What to Bring – Scouts BSA Summer Camp

At a Glance

Scouts attending Scouts BSA Summer Camp at Camp Minsi should bring clothing for the full week, sturdy footwear, bedding, toiletries, a refillable water bottle, required medications, and any merit badge–specific supplies. Electronics, valuables, and non-approved items should be left at home.

The Camp Minsi Trading Post is open most of the day and offers a wide variety of items Scouts may wish to purchase during the week. Available items typically include camping supplies, T-shirts and apparel, craft kits, merit badge pamphlets, books, snacks, candy, ice cream, slushies, drinks, souvenirs, and more.

Scouts are encouraged to bring a reasonable amount of spending money so they can participate without feeling left out. We recommend $25–$50 for the week, depending on individual preferences.

Each troop sets its own policy regarding electronics. However, Scouts are strongly encouraged to leave all personal electronics at home. Phones, gaming devices, and similar items can detract from the summer camp experience, contribute to homesickness, and often lead to unnecessary issues.

Valuables should also be left at home. Camp Minsi is not responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen items.

Some merit badges include requirements that cannot be completed during the camp week and must be finished beforehand. Scouts should review merit badge requirements prior to arriving at camp and come prepared.

Examples include:

• Environmental Science – research and written work on an endangered species
• First Aid – assembling a personal first aid kit
• Cooking – menu planning and food preparation for a troop campout

Additionally, some merit badges may have extra costs associated with materials or kits. Refer to the Camp Minsi Merit Badge Guide for details on prerequisites and any additional fees.

Scouts and leaders are permitted to bring and use bicycles at Camp Minsi. Bicycles are required for any Scout working on the Cycling Merit Badge.

Helmets and appropriate attire must be worn at all times while riding, and the buddy system remains in effect.

All personal gear should be clearly labeled with the Scout’s name and troop number. Items are frequently misplaced during the week, and labeling helps staff return lost items to their owners.

Scouts are responsible for their own belongings at camp. Each Scout should know what they have packed and where it is located. For this reason, parents are discouraged from packing on behalf of their Scout.

Gear should be easy to move and compact enough to fit comfortably inside a tent. A lightweight duffel bag works well and can be easily stored under a cot.

Camp activities continue rain or shine, so Scouts should come prepared for changing weather conditions. Rain gear is essential, and extra socks or a spare pair of shoes can make a big difference during wet weather.

A small, inexpensive tarp can be useful for keeping gear dry, providing a dry place to sit, or offering extra protection during extended rain. July temperatures at Camp Minsi typically average around 80°F during the day, with cooler evenings and mornings. Camp Minsi sees an average nighttime low of 59°F in the month of July. A sweatshirt or fleece and long pants are recommended for comfort.

Avoid packing everything loosely into one bag. Keeping gear organized makes the week easier and helps prevent lost items. Resealable plastic bags are an effective way to keep clothing and personal items clean, dry, and easy to find.

If you have questions about what to bring or what to leave at home, talk with your Scoutmaster or other experienced Scouts in your troop. They are often the best resource for practical advice and unit-specific guidance.