Bear Lake Scout Camp

There are certain things I will only allow my boys to do at Scout Camp.  Some of the list includes:

More than a day or two without showering
Audible burping (especially at the dinner table)
Intentionally passing gas
Wearing the same socks for an entire week
Even sleepovers with friends


Will had his opportunity to do all of the above and more last week at the Bear Lake Scout Camp.  He doesn't turn twelve until this week so Matt had to accompany him.

Some highlights of the week:

Mile Swim in Bear Lake-Even though he was one of only two boys that felt qualified to complete this he turned back on his first attempt.  He said he felt really sad that he turned back, especially since the other boy kept going and was greeted with whoops, hollers, and cheers.    Fortunately he had another opportunity the next day and passed with flying colors.  He said the water was so cold that his feet went numb at almost the exact half way mark.

Wilderness Survival Merit Badge-Part of this badge requirements include making a shelter and sleeping overnight.  They were being goaded by the older Boy Scouts who told them there was a bear sighting about five miles away, and the area was known for black widow and rattlesnake nests.  The other boy he completed this with matter of factly announced that he cried himself to sleep that night.  While Will admits he didn't cry he said it was a bit scary.  Mission accomplished though!

Riflery Merit Badge-Will has found a new talent.  He is an incredible marksman.  Who knew?  He passed this with flying colors.  He hit 40 of his 46 targets.  Must be the FBI training of his forefathers?

Archery Merit Badge-Robin Hood he is not.  He passed, but just barely.  He came home with a large bruise on his forearm from holding the bow.

Relay Racing-There were games on the last day of camp.  He helped his team win the relay race.

Dad-I think the fact that his Dad was there for his first Scouting experience made him really happy.

He also came home wearing the same socks he departed in. (I swear I packed a pair for every day he was gone!!) He was filthy dirty; I made him take two showers upon return. I guess that's what scout camp is all about, right?  That and seeing who can burp the loudest at the dinner table.

Early morning roll call

Swimming in Bear Lake

Will the marksman

Flag Ceremony

Will the Archer

Scout Troop

Boys posing before night alone in the wilderness

Service Project

So glad Matt got to go with him!

Will and friends

Final relay race

Famous Bear Lake Raspberry Shakes