Earlier in my Scouting career, I spent 16 summers serving on camp staff. Those experiences gave me a firsthand appreciation for the impact summer camp can have on young people. Years later, I watched my own sons experience many of those same life-changing moments as Scouts.
Summer camp is a place where Scouts have opportunities they simply would not have at home. Whether it’s climbing a tower, paddling a canoe, shooting a rifle, learning a new skill, or spending a week with friends in the outdoors, camp creates experiences that leave a lasting impression.
Many of us carry memories of our own summer camp experiences throughout our lives. That is a testament to the impact those experiences have on young people and one of the reasons summer camp remains one of the strongest predictors of retention in Scouting. Time and again, we see Scouts return home from camp energized, engaged, and excited about continuing their Scouting journey.
Delivering those kinds of experiences doesn’t happen by accident. It requires great programs, dedicated volunteers, and a continued commitment to investing in the camping experience.
That is why our council continues to invest in Camp Tuckahoe and why we have made several changes for Summer Camp 2027 based on feedback from unit leaders and families.
A Schedule Built Around Feedback
One of the most common requests we have received from unit leaders in recent years has been additional scheduling flexibility for Scouts BSA summer camp.
In response to that feedback, Tuckahoe will add a June Scouts BSA session in 2027, providing troops with another option when planning their summer calendar and helping units avoid conflicts with vacations, sports, and other summer activities.
We have also made adjustments to our Cub Scout camping schedule.
Pack Camp was introduced at Tuckahoe just two years ago, and participation has grown rapidly. At the same time, attendance at the standalone Webelos/AOL camp has declined as more packs choose to attend camp together.
Feedback from families and unit leaders indicates that many packs prefer the Pack Camp model, which allows the entire pack to share the camp experience. In addition, the same age-appropriate programming available during the standalone Webelos/AOL session is also offered during Pack Camp.
As a result, the standalone Webelos/AOL camp will be discontinued beginning in 2027.
To better align with family preferences, both Pack Camp sessions will be offered on consecutive weeks in June, giving families opportunities to attend camp earlier in the summer while continuing to enjoy the full Pack Camp experience.
These changes reflect what we have heard from volunteers and families and how they are choosing to participate in our camping programs.
More Than Schedule Changes
Schedule changes are only part of the story.
Over the past two years, our council has made significant investments designed to improve the experience for Scouts and leaders at Tuckahoe.
Campers and leaders will benefit from a new shower and restroom facility, a restored swimming pool, significant dining hall improvements, and a variety of infrastructure upgrades designed to improve comfort, reliability, and the overall camp experience.
These investments were not made simply to improve buildings. They were made to ensure that Scouts have outstanding experiences, leaders have confidence in the facilities, and units continue to choose Tuckahoe as their summer camp destination.
Looking Ahead to 2027
Summer camp remains one of the most important investments a unit can make in its Scouts.
We are excited about the improvements that have been made, the adjustments planned for 2027, and the opportunity to welcome even more Scouts to Tuckahoe.
Summer Camp 2027 registration is now open through Black Pug. Units can reserve their campsite with a $200 deposit and take advantage of early registration discounts and incentives available throughout the registration cycle.
As your unit begins making plans for Summer Camp 2027, I encourage you to reserve your spot today and give your Scouts the opportunity to create the kinds of memories they will carry with them for a lifetime.
Yours in Scouting,
Ron Gardner
Scout Executive & CEO
