My son returned and his overall impression it was a very good experience. So, this review is from the perspective of an 11 year old who has been to 2 one week long summer camps... and if he did his school work with the same enthusiasm that he did his Scout requirements we would have fewer "discussions" during the school year LOL ;)
Dining Hall: Very clean, food was a 3/5 stars, his favorite food being the continental breakfast. 3 meals a day done in shifts.
Trading Post: He only went to the one next to the dining hall and his tip was that it was cheaper than buying supplies in the classroom. Candy is sold there and Scouts are not told no if they overbuy. It's part of the experience learning how to budget.
Horseback riding: as a former rider, mom urged him to try. He took a one hour ride, and said the experience was awesome. The horses are well trained and he was given a helmet. This camp is known for horsemanship, he'll do it next time for sure!
Bees AND hornets were an ongoing nuisance so the Scouts made traps. If your child has bee anaphylaxis, this is NOT the place for him. Of the 13 Scouts in his Troop 1 got bit twice and 1 got stung.
Swimming in the lake was cool, but it is well stocked with fish so he was more into fishing than swimming and he caught 27 fish in 6 days. Bring a fishing pole and earn that badge!
Boating: Canoeing was challenging, but fun, kayaking and rowboat was a workout because of length variations in the oars and the grip was coming off so it was hard to paddle.
Aside from being next to a bathroom, the tents were clean and nice. They are dark because there is no area for light to enter, bring a small lantern.
Sleeping mat is better than a cot (which he lugged up there) because the tents are small and not designed for cots.
He recommends TO WENTE INSTRUCTORS that they teach Tot'n Chip and Firemn Chit during the Second Class Requirement. His younger friends didn't earn this and were slightly disappointed. The weather is beautiful, but it is hot. Don't forget a Camelback, swimming trunks and towel.
Overall GREAT experience for all the Scouts! read more