News for everyone

Goshen Leader Update #3: Early Bird Deadline on April 15th at 11:59 pm!

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Good afternoon Goshen Leaders,
We are just 5 days away from the Early Bird Deadline for the Summer 2025 Season at the Goshen Scout Reservation!
Ahead of this deadline, we encourage you to be prepared and begin registering and paying for attendees in full prior to the April 15th deadline so that you have a smooth registration process. Sarah Moses, NCAC Camping Specialist, and I are here to help! We appreciate your patience as we process the large volume of emails and phone calls. We’ll be there to support you, but please do your best to not leave getting your payments in until the last minute!
How does the Early Bird benefit you and your Scouts?
  • Campers with registrations made before the early bird deadline (April 15, 2025 at 11:59 pm) will attend at a lower cost!
  • With more accurate attendance numbers, our team is best able to prepare for your arrival and focus on service and a high-quality camping experience.
  • Enable camp coordinators to have the majority of youth enrolled so that they can help parents be prepared (AHMR, gear and equipment readiness, pre-camp meeting with all attendees, etc.)
Registration “How To” Reminders
Adding Campers to Your Registration
Need a reminder on how to sign up your campers? Check out this post: www.gotogoshen.org/registration/registration-tips-how-to-add-more-campers/ .
Splitting Adults on Your Registration
If you have adults that are planning to split the week and are wondering how to register them, check out this post: www.gotogoshen.org/registration/registration-tips-splitting-adults/
Registration Troubleshooting
  • Having issues applying a campership or popcorn voucher? Contact Camping Specialist Sarah Moses at sarah.moses@scouting.org
  • If you have unallocated credit on your account that you aren’t able to apply during check out, please contact Sarah Moses prior to completing checkout. If you have unallocated credit, your registration summary will have two separate line items: Allocated Credit and Unallocated Credit. If you only see Credit as a line item in your registration summary, all of your credit has been allocated.
  • If within a week of making your EFT payment (e-check) you receive a notice from the system that your payment has been reversed, the most common error is that there was a typo when entering the routing or the account number. Please double check your numbers and try the payment again. If you run into an instance where you were paid in full prior to the Early Bird deadline, but the system is now charging the regular rate, please contact Sarah Moses at sarah.moses@scouting.org to get this addressed before completing checkout.
Three Month Count Down! – Reminders and Upcoming Opportunities
What Documents Do You Need to Bring to Camp?
  • Unit roster reflecting current Scouting America registration of youth and adults attendees (see “Adult Leadership Requirements” section of the GSR Leader Guide for more details)
    • All youth and adult attendees must have an active membership with Scouting America in order.  Camp Ross Leaders: See the note below under “Adult Leader Requirements” for the Cub Scout Pack exception, per the Guide For Safe Scouting.
  • Scouting America Annual Health and Medical Records, Parts A, B, and C for all attendees (two copies recommended – one for you, and one to be filed in the Camp First Aid office)
  • Scouting America Pre-Event Medical Screening Checklist for all participants.
  • Completed Pre-Camp Swim Check Form (not required, Scouts BSA and High Adventure only)
  • If attending Lenhok’sin High Adventure:
    • CPR Certification for one crew member
    • Wilderness First Aid Certification for one crew member
    • Weather Hazards Training Certification for one crew member
    • Safe Swim Defense Certification for one crew member
    • Safety Afloat for one crew member (River Trek Only)
    • Paddle Craft Safety Certification for one adult leader (River Trek only)
Adult Leader Requirement Reminders
Over the past weeks, I’ve received several questions regarding adult leader requirements for Units while at camp. Please review page 21 of the Goshen Scout Reservation Leader’s Guide for specific guidelines for Camp Ross, Scouts BSA Camps (Camp Olmsted, Bowman, and Marriott), and Lenhok’sin High Adventure.
Camp Ross Leaders, if you are having difficulty identifying a BALOO training prior to the start of camp, please send me an email directly.
Pre-Camp Swim Checks – May 31 and June 1, 2025
The NCAC Aquatics Committee is hosting Pre-Camp Swim Checks on May 31 and June 1 Camp William B. Snyder (Haymarket, VA)!
Units are able to complete swim checks on their own ahead of camp and bring verification of this to camps at Goshen Scout Reservation. This will allow you to have a more relaxed pace for campsite set-up when you arrive on Sunday and it allows us to relieve congestion at our waterfront for units that are unable to complete their swim checks ahead of time. This is by no means mandatory, but encouraged.
Pre-Camp swim checks will be accepted for Units attending Camp Olmsted, Camp Bowman, Camp Marriott, and Lenhok’sin High Adventure. Please note that the GSR Aquatics Staff reserve the right to request any camper (youth or adult) to retake the swim test during their time at GSR if they have concern about a camper’s swimming ability.
Summer Camp T-Shirts: Pre Sale Opening Soon!
GSR is hosting an online trading post ahead of your arrival at the Goshen Scout Reservation where you can order camp-specific t-shirts, exclusive to Summer 2025! Sleeve customization is also available to include your Unit Number. Orders must be placed before May 23, 2025 and will be shipped to your door. Not able to place an order in time? No worries – they will be for sale at your GSR’s camp trading post this summer!
Please stay tuned for an order link!
Adult Leaders – Volunteer While You’re at Camp!
Curious of how you can spend your day while at the Goshen Scout Reservation? You’re invited to join our Volunteer Corp and provide assistance in supporting a merit badge program, providing additional supervision to a program area, assisting our Ranger and Facilities team, and providing training opportunities to fellow leaders!
Take a look at the form below to learn more and volunteer!
2025 GSR Volunteer Form: https://forms.gle/aFo3PicxAG2DLGWC7
We are currently working on finalizing our Adult Leader Training Schedule. Please stay turned for more information!

Yours in Scouting,

Elisabeth Warren | Goshen Scout Reservation Director

Goshen Scout Reservation: Merit Badge Sign-Ups at 7:00 pm! – Final Reminders

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Hello Goshen Scout Reservation Scouts BSA Leaders,
We are looking forward to Merit Badge Signups for you and your Scouts this evening at 7:00 pm. Please see the following final reminders to assist you and your Scouts in signing up for Merit Badges and programs.

Who can register for Merit Badges and Programs?

In order to be eligible to register for badges and activities, Scouts need to be “booked” on your summer camp registration.

  • If you booked the Scout with the $100 camper deposit prior to the February 15 deadline, that Scout is all set to sign up for badges and activities!
  • Scouts who have been registered since this date and are paid in full are also eligible to sign up for badges and activities.
  • A Scout who has not been registered or paid in full will not be eligible to sign up for merit badges until they have been fully “booked”.
Merit Badge and program signups will continue on a rolling basis until the start of camp, but be aware that some classes have class limits!

Program and Prerequisite Guide Reminder

Please ensure you have read the Scouts BSA Program and Prerequisites Guide, which has descriptions, age recommendations, prerequisite requirements, parent/guardian permission notes, and other helpful information. It can be found in your camp’s downloads sections as well as here: www.gotogoshen.org/forms.

Activities Requiring Pre-Camp Registration

Due to popular demand, Mile Swim is now part of Merit Badge & Activity Sign Ups! Scouts hoping to participate in the Mile Swim event to earn the award will need to sign up before camp. Capacity is limited, but there will be a waitlist. Some camps may offer a second time for the Mile Swim based on interest, so be sure to sign up for that waitlist as needed. Scouts will be prioritized, but adults will be able to participate as space allows at camp.

Updates to the Guide for Safe Scouting for Merit Badge Advancement

Beginning January 1, 2025, several Merit Badges require a discussion between the Scout and a Unit Leader and/or Parent/Guardian permission to begin working on a Merit Badge. To comply with these updates, there are now two radio buttons as a part of your Scouts’ Merit Badge sign ups:

  • Unit Leader Discussion: This Scout has discussed their merit badge selection with their unit leader or designee.
  • Parent/Guardian Permission: This Scout has obtained permission from their parent/guardian for any merit badge requirements that require permission. A list of merit badges this applies to can be found in the Program and Prerequisites Guide.

These radio buttons must be selected for a Scout to participate in the particular merit badge class.

Parent Portal

As a reminder, you have the ability to activate a Parent Portal on your Unit’s registration, allowing parents to assist with registering their youth for camp AND merit badge programs.
For video tutorials on how to use Parent Portal, please view the registration system’s How To Videos.

Merit Badge Sign Up Walk Through

Ready to sign up for badges and activities? Check out the How To Guide for a walkthrough and FAQs here: www.gotogoshen.org/general/how-to-merit-badge-activity-sign-ups/

Other Announcements and Reminders

Request for a Female Adult Volunteer for a Lenhok’sin High Adventure Trek

The High Adventure Committee is putting out a call for a volunteer female adult to join them for a week of backpacking on the Provisional Trail Trek on July 6 – July 12, 2025. If you know of someone who may be interested, please have them contact the Lenhok’sin High Adventure team at lenhoksin@gotogoshen.org.

Reminder of Early Bird Rate Extension for Youth Crossing from AOL to Scouts BSA

As a reminder, Youth Crossing Over from Arrow of Light (Cub Scouts) to your Troop are eligible for the Early Bird rate until June 1, 2025. This is listed as a “New Crossover Scout Youth” during the registration process. We look forward to having your newest Scouts to join us as a part of our First Year Camper Programs.

Adult Leader Training Opportunities

Adult Leader Training Opportunities are under final review and will become available registration during the month of April. Please stay turned!

Yours in Scouting,

Elisabeth Warren | Goshen Scout Reservation Director

Goshen Leader Update #2: Registration Reminders, Merit Badge & Program Schedules, and Additional Guidance (03/04/2025)

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Hello Goshen Scout Reservation Leaders!
We are just a few months away from welcoming you and your Scouts to the Goshen Scout Reservation for an incredible summer adventure. Please review this email carefully for information on registration, merit badge and program schedules, and additional guidance.

General Registration Reminders

The Goshen Scout Reservation Early Bird Deadline is April 15 at 11:59 pm. Registration made before this time will receive a discounted rate. As the Camper Deposit phase has ended (enable Units to register youth at a $100 deposit rate, to be applied to total cost of camp), full payment is now available for youth and adult campers.

We encourage that you register your attending youth and adult campers as soon as possible so that we can best plan and prepare for a high quality camping experience and your arrival at camp!

Parent Portal

Did you know that Goshen Scout Reservation has a “Parent Portal Option” to pay for scouts once added to a Unit’s Camp Registration, as well as to manage Merit Badge signups.

For video tutorials on how to use Parent Portal, please view the registration system’s How To Videos.

Adult Registration Requirements

We have received a few questions regarding adult leader requirements from Units. Please see the guidance below, in line with the Guide for Safe Scouting, and as listed in the GSR Leader Guide.

At any time, each unit must have at least two adults over the age of 21 who are registered members of Scouting America If there are female youth members with your unit, one of these registered leaders must be female. While not required, one of these leaders would preferably be your unit’s year-round leader or assistant leader. Unit leaders are responsible for the good behavior and practices of their scouts at all times and are expected to be available to assist their Scouts and Camp Staff in assuring the best camping experience possible.

Scouting America Registration Requirements — Scouts BSA & High Adventure Camps

All adults, ages 18+, staying overnight must be currently registered as an adult volunteer or an adult program participant in Scouting America. Registration as a Merit Badge Counselor position does not meet this requirement. Please refer to the Guide to Safe Scouting for a list of approved adult registration fee required positions. While there is no required adult to youth ratio for Scouts BSA troops and Venturing Crews, however we recommend a ratio of one adult to every ten youth, not including the minimum of two Adult Leaders to satisfy the requirements above.

Scouting America Registration Requirements — Camp Ross

We require a 1:4 adult to Webelos/AOLs with a minimum of 2 adults per unit. To give all Webelos & AOLs the best program, please avoid a direct 1:1 adult to youth ratio. Adults splitting the week are welcome! At least of these two adults must be registered leaders, as described above. All other adults, if they are parent/guardians attending with their child, are not required to register as leaders, but must be accompanied by a registered leader any time they are with youth members other than their own child. Phoenix Nest adults must be registered leaders.

At least one leader (we recommend more) must be BALOO trained.

Guidance for Units in the Approved Combined Troop Pilot Program

If your Unit is a part of the approved Scouting America Scouts BSA Combined Troop Pilot program, please use your primary Unit number and register all Scouts and adults under the single registration. If you a part of the pilot program and already registered your Units separately, please contact Sarah Moses at sarah.moses@scouting.org.

Scouts BSA Boys and Girls units who are not a part of the combined troop pilot program must complete separate registrations, regardless of if units are linked. Venturing Crews and Cub Scout Packs may continue to register male and female youth campers on the same registration, as these programs are considered to be co-ed.

GSR Leader Guide

To review the 2025 Goshen Scout Reservation Leader Guide and receive guidance on GSR policies, procedures, services, and recommended best practices, please visit  www.gotogoshen.org/information/forms-downloads. We highly recommend that all attending Adult Leaders and Unit Registration contacts review this document prior to their arrival at GSR.

Merit Badge and Program Schedules

Merit Badge Program Schedules for all GSR Camps have been updated and posted online! Please refer to the forms and downloads section of your camp webpage to view and download.

Program and Pre-Requisite Guide (with subject to change note)

The Goshen Scout Reservation Scouts BSA Program & Prerequisite Guide for Merit Badges at Camps Bowman, Marriott, and Olmsted has been posted! This Guide shares Merit Badge descriptions and specifics on requirements that must be completed prior to arriving at camp in order for your scouts to complete the merit badge.

You can download a copy of the 2025 Program & Prerequisite Guide in the Scouts BSA Specific downloads section of your camp webpage or on the GSR Forms & Downloads page. Please note that select merit badge pre-requisites are under final review and may be subject to change. We will be sure to inform you if that is the case. For the most up to date requirements for all merit badges, please refer to https://www.scouting.org/skills/merit-badges/.

Older Scout Programs – Updates for Summer 2025

Osprey – GSR’s New Older Scout Program: I am very excited to announce Goshen Scout Reservation’s NEW Older Scout Program – Osprey!  Offered to Scouts at Camps Bowman, Marriott, and Olmsted, Osprey is a full day, week-long program that includes high adventure opportunities and explores Goshen Scout Reservation. Over the course of the week, Scouts will become a team at Low COPE, participate in a service project, circumnavigate Lake Merriweather in canoes, engage in a metalworking and welding workshop, and embark on a backpacking overnighter with Lenhok’sin High Adventure activities. The Osprey program is based out of Camp Marriott is a replacement for the former Goshen Vets program.

I am also pleased to share that Goshen Scout Reservation recently hired an ATV Director for the 2025 Summer season, and we look forward to hosting this program again this summer.  We are currently still hiring a second ATV Director position so that we may host our expanded ATV program – if you aware of anyone over the age of 21 that may be interested, please send them our way!

Goshen Scout Reservation will continue to host COPE and Climbing programs! Learn more at www.gotogoshen.org.

Merit Badge Registration:

Merit Badge Registration for Camps Olmsted, Bowman, and Marriott will open March 31, 2025 at 7:00 pm. Please be sure check out the Program & Prerequisites Guide for the latest prerequisites, class descriptions, age recommendations, and specialty class fees.

Scouts BSA Program and Prerequisites Guide (available under “Forms and Downloads”): www.gotogoshen.org/forms

Questions about Merit Badge Sign Ups? Check out the “How To: MB Sign Ups” Guide (also available under “Forms and Downloads”). https://www.gotogoshen.org/general/how-to-merit-badge-activity-sign-ups/

Scouts interested in participating in “Open Program” blocks do not need to register for these sections.

If your unit is opting to use the “parent portal” feature for merit badge sign ups, please be sure to select the “allow parent portal class selection” check box under the “use parent portal” section of the registration contact section.

Camperships

If your unit has any families that are in need of financial assistance for their Scout to attend summer camp at Goshen Scout Reservation this summer, please have them fill out a campership application, available here: www.gotogoshen.org/camperships.

The Greg Augustine Campership Fund allows applicants to be granted up to 50% of the cost of summer camp. The deadline is March 1, but we will be accepting applicants afterwards as well. Applicants that submitted by March 1 will receive their initial approval should expect their Goshen specific voucher code via email by March 15, 2025.

Annual Health Medical Form Reminder

Don’t forget! – Everyone in camp must have completed Parts A & B of the BSA Medical Form with them upon arrival at Goshen. Any youth or adult camper staying for more than 72 hours and/or participating in camp activities must also have Part C and the NCAC Health Advisory.

Pre-Camp Swim Checks

Camps Bowman, Marriott, Olmsted, and Lenhok’sin High Adventure allow pre-camp swim checks to be submitted. Pre-camp swim checks are only valid if conducted by approved certified instructors, as listed on the GSR Pre-Camp Swim Check Form. Pre-camp swim checks must be submitted to the Goshen camp you are attending using the “GSR Pre-Camp Swim Check Form,” available under the “Forms and Downloads” section of each camp webpage and at www.gotogoshen.org/information/forms-downloads.

Although pre-camp swim check can be administered on a Unit level given appropriate administrators are present, National Capital Area Council is hosting pre-camp swim checks at Camp William B. Snyder May 31 and June 1! More information, including registration links, to come soon!

Pre-Camp Swim checks are not required and swim checks are conducted as a part of your Unit’s check in process upon arrival at GSR. Please note that Camp Ross does NOT accept pre-camp swim checks.

Yours in Scouting,

Elisabeth Warren | Goshen Scout Reservation Director

SCOUTING AMERICA
National Capital Area Council

Serving youth in Washington, DC; Maryland; Virginia; U.S. Virgin Islands; and Direct Service

Goshen Leader Update #1: Registration Reminders, Webinar Series, Programs and Opportunities (01/19/2025)

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Hello Goshen Leaders!
My name is Elisabeth Warren, Goshen Scout Reservation Director, and I am very excited to welcome you and your Units to GSR for Summer 2025! The 2025 Camp Director team is hard at work preparing for your arrival this summer, and are looking forward to preparing memorable experiences and programs for your Scouts.
Below to important reminders to keep in mind as you begin to prepare for this summer!
Registration Reminders
This past November, Goshen Scout Reservation made an announcement regarding 2025 Fee Adjustments. We have received a few questions since this announcement, and wanted to clarify a few points below.
Registration Terms:
  • All-Inclusive: Goshen Scout Reservation is now all-inclusive! An all-inclusive fee structure means that there are no hidden fees or additional costs for your Scouts or leaders to attend a GSR camp beyond the registration fee. Previous additional costs for items and programs such as basketry kits, leather crafts, shotgun ammunition, and the ATV program are now included. Merit Badge program supplies will be provided to your Scouts during their merit badge session and will not need to be purchased in the Trading Post.
  • Unit Deposit: All units attending Goshen Scout Reservation will make a “unit deposit” in the form of a one-time, non-refundable $200 registration fee. This deposit is not rolled into the registration fee of a youth participant, and is a standalone fee. Units who send multiple groups to GSR Camps will only need to make one Unit Deposit (e.g., a Unit sends one group to a Scouts BSA Camp and one group to Lenhok’sin High Adventure. Please contact Sarah Moses if you are sending multiple groups to camp).
  • Camper Deposit: A $100 “camper deposit” is now in place that will lock in your spot at camp until full payment can be made. This camper deposit is a part of the overall cost of camp and is not an additional fee. Scouts BSA youth who have not made full payment at the time of Merit Badge Registration, but have made a camper deposit will be able to take part in Merit Badge signups.
Registration Timeline / Important Dates:
  • November 15, 2024: Camper Deposit Phase opens. At this time, youth campers are able to register with a $100 deposit that is a part of the overall cost of camp.
  • February 15, 2025: Camper Deposits due. After this point, youth registrations will be made for the full cost of camp, and will not be broken into the $100 deposit and remainder fee.
  • March 1, 2025: Campership applications due. Applications will be accepted afterwards on a rolling basis as funds are available.
  • March 31, 2025: Merit Badge Sign-ups open at 7:00 pm. More instruction to come closer to the registration date.
  • April 15, 2025: Early Bird period ends. After this point, the cost of camp increases for new registrants. New Scouts BSA members who have crossed over from the Arrow of Light Rank will still be eligible for the early bird rate to encourage new Scouts BSA youth to attend summer camp with their new Troops.
  • May 1, 2025: Bus Transportation registration opens. Transportation to the Goshen Scout Reservation via bus is provided to Units at an additional cost.
  • June 1, 2025: Final payments for camp attendance are requested by June 1st to best plan for your attendance at camp. Accepted at a minimum of two weeks before arriving on site.
If you are no longer the Registration Contact for your unit, this post goes over how to update your registration:
If you need to access your registration, this post goes over how to do so:
Remember, as you begin to add participants to your registrations, you should only add participants as you are ready to pay for them. When you are ready to add participants, this post has a quick walkthrough:
Leader and Program Guides, Program Schedules
Copies of the 2025 GSR Leader Guides, Program Guides, and Program Schedules will be posted on www.gotogoshen.org in early February. Thank you for your patience as we continue to plan for an exciting Summer 2025!
Orientation Webinar Series
Are you a Bear or Webelos leader or parent? Join us for our monthly Camp Ross Webinar series! Each month, we gather to discuss a different topic that will assist you in planning for your Camp Ross Adventure.
This coming Tuesday, we will be reviewing “how to fund your summer camp adventure,” and will talk about NCAC’s Camp Card fundraiser, how to apply popcorn vouchers, apply for camperships, and more.
For more information and dates for upcoming webinars, please visit https://weownadventure.com/webinar-series-cub-scout-summer-camp/.
Camperships – Rolling Applications
If you know of any scouts in your unit who may benefit from financial assistance to attend summer camp at the Goshen Scout Reservation, please encourage them to complete the NCAC “Financial Support Request Form.” Recipients can receive assistance for up to 50% of the cost of camp. Please visit www.gotogoshen.org/camperships for more information.
Early Bird Registration Closes April 15 at 11:59 pm
Early Bird Registration will close Friday, April 15 at 11:59 pm. Participants who have registered before this time will receive the posted discounted price when attending camp.
Merit Badge and Activity Signups – Opens March 31 at 7:00 pm
Merit Badge & Activity Signups for Camps Olmsted, Marriott, and Bowman will open on March 31 at 7:00 pm. Merit Badge Program Schedules will be available under “forms and downloads” on each Camp’s webpage. The updated Program and Pre-Requisites Guide will be released shortly – stay tuned!
Provisional Camping Opportunities
There are several opportunities for individual / provisional scouts at Goshen this summer! Scouts interested in a provisional merit badge experience can find more information here: www.gotogoshen.org/provisional.
Scouts interested in attending a provisional Trail Trek at Lenhok’sin High Adventure, sponsored by the NCAC High Adventure Committee can find more information here: www.gotogoshen.org/lenhoksin.
Looking for a two-week experience? Members of the Order of the Arrow are invited to join the Goshen Order of the Arrow Trail (GOAT) Crew for two weeks at Lenhok’sin High Adventure. Learn more at www.gotogoshen.org/about.
Join Goshen Scout Reservation Summer Camp Staff!
Goshen Scout Reservation is hiring Camp Staff for the Summer 2025 Season! Working on Camp Staff is a memorable experience that promotes growth, independence, and creates memories that last a lifetime. Staff help to teach essential scout skills, such as tying knots and building fires, and have the opportunity to make lasting impressions on campers while showing them the wonders of the outdoors!
At this time, Goshen Scout Reservation is actively hiring:
  • Camp Leadership Position (Camp Director, Program Director, Facilities Director)
  • Aquatics Director(s) and Aquatics Program Staff
  • ATV Director(s) and Assistant(s)
  • COPE Director and Program Staff
  • Range and Target Activities Director(s) and Program Staff
  • Scoutcraft Director(s) and Program Staff
  • Ecology Director(s) and Program Staff
  • High Adventure Outpost Directors and Program Staff
Learn more about Goshen Staff at www.gotogoshen.org/staff.
Volunteer Service Weekend: May 9 – 11
Looking for a service opportunity for your unit or family? Join members of the Goshen Scout Reservation Staff for a weekend of service to assist in camp beautification and prepare for Summer 2025! This past fall, we painted buildings rebuilt lifejacket and canoe racks, installed campsite signs, and built picnic tables (to name a few!) Learn more and join us at www.gotogoshen.org/vww
Family Camp: May 23 – 26
Join the Goshen Scout Reservation this coming Memorial Day Weekend for a fun-filled Family Camping Experience! Soar through the sky on the giant swing, cool off on beautiful Lake Merriweather, test your aim at Shooting Sports, challenge your inner artist at Handicraft, and spend time with your family and friends in the great outdoors. All are welcome, not just registered scouts. Find more information at www.gotogoshen.org/familycamp

Yours in Scouting,

Elisabeth Warren | Goshen Scout Reservation Director

Goshen Scout Reservation 2025 Fee Adjustment

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In keeping with our commitment to deliver a high-quality camp experience for Scouts and Leaders attending summer camp at the Goshen Scout Reservation, and in response to feedback from the Scouting Community, National Capital Area Council is moving Goshen Scout Reservation to an “all-inclusive” fee structure.

An “All-Inclusive” fee structure means that there are no hidden or additional costs for your Scouts or leaders to attend a GSR Summer Camp beyond the camp registration fee! Previous additional costs for items and programs such as Basketry kits, leather crafts, shotgun ammunition, and the ATV program are now included!

Goshen Scout Reservation will now be a tiered structure, based on the needs and requirements of the program level they support; Cub Scout: Camp Ross, Scouts BSA: Olmsted, Marriott, Bowman, High Adventure: Lenhok’sin High Adventure.

For the upcoming 2025 season, this shift in fees will allow us to increase camp staff salaries and invest in program supplies and camp facilities.

The Cost of Camp for Summer 2025 at the Goshen Scout Reservation will be:

  Cub Scout (Ross) Scouts BSA (Olmsted, Bowman, Marriott) Lenhok’sin High Adventure
Youth Early Bird $525 $565 $625
Youth Regular $555 $595 $655
Adult Early Bird $270 $300 $330
Adult Regular $310 $340 $370

Scouts who are crossing over from Arrow of Light to Scouts BSA will receive the Early Bird Discount, no matter when they register! We want to ensure that the time of their crossover ceremony does not deter an incoming Scouts BSA member from attending camp with their new Troop.

Unit and Camper Deposits

The initial Unit reservation for a GSR Summer Camp is now made through a one time non-refundable $200 “Unit Deposit.” Units who are sending multiple groups to GSR Camps will only need to make one Unit Deposit (e.g., a Unit sends one group to a Scouts BSA Camp and one group to Lenhok’sin High Adventure). Please contact us for more information if you are considering sending multiple groups to GSR.

Knowing that this price structure represents a change, we are also moving forward with a deposit structure for youth campers. This method has been used to help support Unit Camping Coordinators in making camp accessible and approachable to all families. A deposit represents a commitment, and one we value greatly. In return, our team is best able to be prepared for your arrival and to focus on service. This $100 camper deposit will lock in your spot at camp until full payment can be made and allow Scouts BSA youth to register for merit badges and activities earlier.

Free Adults

Units attending Goshen Scout Reservation are permitted free adult leaders based on the number of youth attending. The more youth who attend with your Unit, the more free adults you receive!

1 – 10 Youth: 1 Free Adult 11 – 20 Youth: 2 Free Adults 21 – 30 Youth: 3 Free Adults
And so on…

Transportation Fare

Transportation to the Goshen Scout Reservation via bus will continue to be provided to Units. Tickets will be available for an additional cost beginning May 1, 2025.

Important Dates

Date Event
July 1, 2024 Unit Deposit Phase opens.
November 15, 2024 Camper Deposit Phase opens.
February 15, 2025 Camper Deposits due.
March 1, 2025 Campership applications due. Accepted afterward as funds are available.
March 31, 2025 Merit Badge Sign Ups open at 7:00 pm.
April 15, 2025 Early Bird period ends.
May 1, 2025 Bus Transportation registration opens.
June 1, 2025 Final payments requested by June 1st to best plan and prepare for your attendance at camp. Accepted a minimum of two weeks before arriving on site.

 

Thank you for your continued support and your commitment to the Scouting program. We look forward to serving you this summer!

Yours in Scouting,

Dave Seitz

Chair, Camping and Outdoor Program Committee

 

 Elisabeth Warren

Reservation Director

Goshen Scout Reservation

 Matt Keck

Director of Support Services

National Capital Area Council

The fully announcement and Frequently Asked Questions is available here for your review.

Bear & Webelos Den Leader Summer Camp Planning

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Hello Bear and Webelos Den Leaders!

Now that you are in your role of Den Leader to incredible Bear and Webelos Scouts, you and your Den are invited to attend Summer Camp at Camp Ross (Goshen Scout Reservation) this coming summer! Camp Ross is home to a week-long summer camp experience just for rising (incoming) Webelos and rising Arrow of Light Scouts. Here, they’ll take part in some amazing outdoor adventures, including swimming, boating, fishing, archery, BB shooting, hiking, and outdoor skills development (to name a few)!

As you are learning, the Cub Scout Program provides Scouts with the opportunity to learn about being a member of their family, how to take an active role in serving their neighborhood, and living by the ideals of the Scouting Program. At Camp Ross, our Scouts become members of a Camp Community with Scouts from across the Council. They meet new friends, make lasting memories, and take critical steps in learning about the next part of their Scouting journey: Scouts BSA.

On Monday, October 14, 2024 at 7:00 pm, I’d like you to join me and other Bear and Webelos Den Leaders from NCAC in learning about Camp Ross and starting to plan your Summer 2025 Adventure. Here, we’ll review “A Day in the Life” at Camp Ross, walk through the registration process, and answer any questions you may have.

To attend this Zoom Meeting, please register at:
Camp Ross: A Summer Camp Adventure for Rising Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts
https://ncacbsa-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_gj5BxZxkSHSthMnV3QXQrw#/registration

Register for the Meeting

Before joining me on October 14th, I encourage you to hear from other NCAC Cub Scout Parents and Leaders about their own Camp Ross experience on our YouTube Channel:

Enhance Your Pack Summer! What Leaders are Saying About Camp Ross

I look forward to seeing your Den at Camp Ross this summer!

Yours in Scouting,
Elisabeth Warren
Goshen Scout Reservation Director
National Capital Area Council, BSA

Goshen Leader Update #6 – Items Needed for Camp, Bus Reminders, Adult Training Opportunities, and more!

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June 14, 2024

Good afternoon Goshen Leaders!

Can you believe it’s almost time for summer camp? The Goshen Staff have hit the ground running here at the Goshen Scout Reservation and are hard at work preparing for your arrival!

This email serves as a final Goshen Leader Update before your arrival. Please read it carefully!

List of Items Needed for Check In

  • Unit Registration Rosters (New!): To ensure that the Goshen Scout Reservation and the units who stay with us are in compliance with BSA membership policies regarding camping eligibility, we are requiring that each unit who stays with us provide a Scoutbook unit roster at the time of check in to ensure that all attendees are registered members of the BSA, including all camping adults, and that all adults have current YPT. The roster should indicate all youth and adults who are attending with your unit.

To create the necessary roster, please follow the instructions at www.gotogoshen.org/registration/how-to-unit-registration-rosters/.

Bus Reminder
If your unit plans to take the Bus Service provided by the Goshen Scout Reservation, please sign up no later than 9:00 am on the Wednesday prior to your arrival at camp. Please note that the Largo location has been cancelled due to low demand, however Fairfax is still accepting tickets.
To sign up for the Goshen Scout Reservation Bus Service, please visit: www.gotogoshen.org/general/how-to-purchasing-bus-tickets/.

Dietary Restrictions
All dietary restrictions must be reported prior to your arrival at camp via your Unit’s Blackpug registration. Please indicate all allergies and dietary restrictions for each individual participant so that we can ensure all dietary needs are met! Questions? Contact our Food Service Director at whitney.spearman@gotogoshen.org.

Adult Leader Training Opportunities
The Goshen Scout Reservation and NCAC Training Committee have partnered together to provide a series of trainings throughout the summer. This includes:

  • Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills (IOLS)
  • Scoutmaster Specific Training
  • Life to Eagle Conference
  • Citizenship in Society Merit Badge Counselor Training
  • Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)

To learn what is available during your time at the Goshen Scout Reservation, please see the flyer here: Adult Leader Training . To sign up for a training opportunity, please log-in to your unit’s registration and select “manage participants classes” (just like merit badge sign up!). More instructions can be found here: hwww.gotogoshen.org/general/how-to-merit-badge-activity-sign-ups/

2024 Summer Camp Office Phone Numbers
Need to contact us during the summer? Our summer time camp office numbers are now online! We encourage you to please contact the camp you or your scout is attending to directly. Learn more at www.gotogoshen.org/information/contact-us/.

C-PAP Machines
This is a reminder that any person who requires a C-PAP machine must bring their own equipment, including a rechargeable battery to camp. The Goshen Scout Reservation does not have powered campsites and is unable to provide batteries and extension cords to participants. Daily charging areas are available in the camp Leader’s Lounge, Admin Building, and select program areas. Please speak with your camp administrative staff with any questions.

Yours in Scouting,

Elisabeth Warren | Goshen Scout Reservation Director

Goshen Leader Update #5 – Early Bird Extension, Summer Camp Shirts, New Awards, and more!

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Good afternoon Goshen Leaders!

We are less than 45 days away from the first day of summer camp! Please carefully read the email below for important updates on you GSR Summer Adventure.

Early Bird Pricing Extension Ending: May 17

To help units get crossover Arrow of Light Scouts and other new Scouts signed up for camp, the Early Bird Pricing was extended to May 17 at 11:59pm. If you have youth or adult campers that you still need to sign up, we strongly encourage you to get them signed up before the price increases!

First Refund Tier Cutoff: May 15

The final deadline for refund requests is July 31, 2024.

We hope to see everyone at camp, but if you have scouts or leaders that are not going to be able to make it this summer, please keep the May 15 date in mind. This is the first of our refund cutoffs. All refund requests received by May 15 will be granted a refund of 90%. After this date and until the final deadline of July 31, the refund rate will decrease as we ramp up our camp preparations.

You can read the full refund policy and request cancellations online here: www.gotogoshen.org/refund.

Get Your Camp Shirt: Spring Trading Post closes May 19!!

This year, Camp specific Goshen Scout Reservation shirts will be available for purchase online before you arrive at summer camp! Camp T-Shirts will be available as T-Shirts and Wicking Performance Shirts (UPF Protected), and in youth and adult sizes.

Want to add your Unit Number to your shirt? Sleeve customizations are available for an additional $4.00 per shirt. Shirt orders can be completed individually or as a group/unit order.

The GSR Spring Trading Post can be accessed at https://gsrmerch-spring2024.itemorder.com, and will be open until May 19, 2024. Orders will be shipped following the closing of the online store.

Goshen Bus Service

Did you know that you can take the bus to camp? Goshen Scout Reservation supports shuttle buses from Fairfax Government Center and Largo, MD each week to transport units to and from camp. If you have more than 45 scouts attending, we’ll even send a bus to you! Interested? – Learn more at https://www.gotogoshen.org/information/transportation/.

Click here for instructions on how to purchase bus tickets: https://www.gotogoshen.org/general/how-to-purchasing-bus-tickets/

BSA Medical Forms

As we get close to camp, make sure you and your campers are preparing the forms you will need. Everyone in camp must have Parts A & B of the BSA Medical Form. Any youth or adult camper staying for more than 72 hours and/or participating in camp activities must also have Part C and the NCAC Health Advisory. Part C is valid through the end of the 12th month from the date it was administered by your medical provider. BSA Medical Forms and other helpful forms and information can be found in the Forms & Downloads section on your camps page as well as atwww.gotogoshen.org/forms.

Dietary Restrictions
As you are registering your scouts for camp, please indicate their dietary restrictions in their registration! This will help our food service staff anticipate ordering needs for each week at Goshen.

New – GSR Adult Leader Challenge

The Goshen Scout Reservation “Adult Leader Challenge” is designed for leaders to experience the programs that the Goshen Scout Reservation has to offer by taking part in activities and trainings during their week at Camp, as well as Badge recognizes the tremendous contribution adult leaders make in the Scouting Program. Learn more about the Adult Leader Challenge at https://www.gotogoshen.org/information/forms-downloads/.

Updated – GSR Camp Adventure Award

Each Unit at the Goshen Scout Reservation has the opportunity to bring home the “Camp Adventure Award.” The Camp Adventure Award reflects a Unit’s commitment to participating in Camp programs and opportunities and involvement as a member of the Camp community. A unique ribbon will be presented to these units who have gone the extra mile to participate in the overall camp program. Learn more about how to earn the Camp Adventure Award at https://www.gotogoshen.org/information/forms-downloads/.

Adult Leader Training Opportunities

Goshen Scout Reservation is proud to partner with the NCAC Training Committee to offer training opportunities to Adult Leadership during the summer while in attendance at a GSR Camp. Adult Leader trainings are available to all registered adults, no matter which camp at the Goshen Scout Reservation you are attending. Registration will occur via Blackpug beginning next week – stay tuned for more info!. As of this time, the Adult Leader Training Schedule is as follows:

Week 1:         Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills (AM)

Scoutmaster Specific Training (PM)

Week 2:         Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills (AM)

Scoutmaster Specific Training (PM)

Week 3:         Scoutmaster Specific Training (AM)

Citizenship in Society MB Counselor Training (PM)

Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)

Week 4:         Scoutmaster Specific Training (Tues and Wed)

Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills (Wed and Thurs)

Week 5:         None scheduled at this time.

Week 6:         None scheduled at this time.

Interested in helping GSR and the Training Committee to provide a training opportunity? Please contact NCAC Training Committee Chair Tom Dimisa at tdimisa@yahoo.com.

Lenhok’sin High Adventure – Pre-Camp Survey Due May 10th

For crews attending Lenhok’sin High Adventure Backpacking Trek, be sure to complete your Pre-Camp Survey by May 6th. The online survey can be found in the Lenhok’sin Downloads section: www.gotogoshen.org/lenhoksin/#downloads

Yours in Scouting,

Elisabeth Warren | Goshen Scout Reservation Director