Aquatics

Ensuring Trained Lifeguards in 2025: Navigating the Transition Beyond the BSA Lifeguard Program

The announcement of the retirement of the BSA Lifeguard certification program, effective December 31, 2024, marks a significant shift in how Scouting America camps and councils approach lifeguard training. This change underscores the importance of proactive planning to ensure the continuation of high-quality lifeguard training and certification for summer camps and year-round aquatic programs.

Steps for Camps and Councils to Prepare:

To ensure a seamless transition, council and camp leadership should take the following steps:

Identify Your Training Plan Early

Begin establishing partnerships with organizations like the American Red Cross or YMCA. Both offer robust training programs and instructor certification pathways. If you do not have a current training agreement with the American Red Cross, reach out to the National Health & Safety Team for help.

Leverage the Transition Opportunity if Applicable

Scouting America has outlined a clear path for current BSA Lifeguard instructors to transition into nationally recognized training certifications. This pathway ensures existing expertise within camps is not lost. Individuals who are currently certified as lifeguard instructors through Scouting America can opt to “crossover” with American Red Cross crossover course. Details can be found here.

Educate Stakeholders

Share information about the transition with camp staff, volunteers, and parents. Communicate how the shift to nationally recognized lifeguard certifications enhances safety and aligns with Scouting America’s commitment to youth development.

Plan for Implementation

Plan now for additional time to get lifeguard instructors certified who can in turn certify your camp/council lifeguards. Ensure enough time for instructors to complete new certifications before the 2025 camping season.

National Camping School aquatics instructor training will no longer include lifeguard instructor training; however, most NCS courses will provide a pre-conference opportunity to become certified as a lifeguard instructor.

Attend the BSA Lifeguard Transition Webinar

Taking place on January 16th at 7 pm CT, this webinar will help councils walk through the step by step process to be prepared to certify lifeguards moving forward. Register here.

Aquatic safety has always been a cornerstone of Scouting’s outdoor programs. While the BSA Lifeguard program’s legacy comes to an end, this transition ensures camps and councils can maintain—and even enhance—the quality of their aquatic programs. The National Aquatics Committee remains a committed partner to supporting councils and camps during this time of change.

For more information and resources, visit the BSA Lifeguard Instructor Transition page or contact the national outdoor programs and properties committee. Let’s work together to ensure a safe, successful 2025 and beyond.

Camping

Finding the Right Team: Best Practices in Recruiting Summer Camp Staff

It is no secret that the success of your summer camp hinges on the quality of your staff. Enthusiastic, skilled, and dedicated camp staff can turn a good program into an unforgettable experience for Scouts. But how can your council find the right candidates? Let’s talk about some strategies for effectively recruiting summer camp staff, highlight top job sites like Jobs.ScoutLife.org, and share tips for crafting compelling job postings.

1. Leverage Scout-Specific Job Boards
One of the best places to begin your search is within the community of those already passionate about Scouting. Scouting America maintains an excellent website for posting camp jobs at Jobs.ScoutLife.org. This site provides a platform where councils can connect with people who already know and appreciate the Scouting program. You can post jobs for your camp and see what jobs are available.

When posting on a Scout-specific job board make sure to:

Be Descriptive: Clearly outline the position, responsibilities, and skills required.
Highlight the Perks: Camp jobs offer more than pay-promote benefits like leadership development, outdoor skills training, and the chance to make a difference. Make sure to highlight these aspects.
Post Early: Get ahead of the hiring season by posting positions in the fall or early winter to capture early applicants. Now is not too soon.

2. Expand Your Reach on General Job Sites

While Scout-specific platforms are optimal, you should also consider posting on general job boards, such as Indeed or ZipRecruiter, or seasonal work-centered venues like CoolWorks. These websites will help you find candidates both inside and outside of the Scouting world who are ready to have a life-changing summer adventure. Some of these sites may require subscription or charge fees but a little spending here can help you not be in crisis mode later.

3. Tap into Local Colleges and Universities
Tons of college students are looking for meaningful summer work that means more than just earning a paycheck.

Reach out to:

Career Services: Ask to post on campus-sponsored job portals.
Outdoor Programs: Reach out to departments focused on recreation, leadership, and education majors. Some schools even have an outdoor recreation major with students looking for internships.
Student Organizations: Clubs such as outdoor adventure groups, leadership societies, or Scouting-related organizations can be an excellent fit.

4. Engage Your Alumni and Volunteers
Active and former Scouts, camp staff alumni, and council volunteers can be some of your top ambassadors.

Encourage them to:

Share Openings: Ask them to share job postings with their networks.
Recruit Friends: Incentivize them to refer qualified candidates.
Join the Team: Many volunteers may be eager to step into a paid seasonal role.

5. Leverage Social Media
Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn are potent tools for recruiting staff.

To maximize social media:

Post Engaging Content: Share photos or videos of past camp staff in action. Use the staff themselves to help you create this content.
Tag and Share: Tag local Scout groups, councils, or outdoor enthusiasts.
Run Ads: Use targeted ads targeting people with interests in camp, outdoor, and leadership employment. These are marketing dollars well spent on your camp. This can help you more than investing in an out-of-date camp video.

6. Write Killer Job Postings
A great job posting can make all the difference. Here are a few tips:

Use an Attention-Getting Title: Instead of ”Camp Counselor,” or “Summer camp staff” how about “Outdoor Adventure Leader” or ”Scout Skills Specialist.”
Be Specific: Include duties, pay, location, and how to apply.
Sell the Experience: Highlight what’s unique about the camp, such as waterfront activities, high adventure programs, or conservation projects.
Call to Action: Invite candidates to apply and let them know why they won’t want to miss the opportunity.

7. Job Fairs and Events
Attend local job fairs, with an emphasis on seasonal or outdoor recreation-related events. Bring visuals -a banner, videos, testimonials of your staff- to help describe your unique camp culture.

8. Establish a Pipeline for Recruitment Year-Round

Year-round, stay in contact with returning and prospective staff through the following ways:

Keep in Touch: Send newsletters or other information related to camp opportunities
Off-Season Opportunities: Include prospective staff in council activities throughout the year.
Building a Leadership Pathway: Design programs to develop the skills of older Scouts and young leaders with the potential for future staffing.

9. Start Early and Stay Focused

Recruiting summer camp staff is a year-round job that demands imagination and follow-through. Through utilizing online platforms such as Jobs.ScoutLife.org, tapping social media, and networking through local institutions, your council will recruit the team for a fantastic next camp season.

For more information, resources, or assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to the Outdoor Programs team at the outdoorprogram@scouting.org.

Camping

International Summer Camp Staff for Local Council Long-term Camps

For those looking to add an exceptional program feature to their summer camp in 2025, take a look at the International Camp Staff Program (ICSP)! The aim of the program is to bring American scouts into contact with Scouts and Scouters from across the globe. Scouts can learn first-hand from international camp staffers about their nation’s Scouting program, their culture, and their customs. For many, this could be a Scout’s first chance to meet someone from another country, creating a summer camp experience they will remember forever.

The great service rendered by the international camp counselors is that they bring to camp the flavor of international Scouting and give significance to the world brotherhood ideal. Many young Scouts do not realize that Scouting is a worldwide program with over 50 million members in over 170 countries.

A great article on the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) website (https://www.scout.org/news/3-benefits-international-friendship) says having friends from different parts of the world can change our Scout’s lives. International connections and friendships can help Scouts in their personal development and fulfilment. They will learn to appreciate commonalities and differences, expand their perspectives, develop new skills, and maybe even enjoy unique travel experiences according to the article.

Three big benefits of having international friends are gaining a global vision, improving communication skills and feeling at home around the world. Scouting is about helping our future leaders be prepared for their futures.

Through the ICSP, participating Scouts are likely to learn about a new culture, traditions, habits, foods, language, ideas and more. Scouts will laugh as they overcome communication barriers and learn that a smile is the universal language.

The International Camp Staff Program is approved, certified and continually reviewed by Scouting America. Many will remember that previously this program was a function of the International Department. With the restructuring of Scouting America, the ICSP is now a function of Scouting America’s International Committee however, the goals, purposes and objectives of the program remain the same. What was once an entirely in-house program, now requires some specialized services by an external visa vendor, arranged through the ICSP team.

Councils are billed $520 by the visa vendor, but not until they have selected an international camp staff participant and notified the ICSP Team. Local councils should have prospective international staff members participate in a Zoom interview and sign a staff agreement just like US staff members.

Want more information? Please submit any questions, concerns or suggestions you might have through the interest form at https://bit.ly/ICSPCouncils2025.

CampingCub Scouting

Keeping Cub Scouts Engaged: Spring Programming Ideas for Local Councils

As the weather warms and nature begins to bloom, spring offers a perfect opportunity for local councils to provide engaging outdoor programming that excites Cub Scouts and encourages participation. For camp leadership, crafting innovative spring activities can bridge the gap between winter hibernation and the summer season, ensuring Cub Scouts remain connected to the Scouting program while building anticipation for day camp or long-term camp. Here are some creative ideas for districts and councils to implement:

1. Spring Nature Exploration Events

Organize guided nature hikes or wildlife exploration days at camp properties. With a focus on discovery, Cub Scouts can learn about plants, animals, and ecosystems coming alive in the spring. Adding themed scavenger hunts or badge-related activities can create an educational and entertaining experience while familiarizing Scouts with your camp properties.

2. Outdoor Skills Workshops

Host day or weekend events focused on age-appropriate outdoor skills. Activities like knot-tying, shelter building, fishing, and basic first aid provide hands-on experiences while preparing Cub Scouts for future adventures. Incorporating skills into fun challenges or games ensures that learning remains engaging and enjoyable.

3. Themed Adventure Days

Plan themed adventure days to ignite imaginations. For example:

Pirate Adventures: Include treasure hunts, map reading, and water-related activities.
Wild West Days: Teach archery, introduce simple outdoor cooking, and offer horseback riding or stick pony races.
Superhero Training Camp: Incorporate obstacle courses, teamwork challenges, and problem-solving activities.

Themes like these not only attract participation but also give Cub Scouts a taste of summer camp excitement.

4. Spring Service Projects

Encourage Cub Scouts to give back to their communities with spring service projects. Clean-up days at local parks, planting flowers or trees, and repairing trails teach valuable lessons in stewardship and community involvement. Hosting these events at campgrounds can also help prepare your property for summer use while connecting Scouts to the space.

5. Cub Scout Camp Preview Days

A spring open house or camp preview day can familiarize parents with your camp’s amenities and programming. Offer short rotations of camp activities like BB guns, archery, and crafts to provide a taste of what summer camp will bring. This not only builds excitement for day camp or long-term camp but also increases early registrations.

6. Family Picnic and Campout Events

Invite Cub Scouts and their families to a spring picnic or overnight campout. Pair the event with simple games, a nature walk, or a campfire program to showcase your facilities and the fun awaiting in Scouting. These events help build relationships with families and create lasting memories.

7. Outdoor STEM Programs

Integrate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) into outdoor activities. Build weather stations, experiment with water filtration, or explore solar energy through hands-on projects. Combining STEM with the outdoors encourages curiosity and keeps Scouts engaged in learning outside the classroom.

8. Springtime Cub Olympics

Host a Cub Scout Olympics event featuring fun, age-appropriate challenges like sack races, relay races, tug-of-war, and water bucket relays. Add a recognition element with medals or ribbons to celebrate participation and achievements.

Enhancing Spring Programs for Camp Leadership

To make these programs successful, camp leadership can focus on:

Marketing: Use newsletters, social media, and school outreach to promote events. Highlight the fun and educational benefits of participation.
Partnerships: Collaborate with local organizations, nature centers, or experts to enrich programming with unique resources and knowledge (PD-109).
Volunteer Engagement: Recruit dedicated volunteers or older Scouts to assist with running activities, ensuring smooth operations and mentorship opportunities.
Feedback Loops: Gather feedback after events to continuously refine and improve programming for future seasons.

By offering creative and engaging spring outdoor programs, local councils can keep Cub Scouts excited about Scouting, strengthen family connections, and build momentum for summer day camp or long-term camp. The key lies in fostering a love of the outdoors while ensuring activities are fun, meaningful, and memorable.

NCAP

Key Updates to the 2025 National Camp Accreditation Program (NCAP) Standards

As of January 1, 2025, the updated National Camp Accreditation Program (NCAP) standards will be in effect. Councils must review these updates to ensure compliance and maintain safe, high-quality programs. The latest standards can be downloaded from the NCAP website at http://www.scouting.org/NCAP or directly via this link.

How to Identify Changes in the Standards

There are two ways to locate updates to the NCAP standards:

Table of Contents Annotations: The table of contents notes changes to standards for 2024 and 2025.
Circular #22: This document provides a detailed breakdown of changes, standard by standard. Access Circular #22 here.

Key Changes Councils Should Note

NCAP Standard PD-112:
Councils must adopt and implement a plan to review every activity at all types of camps at least once every three years. This review focuses on identifying and addressing any significant incidents to improve participant safety.

NCAP Standard SQ-406:
Following a change in American Red Cross policy, individuals completing the National Camping School’s Aquatics Director Section will no longer be certified to train lifeguards. Camps must:

Ensure aquatics staff receive proper training elsewhere, or
Have someone in the council become an American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor to train staff as required.

As of January 1st, 2025 the BSA Lifeguard program is no longer being taught. Once a person’s current certification expires, it cannot be renewed.

NCAP Standard SQ-412:
Clarifications have been made regarding First-Year Camper Directors. These directors must demonstrate specific knowledge to receive a council waiver if they have not attended National Camping School to become Outdoor Program Directors.

NCAP Standard FA-717:
A quick reminder, as of January 1, 2024, all beds with mattress foundations more than 30 inches above the floor must have guardrails to prevent falls. This requirement applies to all beds in buildings, Adirondacks, tents, and other sleeping areas.

Additional Notes and Deadlines

Several other changes to the standards have been made. Councils and camp staff are strongly encouraged to thoroughly review the updated standards to ensure compliance. Failure to meet these standards during an assessment could result in the temporary closure of non-compliant areas.

May 15 Deadline:
All summer programs must submit their Declaration of Readiness to their assessment team leader by May 15 for review.

Need Help?

For more information about the updates or assistance with the standards, contact your local NCAP Zone Coordinator or email ncap@scouting.org. Staying informed and prepared will ensure that your camps provide safe, enriching experiences for all participants.

Camping

Leave No Trace Winter Camping with Scout Units

Winter camping with a Scout unit of 20 to 40 Scouts can be an incredible adventure. However, the potential for environmental impact increases significantly with larger groups, especially in fragile winter ecosystems. Practicing Leave No Trace (LNT) principles is essential to ensure the natural world remains undisturbed. Here are some tips to help you plan and execute a responsible winter camping trip:

Planning Ahead

Preparation is the foundation of Leave No Trace camping. Winter environments can be harsh, so careful planning is critical for both safety and minimizing environmental impact.

Research the Area: Select a campsite that can accommodate your group without causing excessive impact. Check local regulations and guidelines.
Know the Conditions: Monitor weather forecasts and ensure everyone packs clothing and gear suitable for freezing temperatures, snow, and ice.
Divide and Conquer: Break the group into smaller patrols to minimize the impact on any one area.

Choosing a Campsite

Winter landscapes are delicate, with snow-covered vegetation and fragile ecosystems beneath. Proper site selection is crucial to prevent long-term damage.

Stick to Trails: Travel on established trails or deep snow to avoid damaging underlying vegetation.
Choose Durable Campsites: Camp on snow, ice, or bare ground, and stay at least 200 feet from water sources to protect riparian zones.
Avoid Sensitive Areas: Stay away from meadows, young trees, and wildlife habitats. Rotate high-traffic areas within your camp to prevent snow compaction and damage.

Managing Waste

Improper waste disposal can harm wildlife and pollute water sources. Responsible waste management is a core LNT principle.

Pack It In, Pack It Out: Carry out all trash, including food scraps, in sealable bags. Don’t leave anything behind.
Dishwater Disposal: Strain dishwater to remove food particles, scatter the water away from camp, and pack out any solid waste.

Using Fire Responsibly

Campfires can scar the environment and deplete natural resources. Limit their use and focus on sustainable practices.

Use Stoves: Opt for camp stoves over fires for cooking and warmth whenever possible.
Fire Rings: If fires are permitted, use established fire rings or build a mound fire on durable surfaces like snow.
Limit Firewood Use: Gather only small, dead wood from the ground and completely extinguish fires before leaving.

Respecting Other Visitors

The wilderness is a shared space. Show respect to others to ensure everyone has a positive outdoor experience.

Yield on Trails: Step aside for smaller groups or individuals and avoid creating deep ruts with snowshoes or skis.
Leave It Better: Sweep the area for litter or damage, even if it wasn’t caused by your group.

Special Considerations for Large Groups

Larger groups naturally have a greater impact, so additional precautions are necessary to reduce their footprint.

Educate Participants: Before and during the trip, remind Scouts of Leave No Trace principles and encourage adherence.
Share Gear: Minimize duplication by using communal tents, cooking equipment, and other shared items.

By diligently applying Leave No Trace principles, Scout groups can enjoy the unique challenges and beauty of winter camping while preserving the wilderness for future generations.

NCAPProperties

Scouting America Unveils Updated Pre-Camp and Post-Camp Inspection Form

Scouting America is excited to announce the release of its newly updated Pre-Camp and Post-Camp Inspection Form, a comprehensive tool designed to enhance safety, sustainability, and organization during camping experiences. This updated form is now available for download and serves as an essential resource for Scout leaders to ensure their campsites are both ready for use and properly restored after each visit.

A Streamlined Process for Camp Management

The updated form simplifies the often complex process of campsite preparation and cleanup by offering a clear, step-by-step checklist. Covering key areas such as safety hazards, equipment inspections, waste disposal, and environmental restoration, the form ensures that no detail is overlooked. Its user-friendly format is designed for both experienced camp management professionals and volunteers and those new to the process, making it a versatile tool for all units.

Promoting Long-Term Planning

Beyond immediate use, the form is a powerful asset for long-term planning in local councils. By consistently documenting pre- and post-camp conditions, leaders can identify trends, recurring issues, and areas requiring maintenance or improvement. This data empowers councils to allocate resources more effectively, schedule necessary repairs, and proactively address environmental or safety concerns.

Ensuring Safety and Compliance

Safety is a cornerstone of Scouting, and the updated inspection form reinforces this value. Leaders can systematically assess potential risks, such as unstable ground or hazardous debris, ensuring a safe experience for all participants. Additionally, using the form helps units meet local regulations and Scouting America guidelines, demonstrating a commitment to responsible outdoor practices.

Per FA-701, the Pre-Camp and Post-Camp Inspection process should be completed before the Declaration of Readiness. For camp properties that serve solely as year-round camps, the review may be scheduled at the convenience of the council, so long as it is conducted annually .

Strengthening Local Councils

For councils, adopting the updated form ensures consistency and standardization across camp properties. The collective data gathered from multiple campsites can inform strategic planning, infrastructure improvements, and program development. By integrating the form into their operations, councils can better support their properties and enhance the overall quality of their programs.

A Tool for the Future

Scouting America’s updated Pre-Camp and Post-Camp Inspection Form is more than just a checklist—it’s a step toward a safer, more sustainable, and better-organized future. By embracing this tool, camp leaders and councils can elevate their camping programs and properties while preserving the natural environments that inspire generations of Scouts.

Get Started Today

Your council is encouraged to download the updated form and incorporate it into their property’s opening and closing procedures. By adopting this resource, camp management can contribute to a legacy of excellence, ensuring that every camping experience leaves a lasting positive impact on both participants and the environment.

Conservation & Environment

Scouting for Clean Waterways, a nationwide initiative empowering Scouts to combat marine debris

In celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Conservation Good Turn for America, Scouting America is introducing Scouting for Clean Waterways, a nationwide initiative aimed at addressing the critical issue of waterway and marine debris. This program, in partnership with Clean Hub and Goal Clean Seas Florida Keys, offers Scouts of all ages the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the health of our waterway ecosystems. Clean Hub has agreed to match the poundage of plastics that Scouting America collects and removes from these areas and coordinate the collection in other countries. This partnership doubles the impact that we collect.

The concept of Scouting for Clean Waterways was launched as part of an existing Sea Base program in 2022. The program is coordinated by the National’s Outdoor Program & Properties Team, Outdoor Ethics & Conservation Subcommittee and the International Committee.

Why it matters

Each year, millions of tons of plastic and other man-made materials enter our water bodies, endangering marine life, disrupting habitats, and imposing economic costs. This aquatic trash often comes from dry lands miles away from our water resources. Aquatic trash poses a significant threat to the health of our oceans, lakes, rivers, and associated ecosystems. By participating in Scouting For Clean Waterways, Scouts can help address this critical issue and make a positive difference in their communities and beyond.

Scouting For Clean Waterways also supports several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined by the United Nations, including:

Clean Water and Sanitation
Life Below Water
Life on Land
Responsible Consumption and Production
Partnerships for the Goals

How can my unit get involved?

Talk with your council’s leadership to see if they are planning on coordinating any large council or district events. If not, start organizing a clean up for everyone in your unit to participate.
Visit the Scouting for Clean Waterways website: Here you can find all the program-related documents that will help you plan your unit’s Scouting for Clean Waterways service project including a Quick Guide to the program specifics, In addition to information about Scouting for Clean Waterways, at the bottom of the webpage you can also register to receive e-mail updates. Be the first to know about important program milestones and deadlines. The link to the SCW website is: https://www.scouting.org/outdoor-programs/scouting-clean-waterways/.
View and follow the Scouting for Clean Waterways Facebook page: This is another great resource when planning your SCW service project. Learn about best practices and successful projects completed by other units.
Once you have completed your clean up, go to Scoutbook and enter it in the service hours area, and record it as a Scouting for Clean Waterways project. Your information will be recorded as part of the nationwide initiative. When you post pictures on your unit’s social media feeds, please include #cleanwaterscouts.

Units, Districts and Councils can conduct these clean ups any time through out the year. A lot of councils are aiming for April, May and June which coincides with Earth Day and Earth Month, but any time works. Unfortunately there is a lot of trash, so any and everything helps.

For specific questions please check the website, the Facebook page, or email cleanwaterscouts@scouting.org

Safety

The Role of a Council Health Supervisor in Supporting Local Scout Councils

The Council Health Supervisor (CHS) is a pivotal figure within Scouting America, dedicated to safeguarding the health and safety of Scouts, leaders, and volunteers. While the position is often confused with the Camp Health Officer, this article shares the responsibilities, qualifications, and contributions of this essential role, shedding light on how the CHS ensures a safe and supportive environment for local councils.

Who is a Council Health Supervisor?

The CHS is a licensed physician who serves as the local council’s primary medical advisor, providing expertise and guidance on all health-related matters. This individual is also a registered Scouter trained in Youth Protection, ensuring a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by the Scouting community.

Qualifications of a Council Health Supervisor

To fulfill their responsibilities effectively, the CHS must:

Be licensed to practice medicine in the state(s) where the council operates.
Hold expertise relevant to camp and youth health and safety.
Collaborate with other medical professionals when council programs span multiple states.

Core Responsibilities

The Council Health Supervisor plays a multifaceted role, encompassing oversight, education, and strategic input. Some key responsibilities include:

Health Oversight and Risk Management
- Serves on the council’s Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) or Health and Safety Committee.
- Oversees camp health lodge operations and ensures compliance with national camp standards.
- Assists with reviewing the Council Medical Care Policies Manual each year (NCAP HS-505).
- Writes and approves the camp’s on-site treatment procedures or standing orders (NCAP HS-506).
- Reviews camp First Aid Logs and provides actionable feedback to improve care practices.
Incident Reporting and Policy Approval
- Works with the council’s ERM committee to ensure health and safety incidents are properly reported.
- Reviews and approves medication processes and standing orders required by camp standards.
Education and Training
- Assists in training and orienting health lodge staff.
- Provides health education on topics such as first aid, CPR/AED, and wilderness first aid to Scouts and leaders.
Medical Guidance and Criteria Development
- Advise on medical guidelines for high-adventure activities and other programs where participant health may pose risks.
- Reviews medical records for participants attending national events to ensure compliance with health standards.
Local Council Support
- Convenes and leads meetings on communicable disease management.
- Assists in interpreting and implementing national health guidelines as they relate to the local council.
- Develops medical communications for leaders, parents, and media as needed.

The CHS’s Impact on Scouting

By providing expert medical guidance, the Council Health Supervisor enhances the safety and preparedness of local councils. Their work helps to mitigate risks, ensure compliance with national standards, and foster a culture of health awareness within Scouting.

Through their collaboration with council leaders, the CHS plays a crucial role in shaping policies that protect Scouts, leaders, and volunteers, ensuring that every participant can thrive in a safe and supportive environment.

The Council Health Supervisor is more than a medical advisor; they are a cornerstone of the Scouting community’s commitment to health and safety. Their expertise and dedication ensure that local councils can deliver transformative experiences to youth while upholding the highest standards of care.

Why Our Heavy-Duty Metal Bunk Bed Frames Are the Best Choice for Your Camp [SPONSORED CONTENT]

[Sponsored Content]

Dear Scouting America Leaders,

As you prepare for the changes to the National Camp Standards that took effect on January 1st, we understand that keeping your camp environment safe and compliant is a top priority. The new policy will require all upper bunks to have guardrails, designed to reduce the risks of injury and enhance the safety of campers. This is the perfect time to evaluate your camp’s bunk beds and ensure they meet the new standards, and we’re here to help!

Why Our Heavy-Duty Metal Bunk Bed Frames Are the Best Choice for Your Camp

At HeavyDutyBunkBeds.com, we specialize in providing durable, safe, and compliant bunk bed frames designed to withstand the high demands of camp environments. Here’s why our heavy-duty metal bunk bed frames are the ideal solution for your camp:

Built for Safety and Compliance
Our bunk beds come equipped with sturdy, fully integrated guardrails that meet or exceed the required height and safety standards, ensuring your camp is compliant with 2025 National Camp Standard FA-717.
Bed Bug Resistant Design
Our frames are designed with welded tubes on all four sides, creating a solid and smooth surface that prevents bed bugs from entering or nesting in the frame. This added feature makes it much easier to keep your camp environment safe and hygienic. The welded construction also eliminates gaps that could serve as hiding spots for pests, offering peace of mind to camp staff and parents alike.
Durability That Lasts
Our heavy-duty metal frames are engineered to withstand years of high-traffic use in camp settings. Constructed from high-quality materials, they are rust-resistant, strong, and built to handle the rough and tumble of camp life, ensuring that your investment lasts for many seasons to come.
Easy to Maintain
Designed for easy assembly and minimal maintenance, our metal bunk beds are perfect for busy camp staff. The robust construction ensures that the frames remain secure, while the simple design makes it easy to clean and inspect for safety over time.
Comfort and Stability
Your Scouts deserve a comfortable, stable, and secure place to rest after a day of activities. Our bunk bed frames provide a solid foundation for mattresses, ensuring campers sleep soundly without worrying about wobbling or instability.
Cost-Effective for Camp Budgets
We understand that camps operate on tight budgets, which is why we offer competitive pricing for our heavy-duty metal bunk beds. You get superior quality and durability at a price that fits your camp’s financial needs.

Ensure Your Camp Is Ready for 2025

With the new bunk bed safety policies that went into effect on January 1st, 2025 (NCAP Standard FA-717), now is the time to upgrade or replace your old bunk beds to ensure your camp is fully compliant. Our heavy-duty metal bunk bed frames meet all the necessary safety standards, are built to last, and provide your campers with a secure, comfortable environment for restful nights and exciting days ahead.

Reach out to us today to learn more about our products, request a quote, or schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you ensure your camp stays safe, compliant, and ready for whatever adventure comes next!

Best regards,
Dick Bouman

EM: Dick@essuniversal.com
PH: 616.229.0597
www.HeavyDutyBunkBeds.com

Ps. If you have any questions about the new regulations, our bed bug resistant frames, or our bunk bed frames in general, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re happy to assist you in making the best choice for your camp!

CLICK HERE to view video testimonials from camp directors
CLICK HERE to view a video preview of the Dallas Single Over Single Bunk Bed

[Sponsored Content]

2025 January-February Edition

Aquatics

Camping

Camping

CampingCub Scouting

1. Spring Nature Exploration Events

2. Outdoor Skills Workshops

3. Themed Adventure Days

4. Spring Service Projects

5. Cub Scout Camp Preview Days

6. Family Picnic and Campout Events

7. Outdoor STEM Programs

8. Springtime Cub Olympics

Enhancing Spring Programs for Camp Leadership

NCAP

How to Identify Changes in the Standards

Key Changes Councils Should Note

Additional Notes and Deadlines

Need Help?

Camping

Planning Ahead

Choosing a Campsite

Managing Waste

Using Fire Responsibly

Respecting Other Visitors

Special Considerations for Large Groups

NCAPProperties

A Streamlined Process for Camp Management

Promoting Long-Term Planning

Ensuring Safety and Compliance

Strengthening Local Councils

A Tool for the Future

Get Started Today

Conservation & Environment

Safety

Sponsored Content

Resources

Info

LEGAL

Connect With Us

Bray Barnes

David Alexander

Glenn Adams