Our Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts recently returned from an incredible three-day adventure at Camp Naish, and what an adventure it was! This year, we had a large contingent representing Pack 337, with 13 Cub Scouts, 10 adults, and 4 Den Chiefs from the Troop attending camp together.

We arrived at camp on Thursday, June 18, just before noon and immediately got to work settling into camp life. After finding our campsite, we headed to the dining hall to check in and receive our Kitchen Patrol (KP) orientation from the camp staff. From there, it was off to the pool for instructions on using the bathhouse facilities and learning the pool rules. Each Scout completed a swim test to determine their swimming ability group before we returned to camp to set up tents and prepare for the exciting days ahead.After a camp favorite dinner of pizza, watermelon and ice cream,

 we gathered with the rest of camp for the opening campfire. The camp staff entertained everyone with skits, songs, and plenty of laughter, setting the stage for a fantastic weekend. Before lights out, our pack enjoyed s’mores at our campsite. 

Friday began with breakfast followed by a full schedule of activities. The Arrow of Light Scouts spent their morning participating in Action Archery and Pellet Gun Shooting, while the Webelos built birdhouses and explored the fascinating world of geology.

Following lunch and a little free time, the groups switched gears. The Webelos headed to the archery and BB gun ranges, while the Arrow of Light Scouts worked on engineering projects and learned important knife safety skills. The afternoon concluded with free swim and some time to relax before dinner.

The evening activities were packed with fun. Scouts had the opportunity to create tie-dye projects, mint commemorative coins, and enjoy another hour of free swim. One of the biggest hits of the evening was sampling Camp Naish’s famous homemade root beer, affectionately known as “Naish Lightning.” The Pack entered into the dessert contest, which is judged by the camp commissioners. Pack 337 took second place with their s’more’s dessert! They received special recognition in the dining hall, including a wooden spoon trophy. We all enjoyed sampling the s’mores dessert and homemade popcorn back in our campsite. 

A special highlight for our Arrow of Light Scouts was attending the Akela Ceremony, an inspiring event designed to get them excited about their upcoming transition into Scouts BSA. It was a meaningful reminder that their Cub Scout journey is preparing them for even greater adventures ahead.

That night, everyone drifted off to sleep listening to the gentle pitter-patter of rain on the tents as a summer shower rolled through camp.

Saturday brought another full day of activities. In the morning, the Webelos worked on their Aquanaut Adventure in the pool and spent time at the Nature Lodge completing portions of Champions for Nature. Meanwhile, the Arrow of Light Scouts spent the entire morning challenging themselves at the climbing tower, building confidence and testing their abilities.

For those who had packed up their tents early, there was even time for a little free swim before lunch.

The afternoon saw the Arrow of Light Scouts back in the pool working on swimming skills before heading out on a nature hike as part of their Into the Woods Adventure. At the same time, the Webelos explored STEM concepts through Modular Design and wrapped up portions of Let’s Camp Webelos.

Of course, camp wasn’t all structured activities. Scouts found plenty of opportunities to enjoy games like 9-square and disc golf, spending time with friends and making memories throughout the weekend.

Later in the day, camp opened to families, and many joined us for the evening. We enjoyed pizza together in our campsite while Scouts proudly showed their families some of their favorite spots around camp and shared stories about everything they had accomplished.

The weekend concluded with one final campfire program, where the staff once again entertained everyone with skits, songs, and plenty of camp spirit. It was the perfect ending to an unforgettable experience. 

This year was also the 100th anniversary of Camp Naish, making it even more special for our Pack. The camp gives all of the participants a patch for coming to camp. This year the scouts receive a patch with the commemorative 100 year logo. Hopefully, this patch will be a special memento for attending summer camp at Naish and they will keep it and cherish it for years to come. 

Over the course of three days, our Scouts learned new skills, challenged themselves, built friendships, and created memories that will last for years to come. The weather cooperated, the activities were outstanding, and the enthusiasm of our Scouts was contagious.

Most importantly, camp provided opportunities for growth, independence, and confidence that simply can’t be replicated anywhere else. I know our Scouts learned a tremendous amount and had an absolute blast. And if I’m being honest, I had just as much fun as they did.

Thank you to all of the leaders, parents, and Den Chiefs who helped make this experience possible. We are already looking forward to our next adventure.

Yours in Scouting,
Edward Francis
Cubmaster, Pack 337

Alison Welch
Webelos Den Leader, Pack 337
Committee Chair, Pack 337

For more photos see this album: https://photos.app.goo.gl/5j35tjAWT1kHvVGL7