Remember: Badges are continually changing and when possible, Ockanickon always uses the most recent requirements. Please check resources like usscouts. org merit badge requirements. Not all camp programs are listed below. Only regular offerings from departments that run merit badges are listed.
Pre-Requisites: Many badges offered at Ockanickon have pre-requisites so please review our pre-requisite policy.
Times: Many listed activities don’t include an end time such as Cloths Inflation and the Volleyball Tournament. These activities run until they’re done, weather interferes or the camp curfew of 10:00pm is reached.
Sessions: Merit badges and other activities often list multiple times for that activity. A Scout need only attend one of these sessions each day of the week rather than all. Once a Scout has picked a time, the Scout should return at that time each day but may switch after discussing it with the instructor. Some badges do not run the full week but may if deemed necessary by the instructor.
Clicking on the merit badge or activity name will take you to the usscouts. org page containing the merit badge requirements.
Quick Links to Departments: Adventure Sports | Aquatics | Dan Beard | DROP | Eagle | Ecology | Golf | Handicraft | Horseback Riding | Law | Music | Photography | Radio | Science | Scoutcraft | Shooting Sports | Woodburning
Adventure Sports
Ockanickon’s advanced outdoor activities are designed with your older scout in mind. We offer programs that are designed to physically and mentally challenge mature Scouts as they climb REAL rock walls at High Rocks, overcome obstacles in our tree top COPE course, pedal high quality Cannondale mountain bikes over rugged trails, and develop their balance as they ride mountain boards down a steep incline. Additionally, our Sailing Program gives Scouts the chance to develop their nautical skills as they help sail across scenic Lake Nockamixon. Scouts will experience the best adventures Ockanickon offers. These programs are an adrenaline packed way to keep your older Scouts involved. The Adventure Sports curricula may even help Scouts recruit older troop members as Adventure Sporters brag about the awesome things did this summer. We are here to thrill!
The Adventure sports’ Crew programs, Challenge & Endurance, offer physical activities designed to challenge Older Scouts (13+) who have mastered basic Scouting skills. Each half-day, week-long program, blends activities from Ockanickon’s traditional Rock Climbing and COPE programs in a coherent week-long experience. Mountain Biking & Mountain Boarding’s programs are a single session, half day commitment that are open to all Scouts.
Ages and Stages Recommendations – Adventure Sports Crew activities hold some of the most physically challenging activities offered at Ockanickon and this consideration is important when unit leaders help their Scouts determine appropriate activities. The recommended age for Challenge and Endurance Crew participation is 13. The recommended age for Sailing activities is 12. As always, Scouts with proven experience may try an activity if they are slightly younger while under-developed Scouts or those with no outdoor experience should seriously consider waiting before attempting these activities.
Unit Activities: Limited space is available for unit Adventure Sports activities like low COPE, Mountain Biking, and Sailing. Units interested should speak with the area director early in the week of their stay to arrange for activities. Adventure Sports’ staff availability changes from week to week so unit activities may have limited availability. Units wanting to complete high COPE or Rock Climbing as a unit may want to register for COPE Weekends in the spring or fall.
Endurance and Challenge Crew Schedules
Challenge Crew (high ropes at the OSR COPE Course)- Scouts will develop their ability to work with a group to overcome physical challenges and solve problems. The focus of the Challenge Crew is the COPE course with a taste of rock climbing. Scouts completing this program will receive an Ockanickon COPE Certificate.
Endurance Crew (rock climbing at Ralph Stover State Park’s High Rock)- Scouts will be asked to use their physical strength and mental awareness as they push through a program centered on climbing. The focus of this crew is rock climbing with one day on the COPE course. Scouts completing this program have the opportunity to complete Climbing merit badge.
Endurance and Challenge Crew Schedules
| Adventure Crew | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Endurance Crew (9:00 AM to noon) | Low COPE/Belay Training/Equipment Basics | Rock Climbing | High COPE/Rappelling | Rock Climb | Rock Climbing |
| Challenge Crew (9:00 AM to noon) | Low COPE/Belay Training/Equipment Basics | High COPE | Rock Climbing | High COPE | High COPE |
| Endurance Crew (2:00 PM to 5:00 PM) | Low COPE/Belay Training/Equipment Basics | Rock Climbing | High COPE/Rapelling | Rock Climb | Rock Climbing |
Preparedness – All participants must be prepared for each session with:
- Water – Arrive with a full water bottle.
- Proper Footwear
- Sneakers with good socks
- Extra shoes for crossing the Tohickon Creek are recommended for Rock Climbing
- Climbing Shoes:High-quality climbing shoes are available for rental and are strongly recommended for Rock Climbing participants. A week-long rental is only $5. 00 and is paid for at the trading post. Please bring the receipt to the climbing staff to claim your pair for the week. This option is far cheaper than buying climbing shoes and is also much cheaper than many rock gyms charges for only a day rental.
- Appropriate Clothing
- Long pants are recommended for days when a crew will be doing High COPE activities
- Many Adventure Sports activities are run rain or shine so participants should have appropriate rain gear
Mountain Biking and Boarding Schedules
Single Session Activities
Scouts who love speed and balance will benefit from these velocity based activities
Mountain Biking (meet at the COPE Course): Scouts will pedal our premier Cannondale mountain bikes across a variety of terrain including single track trails, open fields,and country roads. Mountain biking trips leave from the COPE course each morning at 9:00 and each afternoon at 2:00. Please check the chart for a trip with an appropriate challenge level. Trip sizes are limited based on the number of bikes available (about 10per trip), so Mountain Biking Works on a first come, first served basis.
Mountain Boarding(meet at Totem Lodge): Mountain boarding is what you get when you take a skateboard, make it the size of a snowboard and add big stomper tires. Each afternoon & a few evenings, Scouts who meet at Totem Lodge can learn the basics of this new sport as they roll down our beginners’ hill. The nice thing about these open sessions is that Scouts can board the whole time or just try one run.
Mountain Biking and Boarding Schedules
| Adventure Crew | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mountain Biking - (9:00 AM to 12:00 PM) | Basic Ride 1 – 9:00 AM Basic Ride 2 – 10:30 AM |
Country Roads | Rugged Trail | Country Roads | Rugged Trail |
| Mountain Biking - (2:00 PM to 5:00 PM) | Basic Ride 1 – 2:00 PM Basic Ride 2 – 3:30 PM |
Rugged Trail | Country Roads | Rugged Trail | Country Roads |
| Mountain Boarding - (2:00 PM to 5:00 PM) | Open Boarding | Open Boarding | Open Boarding | Open Boarding | Open Boarding |
| Open Adventures -(7:00 PM to 8:30 PM) | Mountain Boarding | Mountain Biking | None (Water Carnival) |
None (Volleyball Tournament) | Mountain Boarding (until campfire) |
Preparedness – All participants must be prepared for each session with:
- Water – Arrive with a full water bottle.
- Proper Footwear – Sneakers with good socks
Rock Climbing
| Activity Name | Time | Prerequisites | Items to Bring | Ages and Stages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Climbing Merit Badge | Tues 7:30pm | Belay Training | Soft soled shoes, water, day pack | 13 and up |
| Climb On Safely | Weds 7:30pm | None | 21 and up |
Climbing Merit Badge: To complete climbing merit badge, each participant must participate complete at least three belays, three climbs, and three rappels within the week. This can take three or more all morning or all afternoon sessions, and can be seriously affected by weather.
Climbing Shoes: High-quality climbing shoes are available for rental and are strongly recommended for all participants especially those taking the merit badge. A week-long rental is only $5. 00 and is paid for at the trading post. Please bring the receipt to the climbing staff to claim your pair for the week. This option is far cheaper than buying climbing shoes and is also much cheaper than many rock gyms charges for only a day rental.
Climbing Group Size: The BSA has provided very specific guidelines as to the number of climbers allowed at a time. Based on Ockanickon’s projected staff that group size will be 12. Campers taking either Climbing Merit Badge or Instructor Certification will be given priority while all other slots will be first-come first-serve.
Instructor Certification: Adults interested in becoming a Climbing Instructor may earn this certification through the Ockanickon Climbing Department. This program shows learners how to properly set up ropes for climbing trips and more advanced safety concerns than covered in the simpler Climb On Safely program. This program is available only to leaders over 21 and may take significant time during the week and several climbing sessions. Please talk to the climbing director at the Sunday Leader Meeting to arrange meetings for this program.
Doylestown Rock Gym/Bad Weather Alternative: Climbing merit badge can be severely restricted by weather so in the case of a long period of inclement weather, Climbing may take place at the Doylestown Rock Gym but only if deemed necessary by the Climbing Director. Participants are strongly encouraged to complete and bring the Doylestown Rock Gym Hold Harmless Agreement so he can complete the badge there. Scouts that choose to participate in Rock Gym sessions are encouraged to arrange carpooling. The Rock Gym sessions cost $12. 00 for a full day.
Rock Climbing Training, For Leaders 21 and Up
Rock Climbing Training
| Activity Name | Time | Training Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Climb-on Safely | Weds 7:30pm | Adults interested in arranging troop climbing may earn this certification through the Ockanickon Climbing Department. This program reviews BSA climbing policies for troop climbing trips This program is available only to leaders over 21. |
| Climbing Instructor BSA | Week Long During Endurance Crew | Adults interested in becoming a Climbing Instructor may earn this certification through the Ockanickon Climbing Department. This program shows learners how to properly set up ropes for climbing trips and more advanced safety concerns than covered in the simpler Climb On Safely program. This program is available only to leaders over 21 and may take significant time during the week. Please talk to the climbing director at the Sunday Leader Meeting to arrange meetings for this program, since participation in Monday’s activities are a must. |
Sailing
Sailing at Nockamixon State Park (meet at Foster Hall message board)- Scouts will travel to Nockamixon State Park and use wind power to propel them to target destinations. This program is the expanded Sailing program first offered in 2007 and weather-permitting Scouts completing this program will earn Small Boat Sailing merit badge.
Sailing/Nautical Crew
| Activity Name | Time | Prerequisites | Items to Bring | Ages and Stages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Open Sailing | 9:15-12:00noon Monday 9:15-12:00noon Wednesday |
Must complete swim test as a swimmer | Water-friendly cloths, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, water bottle | 12 and up |
| Small Boat Sailing Merit Badge | 7:30-9:30pm Monday 9:15-12:00noon Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday |
Must complete swim test as a swimmer | Water-friendly cloths, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, water bottle | 12 and up |
Sailing Lottery Procedures:During check-in, Small Boat Sailing lottery entry forms will be available on the front counter in the Main Office. Complete one for each Scout interested in taking Sailing merit badge by 5:00 PM. Before 5:30 PM, if more than 6 Scout signed-up, 6 names will be drawn at random from submitted forms and a list containing these names will be posted at the main office.
Drivers for Sailing Merit Badge: To allow full participation, Sailing needs the assistance of two adults to provide transportation for a total of 10 participants, two instructors, six youth and the two drivers. If you have a vehicle that can fit five people and would like to spend some quality time at lake Nockamixon,please sign-up, sailing thanks you. Driving is first come first serve, if you’d really like to go, you may work any preferences out with the other listed drivers. Adults may participate in the badge if they like or simply enjoy quality time at Lake Nockamixon. Adults who volunteer to drive and don’t choose to say may have the youth of their choice go in their place.
Additional Sailing Merit Badge Information: Groups that have been sailing at Nokamixon are often late back to camp. We always ensure that the group returns in time for their lunch,either Meal A or Meal B. Please make sure your Scout Master is aware of this. Merit badge requirements can be done during the free sail periods,but Scouts wishing to pursue the badge during these periods must attend the Monday evening merit badge session and tell the staff members present that you’d like to participate in the badge then. Like all sessions, free sail periods are limited by boat capacity and require drivers.
Aquatics
| Badge Name | Time | Prerequisites | Items to Bring | Ages and Stages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canoeing | 9:15-10:40am 2-3:30pm |
Must complete swim test as a swimmer | knee pads (optional), cloths and shoes that can get wet | 12 and up, physically able to handle a canoe |
| Lifesaving | 9:15-11:00am | Must complete swim test as a swimmer | Long sleeve shirt, long pants, socks, shoes and belt for emergency clothing removal | 13 and up or strong swimmer |
| Rowing | 3:30-5pm | Must complete swim test as a swimmer | Cloths and shoes that can get wet | 13 and up |
| Swimming | 9:15-10:40am 10:40-12:00noon |
Must complete swim test as a swimmer | Long sleeve buttoned shirt and long pants for cloths inflation | any age Scout |
Other Aquatics Programs and Activities |
||||
| Activity Name | Time | Prerequisites | Items to Bring | Ages and Stages |
| BSA Lifeguard | 9:15-12noon + other times | Must complete swim test as a swimmer | Proof of CPR certification or $25 to take class at camp | 14 and up including adults, strong swimmer |
| Clothing Inflation | Mon 7:30pm | Required for Swimming MB | Long sleeve buttoned shirt and long pants | Any age Scout |
| Bubblemakers (Discover Scuba) | Tues or Thurs 7:30pm | $6. 00, payment and registration taken at pool | Any age and swim ability | |
| Instructional Swim | 9:15-10:40am 10:40-12noon |
For weak swimmers who want to pass swim test as swimmer by end of week | Any age Scout or adult | |
| Kayaking BSA | 10:40-12noon | Must complete swim test as a swimmer | Only takes one or two session to finish does not take entire week | Any age Scout or adult |
| Mile Swim Practice | Mon-Thurs 4-5pm |
Qualifying laps for Friday’s Mile Swim held at same time | Any age Scout or adult | |
| Polar Bear Swim | 7-7:30am | Attend 3 of 5 sessions to earn certificate | Any age and swim ability | |
| Safe Swim Defense/ Safety Afloat | Mon 2:00pm | Any adult | ||
| Scuba BSA | Tues, Thurs or Fri 6:00pm | $40. 00, payment and registration taken at pool | Any age Scout or adult | |
| Snorkeling BSA | 4-5pm | Must complete swim test as a swimmer | Only takes one or two session to finish does not take entire week | Any age Scout or adult |
| Troop Boating | Tues or Thurs 7:30-8:30pm | Participants must complete swim test as a swimmer | Reservations made at Sunday Leader Meeting or with Lake Director | Any age Scout or adult |
| Water Carnival | Wed 7:30pm | Any age and swim ability | ||
BSA Lifeguard: The BSA Lifeguard program is a rigorous training program open to both youth and adult strong swimmers. This program can take 30 or more hours to complete and because of the time constraints make-ups are not available. The other times listed above change from week to week but include all mornings and several evenings during the week.
BSA Lifeguard Recertification: Scouts or Scouters who have already done BSA Lifeguard certification may request to recertify rather than repeating the entire course to extend their certification period. Participants must complete the theory and skill tests successfully. Please see the Aquatics director early in the week to arrange times for the tests. Scouts and Scouters wishing to do this must be staying in camp during the week.
Swim Tests - Questions about swim tests are answered in the Camp Policy Section.
On site Underwater Program
Discover Scuba
Discover Scuba is a wonderful introduction to diving available to even the non-swimmer. This program assembled by the Professional Association of Dive Instructors (PADI) and instructed by O’Donnel Diving is open to all Scouts and adults and has been enjoyed even by Scouts who don’t normally enjoy the water. When you take the air with you, it’s a lot harder to drown.
Time: Tuesday from 7:15 until finished or Thursday from 7:15 until finished.
Cost per Scout: $10 for each Scout or adult
Transportation: Held at the Pool
Participation Limit: None.
Additional Information: Participant does not need to pass a BSA swim test but must complete the Bubblemaker’s Questionnaire. This form must be signed by a parent or guardian so it is strongly recommend this is completed by anyone interested in participating.
Before You Come to Camp: All participants must have a proper swim suit. We also encourage, but do not require, Scouts to participate with a buddy.
Scuba BSA
Scuba BSA is a great underwater experience for Scouts looking for an expanded experience compared to Discover Scuba. Scuba BSA offers significantly more time under water, at greater depth and with more expansive instruction into the fundamentals of Scuba diving. This program constructed by National with assistance from PADI is also run by O’Donnel Diving and as always in organized and presented with competent and charismatic dive instruction.
Time: offered Tuesday, Thursday or Friday, from 6:00 PM until finished.
Cost per Scout: $45, covering all equipment and instruction
Transportation: Held at the Pool
Additional Information: Participants must pass BSA swim test. Please review the Scuba BSA Packet.
Before You Come to Camp: All participants must complete a brief medical questionnaire. BSA Scuba Medical Questionnaire. Scuba BSA only requires completion of the 1st page. If a potential participant is experiencing sinus problems during his stay at camp, he may have difficulty participating in this activity due to pressure changes.
Dan Beard
The Dan Beard Department runs a full-week day-long first year Scout program to help new Scouts quickly fulfill many requirements for ranks up to First Class as well as gain experience with patrol camping and activities. The Full Day program is the cornerstone of the department and program is both fun and comprehensive.
Every day the Scouts meet in the Dan Beard field at 9:15 for the morning and 2:00 for the afternoon. For Tuesday through Friday in the afternoon there are four stations. A patrol goes to a different station everyday. Once the patrol has gathered in Dan Beard, they will go to a station with their Patrol Guide.
| Dan Beard Daily Schedule | |
|---|---|
| Monday | |
| 9:15-9:30 | Introduction |
| 9:30-10:15 | Patrol Method |
| 10:15 | Line Up For Pool (Swimming Merit Badge/Instructional Swim) |
| 2:00-3:00 | Totin’ Chip Part 1 (safety & sharpening) |
| 3:00-4:00 | Two Half Hitches, Taut Line, & Bowline |
| 4:00-5:00 | Totin’ Chip Part 2 (ax yard) |
| Tuesday through Friday | |
| 9:15-10:15 | Mammal Study |
| 10:15 | Line up for pool (Swimming Merit Badge/Instructional Swim) |
| 2:00 | Meet at Dan Beard for stations |
| Stations | |
| Lashings Station | |
| 2:15-3:00 | Clove Hitch and Timber Hitch (At Scoutcraft) |
| 3:00-4:00 | Lashings (square, diagonal, shear) |
| 4:00-5:00 | Lashing Project |
| First Aid Station | |
| 2:15-3:00 | First Aid (At Eagle) |
| 3:00-4:00 | First Aid Scenario |
| Orienteering Station | |
| 2:15-3:00 | Map & Compass (At Dan Beard) |
| 3:00-4:00 | Orienteering Course |
| Team Building Station | |
| 2:15-4:00 | Team Building Activities |
Notes and Reminders:
Second Class 8abc (7abc in old Scout book) and First Class 9abc are covered during Swimming merit badge. Instructional swim is provided to those who have not passed the Swimmer test. Since participants go to the pool every morning, Scouts must bring their bathing suits and towels with them to Dan Beard. Scouts must bring two filled out merit badge cards for Swimming and Mammal Study to Dan Beard on Monday morning.
Totin’ Chip will be offered in Dan Beard at 7:15pm Tuesday night for Scouts not in the full day program.
DROP (Delaware River Outdoor Program)
DROP is an advanced canoeing and outdoor skills program designed for experienced Scouts and Scouters. DROP takes place on the Delaware River where participants will enjoy nearly a week of special program no available elsewhere including Leave No Trace camping, 54 miles of river canoeing and treks involving some of the Mid-Atlantic’s richest natural and cultural sites.
Time: Sunday Evening to Thursday Afternoon
Cost per Scout: DROP Registration Form.
Transportation: As provided by your unit, the camp will also need assistance in moving gear and canoes.
Participation Limit: Up to 20 each week unless special arrangements are made
Additional Information: Participants must be physically and socially able to spend extended periods on the open water. Few facilities will be available and Scouts must have a strong background in canoeing and swimming (we recommend having completed both Swimming and Canoeing merit badges. )
This program is open to Scouts and Scouters attending and participating with their units as well as provisional campers.
Detailed Program Information: DROP Information Brochure.
Before You Come to Camp: Each participant must complete a DROP registration form and we recommend brushing up on basic canoeing skills.
Eagle
| Badge Name | Time | Prerequisites | Items to Bring | Ages and Stages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Citizenship in the Community | Wed 7:30 PM to completion | 2b, 3a, 4a, 4b, 7 | Map of Community(2a) Government Chart (2b) Meeting Minutes (3a) Interview Information (4a) Volunteer Information (7b, c) Community Presentation (8) |
14 and up |
| Citizenship in the Nation | 10:40 AM – 12:00 noon 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM |
2 | Monument/Facility Reports (2) | 14 and up |
| Citizenship in the World | 9:15 AM – 10:40 AM 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM |
7 | Proof of Requirement 7 | 15 and up |
| Communications | 10:40 AM – 12:00 noon 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM |
5, 7, 8 | Meeting notes and your notes (5) Objective Report (5) Teaching Plan and Aids (6) Proof of Requirement 7 Campfire Program and Scripts (8) |
13 and up |
| Emergency Preparation | 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM | 1, 2b, 2c, 6c, 8 | Proof of having First Aid merit badge (1) Emergency Chart with Disaster Coordinator Info (2, 6c) Proof of Requirement 8 Photos of Family Emergency Kit (8c) Personal Mobilization Kit (8c) |
13 and up |
| First Aid | 9:15 AM – 10: 40 AM 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM |
2d | Personal First Aid Kit (2d) | Must have First Class |
| Personal Fitness | 9:15 AM – 10: 40 AM | 1, 6, 7, 8 | Explanations for Requirement 1 Dental Statement (1b) Fitness Logs and Programs (6, 7, 8) |
15 and up |
| Personal Management | 10:40 AM – 12:00 noon 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM |
1, 2, 8 | Proof of Requirement 1 Budget (2) To Do List, Calendar and Schedule (8) Project Plan (9) |
15 and up |
Ecology
| Badge Name | Time | Prerequisites | Items to Bring | Ages and Stages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Animal Science | 4-5pm | 6 | 13 and up | |
| Bird Study | 2:00-3:00pm | Binoculars, notebook, pen, birding field guides | Any age Scout | |
| Energy | 9:15-10:10am | 4 | Notebook and pen | 14 and up |
| Engineering | 4-5pm | 2 | 14 and up | |
| Environmental Science | 9:15-10:10am 2-3pm |
3E | notebook and pen | 14 and up |
| Fish & Wildlife Management | 11:05-12noon | 8 | Any age Scout | |
| Fishing | 9:15-10:10am | 9 | Pictures of 2 fish you’ve caught (see note) and one you cleaned and cooked. | Any age Scout |
| Forestry | 3-4pm | 7 | Any age Scout | |
| Geology | 10;10-11:05am 3-4pm |
Any age Scout | ||
| Insect Study | 3-4pm | 7 | Camera, blank scrapbook, pictures of the insect you raised from egg to adult | Any age Scout |
| Landscape Architecture | 10:10-11:05am | notebook and pen | 13 and up | |
| Mammal Study | 11:05-12noon | Any age Scout | ||
| Nature | 11:05-12noon | notebook and pen | Any age Scout | |
| Oceanography | 2-3pm | 8 | notebook and pen | Any age Scout |
| Reptile and Amphibian Study | 10:10-11:05am | 8 | notebook and pen | Any age Scout |
| Soil and Water Conservation | 4-5pm | Any age Scout | ||
Other Ecology Programs and Activities |
||||
| Activity Name | Time | Prerequisites | Items to Bring | Ages and Stages |
| Leave No Trace Intro. | Tues 7:30 PM | None | 21 and up | |
| Archeology and Plant Science offered by Appointment | ||||
Many Ecology badges involve extensive outdoor activities, many of which occur rain or shine. If instructed, lease be prepared with good shoes for all sessions and rain gear or all-weather clothing if rain is expected.
Bird Study-At least once during the week, the session will go bird watching from 6:00 AM to 7:00 AM. The date will be announced during the first merit badge session and can change due to weather. Please allow additional time for bird watching on your own as the bird watching quota is not always met during the early morning bird watching session.
Fishing-Fishing merit badge requires each Scout to catch two fish. While this can be done at camp with provided gear, there is no guarantee that this requirement can be completed in camp. Scouts with previous experience may bring pictures of two fish they have caught to receive credit for this requirement. Scouts are also welcome to bring their own fishing gear but some will be available to borrow.
Geology-One day involves a hike to the Tohickon Creek and Scouts must bring appropriate footwear for this trip as well as a bottle of water. The date is weather dependent and will be announced during the first or second day of this badge.
Golf
Now your Scouts can fulfill their dreams of getting Golf Merit Badge while camping at Ockanickon. Fairways Golf Course in Warrington, PA serves host to Ockanickon’s Golf Program. Scouts have the opportunity to get a sometimes hard to get merit badge in the span of a single afternoon. This outing included basic instruction and a round of golf at Fairways and is available to youth as the merit badge program or to adults as a half-day excursion.
Time: Tuesday 12:45 PM – 6:45 PM (approximate) Scouts must arrive at Fairways at 12:45PM. Most participants choose to eat out after the event. Units that would like to eat dinner at camp must notify the office so food can be arranged.
Cost per Scout: $40. 00, this includes greens fees, club rental, and lesson. Participants must register by Monday Lunch. If adults wish to play and provide their own equipment, please see http://www. fairwaysgolfclub. com for rates and fees.
Transportation: As provided by your unit, carpooling may be available but is not guaranteed.
Participation Limit: The Tuesday session can support at most 20 Scouts. Should there be more, a Thursday session will open to take the overflow. If a unit specifically wants to do the Thursday session, please speak with the Program Director to make this arrangement.
Additional Information: Get information about the greens and facilities at http://www. fairwaysgolfclub. com.
Before You Come to Camp: Each participant must have clean golf attire to play. This includes khaki shorts or pants, sneakers, and a polo shirt or better. This is a spikeless golf facility, if you wish to bring your own shoes, remove the spikes or wear sneakers. Also bring a wide-brimmed hat or visor, a water bottle, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Handicraft
CHANGED FOR 2010- New Handcraft Badge Formats
How Formats Work: (Monday + Open) Basketry, Leatherwork, Pottery and Woodcarving have moved to a new format where participants will attend a session on Monday at the time listed on the schedule to cover safety and non-crafting requirements, then the Scout will have the rest of the week to complete the badge at any time the Handicraft lodge is open. This will allow Scouts more flexibility to work at their own pace but puts the responsibility to attend and complete projects squarely on the Scout.
(Regular) Art, Fingerprinting, Indian Lore, Space Exploration, and Textiles will operate with a traditional schedule where participants will attend a session each day at the scheduled time until completion.
| Badge Name | Time | Prerequisites | Items to Bring | Format |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Art | 11:05-12noon 2-3pm |
4 | Items need to complete requirements 1, 2a and 3 at camp. | Regular |
| Basketry | 9:15-10:10am 10:10-11:05am |
money for two kits and a stool ($4. 50-$11. 00 each) | Monday + Open | |
| Fingerprinting | 11:05-12noon | Current merit badge book | Regular | |
| Indian Lore | 2-3pm 3-4pm |
4 | Money for Projects, be prepared to discuss the Lenape Nation. | Regular |
| Leatherwork | 2-3pm 3-4pm 4-5pm |
Money for leather kit | Monday + Open | |
| Pottery | 9:15-10:10am 10:10-11:05am |
7 | Money for pottery projects, current merit badge book | Monday + Open |
| Space Exploration | 3-4pm 4-5pm |
Money for model rocket kit and engines, current merit badge book | Regular | |
| Textiles | 4-5pm | 2A, 2B | Fabrics needed for requirement 2A, current merit badge book | Regular |
| Wood Carving | 9:15-10:10am 10:10-11:05am 11:05-12noon |
Money for neckerchief slide project kit, Totin’ Chip card | Monday + Open |
Ages and Stages- Woodcarving has a minimum age of 13. The instructor may ask a participant to pursue another activity if the instructor believes the participant cannot complete the badge or if the participant is a danger to himself or other participants. All other Handicraft badges are open to all Scouts.
Open Evening Program – The Handicraft Lodge is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 7:30-9:00PM. Scouts may use this time to work on badge projects, other handicraft projects, or to do a troop or patrol handicraft project. Scouts may not start new badges during this time.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is once again an activity option for your Scouts and provides an opportunity to get Horsemanship merit badge. This sometimes demanding activity introduces Scouts to the world of equestrian activities few average youth get to experience. Our partner, Rainbow Ridge Farm Equestrian Center, has tailored a program specifically for Scouts that meet the requirements of both the BSA and Horsemanship merit badge.
Time: MWF 2:00PM – 4:00PM (we recommend Scouts leave after B Lunch at 1:30 PM and not take a 4:00 PM activity)
Cost per Scout: $60. 00
Transportation: As provided by your unit, carpooling may be available but is not guaranteed
Participation Limits: The participation limit is now 10. Many leaders mentioned that this program was tough to plan for because of the lottery system and registration has been modified to the following:The first 8 slots in a given week will be available through registration. Registration can be done either by phone or email, only the camp coordinator can place reservations and reservations placed will result in a unit being financially responsible for that slot. The remaining four slots and any further open slots will be determined normally through the lottery system. Both reserved and lotteried Scouts must have transportation and Ockanickon strongly encourages car-pooling. Adults may participate if youth from their unit are registered or if there are open slots after the lottery.
Additional Information: Get information about the facilities and horses at http://www. rainbowridgefarmequestriancenter. com/
Before You Come to Camp: Bring long paints, sun glasses and a shoe with a small heel like a boot. All participants must also complete a Horseback Riding Release.
Law
| Badge Name | Time | Prerequisites | Items to Bring | Ages and Stages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Law | Tuesday 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM and Thursday from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (participants must attend both sessions) | Requirements 1, 4, 5, 9, 11 | Registration will be limited to the first 20 Scouts to sign-up who’ve completed the pre-requisites. |
Music
| Badge Name | Time | Prerequisites | Items to Bring | Ages and Stages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Music | 7:30 PM Mon & Tuesday at the logs in front of Totem Lodge. This badge will not offer make-ups so any Scout wishing to complete it must attend both sessions | None | Instrument, if it can be safely brought to camp | All Scouts |
Photography
| Badge Name | Time | Items to Bring | Ages and Stages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photography | Sunday 6:30pm and Wednesday by appt There are no makeups |
A digital camera which writes to a common memory format (SD, CF, MMC, XD, SM). SDHC and SDXC users must bring an adapter. The camp will provide no docking stations and cameras that require drivers to connect to a PC that otherwise have no media card slot are not permitted. Cameras may not be part of multi-function devices like mobile phones, PDAs or video cameras.
If two Scouts selected are in a single unit they may share a camera if needed. Participants should read the merit badge book before attempting this badge. $5. 00 to cover cost of developing pictures and printing, checks must be made to Explorer Post 507 |
13 and up |
Photography Lottery Procedures: During check-in, Photography lottery entry forms will be available on the front counter in the Main Office. Complete one for each Scout interested in taking Photography merit badge by 5:00 PM. Before 5:30 PM, if more than 16 Scout signed-up, 16 names will be drawn at random from submitted forms and a list containing these names will be posted at the main office.
Radio
| Badge Name | Time | Prerequisites | Items to Bring | Ages and Stages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Radio | 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM and initially meets in the Totem Breezeway. Radio is done three evenings during the week but these days are subject to change. | None | None | 12 and up |
Science
| Activity Name | Time | Prerequisites | Items to Bring | Ages and Stages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Astronomy | 3:30-5pm | Ability to identify constellations in planetarium/outdoors extra time in evening | Pen and paper | All Science Center badges may only be attempted by Scouts 13 and up. This is not a guideline for Scoutmasters but a requirement and Scouts under 13 will be denied.
Each badge except Nuclear Science accepts 24 participants and if more than 24 Scouts attempt to enter a badge, they will be accepted starting with the oldest first. Please encourage Scouts to have alternatives available should a spot not be available in a Science badge. |
| Chemistry | 2-3:30pm | Pen and paper | ||
| Nuclear Science | 10:40-12noon | Pen and paper | ||
| Weather | 9:15-10:40am | Extra time to do weather talk | Pen and paper |
Check out the weather around the Science Center in realtime
Telescope Observations for Astronomy Merit Badge: If weather, staffing, and light levels permit, the Science Director will determine if the Science Center telescopes will be used. An announcement will be made during both A and B Dinner if the telescopes will be out. No announcement will be made if they are not.
Note: Other special evening programs are available at the discretion of the Science Director. If your unit would like to arrange an evening please see the Science Director early in your stay to see what is available.
Scoutcraft
| Badge Name | Time | Prerequisites | Items to Bring | Ages and Stages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Camping | 10:10-11:05am 2-3pm 4-5pm |
8c d, 9a b | Gear and clothing needed for an overnight campout (5e, 7b) | 12 and up, previous camping experience with unit |
| Cooking | Mon-Thurs 11:05-2pm Fri 11:05-12pm |
5abd, 6abc, 7abd | 12 and up, previous cooking experience with your troop | |
| Orienteering | 9:15-10:10am | 7 | compass, waterproof shoes or boots | 13 and up |
| Pioneering | 9:15-11:00am 2-3:50pm |
2a | Must have thorough knowledge of all knots and lashings required for Tenderfoot to First Class | |
| Tracking | 2-4pm | Must Bring a Camera | 15 and up | |
| Wilderness Survival | 10:40-12noon 3:30-5pm |
5 | Survival Kit | 13 and up |
Other Scoutcraft Programs and Activities |
||||
| Activity Name | Time | Prerequisites | Items to Bring | Ages and Stages |
| Wilderness Survival Overnighter | Weds 5pm | 13 and up | ||
| Trek Safely Training | Thurs 7:30 PM, Totem Lodge | 21 and up | ||
Orienteering: Ockanickon has set up orienteering courses to complete requirement 7. These courses will not be completed in the normal course of the badge and Scouts that wish to complete this requirement in camp should dedicate at least 4 hours later in the week to complete these courses.
Wilderness Survival: Allow time early in the week to construct shelter for Wilderness Survival Overnighter. Additionally, Scouts taking Wilderness Survival must bring the following for the overnighter:pocketknife, personal first-aid kit, extra set of clothing, rain gear, water bottle, flashlight, matches or fire starters, compass, tarp and 50 feet of rope (3/8th inch or thicker)
Dietary Restrictions and Overnighters: Scouts with dietary restrictions can participate in the Wilderness Survival Overnighter but must give the badge instructor advance notice so he or she can request the right food. Please inform the instructor no later than Tuesday so help guarantee food availability.
Shooting Sports
| Badge Name | Time | Items to Bring | Ages and Stages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Archery | Safety Talk: Sunday 6:30-7:30pm Lecture: Mon 7:30-8:30 Shooting Times: 9:15-12noon and 2-5pm |
Merit badge book $3. 00 for arrow kit |
able to pull back 30lb bow |
| Rifle Shooting | Mandatory Safety Talks: Sun 6:30-7:30pm and either Mon or Wed 7:45-8:30pm Shooting Times: 9:15-12noon and 4-5pm |
Merit badge book | Must be able to safely handle a rifle |
| Shotgun Shooting | Mandatory Safety Talks: Sun 6:30-7:30pm and either Mon or Wed 7:45-8:30pm Shooting Times: 2-4pm |
Merit badge book $0. 85/2 rounds |
Must be able to safely handle a shotgun |
Other Shooting Sports Program and Activities |
|||
| Activity Name | Time | Items to Bring | Ages and Stages |
| Leader Archery Competition | 2pm, Archery Range | Determination | 18 and up |
| Open Shoots | As listed for merit badges, must complete appropriate safety talks and pass safety quizzes | Must be able to safely handle bow or firearm | |
Thursday is reserved for merit badge work at at all ranges. Scouts not shooting to complete requirements will be able to shoot if range spaces are need for badge participants.
By Appointment Evening Merit Badge Range Time - Thursday evening, Scouts taking Shooting Sports badges may arrange to shoot from 8:00 PM until sunset. Please speak with the Shooting Sports Director to arrange for the range to be open.
Shooting Sports Badge Time Requirements - There is no set time required to complete a Shooting Sports badge. Besides the mandatory lectures, please allow time early in the week to complete the accuracy components of each badge. Fridays are a very bad time to complete requirements due to the popularity of the Shooting Sports ranges one other activities have ended.
Shooting Sports Age and Size Requirements – The Shooting Sports department has a sterling safety record and unit leaders are vital to maintaining this. Scouts that are immature, too small, or physically weak can prove very dangerous when given firearms and the Shooting Sports staff will remove or deny any Scout in which the staff does not have full confident. In almost all cases, Scouts will one day be able to safely handle firearms so don’t hesitate to recommend that small or weak Scouts try other activities. Also, these Scouts are being set-up to fail as even if an exception were made, progress is unlikely and the Scout may injure themselves.
Shooting Sports Lectures – Scouts attempting any Shooting Sports badges must attend the Sunday and Monday meetings and Shotgun Shooting and Rifle Shooting participants must attend the Tuesday meeting as well. Scouts interested in simply shooting must attend the Sunday meeting and pass the appropriate range safety test.
Guns in Camp - Camp provides unscoped rifles and shotguns for program participants. Campers may not bring their own shotguns and rifles nor scopes. No one may bring a firearm to camp including leaders and Scouts attempting Shooting Sports badges.
Additional Shooting Times - Additional shooting time may be available based on weather and range conditions. Extra times will be announced through the Summer Times or at meals.
Woodburning
| Activity Name | Time | Items to Bring | Ages and Stages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning Open Woodburning | 9:15-12noon | Money for the purchase of wood | Any age Scout or adult |
| Afternoon Open Woodburning | 2-5pm | Money for the purchase of wood | Any age Scout or adult |
| Evening Open Woodburning | Mon and Weds 7-8:30pm |
Money for the purchase of wood | Any age Scout or adult |