Everyone seems to find something to do at the Agatha A. Durland Scout Camp, which offers fishing, boating, hiking, a historic cemetery, stone chambers, breathtaking vistas, swimming, cottages, and other activities. One issue: in order to use the facility, you must be a Boy Scout or Cub Scout. You may visit this wonderful 1400-acre property that borders Fahnestock State Park by getting your kids interested in Scouting. Archery, hiking, advancement, climbing walls, crafts, sports and games, nature study, swimming, paddle boats, row boats, canoes, B.B. ranges, rifle ranges, and other activities are all included in the program.
Concerning Durland Scout Camp
The 1,400 acres of primarily undeveloped property that make up the Agatha A. Durland Scout Reservation (formerly known as Clear Lake Scout Reservation) in Putnam County, New York, also include 18 miles of color-coded hiking routes, lean-to sites, and pavilions. Boating, swimming, and fishing are available on two lakes. Additionally available for usage are a climbing tower, an archery range, and a rifle range. The Appalachian Trail passes through Fahnestock State Park, which is where this property’s border sits.
Units can use the Durland Scout Reservation from September to June. This land serves as the venue for a number of District events, including the Camp-O-Ree and Klondike Derby, during the fall, winter, and spring. Summertime day camps for Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts are held on the grounds.
There are big cabins that sleep 40 people, little cabins that sleep 30 people, and of course, endless acres for tent camping. Two adjacent cabins share a close latrine with running water. Each cabin has a wood-burning stove and passive solar energy. Wood is available to heat the cabin. A propane heater is also included in each cottage.
Camping In Durland Scout Camp: The Best Backpacking
Even though Camp Durland is the short-term camping facility used by our Council, and even though we stay there at least twice a year, there always seems to be new territory to explore! It must be time to go backpacking if November is here! Instead of beginning north of Durland in Fahnestock State Park and having a few adults shuffle all cars down to Durland, we chose to start and end from our campsite inside Durland this year. Although the group would be together for a significant amount of the trail before breaking up, the Green Bar made the right choice to build a shorter and longer route due to the diverse mix that was participating. The scouts, the guests, and the weather all fared very well! The scouts liked locating the remains of the mid-1800s Denytown as well as finding new rock formations to examine. Many people neglected to bring their backpacks because the surroundings seemed so fascinating. While on the path, some of the older Scouts learned how to quickly make lunch using a backpacking stove, while the younger Scouts learned how to make a fire and continued working on Totin’ Chip after the trip. Overall, there was something for everyone, and as these photos clearly demonstrate, everyone had a blast once more!
Always Memorable Hiking The AT Into Durland Scout Camp
The troop does a backpacking mini-trek every year to introduce the younger scouts to the idea of independence. The Appalachian Trail (AT) is usually the first stop for the Scouts as they make their way from Clarence Fahnestock State Park to Durland Scout camp. Since some first-year scouts and even visitors have not done much trekking, especially in the hills surrounding Durland Scout camp, they are advised to only wear day packs. Scouts must prepare for backpacking by keeping their overall pack weight to no more than one-third of their body weight and by wearing appropriate hiking footwear (not shoes!). When the troop breaks into two, the younger scouts usually travel a shorter distance—less than five miles. Additionally, kids practice using a map and compass a lot when hiking.
The region has a long history, and there are a number of mid-1800s abandoned mines. In those days, iron ore was extracted and transported west to the foundry in Cold Springs, which is close by. Even an old town’s ruins can be found among the woods. If the history isn’t alluring enough, a hike while the leaves are changing color is! The trip is also a wonderful introduction to winter camping techniques because temperatures can dip into the teens on Saturday night. After supper, many people like to entertain everyone by performing acrobatic skits to stay warm. But before leaving for home, scouts frequently play the age-old game of “acorn warfare.”
At the Durland Scout Reservation, Short-Term Camping
The 1,400 acres of primarily undeveloped property at the Agatha A. Durland Scout Reservation (formerly known as Clear Lake Scout Reservation), which is situated in Putnam County, have numerous campsites and miles of hiking routes. In the summer, two lakes provide chances for swimming and boating. It is simple to extend hiking excursions into the nearby Fahnestock State Park, which is home to the Appalachian Trail. The Sperling Center and pavilion provide basic protection from the elements, and potable water is conveniently provided nearby. Free canoes are offered during certain seasons (current Safety Afloat and Safe Swim Defense required). For reservations, get in touch with the Council Camping Department.
Policies Regarding Short-Term Camping At Durland Scout Reservation
Adult Direction
At least two registered adult leaders must be present at the camp, or one leader must be present together with a participant’s parent who must be at least 21 years old. It is advised that there be one leader for every ten Boy Scouts.
Sign in/sign out
On Friday, check-in time is between 6 and 9 p.m., and on Saturday, check-in time is at any time up to 9 p.m. On Sunday, check-out time is at 2 p.m. Units must check out with a Ranger or Campmaster before leaving camp so they can inspect your area. Damage deposits will be forfeited if the Ranger is not checked out.
Only drink water from authorized sources. The Ranger will let you know where to find water.
Ranger Camp
Your unit can get help from the Camp Ranger in a variety of different areas. You must heed his instructions while at camp because he is in charge of the facility’s upkeep and security. Learn more about the Ranger; you’ll discover that working together has numerous advantages. The Campmaster Corps helps the Ranger in facilities where there are Campmasters and also provides specific program support for units.
Campsites
They can be preassigned to fulfill the demands of the unit and are located inside designated regions. The expectation is that when you leave, the sites will be in “better shape than when you arrived.” As per the regulations for each facility, all trash must be taken outside or placed at a centrally located location. Without prior approval from the Ranger, no standing trees may be cut down, and “courtesy” firewood heaps are encouraged. Garbage disposal within the latrine is not permitted, and adjacent latrines must be maintained clean. The unit is always responsible for maintaining the safety of the campsite and its contents.
Fireguard Strategy
The following should be followed by all camping units:
- Fire-safe zones should be chosen and kept up.
- Under tarps or tents, no open burning. At all times, keep candles out of tents and tarps.
- When left unattended or at night, all fires “die out.”
- In the event of a fire, follow the camp procedure as instructed by the Ranger.
- Artificial Fuels Propane (lp) gas and liquid fuel may be used outdoors, not inside structures or under canvas, when stored with Ranger and used in lanterns or stoves while being utilized under adult supervision.
Initial Care
Simple wounds and scrapes could be treated on-site under an adult leader’s supervision. Any severe illness, injury, or accident must be reported right once to the Ranger. The Westchester-Putnam Council has accident insurance for all of its units. Units located outside of a council should be insured separately.
Hiking routes
For day hikes, Scouts, Cubs, families, leaders, and other groups are welcome to use a variety of paths. Contact Camp Ranger to make arrangements.
Camp Development
Each unit is urged to schedule a 1-plus hour camp enhancement or conservation project as a “Good Turn” to our campers.
Fishing
Leaders and scouts can go fishing from the shore.
Skating on ice
Always ask the Ranger for permission before doing anything for safety concerns. A minimum of 4 people must be present at all times, under the direct supervision of an adult, and they must be at least 21 years old. Ice rescue equipment must also be available.
Tool Wood
The scout program benefits greatly from the use of scout knives, axes, and saws. They cannot be used to damage tent platforms, buildings, trees, or other structures in any way.
Only parking vehicles in approved zones in Camp Park. Keep roads clear, please. Trail and service roads are only to be used by camp and emergency vehicles. Prepare to transport all of your equipment to the place. Road locations exist in Clear Lake.
Fireworks, firearms, bows and arrows, slingshots, any oversized cutting tool, and any other weapon deemed dangerous or illegal are all prohibited in camp.
- All-terrain vehicles, motorbikes, trail bikes, and snowmobiles.
- Equipment and facility damage
- For any vandalism, intentional damage, or gross negligence, the Westchester-Putnam Council policy mandates that units be assessed the full cost of restoration (i.e., materials & labor) and that after such damage assessment is made, further camp reservations be withheld until such levy is paid in full.
- Trading Post Camp souvenirs can be purchased at the trading post at the Durland Scout Reservation. For information on availability and open times on weekends, speak with a ranger or camp master.
Sacred Services
For information on availability, hours, and location, consult a ranger or camp master.
Webelos/Cubs Camping
There are only one-night camping outings allowed for Cub Scouts. Webelos may spend two nights in camp. One adult must be at least 21 years old, and there must be a minimum of two adults living in the camp with the unit. For Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts, the adult-to-boy ratio must be at least 1:2 and 1:1, respectively.
Coed outdoor adventure camping is allowed. Co-ed Venturing Crews are required to follow the National B.S.A. Venturing manuals and literature’s chaperone policy.
Dishwashing
Never permitted in restrooms, washbasins, frost-free hydrants, or anywhere there is access to fresh water for drinking.
When Scouts Camp, Why?
Outing makes up three-quarters of the term “scouting.” Although such an explanation is a solid tie-in, it is not the real cause. The Boy Scouts of America strive to teach young people the principles of the Scout Oath and Law in order to prepare them to make moral decisions throughout their lives. You might ask, “Where does that define why Scouts go camping?” after taking a look at the mission. It required taking a closer look at the Scouting methods, which include ideals (the Scout Oath and Law), patrols (small workgroups), advancement (earning badges), associating with adults (working with adults other than their parents and teachers), personal growth (conducting community service and performing good deeds on a regular basis), leadership development (Scouts all get the chance to guide and support their fellow scouts).
The outdoor environment is where our T.A.C. Scouts learn to delegate tasks and cooperate with one another. The skills and exercises gained in unit meetings are brought to life with a purpose in the outdoors. Scouts learn to appreciate the wonders of the natural world and their role in the cosmos by spending time in it. Scouts can practice ecology lessons and resource conservation in the great outdoors. Scouting has always been a green movement, encouraging conservation long before it became fashionable. Our campground is usually left in better condition than when we arrived as scouts.
The outdoor experience is crucial because it provides T.A.C. Scouts with challenges and obstacles in a safe atmosphere where they may overcome them and grow closer as a squad. They quickly pick up the skills necessary to set up a tent or tarp in case of rain or to light a campfire on a chilly night. Additionally, kids learn how to improvise when a piece of gear malfunctions or when they require a tool or item of clothing that they failed to take before heading out on a camping trip.
Origins
The Scouting expedition has its origins in Lord Baden-experiment Powell’s in 1907 when he brought a group of young boys from London to Brownsea Island and used his book, “Scouting for Boys,” as a guide. Scouting has spread all across the world since that first book and campout! Thirty-seven nations throughout Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia are home to T.A.C. Scouting.
T.A.C. for Youth Protection The Scouting organization also offers a fantastic kid protection program for all young people and their families that addresses issues like peer pressure, online safety, and even how to spot child abuse.
Reasons to send A Durland Scout To Camp, In 14 points.
1.They’ll engage in physical activity throughout the day.
The days at camp are packed with jogging, swimming, jumping, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, climbing, and other activities because we spend so much time inside and sitting down these days.
2. They will succeed and advance in their careers.
Gives Scouts plenty of chances to work on their merit badges and other rank requirements as they progress toward Eagle. Scouts will create personal objectives and take well-defined steps to accomplish them. There are fresh successes and milestones every day, whether it’s people improving their aim to hit the bullseye at the archery range or their strokes to pass their swim exam. Scouts have fantastic opportunities to thrive, develop, and improve throughout camp, which helps to boost their self-esteem and confidence.
3. They will turn off their technology.
Kids (and adults) will rediscover their creative abilities and engage with real people, real activities, real adventures, and real emotions when they take a break time from television, cell phones, and the internet. They understand that there is always something to do, learn social skills from, and enjoy the outdoors.
4. They will be permitted to become dirty.
Although a Scout is clean, he isn’t scared to get dirty! Who among children dislikes having fun in the muck? Camp is one special experience that takes Scouts through the muddy swamps as they hike in deep mud (where else can they do that?). Scouts can move outside their comfort zones, become more adventurous, and get dirty there. Scouts can hold snakes, fish, frogs, and bugs at the nature lodge! Camp is all about experiencing outdoor living and discovery. Don’t worry, though; the camp includes a beautiful shower house where Scouts may freshen up after a day of mud, sweat, and dirt.
5. They will face their concerns and take risks.
Scouts are brave. A week at camp can inspire Scouts in a variety of ways to gain bravery and attempt new things. Scouts find that the type of support and encouragement they receive at camp is a fantastic setting for them to try new, occasionally scary things and learn that failure often leads to development. Scouts can overcome a fear of heights by climbing a 30-foot parole, deal with stage fright by putting on a skit at a campfire, or simply get over homesickness by spending the first time away from home.
6. They will investigate careers and acquire lifelong skills.
Gives Scouts access to the proper trainers, courses, tools, and facilities so they can explore different professions, find new interests, sharpen their abilities, and embark on new adventures. Scouts may easily learn life skills and identify their interests because of the sheer diversity and depth of activities offered, which includes over 45 merit badge programs. There are hundreds of different fields to learn about and skills to develop at Camp Minsi, which offers 15 distinct program areas. These include topics like aquatics, athletics, arts, crafts, citizenship, communication, conservation, ecology, first aid, history, outdoor skills, safety, sports, science, and trade skills, among others. Everyone can find something here!
7. They’ll be innovative and successful.
At camp, scouts have the chance to work hard and express their creativity. In Handicrafts, they can make new things. In ScoutCraft, they can build cool camp gear. Or, on their campsite, they can cook a meal for their patrol. Songs, skits, and art projects are some ways that scouts can express themselves. At camp, there are issues that need to be resolved as well as original solutions. This produces genuinely beneficial benefits when combined with acquiring practical life skills. By using their talents and creativity for good, scouts also grow personally. By putting their talents and skills to use at camp, Scouts develop a good sense of self-worth and usefulness. They assist in teaching others, collaborate, clean their campsite, serve as waiters at meals, and complete other service projects during the week.
8. They’ll become more self-sufficient.
Scouts can experience making decisions for themselves without having their parents or teachers micromanage them at camp. Scouts make decisions and manage their daily routines in the supportive setting of camp. Scouts can develop in new directions with the help of this freedom. Scouts learn personal responsibility and establish their identities while at camp.
9. They will improve social skills and collaboration.
Scouts participate in community life by living in patrols, as troops, and as general camp citizens. Summer camp is a week where you actually live the Scouting way of life. Everyone who lives together must collaborate and show respect for one another. Together with other Scouts, you share responsibilities, work out conflicts, and learn the value of open communication when you share a tent and a campground.
10. They’ll accelerate their spiritual development.
Scouts have time to think and contemplate when they are at camp. As Scouts are urged to live by the Scout Oath and Law, strong personal values and character are shaped. Scouts participate in decisions that have an effect on others, support one another, reflect on their personal beliefs, think about their relationship with God, and engage in spiritual and patriotic activities that foster a sense of obligation to both God and their country.
11. They’ll get back in touch with nature.
Scouts outside and in the open air and wilderness, as stated by Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting. At camp, scouts will gain a greater understanding of nature.
12. They’ll develop genuine friendships.
It is the location where Scouts can meet people they’ll stay in touch with forever. Scouts are encouraged to unwind, have fun, and make friends easily at camp since they are not subject to the social pressures they experience at school. Everyone gathers at camp for fun, singing, laughing, talking, playing, and almost everything else.
13. They’ll have a great time.
This one should go without saying, but a week is jam-packed with pleasure! Fishing, whitewater rafting, launching rockets, sailing on Stillwater Lake, shooting bows and arrows, singing funny songs in the dining hall, paddling a huge war canoe on the lake, getting buried in mud on the Muck Hike, doing cannonballs off a water trampoline, and playing games.
14. They’ll get even better.
The best response to the inevitable inquiry comes from Scouts. Scouts who attend camp will undoubtedly return with some interesting tales to tell their classmates, friends, family, teachers, and fellow Scouts. They will be viewed favorably by everyone (and they will be).
F.A.Q.
In a camp, what does a Scout do?
By putting their talents and skills to use at camp, Scouts develop a good sense of self-worth and usefulness. They assist in teaching others, collaborate, clean their campsite, serve as waiters at meals, and complete other service projects during the week.
What should Scouts be aware of?
Scout Rule: Trustworthy, loyal, helpful, kind, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, frugal, brave, clean, and reverent are all traits of a Scout. Scout Motto: Always be ready. Scout Slogan: Perform a nice deed each day. Think about conservation.
What are the Scout’s primary responsibilities?
The main pursuits are camping, woodworking, swimming, hiking, backpacking, and sports. The majority of the time, camping is organized at the unit level, such as a single Scout troop. However, there are sporadic camps (also called “camporees” and “jamborees” in the U.S.).
What are the eight scouting methods?
Scouting uses eight techniques to accomplish these goals: the patrol method, participation in outdoor programs, advancement, adult association, personal growth, leadership development, and the uniform. Scouting ideals are reflected through the Scout Oath, Scout Law, Scout Motto, and Scout Slogan.
What rules are the seven Scouts?
A Scout is dependable, devoted, kind, considerate, friendly, obedient, happy, frugal, brave, clean, and respectful.
What are the nine Scouting laws?
Law for Scouts and Guides
A Scout or Guide is everyone’s friend and every other Scout or Guide’s brother or sister. A Scout or Guide enjoys the outdoors and animals. A Scout or Guide maintains discipline and aids in maintaining the public property. A Scout or Guide has bravery.
What is Scout’s primary motto?
Get Ready
The Scout movement’s motto is “Be Prepared” in English, and the majority of its international branches translate it similarly. Since 1907, these adages have been embraced by countless Scouts all around the world.
Which five Scout values are they?
When young people and adults work together in a partnership to accomplish goals based on Scouting’s core principles and have fun while doing it, that is when
- Scouting happens.
- Participate in both indoor and outdoor activities.
- By doing, you learn.
- Take part in spiritual meditation.
- Make decisions and accept responsibility.
Why use three fingers in Scouting?
The three fingers’ meaning
Robert Baden-Powell used the three-finger salute for Scouts to symbolize the three elements of the Scout Promise in his book Scouting for Boys. Honor your nation and your God. Assist others. Adhere to the Scout Law.
What is the Scouting’s “key 3”?
The unit chairman, representative of the chartered organization, and unit leader make up the unit key 3.

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