Colonneh Lodge is the Sam Houston Area Council's Order of the Arrow Lodge. The lodge helps the council provide a quality Scouting program through recognition of Scouting spirit and performance, youth leadership development, service to the council camps and camping program, service to the district and council programs, service to the community, and enhanced membership tenure. Though the years, Colonneh Lodge Arrowmen have provided thousands of hours of service to the council’s camping properties. As you look around Camp Strake, you will ample evidence of the work lodge members have performed during Ordeals and Service Weekends.

The Order of the Arrow is the national honor society of the Boy Scouts of America. The Order of the Arrow (OA) recognizes Scouts and Scouters who best exemplify the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives. This recognition provides encouragement for others to live these ideals as well. Arrowmen are known for maintaining camping traditions and spirit, promoting year-round and long-term resident camping, developing leaders, and providing cheerful service to others. OA service, activities, adventures, and training for youth and adults are models of quality leadership development and programming that enrich, support and help to extend Scouting to America's youth. 

Order of the Arrow members are able to participate in exclusive lodge, section, regional and national events and special high adventure treks. For more information, contact your chapter.

Learn More about the Order of the Arrow

OA Camp Schedule

OA Unit Elections

Troops, crews and ships may hold a unit election once a year to elect Scouts in their unit to become members of the Order of the Arrow. If your unit is in the Sam Houston Area Council, did not conduct an election in the last year, and has at least 50% of the total active Scouts at camp, then your unit may conduct an election at camp.

Elections will be held Monday and Tuesday during lunch at the unit’s campsite. To schedule an election, provide the OA camp coordinator with the list of eligible Scouts by the leader’s meeting on the day of the election. The coordinator will provide the election paperwork that must be completed prior to the election. To complete the paperwork, the unit leader will a copy of the unit’s official BSA roster (for full name, BSA ID number, email, etc.). The roster is available at www.myscouting.org and information about eligibility (e.g. the number of camping nights and rank) to complete the election forms. Election forms and information about eligibility requirements are available from the OA camp coordinator or at  oa.shac.org/elections. It is highly recommended that the election paperwork be filled out before arriving at summer camp.

Elected candidates who are attending summer camp are encouraged to go through their Ordeal at summer camp. Candidates have one year to complete their Ordeal. Ordeal registration forms are available at oa.shac.org/ordeals. 

Learn More about Elections

OA Call-Out Ceremony

The Call-Out Ceremony is a public recognition of each elected Scout as a candidate for membership in the Order. In addition, the ceremony strives to impress Scouts and intensify their desire to become a member. Therefore, every unit is encouraged to attend the Call-Out Ceremony. Units who have eligible candidates must to turn in a list of those who wish to participate in the Call-Out Ceremony into the OA camp coordinator by the leader’s meeting on Wednesday. Out-of-council units may participate in the Call-Out Ceremony by providing a letter from your lodge giving permission for an out-of-council Call-Out. 

OA Ordeal

The Ordeal is a series of challenges to help candidates dedicate themselves to the principles and ideals of the Order: brotherhood, cheerfulness, and service. At the end of the Ordeal, each member takes an obligation of service and becomes an Ordeal member in the OA. Although it cannot be disclosed exactly what occurs at an Ordeal, be comfortable in knowing that it is designed to only be a positive influence as the Scout undertakes a journey to discover the true meanings of leadership and lifelong cheerful service. Ordeals cost $65. Ordeal registration forms will be available at oa.shac.org/ordeals. Per national policy, out-of-council units cannot attend a SHAC Ordeal. Ordeal candidates will begin their Ordeal immediately after the Call-Out ceremony. The unit leader should notify the OA camp coordinator about required medication, medical conditions and dietary restrictions before the Ordeal. If your Scout has not been informed of their election, please secretly prepare a backpack prepared for them before the Call-Out. A packing list is available at oa.shac.org/ordeals. 

Learn More about Ordeals

Elangomats: Elangomats help lead the candidates through their Ordeal experience and show, through example, the meaning of the Arrow. Elangomats results in higher membership retention. Troops are highly encouraged to have an Arrowmen in the unit serve on staff as an Elangomat (friend) when a candidate from the troop attends an Ordeal. Anyone interested in serving as an Elangomat should meet the OA camp coordinator at or before the Call-Out on Wednesday.

OA Brotherhood Ceremony 

The Ordeal member’s primary responsibility is to serve their unit. After six months of service, every Ordeal member should seal their membership and become a Brotherhood honor member. The OA camp coordinator will have a list of those from the unit who are Brotherhood eligible. Per national policy, Arrowmen from out-of-council units cannot go through the ceremony. The Brotherhood ceremony is free to current dues-paid Arrowmen and includes a new sash with bars.

The entire process to earn brotherhood takes less than two hours. First, eligible members are taken through a Brotherhood Walk to help complete the requirements (found in OA Handbook and at jumpstart.oa-bsa.org), then the Ordeal members take part in a spectacular Brotherhood ceremony marking the completion of induction into the Order of the Arrow. See the OA Coordinator for details on the Brotherhood walk and ceremony.

Learn More about Brotherhood

Arrowmen seeking Brotherhood membership should also ensure that their dues are current with Colonneh Lodge, as that is a requirement of achieving Brotherhood membership.

Pay Lodge Dues

OA Forms and Links

• Summer Camp Election forms: oa.shac.org/elections
• Ordeal forms: oa.shac.org/ordeals
• Lodge dues and transfer forms: oa.shac.org/dues

In closing, we would like to request that you encourage your OA members to get involved in the OA today by simply visiting their chapter meeting and participating in chapter and lodge events. If you haven’t experienced the Order of the Arrow in the last couple of years, we think you will be surprised at what the OA has to offer your Scouts and units. For more information, visit oa.shac.org.

Arrival

Units should arrive between 1:00 - 3:00 pm on Sunday. There is sufficient time to check-in and set-up camp. If the unit has a special need and will not be arriving at camp during these times, notify the business office at least one week in advance so an arrival time can be scheduled. Camp personnel cannot accommodate unscheduled early arrivals due to final preparations.

Upon arrival, a member of the staff will escort the troop to their campsite while one of the adult leaders proceeds to camp headquarters to check-in the unit. 

Check-in

⇒ Paperwork: A unit leader needs to take the following to the camp business office to complete check-in:

• Unit roster printed from My.Scouting.org used to verify BSA registration for all Scouts printed from Scoutbook.
• YPT Status Report printed from My.Scouting.org used to verify the Youth Protection Training (YPT) status report for every adult attending camp. The training can be taken at My.Scouting.org.
• Background checks. Double-check that every adult attending camp completed an Adult in Camp Compliance Form within 90 days of camp. 
• BSA Annual Health and Medical Record (including Parts A, B & C). Double-check each person attending has a completed form (youth and adult). These will be taken by the unit to the health lodge.
• Proof of insurance. Out-of-council units submit proof of insurance.

⇒ Equipment Check-Out: All equipment is checked out through the quartermaster.

1. Cot rental payments of $10 per cot, are made to the business office prior to cots being issued.
2. When payment has been received, the cot rental voucher must be taken to the quartermaster as proof of payment, and a cot will be issued.
3. Before leaving camp, all equipment will be inspected and payment must be made for any replacement or repair of any damaged equipment.

⇒ Campsites: Campsite assignments will be provided to the unit leader and the troop will proceed to the campsite. After arriving at the campsite:

1. Inspect campsite for damaged equipment. Report any damage to the camp host.
2. Load gear into tents
3. Scouts and adults should prepare for swim tests (change into swimsuits and take a towel). 

⇒ Swim Checks

• Report to the aquatic area. All persons should complete a swim check whether they plan to swim or not. Buddy tags are issued based on the level of swimming proficiency. Units may conduct swim checks prior to camp.

⇒ Health Lodge Visit: After swim checks, the campsite host will take the troop to the camp medical officer to turn in all medical information. 

⇒ Camp Orientation: The campsite host will take the troop on an orientation tour of the major points of interest of camp.

⇒ Campsite Set-up: After the tour of camp, the troop will go to the campsite to complete setup.

⇒ Dinner: The campsite host will escort your troop to the first evening meal. The host will explain table assignments and dinner preparation instructions. Please wear field uniforms to all evening meals that are served in the dining hall. The flag ceremony begins at 5:45 pm.

⇒ Leader Meeting: There will be an adult leader and SPL meeting held after dinner. Check the camp schedule for time.

As a residential camp accredited by the Boy Scouts of America, the staff closely follows all youth protection policies set forth by the Boy Scouts of America. In addition, the State of Texas has enacted statutes and regulations concerning youth protection which also applies to the camp. No exceptions to these policies may be made.

Two-Deep Leadership

"Two registered adult leaders 21 years of age or over are required at all Scouting activities, including meetings. There must be a registered female adult leader 21 years of age or over in every unit serving females. A registered female adult leader 21 years of age or over must be present for any activity involving female youth. Notwithstanding the minimum leader requirements, age- and program-appropriate supervision must always be provided." (Source)

"All adults accompanying a Scouting unit who are present at the activity for 72 total hours or more must be registered as leaders. The 72 hours need not be consecutive.vOne-on-one contact between adult leaders and youth members is prohibited both inside and outside of Scouting." (Youth Protection and Barriers to Abuse FAQs)

Adult leaders may rotate in and out as needed so long as there sufficient supervision on the property at all times.

When such rotations occur, adults must check-in and out of the camp office so that the camp staff is made aware of the identity and contact information for all adult leaders for each troop in camp.

Texas Youth Camp Safety and Health Act

In order to protect the health and safety of youth attending residential camps in the State of Texas, the Texas legislature has enacted the Texas Youth Camp Safety and Health Act. While many portions of this statute concern the facilities and staffing of a youth residential camp, portions of this law affect troops directly.

All adults coming to camp, whether working on staff or not, must complete the Adult in Camp Compliance form no later than 30 days before the first day of camp. Completing this form allows the council office staff to complete a criminal background check on each adult in camp (regardless of time spent in camp).

Youth Protection Training (YPT)

Every adult in the camp must have current Youth Protection Training (YPT) online at My.Scouting.org (expires every two years). A copy of the card for every adult attending camp must be provided to the camp office on or before the first day of camp.

The BSA's Commitment to Safety is ongoing and we want you to know that the safety of our youth, volunteers, staff, and employees cannot be compromised. The Boy Scouts of America puts the utmost importance on the safe and healthy environments for its youth membership. The Sam Houston Area Council takes great strides to ensure the safety of its youth as well as the adult volunteer leadership that interacts with them. 

BSA Guide to Safe Scouting policies must be followed. All participants must follow Youth Protection Guidelines at all Scouting events. Highlights include:

• Two-deep leadership on all outings required.  
• One-on-one contact between adults and youth members is prohibited. 
• The buddy system should be used at all times. 
• Discipline must be constructive.

Health and safety must be integrated into everything we do, to the point that no injuries are acceptable beyond those that are readily treatable by Scout-rendered first aid. As an aid in the continuing effort to protect participants in a Scout activity, the BSA National Health and Safety Committee and the Council Services Division of the BSA National Council have developed the "Sweet Sixteen" of BSA safety procedures for physical activity. These 16 points, which embody good judgment and common sense, are applicable to all activities.

Youth Protection Guidelines  Guide to Safe Scouting  Sweet Sixteen  Enterprise Risk Management

Buddy System

All Scouts should adhere to the buddy system throughout the camp. No Scout should ever be found wandering through camp alone. It can be difficult to implement the buddy system when a Scout does not schedule classes with fellow members of their troop. Troop leaders are encouraged to pair Scouts in classes as much as possible. If this is not feasible, the Scout should walk with other Scouts in the class to the location of the merit badge class. Due to the number of Scouts and the short amount of time between classes, this should be a relatively simple exercise. 

BSA Annual Health and Medical Record

All persons coming to summer camp, whether youth or adult, and regardless of the amount of time spent in camp, must have a completed BSA Annual Health and Medical Record consisting of Parts A, B and C. The form must be completed in its entirety and must contain all applicable signatures. Forms can be downloaded at www.scouting.org/scoutsource/healthandsafety/ahmr.aspx. The form must be completely filled out and signed by a physician and a parent/guardian (Scout if under 18).

Forms are only current for one year and must not expire before the last day of summer camp. There is no provision for the administration of a physical examination to be done at camp. If a Scout does not have an Annual Health and Medical Record, they will either have to secure one from an area doctor at their expense or return home.

BSA Health and Medical Record

Please carefully review all BSA Annual Health and Medical Records prior to check-in. Give yourself ample time so that any errors or omissions may be corrected by the parents of the youth or the adult to whom the form belongs. Common errors or omissions made on the BSA Annual Health and Medical Record:

• Part A is missing immunizations or is missing dates for the immunizations. Please complete the form rather than attaching an immunization record alone. Incorporating the information into the form speeds up the process of evaluating the form itself at check-in.

• Part B is not signed by the adult participant or by an adult or guardian (for youth). 

• Part C of the form signed by a physician. The physician’s examination must have been completed no later than one-year before the last day of camp. 

• Using an outdated form. To ensure you are using the correct form, use the form available at www.scouting.org/scoutsource/HealthandSafety/ahmr.aspx.

Do not put forms in a binder or plastic sheeting. Parts A, B and C should be stapled for one person.  Do not provide original forms; it is best to provide copies. The camp staff will do their best to return the submitted forms to those requesting the return of the medical forms. All forms are destroyed after camp. 

Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medication

Scouts and adults who require medication should bring enough of the medication to last throughout camp. BSA National Camping Standards (HS-508) states the following rules apply to storage and administration of medication:

All prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications must be stored under lock (including those requiring refrigeration), except when in the controlled presence of Medical Staff or a troop’s adult leader who is responsible for administration and/or dispensing medications. Locked refrigerated storage is available in the camp health lodge.

An exception to the above requirements may be made for a limited amount of medication to be carried by a camper, leader, parent, or staff member for life-threatening conditions, including epinephrine injector, heart medication, and inhalers, or for a limited amount of medication approved for use in a first-aid kit. The camp health staff shall advise the acting Scoutmaster as to whether a medication falls under this exception.

The camp health officer reviews all BSA Annual Health and Medical Record provided by the Scout for instructions regarding medications that may be administered to the Scout. If no “over the counter” (OTC) medications are listed on B2, then it will be necessary for the camp health officer to contact the parent or guardian for permission to administer such medications (e.g., Tylenol, Pepto-Bismol, aspirin). If they are unable to reach a parent/guardian, then the Scout will need further medical evaluation by the designated camp physician or hospital facility.

Swim Checks

On Sunday afternoon, after Scouts drop off their gear at their campsite, Scouts and adults should change into swimsuits, take a towel and report to the aquatic area. All Scouts and adults should complete a swim check whether they plan to swim or not. Buddy tags will be issued based on the level of swimming proficiency.

• A developmental swim class available for Scouts who are unable to swim or unable to pass a swim test. 
• Adult assistance is needed to hand out the buddy tags during the swim check.

Swim Checks Prior to Camp. Units may complete their swim checks locally prior to camp following the Swim Classification Procedures. The unit-level swim check must be conducted by one of the following certified people: Aquatics Instructor, BSA; Aquatics Cub Supervisor; BSA Lifeguard; BSA Swimming & Water Rescue; or other lifeguard, swimming instructor, etc. When swim tests are conducted prior to camp, the camp aquatics director shall reserve the authority to review or retest all participants to ensure that standards have been maintained for the safety of everyone. 

Swim Classification Procedures Record and Classifications

Special Accommodations

If a Scout requires any special accommodations, the unit leader will notify the camp staff of any requests when registering Scouts for their merit badge classes. The camp staff will do whatever they can to accommodate. Common accommodation requests include needing refrigeration for medication, and electricity for CPAP machines. Participants may need to bring specialty items to help make some requests possible. 

Health Lodge

The health lodge is open 24 hours a day and is prepared to handle minor injuries and illnesses. The health lodge is located in the camp headquarters. 

For minor injury or illness take the Scout/adult to the health lodge for treatment. The buddy system should be followed at all times. For a major injury (broken bones, unconsciousness, unsure), send a runner to the health lodge and medical staff will come to the Scout or adult. Please do not move a Scout or adult with a major injury!

Trips to the Doctor or Hospital

Should any participant require medical treatment beyond the first-aid capabilities provided by camp staff at the health lodge, they will be evacuated to the nearest medical treatment facility.

The nearest hospital is Cleveland Emergency Hospital located at 1017 South Travis Ave, Cleveland TX. If such treatment is required, the Scout's parent(s) will be notified by telephone, and their desires concerning further treatment will be respected.

Emergency Preparedness

The camp has emergency phone numbers posted near all phones and FM radio communication throughout the camp. In an emergency, the camp director, or designee, will initiate emergency procedures depending upon the situation. During emergencies, adult leaders should supervise their own unit’s response appropriately.

Emergency signals

There are two types of emergency alarms. The first is a solid tone for general emergencies. When you hear the camp alarm (Siren), you must IMMEDIATELY assemble with your troop at your campsite, take a headcount, have the senior patrol leader report your attendance to the Staff member in charge, and await further instructions. If for whatever reason the campsites are unsafe, the staff will direct people to the grand pavilion as a secondary assembly area. Stay at the assembly area until the all-clear is given.

The second type of alarm will be a pulsing siren. This signifies a weather emergency. This part of Texas is prone to afternoon thunderstorms during the summer, with potential for the formation of tornados. Whenever a serious storm approaches, everyone in the camp should move into the nearest designated shelter. All permanent structures at Camp Strake are suitable shelters during an emergency.

Drills

In accordance with BSA National Camping Standards (AO-805), an emergency drill will be conducted each week of camp. Every person must report to their campsite when the alarm is sounded, drill or no drill!

Council Insurance

All registered members of Sam Houston Area Council troops are covered by Health Special Risk unit insurance. A claim form must accompany each Scout who is referred to an outside medical facility. This is secondary coverage. If there is no other policy, this will be the primary insurance. Out-of-council troops must provide proof of accident and sickness insurance upon arrival at camp.

The plan is with Health Special Risk, Inc. and is excess coverage. The first $300.00 or less of coverage will be paid by Health Special Risk, Inc. Charges above $300.00 should be filed under the family’s major medical insurance. Health Special Risk, Inc. will then pay all charges not recovered under any other insurance. Families without insurance will receive instructions from Health Special Risk, Inc., but in any event up to $7,500 of coverage for sickness or injury is provided (Special coverage limits cover dental and transportation). The camp will file the initial claim at the time of treatment. All patients must be referred to the physician or hospital by Camp Health Personnel. For additional information, contact wayne.mcleland@scouting.org.

Each participant is responsible for transportation to and from camp.

Parking

Camp Strake has been designed to minimize driving on the site. Once personal vehicles have been checked in at the camp entrance, drivers will be directed to the appropriate parking area for their campsite. Vehicles will be parked near the assigned campsite and remain there during camp activities. The camp trail system and facility layout provide for foot traffic to all camp activity locations. It is not necessary, nor permissible, to drive personal vehicles around the camp. Adults or scouts with mobility concerns should coordinate with the camp director for assistance in meeting transportation needs. Troop trailers will be parked in the same lot as other vehicles.

Vehicles must stay on roads at all times. Passengers are not permitted to ride in the bed of trucks or in trailers.

Transportation

BSA National Vehicle Insurance Requirements

Each troop is responsible for safe transportation to and from camp and meets the requirements as laid out in the current version of the Guide to Safe Scouting.

Use of Vehicles / Trailers In Camp

Upon arrival at camp, drivers of vehicles will be provided parking passes. Drivers are required to write their name and cell phone number on the parking pass itself and keep it visible on their dashboard at all times the vehicle is present on camp property. The name and phone number on the parking pass will allow the security staff to contact the vehicle owner in the event the vehicle needs to be moved or if any other issues with the vehicle arise.

Vehicles without proper parking permits found on the property may be towed at the owner’s expense. Under no circumstances should a vehicle or trailer enter the campsite itself at any time. The entry of vehicles into the campsite could leave unsightly ruts in the campsite and could possibly damage plumbing located close to the surface.

Parking areas are provided at designated locations for leaders who drive vehicles. Only camp vehicles are permitted beyond the parking lot on camp service roads.

Immediately after the unloading of troop and Scout equipment on the first day of camp, please remove all vehicles to designated parking spaces. Vehicle permits will be distributed at check-in along with maps designating parking locations for various vehicles.

Vehicles should not be moved from these parking areas during camp unless the driver is leaving camp or has specific permission to move the vehicle (e.g., staff members given permits to use vehicles to transport equipment each day). This is a necessary measure due to the heavy use of roads by pedestrians, including hundreds of Scouts moving back and forth to merit badges and other activities.

Troop trailers are to be parked off of the service road in the available parking areas in front of each campsite.

The speed limit in camp is 20 mph on blacktop roads (unless otherwise posted) and 10 mph on gravel or dirt roads.

Drivers who continue to violate rules regarding the operation of vehicles in camp will be asked to leave camp immediately.

For the safety of all in camp, procedures have been implemented for leaving and returning to camp while camp is ongoing.

Adults Leaving and Returning

Scouters (aged 18 or older) may leave camp and return as needed. Please make efforts to keep trips in and out of the camp to a minimum. Due to the large number of campers, excessive vehicular traffic presents a possible danger to pedestrians using the roads to move between merit badge classes or going to the dining hall. Adults are to check-in and out with the camp office so that the camp staff is aware of who is on the property at all times. In the event of an emergency, the staff must be able to account for all campers.

Youth Leaving and Returning

We highly encourage parents to allow youth to remain on the camp property the entire time camp is in session. This reduces unnecessary traffic in and out of camp and allows youth to have the complete residential camp experience with their troop.

Youth will only be allowed to check out from camp prior to final checkout by an adult authorized on Part B of the Scout’s BSA Annual Health and Medical Record. Please ensure that parents include all authorized adults on the form. Without this authorization on the form, only an adult from the Scout’s troop registered for camp or the parent signing the form will be allowed to remove the child from camp prior to final checkout.

No one, including a Scout leader or parent, will be allowed to leave camp with a person under the age of 18 without having checked out at the camp office and receiving a ticket which will be taken by security just before you reach the exit of the camp.

During checkout the last day of camp, adult leaders will receive exit tickets for all youth in their troop from their camp commissioner once they have successfully checked out.

Visitors

Visitors are welcome at camp on any day but must check-in at the camp headquarters before proceeding to a campsite or program area. Visitors that plan to stay the night must provide all documentation required by the State of Texas and the Boy Scouts of America. Friday is visitor’s day and parents are encouraged to visit camp on Friday afternoon after 5:00 pm and evening. The dining hall staff will serve a meal to campers and visitors, with visitors’ meals costing $6.00 for breakfast, $8.00 for lunch and $10.00 for dinner. Tickets for visitor’s meals may be paid for in advance at the camp business office located in the headquarters. There is no program for siblings or younger Scouts.  

Departure

Please plan to depart camp by 8:00 am on Saturday morning. The camp commissioner staff and your campsite host will be available for campsite inspections as early as your request. Breakfast will be a delicious boxed breakfast that your troop can enjoy at the campsite or on the road. This will allow you to continue breaking camp or to hit the road earlier.

The air-conditioned dining hall seats 450 people. The dining hall has commercial gas stoves and ovens, food preparation areas, plenty of utensils and cooling supplies, a dry goods storage area, dishwashing area, two walk-in refrigerators, three freezers, and much more. High quality and nutritious meals will be provided on-site by a professional custom food service company. All menus have been reviewed by a certified dietician and are designed to provide active and healthy youth and adults with the nutrition and calorie intake needed for camping.

The first meal served will be dinner on Sunday evening, so troops should make plans to eat lunch before arriving at camp. A grab and go breakfast is served ton Saturday morning as troops prepare to check out and depart.

Breakfast and Dinner

Breakfast and dinner are served in the dining hall.

Lunch

Lunch is picked up from the dining hall between 12:00 - 12:35 pm and taken to the troop campsite. Troops should send only enough people to carry the food back to their campsite. During the lunch period, there is ample time for rest and relaxation, as there are no activities taking place. Scouts are encouraged to take this time to fellowship with members of their troop and other troops in their campsite, get some rest, and perhaps work on some of their merit badge requirements.

Special Dietary Needs

In the event anyone in your troop has special dietary needs, must complete a special diet request form at least three weeks before the first day of camp.

Special Diet Request Form

• Allergies and special diets are a common concern of our campers. Our food service-providers are very experienced with accommodating most diets, including food allergies, religious restrictions and other health-related diets.
• While at camp, participants could participant in many dining styles such as family-style dining, cafeteria-style dining and/or self-serve bars.
• It is the camp's expectation that by sending your child to camp, he or she has the necessary knowledge of their diet and can manage their food choices.
• Camp cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment. Careful consideration needs to be taken for campers with severe allergies, particularly those susceptible to airborne transmission.
• If participants have a severe allergy or dietary restriction, contact the camp directors to discuss if camp is properly equipped to manage needs.
• While we work to meet all dietary requirements, food is prepared in an area with milk, eggs, peanut, tree nut, wheat, soy, fish and cross-contamination may occur.

Tickets for special meals will be given to unit leaders at check-in. Participants will turn these tickets in at mealtime when they pick up their food. Depending on the need, it may be necessary for Scouts with special dietary requirements to bring food items to supplement items available at camp. Participants with special diets can request access to refrigerators/freezers and microwaves to heat food, but actual cooking must be done at the campsite.

Camp Headquarters

Headquarters houses the camp phone, lost and found, troop mail, camp director's office, program director's office, camp commissioner office, quartermaster, trading post, health lodge, and business manager's office. Office hours will be posted.

Quartermaster

A quartermaster store is located in the headquarters building and is stocked with trash bags, latrine and shower cleaning supplies, toilet paper, cook kits, and a staff quartermaster to assist. The quartermaster is not a substitute for unit equipment. Camping equipment (e.g., backpacks, stoves, pots or water coolers) for individual campsites are not stocked. One five-gallon water cooler is provided per campsite. Hours will be posted as to when the quartermaster is open.

Trading Post

The trading post is located in camp headquarters and is stocked with an assortment of collectible items, camp essentials, merit badge pamphlets, t-shirts, handicraft supplies, camp patches, mugs, cold drinks, ice cream, and candy. The trading posts accept cash, checks and credit cards (Master Card, Visa, American Express and Discover) for your convenience. Hours for the trading post can be found on the doors to the trading post.

Lost and Found

Lost and found items will be kept at the camp office. Leaders and parents should urge Scouts to mark all possessions with name and troop numbers. Valuable items will be kept in a lock-box until identified and claimed by the owner. Please check with the office manager to inquire about lost and found items or to turn in found items. Any items not marked and not collected will be donated to a local charity one week after the close of camp.

To assist us in returning items to their rightful owner, please ensure that all items your troop brings to camp have the owner’s name and troop number marked on them.

Internet Access

Internet and WiFi are limited at camp. If internet access is required, it is recommended that you provide your own hot spot.

Phones

Telephones for Scout use are not available at camp. If you have an emergency and need to leave a message for a Scout or leader, you can leave a message at the respective camp listed above. You are strongly encouraged not to let your Scout bring a cell phone to camp. As a courtesy to all campers and in respect of the outdoor experience, adult cell phone use is limited to designated locations. <insert Camp Strake phone number>

Shower Houses

Each campsite has modern restroom and shower houses within walking distance. Each latrine comes complete with two private modern toilets and a handwashing station. Each shower has individual showers for each Scout or adult. It is the responsibility of the troop leadership to monitor the behavior of the Scouts at the showers. The camp commissioner will post a schedule for latrine duty at each facility. Cleaning material will be at each facility and additional materials may be obtained for the camp quartermaster.

Wild Animals

Summer camp is an outdoor experience, and as such, we are visitors to the camp’s natural area. As Scouts, we must remember to live up to the Outdoor Code and be considerate in the outdoors. Throwing rocks at or attempting to catch animals such as rabbits, snakes, armadillos, etc is not only dangerous to the animal, but to campers as well. Please report any troubles with snakes or other animals to the camp staff immediately.

Leave No Trace

Instilling values in young people and preparing them to make moral and ethical choices throughout their lifetime is the mission of the Boy Scouts of America. Leave No Trace helps reinforce that mission, and reminds us to respect the rights of other users of the outdoors as well as future generations. Appreciation for our natural environment and knowledge of the interrelationships of nature bolster our respect and reverence toward the environment and nature. Leave No Trace is an awareness and an attitude rather than a set of rules. It applies in your backyard or local park as much as in the backcountry. We should all practice Leave No Trace in our thinking and actions–wherever we go.

The principles of Leave No Trace might seem unimportant until you consider the combined effects of millions of outdoor visitors. One poorly located campsite or campfire may have little significance, but thousands of such instances seriously degrade the outdoor experience for all. Leaving no trace is everyone’s responsibility. All participants are asked to follow the seven principles of Leave No Trace. 

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly (Pack It In, Pack It Out)
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

Special Fees

• Cots: There are a very limited number of cots that can be rented for $10 each for the week. 
• Visitor meals: the Friday night BBQ dinner for visitors is $10. Reservations need to be made by Wednesday at noon. These fees need to be paid at the camp business office. 
• Ice: Each unit will receive one block of ice per 10 people in their unit per day. Additional blocks of ice may be purchased at the camp business office for $3.00.

Adult Activities and Training

Adults are encouraged to participate and complete the Scoutmaster merit badge.

Leader Training

More information coming soon. 

Smoking / Vaping Policy

"An important way adult leaders can model healthy living is by following the policies on alcohol, tobacco, and drugs. Leaders should support the attitude that they, as well as youths, are better off without tobacco in any form and may not allow the use of tobacco products at any BSA activity involving youth participants. This includes the use of electronic cigarettes, personal vaporizers, or electronic nicotine delivery systems that simulate tobacco smoking. All Scouting functions, meetings, and activities should be conducted on a smoke-free basis, with smoking areas located away from all participants. As outlined in the Scouter Code of Conduct, Scouting activities are not a place to possess, distribute, transport, consume, or use any of the following items prohibited by law or in violation of any Scouting rules, regulations, and policies: alcoholic beverages or controlled substances, including marijuana. In addition, the Code of Conduct specifies that if you are taking prescription medications with the potential of impairing any functioning or judgment, you will not engage in activities that would put Scouts at risk, including driving or operating equipment." Source

Smoking by adults is not permitted in any tent, pavilion or building. Smoking is also not permitted in the dining hall at any time. While we highly discourage smoking while in camp, adults who choose to do so in the designated areas and must not smoke within sight of any youth. Moreover, in the event of a burn ban, smoking may be prohibited on the property. Please check with the camp office to determine whether such a burn ban is in place.

Alcohol, Illegal Drugs or Stimulants

The consumption, possession or use of alcohol or illegal drugs or controlled substances while participating in the program is not permitted. The camp staff will enforce all local, state, and federal laws when a violation involving the above substances is reported. Violators will be asked to leave the camp immediately.

Personal Firearms

Personal firearms, ammunition, bows and arrows, and fireworks are not allowed in camp. Ammunition for Scouts working on the rifle or shotgun shooting merit badges is provided as part of the overall camp fees. Camp Strake is private property and does not allow concealed carry or open carry of firearms.

Fires, Liquid Fuels, and Propane

Fires are to be built only in the designated areas and under proper supervision. Liquid fuels are not permitted. Propane is to be used only under adult supervision. Empty cylinders and cans must be given to the camp quartermaster for disposal. National policy prohibits the use of open flames in tents. This includes mosquito coils, catalytic heaters, gas lanterns, stoves, candles, and smoking material.

Preparing for camp is an easy process, but does require planning. The summer camp unit leader is the most important link in this troop. However, don’t overlook other adults who may be able to assist in the preparation of actual camp attendance, or as part of the leadership. Once the summer camp unit leader is confirmed, take the following steps:

• Note the payment schedule and mark the dates on your calendar. Payments are made using an electronic check or credit card.
• Review summer camp plans with the troop committee and set a date for a parents’ information meeting as early as possible.
• Hold a parents’ night. An extremely important function of planning is informing parents of summer camp. It also serves to convince those parents who are not sure about letting their Scouts go, particularly new Scouts. Utilize the Order of the Arrow chapter camp promotion team.
• Arrange sufficient leadership for the troop. 
• With the patrol leaders' council (PLC), work out definite goals to be accomplished by the troop while in camp. Determine what each Scout should accomplish. 
• Discuss personal equipment with the Scouts in the troop and make a list of personal gear needed. Have the patrol leaders check with patrol members to be sure all equipment is ready. Give attention to the troop and patrol equipment.
• Review patrol organization, considering the Scouts who will be attending camp. Some rearranging of patrols may be necessary. Select a summer camp senior patrol leader and quartermaster.
• Ensure that each participant has a completed BSA Annual Health and Medical Record (part A, B, C) signed by a physician. Ensure that each form is signed by the physician and parent (for Scouts younger than age 18) and that the form is completely filled out. Obtain a copy of the insurance card for each participant. Make a copy of each form to turn into camp during check-in.
• Collect camp fees. 
• Ensure all Scouts are pre-registered for merit badge classes using the online system
• Make final arrangements for safe transportation to and from camp.
• Print a copy of the troop roster from my.Scouting.org. This is the official roster validating membership in the BSA.
• Ensure every adult submitted an Adult in Camp Compliance form at least 30 days before camp.
• Collect a copy of the Youth Protection Training card for each adult (age 18+). 
• Have a copy of the Order of the Arrow unit election report for the Call-Out Ceremony.
• Swim test paperwork, if completed prior to camp.
• Out-of-town troops: obtain a letter permission for Call-Out letter from the lodge.
• Out-of-town troops: obtain a copy of proof of insurance from the council.