Camping

Pack 156 holds two camping trips a year, once in the fall in October and again in the spring in April or May. The camping trip is either done at a council event like a district camporee event or at a local state park.

Camping Tips and Tricks

Be mindful of the sun

As we camp in October and April the sun isn't always up when we are. We try to do an early dinner so that we aren't cleaning up (or eating) in the dark. It can be especially surprising how hard it is to find things in the dark that are hidden in the grass.

It gets cold at night

It might get into the 80's during the day, but it's very possible for the overnight low to dip into the 40's. Here are some tips to keep in mind to stay comfortable.

• Invent in a properly rated sleeping bag. You'll find some character sleeping bags aren't rated to keep a person warm. Check the rating and weather before you buy.

• Hot hands are a great addition to boost the warm of a sleeping bag. If it's going to be below freezing you'll want a few in your sleeping bag.

• Go to the bathroom before you zip up your sleeping bag. It's easy to forget how convenient a bathroom next door is. Minimize your time in the cold by going to the bathroom before calling it a night.

• Wear layers to bed. This includes thermals, sweatshirts and even a wool cap if it's cold enough.

• Put your next day's clothes in your sleeping bag. It's never fun to put on clothes that are freezing.

• If you find that you have to go in the middle of the night, make the trip. The sooner you relieve yourself, the sooner you can get back to sleep. Don't try to wait for morning.

Food

• Animals like food, don't send an invitation by leaving food (or other smellables) out. Put anything that might attract critters in a bear box or your vehicle.

• Eat before you go. We usually get to camp late on Fridays, and leave it up to you to fend for yourself. It's easier to eat before you leave.

• Finish your plate at camp. You'll be surprised how much energy walking to the next activity can burn up. Also, clean up is easier if your plate doesn't have to be scraped clean.