Camping and outdoor activities are a big part of Scouting. They help young people build confidence, independence, teamwork and resilience whilst having fun and learning new skills.

This page is designed to give parents and carers all the essential information about what to expect, what to bring, and how we keep everyone safe.

What to Expect on Camp

Scouts camps are well-organised, supervised, and age-appropriate.

Your child can expect:

• Sleeping in a building or Tents (depending on the time of year)
• Cooking meals as a group (with adult support)
• Outdoors activities such as hiking, game, fire lighting and team challenges
• Structured days with clear routines
• Plenty of fun, learning and time to make friends

Leaders are always present and activities are planned according to Scout safety guidelines.

Where We Camp

Camps may take place at:

• Official Scout campsites
• Activity centres
• Woodland or countryside locations

Parents will always be informed well in advance with details of:

• Location
• Dates and times
• Travel arrangements
• Emergency contact information

Almost all of our events including camps here at 22nd Stoke are run through Online Scout Manager where all the information above and below are stored.

What to Bring (Kit List)

A suitable rucksack or holdall to carry items below – NO suitcases – places we go to are not kind to their little wheels and said wheels ruin tents.

A full kit list will be sent out before each camp, but as a general guide  your child will usually need:

Clothing

• Comfortable outdoor clothes (old clothes are best)
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Warm layers (jumpers/fleeces)
• Sleepwear
• Underwear and socks
• Sturdy footwear (walking boots or trainers)
• Spare shoes (in case things get wet!)

Camping Gear

• Sleeping bag (suitable for the season)
• Roll mat or sleeping mat
• Pillow (optional but encouraged!)
• Torch (with spare batteries)
• Day bag or small rucksack

Toiletries & Personal Items

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Towel
• Sun cream and hat (in warmer months)
• Any required medication (clearly labelled and handed to a leader)

Other Useful Items

• Named water bottle
• Plate, bowl, mug and cutlery (non-breakable)
• Carrier bag for dirty or wet clothes

👉 Please label everything clearly – tents can be busy places!

What NOT to Bring

For safety and fairness, please do not pack:

• Mobile phones or electronic devices (unless stated otherwise)
• Sweets, fizzy drinks, or large amounts of snacks, something to share is usually permitted
• Knives or sharp tools
• Aerosols or matches

If you’re unsure about an item, just ask a leader.

Food & Dietary Requirements

Meals are planned and supervised by leaders, and young people often help prepare food as part of the experience.

We can accommodate:

• Allergies
• Medical dietary needs
• Vegetarian or other dietary requirements

Please ensure all dietary needs are shared with leaders before the camp and updated in your child’s OSM profile. 

Homesickness & First-Time Campers

It’s completely normal for parents (and children!) to feel nervous about a first camp.

Our leaders are experienced at:

• Helping young people settle in
• Encouraging independence gently
• Supporting anyone who feels unsure or homesick
• All leaders will share updates with parents during the camp and are contactable throughout he event

If you have concerns, please speak to a leader beforehand, we’re always happy to help.

If you have any questions about camping or outdoor activities, please don’t hesitate to contact a leader. No question is too small, we’re here to support both you and your child.