Get Ready for Camp Chawanakee
Everything you need to prepare your unit, plan your Scouts’ programs, and get ready for an unforgettable week at Camp Chawanakee.
Whether you’re a unit leader preparing your troop or a parent getting your Scout ready for camp, you’ll find the key information and resources you need below.
Start Here: Leader Guidebook
The Camp Chawanakee Leader Guidebook is the primary planning resource for unit leaders attending summer camp.
It includes important information about camp policies, arrival and departure, programs, schedules, health and safety, food service, campsite procedures, and other details you’ll need before arriving at camp.
The 2027 Leader Guidebook will be posted when available.
Before You Arrive
Be Prepared for a Smooth Check-In
A little preparation before leaving home makes arrival day much easier for Scouts, leaders, and camp staff.
Confirm Registration
Ensure all youth and adults attending camp are properly registered with Scouting America as required.
Complete Safeguarding Youth Training
All registered adults must have current Safeguarding Youth Training (SYT) before arriving at camp.
Complete California AB 506 Requirements
California residents: Ensure all required AB 506 training, background checks, and other applicable requirements are completed before camp.
Complete Health Forms
Every youth and adult attending camp must have a current Annual Health & Medical Record (AHMR).
Parts A, B1, B2, and C are required.
Review Programs & Merit Badges
Review each Scout’s merit badge selections, prerequisites, age recommendations, and any special program requirements before arriving at camp.
Prepare Medications
Make sure medications are properly labeled and prepared according to Camp Chawanakee procedures.
Pack & Label Gear
Review the recommended packing list and clearly label personal belongings and equipment.
Finalize Transportation
Confirm drivers, transportation arrangements, departure times, and your unit’s expected arrival time at Camp Chawanakee.
Build a Great Week at Camp
A successful week at Chawanakee isn’t about filling every minute of the schedule. Encourage Scouts to balance advancement with opportunities to explore camp, try something new, and simply enjoy being at summer camp.
Merit Badges
Review the Merit Badge & Program Schedule with each Scout before making selections.
Some programs may have:
- Prerequisites
- Age or experience recommendations
- Additional fees
- Limited capacity
- Special equipment or clothing requirements
First-Year Camper Program
The First-Year Camper Program is designed for newer Scouts and focuses on foundational Scouting skills, confidence, and early rank requirements.
High-Demand Programs
Popular programs such as Aquatics, Climbing, COPE, and Range & Target Activities may have limited availability.
Units should plan early and have alternate choices available.
Leave Room for Adventure
Don’t schedule every available minute.
Encourage Scouts to leave time for waterfront activities, open program areas, campwide events, troop and patrol activities, and the unexpected experiences that make summer camp memorable.
Review Each Scout’s Schedule
Before camp, unit leaders should review each Scout’s schedule to make sure it matches their experience, interests, abilities, and advancement goals.
VIEW MERIT BADGE & PROGRAM SCHEDULE
What to Expect at Camp
From Sunday Arrival to Saturday Departure
Sunday — Welcome to Chawanakee
Units arrive and complete the camp check-in process. Camp staff will help guide your unit through arrival procedures and getting settled into your campsite.
Swim checks are completed for Scouts and adults participating in aquatics activities.
A unit leader meeting is held Sunday evening to review schedules, procedures, important information, and updates for the week.
Monday — Let the Adventure Begin
Regular camp programs begin Monday morning, including merit badges, First-Year Camper programs, and other scheduled activities.
Tuesday–Friday — Make Chawanakee Your Own
Throughout the week, Scouts participate in their scheduled programs while also having opportunities for open program areas, campwide activities, evening programs, troop activities, and time with friends.
Leaders should encourage Scouts to explore beyond their scheduled merit badges and experience everything camp has to offer.
Saturday — Heading Home
Units complete the camp checkout process Saturday morning before departing Camp Chawanakee.
Resources for Your Week
Use these resources as your unit prepares for camp.
Forms & Documents
Health forms, required paperwork, camp documents, and downloadable resources.
What to Bring & Mail
Packing recommendations, personal equipment, unit gear, and information about sending mail to camp.
Programs & Activities
Explore merit badges, First-Year Camper, aquatics, climbing, COPE, range and target activities, Scoutcraft, nature, handicraft, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about camp facilities, meals, arrival, programs, accommodations, and more.
CAMP FAQ
Adult Leaders at Camp
Summer camp isn’t just about getting Scouts to Chawanakee. Adult leaders play an important role in creating a successful week.
During camp, leaders help support their Scouts and unit while also having opportunities to participate in training, activities, fellowship, and other adult leader programs.
We encourage leaders to get involved, explore camp, meet other Scouters, and enjoy Chawanakee too.
EXPLORE ADULT LEADER OPPORTUNITIES
Questions Before Camp?
If you’re unsure about paperwork, programs, accommodations, arrival, or anything else related to your week at Camp Chawanakee, contact us.
Contact us at (559) 320-2100 or CampChawanakee@SequoiaCouncil.org
We’re happy to help your unit arrive prepared and ready for a great week at camp.
