even the best natured animal can feel threatened in a new environment with so many excited people about. This is for both the pet s and the Scout s safety. Of course, service animals are welcome, we just ask for communication prior to camp so we can communicate with units who may be camping with you in case of allergies. Visit for more information. 14

15 Quiet Hours & Taps Quite Hours/Lights Out is observed between 10:30pm and 6:00am. Please conduct a bed check to ensure that Scouts are accounted for and in their own sites by this time. Natural Hazards Black Creek Scout Reservation is blessed with a wide variety of flora and fauna. Every Scout should be able to recognize organisms that may cause harm. Wild animals are important to camp, but can be dangerous if cornered or threatened. We should remember that the camp is the animals home 12 months of the year and we are here for only a short time. Camp Conservation Projects The BSA realizes that conservation of natural resources is vital to our future. Participation in conservation projects allows Scouts a chance to develop a love and appreciation of the outdoors. Conservation projects will be available for troop participation while attending BCSR and throughout the year at this and our other property Camp Tolochee. Privacy Notice By participating in Coastal Georgia Council activities, you agree to allow the Coastal Georgia Council to use your image in camp and Council promotional materials. Please make sure if you have a youth or adult that has the do not utilize photos section marked on their physicals this is highlighted. We do have many military members who visit our camp where this may be of concern. Visit for more information. 15

16 Arrival and Check-in 2-4:00 pm Meet your unit in the parking lot. (Please Park and not block the entrance for those who have arrived before you). There will be Staff to direct, park and open gates for you. Please set a good example for your Scouts by being courteous and kind as we move vehicles and trailers around. Please combine gear so that one vehicle + trailer or 2 vehicles maximum can carry your items to the campsite. Have one adult leader and the Scouts meet with their Creek Guide and get their BCSR cups for the week. Water will be provided along the way so bring these cups or bottles to fill up. Troop Pictures will be taken in your campsite. Have one adult leader come to the administration tables to clear any balances and turn in all medical forms. This leader will also receive the bracelets that are to be worn throughout the week signifying you are allowed to be on the property. Please be sure to make us aware of any severe medical conditions or food allergies at this time, if you haven t already done so in weeks prior to your arrival (preferred). Guests checking in during the week will receive a different bracelet once they check in at the administration building. Should a bracelet get lost please come to admin for a replacement. Creek Guides will then escort you to your campsite and make sure all is as expected. They will then take you on a brief tour that includes swim checks (or dropping off of swim records), the dining hall to receive seats and a quick briefing from the Dining Hall Steward. 5:00 pm Bike Safety Course at Dining Hall for those using Bikes 6:15 pm Flags 6:30 pm Dinner (Don t forget your cups and reusable napkins) 7:30 pm Leaders Meeting at the Dining Hall This is where you can add, drop or change merit badge classes. 8:15 pm Troop Guides will come to your campsites to bring your unit to the opening campfire in case the Leader s Meeting is still finishing up. 8:30 pm Welcoming Campfire by the Staff 10:00 pm Quiet Hours Begin Visit for more information. 16

17 Daily Schedule Monday Thursday 7:00 am Reveille 7:40 am Waiters to Dining Hall and Staff to Flag 7:45 am Flag Raising and Morning Information 8:00 am Breakfast 8:45 am Leader and SPL Meeting 9:30-11:30 am Campsite Visit by Commissioners 9:30-10:10 am MB Session 1 10:30-11:10 am MB Session 2 11:30 am 12:10 pm MB Session 3 12:15 1:20 pm Lunch Delivery 1:30-2:10 pm MB Session 4 2:30-3:10 pm MB Session 5 3:30-5:30 pm Afternoon Open Program 6:00 pm Waiters to Dining Hall and Staff to Flag 6:15 pm Flag Lowering and Evening Information 6:30 pm Dinner 7:30-8:45 pm Evening Activities 9:00 pm Staff Meeting 10:00 pm Quiet Time Trading Post The Ol Rattler's Trading Post has a selection of souvenirs, open shoot tickets for rifle and shotgun, snacks, soft drinks, ice cream and more. A limited amount of camping and personal equipment will also be available in case it was forgotten. Credit cards are able to be accepted. Hours of operation will be in your pocket guide, posted at the campsites and on the Trading Post. We will close during campfires, but will open for a ½ hour after. Visit for more information. 17

18 Friday Schedule of Events: 7-8:45 am Morning Activities as Normal 9-11:45 am Visit all Merit Badge Counselors to check for completion or understanding of partials achieved. Complete any needed items and make sure your records and your counselors agree (No Surprises). 12-1:00 pm Lunch 1-1:45 pm Campsite Time 2-3:30 pm Camp-wide Activity 4:00 pm Parents Begin to Arrive (Please check in at the administration building before proceeding to the campsites). 4:00-5:30 pm Open Areas 4:30 pm Scoutmaster Belly Flop Contest 6:00 pm Waiters report if eating in the Dining Hall 6:15 pm Flag 6:30-7:30 pm Dinner 8:00 pm Closing Campfire 10:00 pm Quiet Time Saturday Schedule 7:30 am Breakfast Options: 1. You are able to eat as a Troop at the Dining Hall 2. You can send a runner (perhaps the vehicle driver headed to the campsite) to grab and go with meals per Scout and Scouter and enjoy your breakfast at your campsite. 3. You can drive by on your way leaving camp to eat on the road. 7:30 am Commissioner will do a final drive through to check on your campsites and make sure there are no reported damages or input for updates before the next week of camp. 7:30 am Check out packets will be available at the administration building. Please let us know earlier in the week if you plan to leave early. While we will do our best to accommodate, some materials may not be available if you leave early Friday. They will be mailed as soon as possible. Please give us the address to where it should be sent. Some Troops prefer the SM some Troops prefer Advancement Chair. 8:00 10:00 am Trading Post will be open 10:00 am All Units should be clearing camp and staff will be receiving close out assignments. Visit for more information. 18

19 Dining Service Balanced, nutritional meals are served in the Dining Hall for Breakfast and Dinner. Lunch is delivered to your campsite to reduce walking and allow for some rest time in the mid heat of the day until the new dining facility is completed. BCSR is happy to accommodate special meal requests due to medical or religious reasons. To best serve you, please have leaders notify the Camp Director in writing before camp starts if you or any of the Scouts in your Unit will require such meals. Please confirm special meal requests upon arrival to assure everyone s needs are met the very first meal and let others in your campsite know that a reserved meal will be marked in your cooler. BCSR uses a modified waiter system in their dining pavilion. Each Troop provides a Scout as a waiter for each of the tables used by their unit. Waiters should arrive at the Dining Hall 20 minutes before the meal is scheduled to be served. His responsibilities are to set the table prior to the meal and clean up after the meal. New in 2017: Scouts should wait for dismissal after a song and any further information that wasn t passed on at Flags. Waiters should not leave until the Dining Hall Steward thoroughly checks the table and dismisses them. A Quick Few House Rules Please demonstrate manners that align with the Scout Oath and Law. Please remove hats while dining under the Pavilion; treat it like a building. Please come dressed for a meal (No shirt, No shoes, no service). Please be considerate of your waiters and the Dining Hall Stewards and clean up after yourselves. Leave No Trace applies here as well! When cleaning up please do not dump liquids in the rocks around the Dining Hall, your nose will regret it by the 2 nd day of camp. A liquid bucket will be provided. Reminder! Bring and use a bandanna as a napkin (rinse at campsites). This is environmentally friendly and allows for Scouts to be thrifty and good stewards of the environment. For BIG spills see the Dining Hall Steward for towels and mops. Visit for more information. 19

20 Black Creek Grace In Black Creek Your Greatness Shows And on it s Banks Our Brotherhood Grows. Thank You for This Place and Land And For This Food Prepared by Hand Amen Scout Vespers Service The chapel is available for group or individual use at any time. Flag Ceremony The flag ceremony is an extremely important part of our day in terms of coming together to reflect on the freedoms we have to enjoy this great camp and it s activities. We ask that you prepare your Scouts for the solemnness of the initial part of our ceremony and wait for commands to return to the normal camp atmosphere. Below are some suggested commands to use with your Unit if you perform a flag ceremony for camp. Please understand there are many possible combinations of commands. Respect even if a mistake is made should be shown. We do have Staff that will step in and assist if necessary. Opening Ceremony: Camp Attention Color guard advance Color guard halt Right face Color guard post the colors Hand salute (as first clip of the American is hooked) Please join me in saying the Pledge of Allegiance. Ready, Too Color guard reform Color guard Dismissed Camp at ease Closing Ceremony: Camp Attention Color guard advance Color guard halt Right face Color guard retire the colors Hand salute (as American is being lowered) Ready, Too (after last clip is unhooked from the American) Color guard reform Color guard Dismissed Camp at ease Visit for more information. 20

21 Visitors and Family Night Over the years and with the distance our units travel we ve found that family nights can be extremely unpredictable and difficult to manage. In an effort to keep your youth safe and with input from Leaders we ve adjusted our policies. Many of our Troops have found with our free picture CD they receive in their closeout package, they can share camp once they are home at their next Court of Honor. We ve found as a camp that it does eliminate early departures that can affect a Scout s camping days towards badges and rank and get paperwork lost in transition; as well as, creating a very unsafe environment with vehicles for different individual Scout pick ups wanting access into a still active Resident Camp Program. While we can offer for families to visit during check-in, check-out or for closing campfire WE ARE NO LONGER SUPPLYING A FOOD OPTION FOR THE EVENING IF NOT PAID FOR BY CHECK-IN. If your Troop wishes to host a potluck in your campsite for the families, please let us know and we will work with everyone on transporting food to the site in one of our camp vehicles. Also, if individuals need to leave early they must work with the administration ahead of time so our Ranger Staff or Commissioner can pick up items and bring them to the Administration Building. NO PERSONAL VEHICLES WILL BE ALLOWED IN CAMP. Units wishing to depart early need to work with us also on which two vehicles will be allowed into camp and when the safest time for that to happen will be. Again we appreciate your willingness to assist in keeping our Scouts safe. Mail Call One of the most frequently asked questions is where their son will be and how they can reach him...and rightfully so! Please encourage parents to write, not to call, unless it is an emergency. The main telephone line in camp is for camp business and emergencies. Mail will be delivered and collected on a daily basis. Outgoing mail will be picked up from the mailbox at the Camp Office at 10:00 am each day. Mail will be delivered daily at meals. Mail to campers should be addressed as follows: I m A. Scout Troop 1 C/O Black Creek Scout Reservation 850 Poor Robin Rd Sylvania, Georgia Visit for more information. 21

22 Order of the Arrow Help us celebrate during our Friday Night Campfire Program with an Order of the Arrow Call-out Ceremony provided by I-Tsu-La Lodge. Units from Coastal Georgia Council may have Scouts called out that are selected in a Troop election throughout the year. If you are visiting from another Council and were elected by your Troop prior to the 2017 Summer Camp, please have a letter from your Lodge Chief or Advisor and we will happily include them in a Call Out Ceremony. An Order of the Arrow Fellowship Cracker Barrel will be announced during the week. Skits and Songs The Coastal Georgia Council and the Boy Scouts of America believe that Scouting is a character-building organization, and that this concept should permeate our program to all levels, including skits and songs All acts (skits, songs, run-ons, etc.) must be screened by the unit leader and the person in charge of the event prior to the performance in front of a group. Campfire programs are the place where the positive example is set. No Excessive Toilet Humor No Water where the audience or participants unknowingly get wet or leaves the stage in an unsafe manner. No embarrassment of an audience member without their prior knowledge and agreement to participate. No racial put-downs, making fun of mental or physical abilities, religious groups and others. No portrayal of excessive violent behavior, this includes fake shootings! No performances with sexual overtones. Avoid anything that is not in keeping with the ideals of the Boy Scouts of America. Unacceptable acts that get on stage will be removed immediately. Visit for more information. 22

23 Merit Badge Information and Tracking Merit badge classes are approximately 40 minutes in length. Some of the more detailed or difficult badges may require 2 sessions. Please note that times in class will vary with each individual Scout. Please review badges the Scout has chosen so they can prepare appropriately for class. It goes without saying leaders are welcome to observe any classes they d like, we only ask that you please be courteous to the teaching staff as they complete their instruction. If you have concerns please let the administration know and we will address the issue. At BCSR we track your Scout s records without the use of blue cards through a modified system. Each day attendance is taken on a spreadsheet that also has the Scout s Troop and requirements for the badge listed. Please make sure if your Scout adds a class upon arrival he is added to this spreadsheet! At the end of the week a certificate will be generated for each Scout showing the requirements he completed and those that need to be done in the case of a partial. You will receive the original certificate in your exit packet, a scanned file of your Troops records goes to the Council office and the Camp keeps the spreadsheets and a digital format in case any questions arise. This way we have a triple checks and balances system to ensure your Scout gets credit for the work he did while he was at BCSR. You will find the complete offering of program and merit badges for 2017, along with their prerequisites on our summer camp website found at the bottom of this page. Merit badge sign up will go live January 1, 2017 on the registration site along with the 2017 schedule. Visit for more information. 23

24 Programs and Activities Black Creek Scout Reservation offers many different program and activity areas around our property and offsite. You can find all the information about our program areas including: merit badges they offer, special free time activities and prerequisites, if any, for participation or badge completion at our website or on the following pages in this guide. Please note these will be updated, finalized and open for signups by January 1, If we are able to generate the completed list prior to January 1 we will send it out in an E-blast and place it on our site. Please note badges can and will change as we find talented staff members through our staff tryouts and as leaders volunteer during their week. We love to offer as much as possible and when doing so, have to stay flexible as opportunities present themselves. Evening Activities this year will be done by program area. This allows the Scouts to participate in friendly competitions and programs together with the staff. You can find out more when our merit badge and activity schedule is updated by January 1, This allows our Area Directors to have input into their area and feed off of each other s creativity. We strive to bring fun and new program each year to keep the Scouts wanting to do more and the process to do so is never ending. Visit for more information. 24

25 New Program Opportunities That are being updated and designed. AT Backpacking and Rafting Trek Week 1: Arrive at Black Creek with your Troop and then take off with our staff to Standing Indian Franklin State Park, NC. You ll hike part of the AT, stopping midway to camp at one of the shelters before returning to base camp. Then you ll spend one day white water rafting and earning the Merit Badge. Your return to camp will allow for some fun on Friday with your troop. Trek programs cost $ and due to the nature of the program we are not able to offer an early bird rate. Requirements for this trip are age 13+, ability to pass the BSA Swimmer s Test. New Trek! 50 Miler on the Altamaha River Week 2: We are building this Trek with sandbar camping and other stops currently. Look to our website and E-blasts for further information. The Trek will require that anyone attending be 13+, be able to pass the BSA Swimmer s Test and have some basic paddling skills. Climbing Merit Badge on the new 60 ft. Climbing Tower: The new climbing tower was here for Summer Camp For 2017 we ll be offering Climbing Merit Badge twice. This program has no additional charge, but there is an age requirement of 13 years old. COPE Challenge: Spend the first part of your week working on teambuilding on the ground and then challenge yourself individually in the air. This program has no additional charge, but there is an age requirement of 13 years old. We also will be adding an ADULT ONLY COPE experience. This will be in the afternoon and the adults will get a chance to challenge themselves on both the low and high aspects of our COPE Program. Historical Georgia: This program is in development for older youth 14+ who have an interest in Native American and Pre-Colonial Georgia living. The program will run from 4:30-9:30ish pm and will bring the opportunity to earn merit badges through historical activities such as building traditional clay pack housing, learning to cook their own game based meals, get the chance to use black powder rifles, tomahawks, play native games and create items used during that time period. We will put further information on the website once we get the specifics finalized. Visit for more information. 25

26 AQUATICS Merit Badges and Prerequisites Swimming: Must be able to pass the BSA Swimming Test Lifesaving: Must be able to pass the BSA Swimming Test and have completed Swimming MB (should not be taken concurrently). Canoeing: Must be able to pass the BSA Swimming Test Kayaking: Must be able to pass the BSA Swimming Test (Will also receive the Kayaking BSA Award) Sailing: Must be able to pass the BSA Swimming Test Motorboating: Must be able to pass the BSA Swimming Test and have taken one paddle or sailing badge Watersports: Must be able to pass the BSA Swimming Test and be 14 at time of course Special Classes and Activities Personal Water Craft: Must be 16 at time of class and show proof of taking the online state boating class While a computer is available it really takes time away from being on the watercraft. Instructional Swim: This class is for you, if you need assistance in working on your swimming skills and rank advancement Aquatic Supervision Paddlecraft and/or Swim and Rescue: Must be 14+ and be able to pass the BSA Swimming Test. Log Rolling: Completed in the beginners or non-swimmers section. Can you beat the record? Tubing: Any swimming level can strap into a lifejacket and hope on for a couple laps around the lake. And of course, open boating and swimming each afternoon and some evenings. Just for Leaders Aquatics Supervision Paddlecraft and/or Swim and Rescue: Must be able to pass the BSA Swimming Test Belly Flop Competition: On Friday at 4:30 show off your skills! Do you have the biggest splash? Loudest smack? Safety Afloat and Safe Swim Defense Training: Available on the computer at the Leader's Lounge to keep your knowledge updated. 26

27 BASE CAMP- FIRST YEAR CAMPER PROGRAM What is the Base Camp First Year Camper Program? This program is designed for Scouts who are working on Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class and First Class Requirements. They will form Patrols with Staff Senior Patrol Leaders who guide them in learning experiences throughout the week that will give them the ability to show their Scoutmasters the skills to have requirements checked off. Staff will not sign books, however they will give the leaders a sheet that shows the requirements they taught throughout the week so the Scoutmaster can oversee this important part of their advancement. Who Should Sign Up? Unit leaders should consider each Scout individually when deciding whether he should sign up for the program. While a Second Class Scout may gain valuable skills in the program; he may be better served in the merit badge program. Likewise, a year old may be having his first summer at camp, but may be advanced enough to bypass this program in favor for merit badges. You can find the complete curriculum guide on our website! Visit for more information. 27

28 Adventures in Leadership Counselor-in-Training Program at BCSR As a Counselor-in-Training, you will experience first-hand what it is like to be a member of the staff. You will sleep, eat, teach, work, play and live with fellow staffers. This opportunity should not be taken lightly. You were given this opportunity to further explore your leadership abilities. Being a member of BCSR Staff, even in training, demands your full effort. Staff members are expected to live by the Scout Oath and Scout Law. You will be equipped with the tools and guidance you need to meet this challenge. A $75.00 Fee covers your shirts and the food for two weeks. Your Counselor-in-Training experience will begin with the Staff Week. During the second week you're with us (Boy Scout Week 1) you will then work under the guidance of the Camp Leadership Team as you learn further instruction techniques, how to balance a life at camp and where your niche is in the Summer Camp Staff Family as you travel the different areas both taking and assisting with merit badge classes. At the end of Staff Week and Week 1 of Boy Scout Camp, you will sit down with the Camp Administration Team. If you ve excelled in the CIT Program you will be given an offer to finish out the summer with us. Week 2 you ll split your time between 2 areas and then by Week 3 you ll be working in a single area that you re finding to be your niche on staff. Visit for more information. 28

29 COPE, Climbing and Zipping Merit Badges and Prerequisites Climbing: Must be 13+ to take this merit badge, will be a two session course. Please bring lightweight long pants or longer gym shorts and closed toed shoes for class. Special Classes and Activities (Youth) COPE Challenge: Must be 13+, this course takes you through the team building of low COPE and the individual challenge of high COPE. This will be all three sessions in the morning. This is the only way to experience the new zipline. Open Climb: Open to any Scout or Scouter. Times will be advertised throughout the week. Water Zipline: Open to any Scout or Scouter each day during the open afternoon program. Please wear waterproof shoes that strap onto your feet or be willing to tie them on your lifejacket with the chance of getting wet upon your splash down. Just for Leaders (Adult) COPE Challenge: Must be 18+, this course takes you through the team building of low COPE and the individual challenge of high COPE. This will be during the two sessions in the afternoon and is the only way to experience the new zipline as an adult. Special Patch Visit for more information. 29

30 BCSR EAGLE TREK We are proud to offer some of the Eagle Required Badges as BCSR. We would like to remind leaders, parents and Scouts that your summer camp experience should be educational but most importantly FUN! Try to limit your classroom badges to make sure you get to enjoy your stay with us. Merit Badges and Prerequisites: Citizenship in the Nation: (2)- Choose two: 1. Visit a place that is listed as a National Historic Landmark, 2. Tour your state capitol building or the U.S. Capitol, 3. Tour a federal facility, 4. Choose a national monument that interests and find out more about the monument Citizenship in the World: (7)- Choose two: 1. Visit the Web site of the U.S. State Department, Visit the Web site of an international news organization or foreign government, 2. Visit with a student or Scout from another country and discuss the typical values, 3. Attend a world Scout jamboree, Participate in or attend an international event in your area, 4. such as an ethnic festival, concert, or play. Communication: (5) We will hold a debate at camp and give them an opportunity to attend an SPL meeting where topics are covered. However, a Scout may wish to attend a meeting as stated in the badge. If they choose this route please have them bring documentation of attendance. Journalism: none Chess: none Personal Management and Family Life: Counseling will be held during the first hour of afternoon open program. Due to the many projects, family discussions and time considerations we are not able to provide and complete this badge as a course. However, if a Scout has started the badge and needs it completed or is looking to start. Please come prepared with completed items to discuss with our Instructor for credit or come get ideas for how to begin these merit badges with our resources. Thank you for allowing us to assist your Scout on their journey while maintaining the integrity of the merit badge. Please make an appointment with the Area Director during Sunday s Drop/Add meeting so they know to expect Scouts. Visit for more information. 30

31 Handicraft Merit Badges and Prerequisites In order to complete these Merit Badges at camp be sure to complete the merit badges requirements listed below. Art: (6)- visit a museum, art exhibit, art gallery, artists' co-op, or artist's workshop. A virtual tour will be offered at camp to fulfill this requirement, however it is best to go see a live exhibit. Basketry: No Prerequisites. For those not weaving reeds in the Historical Georgia Program, but you d like to give it a try you can do so during open program! Leatherwork: No Prerequisites Theatre: (1) We will be showing a play during open program, if you'd like to do this before hand please bring documentation to present to the instructor. (5) Do some reading in the merit badge book or other resources to familiarize yourself with theatre language and key vocabulary. Woodcarving: (2) Earn your Totin' Chip Metalworking: Having the Merit Badge Pamphlet would help greatly to prepare for this hands-on class. Pottery: (8)Find out about career opportunities in pottery. Pick one and find out about the education, training, and experience required for this profession. Discuss this with your counselor, and explain why this profession might interest you. Textiles: Do some research into the terminology and bring notecards or the page of information with you to be able to discuss. Other Programming (during afternoon open program): Branding: Purchase an item at the Trading Post or bring your own leather item or piece of wood to get branded with our alphabet and Scout insignia including our own BCSR brand! Leader Craft: During open program, stop by and try your hand at wrangling the reeds, staining leather or stitching a project. No purchase necessary. Come show us your hidden crafty talents! Fingerprinting: No Prerequisites. This makes a great addition for a Scout who has extra time or would like to add an additional merit badge during the first half hour of open program in the afternoon. Visit for more information. 31

32 HEALTH AND SAFETY Merit Badges and Prerequisites In order to complete these Merit Badges at camp be sure to complete the merit badges requirements listed below. First Aid: (2D)- Prepare a first aid kit for your home. Fire safety: (6A and 6B)- Draw a home fire-escape plan, create a home fire-drill schedule, and conduct a home fire drill. Test a smoke alarm and demonstrate regular maintenance of a smoke alarm Emergency Prep: (6c) Find out who your community emergency manager is and what they do. (8ab) Written plan for mobilizing your troop and practice this. Note: We have to do a weekly fire drill at camp for National Standards. You are able to pre-write your troop plan to align with ours, i.e. who will count heads and be reporter, where in the campsite will everyone report, etc. (8a/b) Prepare an emergency service or "72 hour" kit for use by your family. In class we will cover (9c), should you want to do 9a or b please bring it to show your instructor. Safety: (1) We will continue the work on this notebook, please prepare ahead of time by having the notebook started with items you are able to complete at home. (2a) We will be doing a safety checklist of a building here at camp using a sheet the Scout can then take home and do at their house. So this badge will be a partial until that is completed. (4) Bring a list of 3 public venues you discussed with a family member with their signature. Public Health: Please read the merit badge pamphlet and get comfortable with vocabulary. (7) Visit your city, county or state public health agency, please bring notes in regards to 7 a, b & c. Visit for more information. 32

33 Historical Georgia A Living History Experience Activities: Hunting and Preservation Skills: Tomahawk Throwing, Black Powder and Archery. Survival Skills: Building wigwams, smoking racks and other primitive construction. Games: Learn and play games that were part of daily life. Cooking Skills: Prepare your own meal each evening using different techniques and styles. Useful Creations: Working with Clay and other natural materials to make functional objects used in daily living. At the time of print we do not have a comprehensive list of Merit Badges we can guarantee completion or partials on. Merit Badges associated with the program could be: Indian Lore, Wilderness Survival, Potter, Basketry, Rifle etc. More information to come as we build this program. And we will have a certificate that lists any badges and requirements completed during their time living in history. Visit for more information. 33

34 Nature and Ecology Merit Badges and Prerequisites In order to complete these Merit Badges at camp be sure to complete the merit badges requirements listed below. We have placed some badges on a scheduled rotation so our instructors can focus on quality teaching of topics at hand. We've also added bonus badges where requirements and topics were similar and complimented learning. Nature and Mammal Study: Offered every year. For Nature: We will be doing all these requirements in house together. However, if a Scout wishes to start a collection that they can take home with them, please have them begin and bring to camp. Egg cartons are great collection containers and provide some protection. For Mammal Study: (3) Write a simple history of one nongame mammal that lives in your area, see merit badge pamphlet for guidelines. Time will be made available during open program to use camp resources, but again, we'd prefer to see the Scouts out being active, not doing research papers at camp. Environmental Science: Offered every year. (3e) While we will have resources to write a report, we highly recommend this be completed at home. This way Scouts can spend more time in nature than sitting at a table writing essays. Fish and Wildlife Management: Offered odd years. (5), choose 1 project from a-d and present pictures and report to instructor. (7) We will do one of these at camp. However, if a Scout wishes to do another choice that they are interested in please bring evidence of completion (pictures, adult signature etc.). Forestry with Pulp and Paper: Offered even years. Please read through the merit badge booklet and familiarize yourself with the common forestry terms. Prepare requirement 6 & 7 from the Pulp and Paper Merit Badge. Geology : Offered every year. Mining in Society: Offered even years. No Prerequisites needed, as always reading the pamphlet ahead of time and familiarizing yourself with the vocabulary will be helpful. Reptile and Amphibian Study: Offered odd years. (8a or b) Choose one of the following and bring pictures and other evidence of your completion of this requirement to show the instructor. Visit for more information. 34

35 Nature and Ecology Continued Soil and Water Conservation: Offered odd years. No Prerequisites needed, as always reading the pamphlet ahead of time and familiarizing yourself with the vocabulary will be helpful. Insect Study: Offered odd years. (5a,b) Please bring a notebook to use as a scrapbook. If possible start a few observations on your own to share, we will also find our own here at camp to add to it. (9) Raise an insect through complete metamorphosis from larval state to adult. Bird Study: Offered even years. (5) Please start observations and recording in your field notebook. See merit badge pamphlet for requirements on these entries. (6) Please start learning bird calls early on. A good resource for this is through Cornell Lab of Ornithology: Weather: Offered every year. (10) Prepare your 5 minute talk to give to your merit badge class. Sustainability: NOTE THIS BADGE IS NOT PART OF THE BADGE ROTATION DUE TO STRONG HOME COMPONENTS. ASSISTANCE GIVEN ONLY! This is a merit badge that is focused on making changes at the Scout's home and within their community. While this badge cannot be completed at camp we are offering time with the Director in the first hour of afternoon open program (3:30-4:30) to either go over completed requirements or give ideas on where to begin. Please see the Area Director on Sunday to set a meeting up. Other Opportunities: Night Hike by request Farm Hikes by request Beaver Dam Hike by request Star Gazing with Astronomy MB out of Technology Visit for more information. 35

36 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Merit Badges and Prerequisites In order to complete these Merit Badges at camp be sure to complete the merit badges requirements listed below. Electricity: (2) Complete home inspection (8) Floor plan of a room in your home (9a) Read an electric meter and compare with electric bill. Robotics: (3) Find picture or video to aid in discussion {please bring picture printed and/or website address for counselor to pull up) Space Exploration: (2) Design a collector's card about a space pioneer (5b) Make a scrapbook about a current planetary mission. Astronomy: (4c) Two sketches of the Big Dipper (5ab) 5 visible planets and when they are able to be viewed in the next 12 months. (6ab) Sketch the moon with it's 5 seas and craters then also sketch phases and daily position of the moon over 4 consecutive days. (8b) We will do the observation portion at camp, but please prepare to observe by making a list of celestial objects you wish to see. Photography: No prerequisites. If you have your own inexpensive digital camera to bring (understand we cannot be responsible for it) it is helpful but not necessary. We will supply cameras for use as well as show how an IPad can also be utilized in taking photos and editing. Open Program Activities (3:30-5:00 to allow for cleanup): Monday - Cyber Chip K'Nex Simple Bots & Mazes Magnet Activities Puzzles and More! Visit for more information. 36

37 SCOUTCRAFT AND OUTDOOR SKILLS Merit Badges and Prerequisites In order to complete these Merit Badges at camp be sure to complete the merit badges requirements listed below. Camping: 9a. Camp a total of at least 20 days and 20 nights, 9b. On any of these camping experiences, you must do TWO of the following, only with proper preparation and under qualified supervision: Hike up a mountain, gaining at least 1,000 vertical feet. Backpack, snowshoe, or crosscountry ski for at least 4 miles; Take a bike trip of at least 15 miles or at least four hours; Take a non-motorized trip on the water of at least four hours or 5 miles. Or, plan and carry out an overnight snow camping experience. Rappel down a rappel route of 30 feet or more. 9c. Perform a conservation project approved by the landowner or land managing agency. Cooking: Please let us know ahead of time if there are food allergies or issues we need to accommodate for. Due to the changes to this badge it is not able to be completed in the Summer Camp setting. Please bring records of any meals that are not able to be completed at camp (served to your family, etc.) Fishing and Fly Fishing: There are no prerequisites at this time, however reading the merit badge pamphlet to familiarize yourself with vocabulary is always helpful. Fly-fishing will be based on qualified staff availability. If you re a leader and possess these skills we d love for you to share. Orienteering and Geocaching: Orienteering has no prerequisites at this time, however reading the merit badge pamphlet to familiarize yourself with vocabulary is always helpful. Geocaching needs (7) sign up and locate local cache. (8) Choose one and bring evidence of completion to your instructor. Visit for more information. 37

38 SCOUTCRAFT AND OUTDOOR SKILLS CONTINUED. Pioneering: (2a) Successfully complete Tenderfoot requirements 4a and 4b. First Class requirements 7a, 7b and 8a. Wilderness Survival: (2) Begin working on memorizing the seven priorities for survival in back country. Scouts will be building shelters and staying out overnight on Thursday. Other Opportunities: Fireman chit: Offered during the first hour of open program on Monday and Tuesday. Totin' chip: Offered during the first hour of open program on Monday and Tuesday Major Projects Summer Challenge: Do you and your troop have skills with ropes and spars? Come over to Scoutcraft and enter the Summer Challenge. The individuals or Troop that build the best gadget or structure (graded on correct lashings, form and safety) will earn a unique prize. Visit for more information. 38

39 SHOOTING SPORTS Merit Badges and Prerequisites In order to complete these Merit Badges at camp be sure to complete the merit badges requirements listed below. Rifle: (1f) Obtain a copy of the hunting laws for your state. Reading the merit badge pamphlet and familiarizing yourself with vocabulary will be useful. $20.00 ammunition fee Shotgun: (1f) Obtain a copy of the hunting laws for your state or complete hunter education. Reading the merit badge pamphlet and familiarizing yourself with vocabulary will be useful. $20.00 ammunition and clay fee Archery: (1c) Be able to talk about your local and state laws for owning and using archery tackle. Reading the merit badge pamphlet and familiarizing yourself with vocabulary will be useful. Other Programming: NEW! BCSR Sharpshooter Club Patches : New to BCSR this year you can purchase a special target patch that comes with a one time use (10).22 shot ticket and will be sold at the Trading Post. Wear your skills on your shirt! General Rifle and Shotgun Tickets: These are purchased at the trading post and redeemed at one of the posted open shooting times with regular targets for those Scouts not taking the merit badge but would like to try their hand at shooting. Base Camp.22 Tickets: Each Base Camper gets a special ticket to try out Shooting Sports during their afternoon open program. This is great opportunity for First Year Campers to experience the range! Leader Shooting Times: Leaders may come shoot with their youth at open shooting for free one time at each location (Shotgun and Rifle). Other options will be advertised throughout the week. Program Under Construction: Cowboy Shooting Visit for more information. 39

40 SPORTS & ATHLETICS Merit Badges and Prerequisites In order to complete these Merit Badges at camp be sure to complete the merit badges requirements listed below. Personal Fitness: (1B)Have a dental examination. (6) complete the aerobic fitness, flexibility, and muscular strength tests along with the body composition evaluation as described in the Personal Fitness merit badge pamphlet. (7) Outline a comprehensive 12-week physical fitness program using the results of your fitness tests. (8)Complete the physical fitness program you outlined in requirement 7. Athletics: (3)Select an athletic activity to participate in for one season. (5) Complete the activities in FOUR of the following groups and show improvement over a three-month period. (6B)With your parent's and counselor's approval, serve as an official or volunteer at a sports meet to observe officials in action Sports: (4)Take part for one season (or four months) as a competitive individual or as a member of an organized team. (5) With guidance from your counselor, establish a personal training program suited to the activities Available at Open Program Times: GaGa Ball (Pit at Trading Post) Full Court Basketball Soccer Baseball/Softball Kickball Ultimate Frisbee (Annual Staff vs Campers will be announced)) Pogo Sticks Slip and Slide Bowling Visit for more information. 40

41 STAFF CHALLENGING YOUTH TO GROW INTO LEARNERS AND TEACHERS We are looking forward to the 2017 Summer Camp Season already and would like to announce that applications for all staff are open online at All positions are considered open so please fill in an application even if the administration has reached out to you, this information is vital to receive your interview time and updates. Some quick notes about our expectations for staff in 2017 Well rounded and flexible staff who will move areas as necessary and have the skills to do so. Knowledge of your main assignment area Attendance for ALL weeks and Staff Trainings Exceptional representation of the Scout Oath and Law in front of our guests and fellow staff members at all times. Positivity and Punctuality Key dates to take note of: Staff Applications Open as of June 1, 2016 Senior Staff Hired by Christmas if not more rapidly Jr. Staff Applications Due by February 1, 2017 Staff (Tryout) Weekend March 10-12, 2017 Staff (Training) Weekend April 7-9, 2017 Lifeguard Training and Refresher Course May 12-14, 2017 Staff Week May 30 June 3, 2017 (24 hours off) June 4 6, 2017 (24 hours off) Cubstruction Cub Resident Camp June 6-10, 2017 BSA Week 1 June 11-17, 2017 (Cap 150 old Dining Hall, Cap 300 new) BSA Week 2 June 18-24, 2017 (Cap 150 old Dining Hall, Cap 300 new) BSA Week 3 June 25 July 1, 2017(Cap 150 old Dining Hall, Cap 300 new) Staff Closeout and Celebration July 2, 2017 (Potential for two weeks of other detail work pending with outside groups) Cub Fun Day July 8 th for those available to work (Waterfront, Handicraft, Shooting Sports, Climbing etc.) Visit for more information. 41

42 TREK PROGRAMS AT Backpacking and Rafting Trek: Week 1: Arrive at Black Creek with your Troop and then take off with our staff to Standing Indian Franklin State Park, NC. You ll hike part of the AT, stopping midway to camp at one of the shelters before returning to base camp. Then you ll spend one day white water rafting and earning the Merit Badge. Your return to camp will allow for some fun on Friday with your troop. Trek programs cost and due to the nature of the program we are not able to offer an early bird rate. Requirements for this trip are age 13+, ability to pass the BSA Swimmer s. New Trek! 50 Miler on the Altamaha River Week 2: We are building this Trek with sandbar camping and other stops currently. Look to our website and E-blasts for further information. The Trek will require that anyone attending be 13+, be able to pass the BSA Swimmer s Test and have some basic paddling skills. More information to come as we complete the program specifics. A Float Plan will be made available to all Leaders. Visit for more information. 42

43 Merit Badge Pre-Requisite Form Scout s Name : Troop: Scoutmaster s Name: Above mentioned scout has applied work towards the following merit badges for completion at BCSR: He has satisfied the following requirements: Badge: Badge: Badge: Badge: Req# Inits Req# Inits Req# Inits Req# Inits Scoutmasters Signature: Phone: Address: Visit for more information. 43

44 BCSR HONOR SCOUT AWARD On my honor I ll do MY BEST, to do my DUTY to GOD and my COUNTRY and to OBEY the SCOUT LAW to HELP other people at all times and to keep myself PHYSICALLY STRONG, MENTALLY AWAKE and MORALLY STRAIGHT. Do one requirement under each heading and have a Staff member sign off for you. Forms available at the Trading Post or Administration Office. To Do My Best a. Take Merit Badges in at least 3 different program areas (Staff Signatures) b. Attend Base Camp if it s your first summer camp. (Staff) c. Complete 50% of the Merit Badges you ve taken this summer. (MB) (Staff) (MB) (Staff) MB) (Staff) Duty to God a. Offer grace at a meal. (MC) b. Lead a Scout s Own or Vespers Service for your Troop or Campsite. (Commissioner) Please share the plan and content with the Commissioner prior to your program. Duty to Country a. Participate in a camp flag ceremony. (MC) b. Organize a flag retirement ceremony and invite others to attend or learn from the experience. (Commissioner) Again, Please share the plan and content with the Commissioner prior to your program. Scout Law Brave a. Be part of a song or skit throughout the week. (MC) b. Do something you ve never done before,outside of your comfort zone, that staff can confirm. (Activity and Staff Member Signature) Scout Law Clean a. Work with your Troop to organize a clean up of an area outside of your campsite. Perhaps stay after dinner and help clean the Dining Hall or clean around the GAGA pit. This can also count towards the spirit award. (Staff Member) Visit for more information. 44

45 BCSR HONOR SCOUT AWARD Continued Scout Law Helpful and Friendly a. Teach another Scout from a different Troop a new skill or help them become proficient on what they are working on. (Name of the Scout, Troop Number and Staff or their Leader s Signature) b. Meet 5 new people and get their names, troop and something interesting about them. Must be written before getting the Commissioner to sign ** (Commissioner Signature) Physically Strong a. Participate in a physical activity such as the mile swim, 5k, Ultimate Frisbee, GaGa or other game. (Staff) b. Take and complete one of the more physically demanding Merit Badges. (Badge and Staff) c. Complete Base Camp s 5 mile hike. (Staff) Mentally Awake a. Stay awake and participate in all classes.,,,, (Signatures of each Merit Badge Counselor, make note if took less than 5 or were at Base Camp) Morally Straight a. Do not participate in bullying or other poor treatment of other people, animals or physical property. (Leader) b. Report any bullying or hazing you see. (Staff) c. Have no poor behavior reports from Staff or Leaders. (Staff) I,, Troop completed this award on this date. Leader Signature Scout Signature Admin Approval Visit for more information. 45

46 Your Home Away from Home The Campsite Showers Hot showers are available in each campsite. These are individual rooms with a shower, toilet, sink and lockable changing area for each boy to ensure privacy. Remind your boys that A Scout is Clean; many get so excited they forget this part of the week! Ice Machines Due to an amazing anonymous donor we have ice machines at each of the bath houses between campsites. Please make sure only leaders have the combination and please use the scoops and keep them clean. We want to stay cool and healthy at the same time! Campsite Evaluations Your Camp Commissioner will evaluate each campsite on a daily basis. The Units that earn the Beavertail Award for cleanest campsite will be given a plaque to decorate with something that stands for their unit at Closing Flags each day. The highest average points will win for the week, this and other awards will be recognized at the Friday night Closing Campfire. In 2017 there will be some changes to the way the evaluations will be handled because we have new commissioners to our staff who will put their own spin on this exceptional award and perhaps one of their own! You will find the old form in this leaders guide so you can imagine what might be expected. Please note this is partially a learning experience for your Scouts. Keeping your home clean is important and while some youth may struggle with the challenge the Commissioner sets, they shouldn t be discouraged. Keeping it sufficient not only is the Scouting Way, but it also helps the unit towards their overall Spirit Award which is a separate award that is for a BCSR Spirit Ribbon to add to the Troop Flag. Don t forget as the Commissioners visit your campsite they can also refill any needs you may have such as toilet paper or paper towels. Please point out any deficiencies to them and they will make sure it gets fixed. Should you need them at other points during the day, please let us know and we will get it to you as soon as possible. Area Directors all have radios and can easily pass messages to them. Visit for more information. 46

47 Troop # Sample Campsite Evaluation Form Clean and orderly looking campsite. 10 Scout s and Troop gear stored in their appropriate spaces or in an orderly manner in the common areas. First Aid Kit Visible and Accessible 10 New Camp Gadget or Gateway Improvement Daily. 10 No Vehicles in Campsite. 10 Bikes checked and parked in an orderly fashion. 10 Leader Present (could be 1 representing shared campsite) Food and Water Stored Correctly 10 Ice Machine Locked with Scoop Present and Clean. 10 Common Bathroom Area Clean and Orderly 10 Possible Points Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Prior days garbage out by road for pickup and new garbage stored and protected from nature. 10 Ax Yard properly laid out and marked. 10 Tools properly stored, includes personal knives. 10 Campfire area cleared and secured. 10 Any and all stoves, fuels or other cooking implements stored and secure. Duty Roster and Fire Guard Charts posted and filled out. May include multi Troop Cleaning Rosters American and Troop Flags Posted. 10 Survey ready to turn in (Friday Only) Bonus 10 Spirit Award ready to turn in (Friday Only) Bonus 10 Daily Total Possible : 150 (Mon) 170 (T-TH) 190 (Fri) Weekly Average Visit for more information

48 BCSR Troop Spirit Award Based on the Scout Law Please complete the following to receive the BCSR Spirit Ribbon for your Troop Flag. Initials will show completion of the requirements. Please turn in the to Administration Office by Friday at Noon. Extra forms will be available at the Trading Post or Admin Office Trustworthy: a. Self reports this awards sheet accurately and has all forms and balances completed at check-in. (Camp Director/Business Manager) Loyal: a. Scouts maintains loyalty to their Troop by following SPL and Leader instructions, participating in Troop projects (as an example making camp gadgets), events, skits or songs and otherwise being a loyal Troop member. (Leader) AND/OR b. Makes a plan to attend on a regular basis (rotations to In-Council and Out of Council Camps count). Report this plan here (Camp Director Signature): Helpful: a. Find a way to do a small service project for camp or for another unit. This could be helping with a Scout s Own, Fire Retirement Ceremony or assistance with a teaching a talent your unit possesses to another. Or, reaching out to the ranger and finding something in your campsite or favorite area of camp to touch up or make more accommodating. (Ranger or Staff Member) Friendly: a. Take in a provisional camper or combine with a smaller Troop and share a campsite. (Admin) AND/OR b. Combine with other Troop if needed to make teams for relays, flag ceremonies, camp-wide games or anywhere a larger group is needed. (Admin or Staff Member) AND/OR c. Offer for another unit to join you for a cracker barrel or friendly activity or game in the campsite or sports field. (Leader and Troop Info) Courteous: a. Assist another unit to fulfill a requirement on their quest for the Spirit Ribbon. (Leader and Unit) AND/OR b. Complete two requirements under the Friendly options. (Leader) Visit for more information. 48

49 Kind: a. Help another Troop by teaching them a skill they are perhaps struggling with. This can include helping them set up an ax yard or their camp gadget for the campsite evaluation. (Leader) Obedient: a. Follow vehicle and bike policies to help keep everyone safe while at BCSR (Leader) AND b. Assist at game areas in keeping Scouts Scout-like. (Perhaps take turns refereeing at basketball, gaga ball or other group game). (Trading Post or other Staff) Cheerful: a. Lead or assist the staff with singing a song at flag ceremony. (Staff) AND/OR b. Help the staff deliver ice pops on hot days or lead an area of games if we have a rainy day to keep everyone active, healthy and having FUN! (Staff) Thrifty: a. Assist in keeping camp and the environment by bringing a reusable napkin such as a bandanna for meals and keep your cup in one piece and with you. (Dining Hall Steward). AND/OR b. Keep track of everyone s items and help keep common areas free of personal items that might get overlooked and potentially left causing them to have to be replaced. (Commissioner) Brave: a. As a Troop try something new and challenge yourselves. Sing a song instead of doing the same old skit. Take on that fear of heights many of your Troop may have. Come to open boat and challenge another group to a Tug-of-Oar. (MC or Staff) Clean: a. Maintain, at minimum, a 150 average on your campsite evaluation or organize a campsite wide clean up if for some reason it falls below before week s end. (Commissioner) Reverent: a. Offer grace before a meal. (MC) AND/OR b. Offer to do a Vespers Service at your Campsite or the Chapel. (Commissioner) Troop Number: Leader Reporting: Visit for more information. 49

50 BCSR Baden Powell Award The purpose of this award was to help foster Troop growth and development in the basic aims and methods of Scouting beyond the basic BCSR Spirit Award. The requirements were written to bring a back to basics feeling of Troop function. Through choosing to participate in this program, Troops will be exposed to the values and desired outcomes on which all modern Scouting is based. This Old School approach to your stay at Black Creek offers another opportunity to build upon your present Troop programming and the BCSR Spirit Award (you ll see some of these are duplicated). Staff must sign these to be valid. This award was not made easy and will require some planning! Much like Honor Scout this shows the Scouts Determination to the core aims and methods of Scouting as well as commitment to the Scout Oath and Law. To earn the Baden Powell Award, the TROOP WILL: Build a gateway for your campsite using only lashings and other rope work and wood by Tuesday (it can grow during the week). Remember all bridges and such must be 6ft or lower if you wish to add this to your entry. Make, carry and fly your Troop Flag at your campsites and take it to all events. This is a homemade version (not the expensive ordered flags, while these can be displayed remember we are looking for Troop Team effort items that show the old school Patrol and Troop Methods at events). All Scouts must pack in and out their own personal clothing and daily personal use equipment from the parking lot. Yes, you can take the Troop Trailer for GROUP USE ITEMS, but Scouts should have their personal items in a carry pack and transport it themselves. Should you have a handicapped Scout allow the boys to come up with a way to assist. Leaders, remember, it s always best to lead with actions not words. While some may be driving, there s at least 1 leader who is also walking with the boys. Invite another Troop, Campsite and/or Staff Members to join you for an evening of old Scout games and fun or a Cracker Barrel (it not need to be expensive or over the top). Share stories and fun around the campfire minus those pesky tech gadgets. Prepare an in site meal on Wednesday Night by first letting the Camp Administration know on Sunday so we can get the items ready for you. You can then coordinate pickup through the Program Director or Dining Hall Steward. Please have trash picked up and put in the dumpster. Visit for more information. 50

51 BCSR Baden Powell Award Continued The Troop must have an elected, by youth, SPL that attends every SPL morning meeting. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday As a Troop, contribute one hour of service to camp through the Ranger. As a Troop, with an invited Staff Member, hold a devotional at your campsite. Participate, as an entire Troop, leading a song at some point throughout the week (this can be at flags, after meals or at the campfire). All Scouts will wear their complete Scout Uniform to an evening meal on Thursday and present themselves for a uniform inspection to the Commissioner. As a Troop, they should explain what each piece of the uniform shirt stands for to the Base Camp Scouters either on their way to flags or on the way back as part of mentoring younger and/or newer Scouts. Scoutmaster Signature: SPL Signature: Troop Number: Campsite: Commissioners Signature: Administration Signature: Office Use only: Date: Pins Presented Troop Number and Year on Plaque Visit for more information. 51

52 Visit for more information. 52

53 Just for Leadership Leadership Meetings During Camp A meeting of all Unit Leaders and Senior Patrol Leaders will be held on Sunday after dinner. At this meeting, members of the Camp Staff will give an overview of policies, procedures and special program activities that will be offered during the week as well as, process any last minute changes in merit badge schedules. This is a great chance for Leaders and SPL s to ask questions. Daily Leader meetings will take place after breakfast at the Dining Pavilion with Camp Administration while the SPLs have their meeting with the Staff SPL. Please bring to our attention any needs you see occurring around camp so we can do our best to make a positive correction or change as soon as possible. Lounge The Leader s Lounge is located on the screened in back porch of the Ol Rattlers Trading Post. Visit with other Leaders, read a newspaper or just enjoy a beverage. Leader s training will also be offered at this location. A flier in your check-in packet will have an updated listing of trainings and times; as well as Leader only activities. Wi-Fi and computers are also available for use by the Leaders in this area. Should you like to host a Leader s Gathering or Competition please let us know. We put much of our information in this area as possible as it is central to activities around camp. Steak Dinner Thursday evening adult leadership is invited to attend a Steak Dinner cooked and served by Council Staff at the Administration Building. We ask that one Leader escort the Troop to the Dining Hall where Staff will sit with them and then, that Leader, can return to the rest to enjoy the Leader comradery and give feedback to the Council Representative. And, most importantly eat Steak! (Adult) COPE Challenge: Must be 18+, this course takes you through the team building of low COPE and the individual challenge of high COPE. This will be during the two sessions in the afternoon and is the only way to experience the new zipline as an adult. Visit for more information. 53

54 Adult Training The Coastal Georgia Council Training Chair works with his volunteer staff to host numerous trainings during your stay with us at Black Creek. Please check your packets upon arrival for the most updated trainings and when they will be provided. If you are looking for a specific training do not hesitate to ask, we will do our best to accommodate special requests. Please note the Aquatics Director does offer both Aquatic Supervision courses throughout your week. This is a free course for our Leaders that allows you to take Swim and Rescue should your Troop swim frequently, the Paddlecraft version if you do more boating, or both if you do a lot of aquatic activity in general. Base Camp offers IOLS by adding an adult patrol to their program during the morning. An instructor from Council will come in one afternoon to teach the indoor portion. This is a great way to make the most out of your time at camp, become an asset to your Troop with training and see exactly what your new Scouts are learning and how you can mentor them further. Leader Merit Badge This award recognizes the tremendous service the Scout Leaders provide to the Camp and Scouts in Attendance. Leaders must complete a list of requirements which can be found in this guide. Requirements change yearly and after five years you can obtain the special 5 patch collection. Visit for more information. 54

55 P l e a s e s e e 2 nd S e t o f r e q u i r e m e n t s o n t h e f o l l o w i n g p a g e BCSR Leader s Merit Badge Summer Camp Adult Leadership Award Complete any 7 of the following: Requirements Help supervise dining hall set up or cleanup for two meals To be Approved By Dining Hall Steward Initials Act as a look-out at the lakefront for one program period or for an open swim Serve at two meals Lakefront Lifeguard or Aquatics Director Dining Hall Steward Wear a new BCSR T-Shirt during the week or stop by the Trading Post and purchase BCSR Logo Items. Assist at First Year Camper for one program topic or period. Or, attend IOLS Leader Training at Base Camp. Help build a safe campfire for Family Night Complete a 2 hour service project designated by the Ranger Assist as a Merit Badge Counselor in a program area Partake in a program area activity (e.g., boating, swimming, climbing, shooting) Assist your designated Chaplain s Aide with Troop Vespers one day Take at least a ½ hour nap one afternoon Chat with the Camp Commissioner about your stay Trading Post Staff Base Camp Director Camp Staff Camp Ranger Area Director Area Director Troop SPL or Chaplain s Aide SPL Commissioner Visit for more information. 55

56 Complete any 3 of the following: Requirements Take one of the Aquatic Supervision Trainings of your choice (or both). To be Approved By Course Instructor Initial Assist by providing additional supervision in an overnight with Scoutcraft or Georgia History Staff. Take another Leader Training offered throughout your stay. Course Instructor Course Instructor Assist with or complete the Mile Swim Assist the Camp Commissioner with his Camp Site Visits for a day. Talk to other Leaders and perhaps take back or share new ideas. Aquatics Director or supervising lifeguard Camp Commissioner Have all your Family Night Meal and Visitor Tickets paid for and logged by check-in. Meals are $5, Visitor Tickets are Free (Need to know for seating and parking). Office Manager Attend all Leader s Meetings throughout the week. Admin Staff or Representative Turn in your completed camp survey to the Office Manager. Office Manager Your Complete Name and Troop Affiliation: Turn in completed form to the Office Manager by Friday at 1:00pm. Please Circle Year of Participation so we can give you the correct patch towards your collection: Visit for more information. 56

57 Summer Camp Experience Survey Name: Troop #: Contact for Follow-up(optional): 1. How likely are you to recommend this camp to other Troops? Very likely Not very likely Why did you give that score? 2. What was your Troop s best experience? Please explain. 3. What was your Troop s worst experience? Please explain. 4. What overall Staff leadership qualities were commendable? 5. What overall Staff leadership qualities need improvement? 6. What new programs would you like to see at BCSR? Visit for more information. 57

58 Very satisfied 5 Satisfied 4 Average 3 Not satisfied 2 Disappointed 1 Did not participate in this program (0) Ease of Check - in Camp Staff (Enthusiasm) Camp Staff (Knowledge) Camp Food Camp Facilities Overall Experience Trading Post Health and Safety Scoutcraft Historical Georgia Handicraft Aquatics Project COPE Climbing Water Zip Base Camp (FYC) Nature & Ecology Rifle Shotgun Archery Eagle Trek Athletics & Sports Trek Programs Technology Afternoon Programs Evening Programs Visit for more information. 58

59 Leave No Trace and the Outdoor Code Leave No Trace Principles Plan ahead and prepare Travel and camp on durable surfaces Dispose of waste properly Leave what you find Minimize campfire impact Respect Wildlife Be considerate of other visitors The Outdoor Code: As an American, I will do my best to Be clean in my outdoor manners Be careful with fire Be considerate of the outdoors & Be conservation minded Visit for more information. 59