Where to Go Camping Guide

WHERE TO GO
CAMPING GUIDE
Long Beach Area Council
Boy Scouts of America
PUVUNGA LODGE 32
LONG BEACH AREA COUNCIL
401 E 37TH STREET
LONG BEACH, CA 90807
October 6, 2015
Fellow Scouts and Scouters,
It is our great pleasure to share with you Long Beach Area Council’s “Where to Go Camping
Guide”. Statistics tell us that 51% of Boy Scouts drop out from Troops that have five or fewer
campouts a year. But only 15% of Scouts drop out of Troops that camp every month. Every
campout represents an opportunity to build memories that last a lifetime.
The purpose of this guide is to provide you with a consolidated listing of information
regarding local camping opportunities to include short and long term camping. We encourage
you to use this guide to generate ideas and plan your outings for the year.
This guide is a working document and we ask for your help in making it better. Your
recommendations, ideas, reviews, and lessons learned will be incorporated into the next
revision. Have fun and hope to see you on the trail!
Table of Contents
1.0 Short Term Camps .................................................................................................................................. 5
1.1 Boy Scouts of America Camps............................................................................................................ 5
1.1.1 Camp Josepho.............................................................................................................................. 5
1.1.2 Camp Trask .................................................................................................................................. 5
1.1.3 Camp Verdugo Oaks .................................................................................................................... 5
1.1.4 Firestone Scout Reservation ....................................................................................................... 6
1.1.5 Irvine Ranch Outdoor Education Center (IROEC) ....................................................................... 6
1.1.6 Oso Lake ...................................................................................................................................... 6
1.2 Boy Scouts of America Aquatics Facilities ......................................................................................... 7
1.2.1 Long Beach Sea Base ................................................................................................................... 7
1.2.2 Cabrillo Youth Center .................................................................................................................. 7
1.2.3 Newport Sea Base ....................................................................................................................... 7
1.3 Desert Camping .................................................................................................................................. 8
1.3.1 Anza Borrego Desert State Park ................................................................................................. 8
1.3.2 Corn Springs................................................................................................................................. 8
1.3.3 Death Valley National Park ......................................................................................................... 9
1.3.4 Joshua Tree National Park .......................................................................................................... 9
1.3.5 Pisgah Lava Tubes...................................................................................................................... 10
1.3.6 Rainbow Basin – Owl Campground .......................................................................................... 10
1.3.7 Red Rock Canyon State Park ..................................................................................................... 11
1.4 Aquatics Camping ............................................................................................................................. 12
1.4.1 Colorado River ........................................................................................................................... 12
1.4.2 Lake Casitas Recreation Area .................................................................................................... 12
1.4.3 Lake Skinner .............................................................................................................................. 13
1.4.4 Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area ................................................................................... 13
1.4.5 Point Mugu State Park .............................................................................................................. 13
1.5 Backpack Camping............................................................................................................................ 14
1.5.1 Bridge to Nowhere .................................................................................................................... 14
1.5.2 Henninger Flats.......................................................................................................................... 14
1.5.3 Hoegees Camp ........................................................................................................................... 15
1.5.4 Horse Thief ................................................................................................................................ 15
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1.5.5 Little Jimmy ............................................................................................................................... 16
1.6 Historical Camping ........................................................................................................................... 17
1.6.1 Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum (AGSEM) ................................................................. 17
1.6.2 Calico Ghost Town ..................................................................................................................... 17
1.6.3 Camp Williams ........................................................................................................................... 18
1.6.4 Fort Tejon State Historical Park ................................................................................................ 18
1.6.5 USS Iowa .................................................................................................................................... 19
1.6.6 USS Midway ............................................................................................................................... 19
1.7 STEM and Traditional Camping........................................................................................................ 20
1.7.1 Palomar Observatory ................................................................................................................ 20
1.7.2 Buttonwillow Raceway ............................................................................................................. 20
1.7.3 Caspers Wilderness Park ........................................................................................................... 21
1.7.4 Featherly Regional Park ............................................................................................................ 21
1.8 International Camping ..................................................................................................................... 22
1.8.1 International Camporee ............................................................................................................ 22
1.8.2 Balseada..................................................................................................................................... 22
2.0 Long Term/Summer Camps ................................................................................................................. 23
2.1 Camp Tahquitz, Will J Reid Scout Reservation ................................................................................ 23
2.2 Camp Chawanakee ........................................................................................................................... 24
2.3 Camp Cherry Valley .......................................................................................................................... 24
2.4 Camp Emerald Bay ........................................................................................................................... 25
2.5 Camp Emerson.................................................................................................................................. 25
2.6 Camp John Mensinger ...................................................................................................................... 26
2.7 Camp Kern ........................................................................................................................................ 26
2.8 Camp Silver Fur................................................................................................................................. 27
2.9 Camp Three Falls .............................................................................................................................. 27
2.10 Camp Whitsett................................................................................................................................ 28
2.11 Fiesta Island - Youth Aquatics Center ............................................................................................ 28
2.12 Forest Lawn Scout Reservation...................................................................................................... 29
2.13 Holcomb Valley Scout Reservation ................................................................................................ 29
2.14 Lost Valley, Schoepe Scout Reservation ........................................................................................ 30
2.15 Mataguay Scout Reservation ......................................................................................................... 30
3.0 Forms, Policies and Permits ................................................................................................................. 31
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1.0 Short Term Camps
1.1 Boy Scouts of America Camps
1.1.1 Camp Josepho
Camp Josepho is a 110-acre Scout camp located in Santa
Monica Mountains. Founded in 1941, this camp offers units
an opportunity to reinforce their Scout skills in a traditional
camp environment. The camp serves as a great jump off
point to hikes along the Camp Josepho Trail in Rustic
Canyon. The unique draw to this camp is that it offers a
year round wrangler program for interested Scouting units.
Additional information regarding Camp Josepho’s activities,
costs, directions, and reservations can be found at:
http://www.campjosepho.org/
1.1.2 Camp Trask
Camp Trask is a rustic camp tucked into
Monrovia Canyon. The camp features a
swimming pool for aquatics activities, an
authentic frontier fort, amphitheater, chapel,
and pond. This camp is an excellent location to
reinforce your Scout skills. The unique draw to
this camp though is the wildlife to include
Patches the bear. Additional information
regarding Camp Trask’s activities, costs, directions, and reservations can be found at:
http://www.sgvcbsa.org/programs/camping/camp-trask
1.1.3 Camp Verdugo Oaks
Camp Verdugo Oaks offers a traditional Scouting program that
includes shooting sports, aquatics, and an opportunity to
reinforce your Scout skills. The staff is very flexible, but be
prepared to provide your own certified instructors to lead the
activities. Additional information regarding Camp Verdugo
Oak’s activities, costs, directions, and reservations can be
found at: http://vhcbsa.org/camping/camp-verdugo-oaks/
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1.1.4 Firestone Scout Reservation
Firestone Scout Reservation offers Scouting units an opportunity
to reinforce their Scout skills and features a credible nature, hiking,
aquatics and shooting sports program. The distinguishing feature
about this camp though are the jam-packed activities offered here
nearly every weekend. Keep your eyes out for the Great Pumpkin
Smash in November where Scouts get to participate in “Punkin’
Chunkin’”, carving pumpkins with .22 rifles, and participate in
pumpkin skeet shooting. The creativity of this camp’s activities will
keep you coming back to see what they offer next. Additional
information regarding Firestone Scout Reservation’s activities,
costs, directions, and reservations can be found at: http://fsrlaac.org/
1.1.5 Irvine Ranch Outdoor Education Center (IROEC)
The IROEC is a 210-acre outdoor education center that
provides a variety of hands-on nature and adventure activities.
This camp offers units an opportunity to reinforce their Scout
skills and features shooting sports, aquatics, and climbing
program activities to units to include a zip line and low and
high COPE courses. IROEC features a variety of STEM, science,
and space camps throughout the year. Additional information
regarding IROEC’s activities, costs, directions, and reservations
can be found at: http://www.outdooreducationcenter.org/
1.1.6 Oso Lake
Oso Lake camp offers units an opportunity to reinforce their Scouting skills
and features a shooting sports program. The draw of this camp though, is
their aquatics program. Units can practice their canoeing and rowing skills
while spending quality time catching and releasing bass. This camp is all
about the fishing. Additional information regarding Oso Lake’s activities,
costs, directions, and reservations can be found at: http://www.osolake.org/
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1.2 Boy Scouts of America Aquatics Facilities
1.2.1 Long Beach Sea Base
Home to the William I. Koch International Sea Scout Cup, the Long
Beach Sea Base offers a full aquatics program. The Sea Base serves as
the home port to LBAC’s Sea Scout Squadron and Ships and offers both
a summer aquatics camp and weekend Dockmaster program.
The summer aquatics program is offered over 8 weeks to individual
Scouts and boasts over 35 elective and Eagle required merit badges,
many of which are not offered at traditional Scout camps. This program
is a fine complement to your unit’s summer camp.
In the offseason, units can reserve the Sea Base for the weekend as part of the Dockmaster
Program where they are exposed to the full spectrum of boating, swimming, lifesaving, and
ocean based activities. Units can kayak, canoe, sail, motor boat, fish, paddleboard, swim, and
snorkel in and around Alamitos Bay Marina while camping overnight in the boathouse.
Additional information regarding the LBAC Sea Base’s activities, costs, directions, and
reservations can be found at: http://longbeachbsa.org/camp-properties/long-beach-sea-base
1.2.2 Cabrillo Youth Center
The Cabrillo Youth Center consists of 12.3 acres of
oceanfront property that offers units an
opportunity to strengthen their aquatics skills. The
Cabrillo program includes boating, swimming, and
lifesaving on both the ocean and their pool. Units
camp on the beach and eat in their dining hall. This
is definitely the camp to visit if you are conducting
a family camp and looking for an all inclusive
experience. Additional information regarding the
Cabrillo Youth Center’s activities, costs, directions, and reservations can be found at:
http://www.cabrilloyouthcamp.org/
1.2.3 Newport Sea Base
Located in Newport Beach, CA, this Sea Base was established in
1937 and is home to the Sea Scouts of Orange County. The
Newport Sea Base offers access to kayaks, canoes, rowboats and
over three dozen sailboats. This camp features a 1905 topsail
ketch, the Argus available for 1-5 day outings. Additional
information regarding the Newport Sea Base’s activities, costs,
directions, and reservations can be found
at: http://www.newportseabase.org/
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1.3 Desert Camping
1.3.1 Anza Borrego Desert State Park
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the largest state park in
California and features over five hundred miles of dirt roads, 12
wilderness areas, and countless miles of hiking trails. The park is
named for Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza and the Spanish
word Borrego translated as bighorn sheep. The park features
washes, wildflowers, palm groves, cacti, painted canyons,
sweeping vistas and a host of wildlife to include roadrunners,
golden eagles, kit foxes, mule deer, bighorn sheep, iguanas,
chuckwallas and the red diamond rattlesnake. Scouts have the
opportunity to earn the Mormon Battalion Trail High Adventure award; additional information
related to his award can be found at: http://hat.ocbsa.org/SCOUT09-SanDiego-Imperial.pdf
The best time to visit Anza Borrego is in the late fall, winter, and early spring given that the
temperatures can climb well past 100 degrees. Scouts can observe petroglyphs from local
Native American tribes, ruins from Spanish settlers, prospectors, and cattle ranchers. Wind and
water erosion over hundreds of thousands of years have carved the landscape into unique rock
formations that draw thousands of visitors each year. Anza Borrego is one of those places that
needs to occupy your bucket list of places to visit. Additional information regarding Anza
Borrego’s activities, costs, directions, and reservations can be found at:
http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=638
1.3.2 Corn Springs
The Corn Spring Campground is located in an oasis of California
palms deep in a painted canyon of the Chuckwalla Mountains.
This oasis supports abundant wildlife and is an important
stopping place for migratory birds. It is the site of prehistoric
Native American tribal groups to include the Chemehuevi,
Cahuilla, and Yuma people and the petroglyphs at Corn Spring
are one of the finest examples of rock art in the Colorado
Desert and date back as far back as 10,000 years. This trip is
perfect for Scouts working on their Indian Lore and Archeology
merit badges. Scouts can explore the petroglyphs at this site,
visit the ruins of prospector August “Gus” Lederer’s home and
mill site (which date back to the late 1800s), and hike to his final resting place at Aztec Well.
Corn Spring is best visited in the late fall, winter, and early spring given that the temperatures
can climb well past 100 degrees in the summer. This camp is EXTREMELY affordable with
campsites costing $6 per night and visitors are provided with all of the firewood they can use.
Additional information can be found
at: http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/fo/palmsprings/corn_springs_campground.html
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1.3.3 Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park features three million acres of
desert wilderness and hundreds of miles of backcountry
roads and hiking trails. The lowest point in North America
exists here at 292 feet below sea level and is the location
where the highest temperature on the Earth ever was
recorded. Towering peaks that exceed 11,000 feet surround
the valley and are frosted with winter snow well into the
spring. Rare rainstorms bring vast fields of wildflowers and
desert sand dunes offer Scouts the unique opportunity to
surf and sled down steep slopes. Hiking, mountain biking, offroad driving are offered in salt flats below sea level and in
the mountains that surround the park. Scouts have the
opportunity to visit ghost towns, abandoned mines, and visit
the Harmony Borax Works. This national park is best visited
in the LATE fall, winter, and EARLY spring given that the
temperatures can climb well past 120 degrees. Group
campsites are offered at the centrally located Furnace Creek
Campground. Given its distance from Long Beach, this outing
is best suited for 4+ day adventures during winter and spring
breaks. Orange County Council offers high adventure awards to units that meet the
requirements for the Telescope Peak Award and Death Valley Cycling 50 Miler Awards
at http://hat.ocbsa.org/SCOUT01-OrangeCounty.pdf. Additional information regarding Death
Valley’s activities, costs, directions, and reservations can be found
at: http://www.nps.gov/deva/index.htm
1.3.4 Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park consists of 792,510 acres of
desert wilderness that offers units the ability to go
climbing, mountain biking, hiking, backpacking, horseback
riding, and exploring nature. This national park is best
visited in the LATE fall, winter, and EARLY spring given
that the temperatures can climb well past 110 degrees in
the summer. This popular park is in high demand
particularly for climbing activities. Units are encouraged
to immediately book their reservations ON THE DAY that
the reservation windows open. Orange County Council offers high adventure awards to units
that meet the requirements for the Boy Scout Trail at http://hat.ocbsa.org/SCOUT01OrangeCounty.pdf. Additional information regarding Joshua Tree’s activities, costs, directions,
and reservations can be found at: http://www.nps.gov/jotr/index.htm
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1.3.5 Pisgah Lava Tubes
Pisgah Crater, also Pisgah Volcano, is a young volcanic
cinder cone located in the Mojave Desert, about 40 miles
from Barstow, California. The 320-foot tall Pisgah Crater
towers above an expansive field of black lava left over
from volcanic activity thousands of years ago. The black
earth is dotted with green plants and colorful flowers. The
area attracts a number of spelunkers (people who explore
caves) to visit the lava tubes formed by flowing lava
thousands of years ago. Inner lava tubes continued to flow
while the outer layer of molten rock cooled creating more
than 80 tunnels that make up the Pisgah lava tubes. The largest is more than a thousand feet
long and is tall enough to walk through. One chamber is large enough to play a half-court game
of basketball. Be sure to pack rugged clothes, gloves, helmets, flashlights, and extra batteries for your
trip. Campng is available at the crater, but no facilities are offered. Units can consider camping at
Rainbow Basin and driving to the crater. Additional information regarding the Pisgah Lava Tubes
can be found at: http://www.vulcanospeleology.org/articles/pisgah.pdf
http://mojavefreepress.com/weekend-trip-pisgah-crater
http://boyswhoclimb.weebly.com/pisgah-crater.html
1.3.6 Rainbow Basin – Owl Campground
The Owl Campground of Rainbow Basin Natural Area is
located north of Barstow, Ca and offers a variety of desert
adventures for units. The multi-colored rock formations
found along the painted canyons are stunning in the
morning and late afternoon. This area is tremendous for
hikes through the surrounding canyons and lends itself
well to units looking to strengthen their orienteering and
geocaching skills. Scouts can explore the ridgelines and
learn more about geology. This national park is best visited
in the LATE fall, winter, and EARLY spring given that the
temperatures can climb well past 110 degrees in the
summer. This camp is EXTREMELY affordable with campsites costing $6 per night. Additional
information regarding Rainbow Basin can be found
at: http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/fo/barstow/basin.html
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1.3.7 Red Rock Canyon State Park
Red Rock Canyon State Park features scenic desert cliffs,
buttes and spectacular rock formations. Each tributary
canyon is unique displaying colorful layers of white, pink,
red, and brown cliffs that are the result of wind and rain
eroding the softer materials beneath the dark cap rocks.
The park's floral displays are stunning following wet
winters. The campground is tucked up against the base of
dramatic desert cliffs and camping is first-come, first
served; there is no reservation system so leave early on a
Friday to beat the rush.
This park is great for working on your Scouting skills to include orienteering and hiking. Miles of
trails meander through the dramatic landscape. Additional information regarding Red Rock
Canyon can be found at: http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=631
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1.4 Aquatics Camping
1.4.1 Colorado River
The Colorado River offers a number of
opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and
whitewater rafting trips. One popular location is to
start just below Hoover Dam and boat down the
Black Canyon to Willow Beach. This route is easy to
navigate (mile markers on canyon walls) and offers
units an opportunity to stop, prepare meals, swim,
fish, camp, and take side hikes along the way. This
trip is best for long weekends; take off on a Friday,
canoe on Saturday and Sunday, and return on Monday. This is the type of outing that Scouts
will remember forever. Most of the rental/outfitter prices are comparable. Additional
information about the costs, itineraries, and equipment may be found at the enclosed outfitters
sites:
http://blackcanyonadventures.com/
http://www.jerkwatercanoe.com/
http://kayaklasvegas.com/
http://www.desertriveroutfitters.com/
1.4.2 Lake Casitas Recreation Area
The Lake Casitas Recreation Area features a variety of
boating and fishing opportunities to include canoeing,
kayaking, and motorboating. All boats may be rented
on site. Units may choose to bring their own boats but
must have them inspected and quarantined 30 days
prior to the event; there is a cost for this inspection
and storage and most units will find that it’s not worth
the cost and hassle to bring their own boats. There is
no swimming in the lake here, but they have a full
trading post and fish and tackle shop that sells bait
and rents fishing gear. Scouts are encouraged to visit
the relaxing lazy river swim park after a long day of
boating. Lake Casitas offers over 400 campsites. Units are encouraged to visit here during the
school year; the recreation area is packed in the summer months and non-Scout visitors have
been known to demonstrate inappropriate behavior. Additional information regarding the Lake
Casitas Recreation Area can be found at:
http://www.casitaswater.org/department.php?url=lake-casitas-recreation-area
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1.4.3 Lake Skinner
Created in 1973, Lake Skinner is located in Winchester, CA and
has 1400 surface acres of water operated by the Metropolitan
Water District of Southern California. The lake is supplied by the
Colorado River through the Colorado River Aqueduct and
features boating and fishing activities. Lake Skinner is home to
Striped Bass, Largemouth Bass, Carp, Bluegill, Catfish, and Trout.
Boats may be rented from the Marina. Swimming is not allowed.
Lake Skinner has 241 campsites and additional information
regarding Lake Skinner can be found at:
http://www.rivcoparks.org/parks/lake-skinner/lake-skinner-home/
1.4.4 Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area
Silverwood Lake was formed by the 249-foot Cedar
Springs Dam. At 3,350 feet, it is the highest reservoir in
the State Water Project and features hiking along the
Pacific Crest Trail, swimming, boating, water-skiing and
fishing. The lake has trout, large mouth bass, catfish and
bluegill. There is a marina with a launching ramp, boat
and equipment rentals, and a store. Units may choose
to bring their own boats but must have them inspected
and quarantined prior to the event; there is a cost for
this inspection and storage and most units will find that
it’s not worth the cost and hassle to bring their own boats. Additional information regarding the
Silverwood Lake Recreation Area can be found at: http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=650
1.4.5 Point Mugu State Park
Point Mugu State Park offers five miles of ocean
shoreline, with rocky bluffs, sandy beaches,
sand dunes, rugged hills and uplands, two major
river canyons and wide grassy valleys dotted
with sycamores, oaks and a few native walnuts.
There are more than 70 miles of hiking trails.
Scouts have the opportunity to go swimming,
body surfing and surf fishing. Additional
information regarding the Point Mugu State
Park can be found at: http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=630
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1.5 Backpack Camping
1.5.1 Bridge to Nowhere
This hike can be done as a 10 mile day hike or overnight
backpack. This hike takes you from the Bridge to Nowhere
Trailhead along the banks of the East Fork of the San Gabriel
River to the Bridge to Nowhere. The mysterious Bridge to
Nowhere was built in 1936, but the road was swept away in
the flood of 1938. Scouts love watching as daredevils bungee
jump off of the bridge. The trail includes a number of stream
crossings, which the Scouts can use to purify water and fill
their canteens. Similarly, Scouts enjoy panning for gold along
the river, meeting with active prospectors, and soaking in
deep pools. Bighorn sheep can be observed on the canyon
walls. Units can camp along the trail and may consider staying
at Camp Williams the night before their hike or backpack to
get an early jump on the day. Get to the trailhead early in
order to get a parking spot; the parking fills up quick and all
vehicles will need a National Forest Adventure Pass. Additional
information regarding this backpack outing/day hike can be found at:
http://www.hikespeak.com/trails/bridge-to-nowhere-hike-los-angeles/
http://www.modernhiker.com/2008/08/11/hiking-the-east-fork-of-san-gabriel-river-to-the-bridge-to-nowhere/
1.5.2 Henninger Flats
Henninger Campground is a trail camp located at
2,550’ above sea level in a pine forest on a landing
above steep mountain slopes on Henninger Flats in
the San Gabriel Mountains. Units will take a 3-mile
one-way hike up Mount Wilson Toll Road to arrive at
Henninger Flats. The campground features a visitor
information center, fire lookout tower, and tree
nursery. Units should check in at the Visitor
Information Center to obtain camping and campfire
permits. Additional information regarding Henninger
Flats can be found at:
http://www.ecnca.org/hiking_trails/henninger_flats.html
http://www.hikespeak.com/campgrounds/henninger-flats-campground-san-gabriel-mountains/
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1.5.3 Hoegees Camp
Begin your backpack at the Chantry Flats Trailhead and
follow the Winter Creek Trail 2 ½ miles to Hoegees Camp
which sits on a shady nook next to Winter Creek. Scouts will
need to purify water and a fire permit is required for stoves
and/or fires. The camp serves as an excellent jump off
point to bag Mt. Zion or visit Sturtevant Falls. A Forest
Adventure Pass is required for parked vehicles. Additional
information regarding Hoegees Camp and hiking route can
be found at:
http://www.simpsoncity.com/hiking/hoegees.html and
http://www.fs.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsinternet/!ut/p/c4/04_SB8K8xLLM9MSSzPy8xBz9CP0os3gDfxMDT8MwRydLA
1cj72BTJw8jAwjQL8h2VAQAzHJMsQ!!/?ss=110501&navtype=BROWSEBYSUBJECT&cid=FSE_003705&navid=11013
0000000000&pnavid=110000000000000&recid=41702&actid=29&ttype=recarea&pname=Angeles%20National%2
0Forest%20-%20Hoegees%20Campground
1.5.4 Horse Thief
This backpack outing begins at the Sawmill Trailhead
(USGS Toro Peak Quadrangle) and follows the Cactus
Spring Trail through the Santa Rosa Wilderness of
San Bernardino National Forest to Cactus Spring. Key
sites along the way include exploring an old mine
site, a corral used by horse thieves in the late 1800s,
and finally Cactus Spring adjacent to Horse Thief
Creek. Cactus Spring was an important source of
water in the Santa Rosa Mountains used by the
Cahuilla Tribe as a watering hole during their travels
while harvesting pinyon and agave hearts. Rumor has
it that you can find mortars for grinding corn on the
rocks adjacent to the creek. Units should consider sleeping along the route at the trail camp
(33.574547, -116.435631) which is located in a shaded canyon with water. To get there, take
CA-91 East, I-15 South, CA-79 South, CA-371 East, turn right onto CA-74 (East), turn right onto
Pinion Flats Transfer Station Road, turn left into the parking lot and the trailhead is on far end
of parking lot. Additional information regarding Horse Thief and the Cactus Spring hiking route
can be found at:
http://www.fs.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsinternet/!ut/p/c4/04_SB8K8xLLM9MSSzPy8xBz9CP0os3gDfxMDT8MwRydLA
1cj72BTJw8jAwjQL8h2VAQAzHJMsQ!!/?ss=110512&ttype=recarea&recid=26505&actid=50&navtype=BROWSEBYS
UBJECT&position=BROWSEBYSUBJECT&navid=100000000000000&pnavid=null&pname=Santa+Rosa+%26+San+Jac
into+Mtns.+National+Monument+-+Cactus+Spring+Trail+5E01
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1.5.5 Little Jimmy
This backpack outing begins at the Islip Saddle
Traihead and follows the Pacific Crest Trail to Little
Jimmy trail camp (7500 ft). A natural spring is located
about ¼ mi from camp which Scouts can purify.
Campsites are first come - first served Limited parking
is available at the trailhead and requires a Forest
Adventure Pass. This camp is a great jump off point
for bagging Mt. Islip. Additional information can be
found at
http://www.localhikesbeta.com/Hikes/Mt-Islip-1088 and
http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/angeles/recreation/picnickinginfo/recarea/?recid=41718&actid=70
http://www.fs.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsinternet/!ut/p/c4/04_SB8K8xLLM9MSSzPy8xBz9CP0os3gDfxMDT8MwRydLA
1cj72BTJw8jAwjQL8h2VAQAzHJMsQ!!/?ss=110501&navtype=BROWSEBYSUBJECT&cid=FSE_003705&navid=11013
0000000000&pnavid=110000000000000&recid=41718&actid=29&ttype=recarea&pname=Angeles%20National%2
0Forest%20-%20Little%20Jimmy%20Campground
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1.6 Historical Camping
1.6.1 Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum (AGSEM)
The AGSEM is located in Vista, CA on 55 acres of rolling
farm fields and features over 20,000 pieces of working
farming and heavy equipment dating back to 1849.
Nearly 40 years old, this combined museum and
campground allows Scouts to roam through the exhibits
and observe demonstrations of the different equipment.
Docents explain the purpose and demonstrate the
operation of the equipment. In addition, attending
Scouts can meet and work with the on-site docents
operating the blacksmith shop, weaving machines,
wheelwright shop, and gristmill. Scouts can observe cooking techniques on stoves dating back
to the mid 1800s as well as harvesting and shucking crops, making molasses, and or take a ride
on a N' Scale Model Railroad. There are far more activities to do here than you will have time
for! Additional information regarding AGSEM activities, costs, directions, and reservations can
be found at: http://agsem.com/
1.6.2 Calico Ghost Town
Calico is an old West mining town located near Yermo,
CA and has been around since 1881 during the largest
silver strike in California. Calico produced over $20
million in silver ore from over 500 mines during a 12year span. Calico lost its population when silver lost its
value in the mid-1890's. The miner's packed up, loaded
their mules and moved away abandoning the town. The
town was purchased and refurbished in the 1950’s and
eventually became part of the San Bernardino County
Regional Parks system.
The Calico Ghost Town features 265 camping sites and offers Scouts an opportunity to explore
the original silver mines, take a ride on an original 20 mule team Borax wagon train, tour the
area on the Calico Odessa Railroad, pan for gold, go mountain biking, participate in a spooky
Ghost tour, and wander amongst the original town stores, museums, buildings, and
restaurants. Period reenactors make this Ghost Town come alive and your Scouts will love this
living history. Additional information regarding Calico Ghost Town activities, costs, directions,
and reservations can be found at: http://cms.sbcounty.gov/parks/parks/calicoghosttown.aspx
www.sbcountyparks.com www.visitcalicoghosttown.com
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1.6.3 Camp Williams
Camp Williams is a quiet low frills camp located
along the East Fork of the San Gabriel River in a
natural canyon. Units camping here will enjoy
the seclusion offered by the steep canyon walls.
This camp makes an excellent spot for units
looking to pan for gold from the river, which is
mere yards from your campsite. This camp is
also a tremendous jump off point for units
looking to do a day hike or overnight backpack
along the East Fork to the Bridge to Nowhere.
Additional information regarding Camp
Williams costs, directions, and reservations can be found at: http://campwilliams.com/ Gold
panning supplies are sold at Camp Williams or can be found ahead of time at vendors such
as https://keeneeng.com/.
1.6.4 Fort Tejon State Historical Park
Fort Tejon was established by the U.S. Army on August 10,
1854 to protect and control Native Americans living on the
Sebastian Indian Reservation as well as protect white
settlers from raids by the Paiutes, Chemehuevi, Mojave,
and other tribes from the desert to the Southeast. The fort
was later abandoned ten years later on September 11,
1864 at the height of the Civil War. Highlights of its history
include that it served as a testbed for the use of camels in
the cavalry.
The historical park features restored adobe buildings to include the
enlisted barracks, officer’s quarters, parade ground, blacksmith,
carpenters shop, stables, and other fort structures. Group campsites are
available a short walk from the fort and your camping fees gain you access
to all of the living history demonstrations. Be sure to book your unit’s
reservation during the first weekend of the month so that your Scouts can
view and participate in the living history demonstrations. The Fort facilities
open at 9 AM and the demonstrations begin at 10 AM. Scouts can view
artillery and drill exhibitions, meet and work with the blacksmith, talk with
the soldiers, visit the carpenter, laborers, cooks, shop keepers, and other
reenactors. Additional information regarding Fort Tejon’s activities, costs,
directions, and reservations can be found
at: http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=585
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1.6.5 USS Iowa
The USS Iowa was commissioned on February 22,
1943 and served as the lead ship in her battleship
class. She served in the Atlantic and Pacific
campaigns in World War II as well as the Korean War.
She was finally decommissioned on October 26th,
1990 and moved to the Port of Los Angeles, San
Pedro in 2012. At the time of her commission, she
possessed (9) sixteen inch guns, (20) five inch guns,
(80) 40mm anti-aircraft guns, and a wealth of supporting
firepower. She accepted the Japanese surrender in Tokyo Bay at
the end of World War II and was awarded 14 different
decorations during her service.
Scouting units can take a step back in time and live the life of a
battleship sailor. Scouts will get a taste of what it was like to crew
the ship by sleeping overnight in the USS Iowa’s bunks, tour the
ship, and perform tasks common to the sailors. Additional information regarding the USS Iowa’s
activities, costs, directions, and reservations can be found
at: http://www.pacificbattleship.com/
1.6.6 USS Midway
The USS Midway was commissioned on September 10,
1945 at the end of World War II and participated in the
Vietnam War and the Liberation of Kuwait (Operation
Desert Storm). The carrier could accommodate up to
130 aircraft during World War II
Scouting units become a member of one of the ship’s
squadrons and live the life of a sailor during their stay.
Scouts sleep overnight in the USS Midway’s bunks, eat
in the galley, get an exclusive behind the chains tour of
the ship, explore the extensive museum exhibits, and
fly in a flight simulator. For a unique experience,
consider taking AMTRAK to the Santa Fe Depot
conveniently located just a few blocks from the USS
Midway. Additional information regarding the USS
Midway’s activities, costs, directions, and reservations
can be found at: http://www.midway.org/
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1.7 STEM and Traditional Camping
1.7.1 Palomar Observatory
The Palomar Observatory
campground is set in a
magnificent wilderness in
Cleveland National Forest which
offers units an opportunity to
hike and reinforce their Scout
skills. The draw to this
campground though is that it is
located a short 2.4 miles from
the Hale Palomar Observatory. The Observatory and campground offer numerous opportunities
to view the stars at amateur astronomy events called Star Parties. Additional information about
the astronomy activities, fees, directions, and reservations may be found at:
http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/cleveland/recreation/recarea/?recid=47560&actid=29
http://www.astro.caltech.edu/palomar/homepage.html
1.7.2 Buttonwillow Raceway
Buttonwillow Raceway Park is one of the premiere road
racing and testing facilities in The United States. The
track’s versatility has made it popular among club racers,
track day clubs, motorcycle racers, professional race
teams, car manufactures, tire companies, publishers and
media outlets, commercial production companies, and go
karters. Cal Club, a member of the Sports Car Club of
America, owns and operates the raceway and allows units
to camp at the track. Participating units can meet with the
drivers, help the pit crews work on the race cars, watch
the races, raise and lower the American flag, ride in the pace car, learn about auto mechanics
and maintenance, and assist in presenting the awards to the winners. Feel your adrenaline rise
as you watch the cars whip by at speeds exceeding 100 mph. If you are looking for a different
camping experience and want to find out more about the activities, directions, camping, and
reservations visit: http://buttonwillowraceway.com/
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1.7.3 Caspers Wilderness Park
Caspers Wilderness Park features 8,000 acres of
protected wilderness preserve of the western coastal
Santa Ana Mountains. The park contains various river
terraces, sandstone canyons, groves of native Coastal
Live Oak, and magnificent stands of California Sycamore.
The hills sprout scores of seasonal wildflowers and
running streams that can be observed from the park’s
numerous trails. This camp is great for reinforcing your
Scout skills and observing nature. Wildlife is abundant
and can be readily viewed from any of the parks
numerous trails. Additional information regarding
Casper’s activities, costs, directions, and reservations can be found
at: http://ocparks.com/parks/ronald/
1.7.4 Featherly Regional Park
Featherly Regional Park is located in Orange Country and offers
units an opportunity to reinforce their camping and Scouting skills.
Most of the park is wilderness area not open to the public except
for viewing from the bikeway that runs adjacent to the park. The
only developed portion of the park is Canyon R.V. Park which
offers campsites and the use of an amphitheater to units. The
draw of this camp is that it offers a fully staffed climbing wall and
zip line. Additional information regarding fees, directions,
reservations, and climbing wall/zip line can be found
at: http://ocparks.com/parks/featherly
and http://www.canyonrvpark.com/groups/
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1.8 International Camping
1.8.1 International Camporee
The Scouts de Mexico and Boy Scouts of America partner to
hold an International Camporee every spring. The camporee
location rotates between Mexico and the United States each
year and features traditional camporee type competitions
between patrols. Spirit is very much on display when the
patrols shout their name and perform their patrol call. The
competitions are followed by either a campfire program (in
the USA) or a dance (in Mexico).
Friendship and fellowship are the best part about this camporee! Scouts wander between the
campsites making friends, sharing food, trading neckerchiefs, playing games, and trading
contact information. Going to these events is like going to visit with family. The USA Camporee
is held at Mataguay Scout Reservation and the Mexico Camporee is held at a rancho in Tecate,
Mexico. If you had to choose though, we recommend you attend the Camporee in Tecate,
Mexico. Scouts must have a valid passport, BSA Activity Consent Form (19-67), and current Part
A, B, and C Medical Form to travel to Mexico. Additional information regarding activities, fees,
directions, and reservations can be found at: http://longbeachbsa.org/youthprograms/international-scouting and http://international.sdicbsa.org/
1.8.2 Balseada
The Scouts de Mexico hold a Balseada (rafting)
competition each fall in Ensenada, Mexico. Similar to
a camporee, the morning involves water based patrol
style competitions. After lunch, the Scouts assemble
the rafts they have made and bring them down to
the beach for the rafting race. The rafts are
constructed using floats (e.g. inner tubes) and a
frame (e.g. poles lashed together). The teams then
race their rafts to the ocean and paddle furiously out and around the buoys. Each raft is
different and left up to the creativity of the Scouts. The only rules are that you cannot use nails,
bolts, or screws to hold the frame together. After dinner, all of the Scouts gather for a bonfire
and costume dance party. Similar to the International Camporee, the Scouts wander between
the campsites making friends, sharing food, trading neckerchiefs, playing games, and trading
contact information. Scouts must have a valid passport, BSA Activity Consent Form (19-67), and
current Part A, B, and C Medical Form to travel to Mexico. Additional information regarding
activities, fees, directions, and reservations can be found at: http://longbeachbsa.org/youthprograms/international-scouting and http://international.sdicbsa.org/
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2.0 Long Term/Summer Camps
2.1 Camp Tahquitz, Will J Reid Scout Reservation
Camp Tahquitz opened in 1959 and sits on one square mile (640 acres) of
pristine forestland in the Angelus Oaks area of the San Bernardino
Mountains along Highway 38. The camp offers an excellent outdoor
adventure program amidst rolling meadows and thick forests of cedars,
oaks, and pines at an altitude of 6,500 feet. Rich in history, many of the
cabins and buildings date back to the 1800s and are used by the staff in
delivering the camp program. The noteworthy program includes:
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Climbing and rappelling from a 60 foot tower complemented with
a low and high COPE course
Scout skills and craft program led by passionate and talented
craftsmen
Shooting sports with some of the finest instructors in Southern CA
A hands-on nature program at a location with abundant wildlife
Extensive wrangler program with miles of riding trails
Camp Tahquitz is located along the edge of the San Gorgonio Wilderness Area and is an
excellent jump off spot for day hikes and backpack outings to include the highest point in
Southern California, Mt. San Gorgonio.
What makes this camp truly special though, is the Tribe of Tahquitz. The
Tribe of Tahquitz is LBAC’s honor Scouting society and was founded in 1925
at the original Camp Tahquitz located in Idyllwild, CA. The mission of the
Tribe of Tahquitz is to promote the high standards of Scouting, encourage
service through example, and encourage the study and sustainment of Native
American traditions, legends, and lore. The Tribe of Tahquitz is one of only
two local honor societies left within the entire Boy Scouts of America. Their
knowledge of Native American dance, singing, and crafts are unparalleled
and on full display at their campfires and Indian Lore programs.
Camp Tahquitz is available for summer camp and weekend campouts throughout the year. It is
particularly prized for the winter camping experience. Additional information regarding Camp
Tahquitz activities, costs, directions, and reservations can be found
at: http://longbeachbsa.org/camp-properties/tahquitz
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2.2 Camp Chawanakee
Camp Chawanakee opened in 1947 following a grant from
the federal government and Southern California Edison
Power Company. Located on Shaver Lake, the camp offers
nine summer camp sessions. Camp Chawanakee can
accommodate over 500 Scouts/Scouters weekly at 23
campsites.
Camp Chawanakee offers a tremendous waterfront
program, wrangler package, shooting sports, nature, Scout
skills, crafts, and outdoor program. The camp’s 52’
climbing tower and COPE courses are sure to challenge your Scouts and their overnight and
backcountry adventure outings appeal to Scouts of all ages. What makes this camp special is its
location on Shaver Lake in the Sierra National Forest. Additional information regarding Camp
Chawanakee’s activities, costs, directions, and reservations can be found at:
http://www.seqbsa.org/camp%20chawanakee.htm
2.3 Camp Cherry Valley
Camp Cherry Valley dates back to the 1920’s and is one of
two Boy Scout summer camps located on Santa Catalina
Island. Camp Cherry Valley is located on a picturesque cove
on the leeward side of the island at the entrance to Cherry
Valley. The cove’s location makes it an ideal spot to swim
and participate in boating activities in calm waters. The
waterfront offers a clean sandy beach and clear blue
waters.
Camp Cherry Valley’s program offers an incredible waterfront program to include world-class
snorkeling, SCUBA diving, canoeing, rowing, kayaking sailing and swimming. Their sea lab
includes a touch tank that allows Scouts to learn about local marine live. This ocean-based
program offers war canoe races and a variety of water competitions. Their water program’s are
complemented by traditional nature, Scout skills, and outdoor activities to include touring a
silver mine and hikes over mountainous terrain. If the cost seems daunting, consider contacting
Cherry Valley to see if they will lower the cost if you provide your own transportation. Long
Beach’s Sea Scout Ships can frequently transport your troop to and from camp at a significantly
lower price. Plus, you’ll have the unique experience of navigating to/from Catalina Island with
your fellow Sea Scouts. Additional information regarding Camp Cherry Valley’s activities, costs,
directions, and reservations can be found
at: http://www.sgvcbsa.org/programs/camping/camp-cherry-valley
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2.4 Camp Emerald Bay
Camp Emerald Bay was founded in 1925 and is located
at the former Johnson’s Landing on Santa Catalina
Island. The clear water, secluded beaches and hidden
coves surrounding the camp offer world-renowned
snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Camp Emerald Bay’s program is centered around an
incredible waterfront program to include SCUBA
diving, snorkeling, sailing, canoeing, kayaking,
swimming, and lifesaving. The camp staff embraces
the area’s historical connection to the Tongva and
Chumash Native American Tribes, Spanish explorers, and 19th Century pirates. Attending
troops will take a step back in time where adventure is an integral part of the camp and merit
badge activities. Camp Emerald Bay also offers a strong nature, Scout skills, and outdoor merit
badge program. What makes this camp fun though is that Scouts will unexpectedly encounter
deer, protected Catalina Island Fox, and Bison wandering through the camp. If the cost seems
daunting, consider contacting Emerald Bay to see if they will lower the cost if you provide your
own transportation. Long Beach’s Sea Scout Ships can frequently transport your troop to and
from camp at a significantly lower price. Plus, you’ll have the unique experience of navigating
to/from Catalina Island with your fellow Sea Scouts. Additional information regarding Camp
Emerald Bay’s activities, costs, directions, and reservations can be found
at: http://www.campemeraldbay.org/
2.5 Camp Emerson
Camp Emerson is the oldest continuously operated
Boy Scout Camp in the Western United States and is
located in the San Jacinto Range of the San
Bernardino Mountains at over 5,000’ elevation.
Founded almost 100 years ago, the pink and purple
haze sunsets on majestic Tahquitz Peak have inspired
Scouts for generations.
Camp Emerson offers an extremely strong outdoor
program where Scout can reinforce their skills,
knowledge of nature and wildlife, shooting sports, and crafts. They offer a number of merit
badges that cannot be found anywhere else. As a unique selling point, they offer a Science,
Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) program which appeals to many of our Scouts and is
rare to summer camps. Additional information regarding Camp Emerson’s activities, costs,
directions, and reservations can be found at:
http://www.bsa-ciec.org/openrosters/view_homepage.aspx?orgkey=1907
http://www.bosekerscoutreservation.org/camp-emerson.html
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2.6 Camp John Mensinger
Camp John Mensinger opened in 1976 and is located in the
Stanislaus National Forest in the vicinity of Yosemite National
Park. This 168 acre wilderness camp is located at 4,800 feet
and was donated by the Pickering Lumber Corporation in
1969. This camp is rich in logging and railroad history and
includes the Soap Creek Logging Camp. Camp John Mensinger
features ~ 15 buildings from the original logging camp which
are incorporated into their program. It’s remote location and
proximity to Yosemite make it ideal for high adventure trips
into the backcountry.
As could be expected, Camp John Mensinger offers a tremendous nature, Scout
skills, and outdoor program. The camp offers over 60 merit badges, many of
which cannot be found at other summer camps and are oriented on traditional
crafts and skills common to the late 1800s. The camp offers shooting sports,
climbing, nature, and aquatics activities led by a motivated staff. The cost for this
summer camp is EXTREMELY competitive to compared to other California
summer camps. Are you ready to channel your inner lumberjack? If so,
additional information regarding Camp Mensinger’s activities, costs, directions,
and reservations can be found at:
http://www.yosemitescouting.org/camping/camp-john-mensinger/51466
2.7 Camp Kern
Camp Kern is located in the western Sierra
Nevadas at 7,200’ elevation on Huntington
Lake. This high altitude camp is located
amongst steep fir-covered hillsides. This
wilderness summer camp offers campsites
with teepees and a high adventure program
with a mountain bike course, rock climbing
wall, black powder shooting, tomahawk
throwing, and backcountry hiking and backpacking programs.
Camp Kern offers traditional Scout skills, crafts, aquatics, shooting sports, and nature programs.
Their overnight backpacking and canoe or kayaking trips to Mirimichi are especially appealing to
Scouts. Scouts cross Huntington Lake and stay in teepees. Additional information regarding
Camp Kern’s activities, costs, directions, and reservations can be found at:
http://www.sscbsa.org/CampKern/
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2.8 Camp Silver Fur
Looking for something more adventurous for your unit?
Consider booking your summer camp at Camp Silver Fur
which you can use as a jump off point for a long-term
high adventure trek into the adjacent Dinkey Lakes
Wilderness of the Western Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Located at 7,200’ elevation, the camp is located in the
middle of luscious pine and fir trees surrounded by
mountain streams.
Camp Silver Fur does not offer a camp program or weekly sessions. Rather units plan their own
outings/program and arrive and depart according to their own schedule. Its proximity to the
Sierra Nevada’s make it ideal for acclimatizing to the altitude and conducting final pack checks
before you step off on your wilderness adventure. Additional information regarding Camp Silver
Fur’s costs, directions, and reservations can be found at:
http://vhcbsa.org/camping/camp-silver-fir-2/
2.9 Camp Three Falls
Founded in 1933, Camp Three Falls is located at
5,400’ elevation in the Los Padres National Forest.
Its location offers excellent views of the surrounding
mountains, pine forests, dramatic rock formations,
and sagebrush prairies. The camp serves as an
excellent starting point for backcountry hikes and
backpacking trips through the national forest to the
Pinnacles and three falls near the camp.
What makes this camp noteworthy though is its
Program. Camp Three Falls is the ultimate summer
camp for units looking to embrace the frontier
spirit. The camp features an authentic log fort, Fort
Lockwood which is the center piece of their hands-on craft and Scout skills program. Scouts can
take a step back in history and experience life as it was in earlier times, from the days of the
Chumash, through the era of Spanish explorers and ranchers, to American soldiers, miners, and
homesteaders. The camp features a challenging 57’ climbing tower as well as blacksmithing,
metal working, black powder shooting (and all shooting sports), and a host of unique merit
badges in a rustic atmosphere. This is one of the only camps in Southern California to offer
Scouts the opportunity to earn NRA shooting medals. Additional information regarding Camp
Three Fall’s activities, costs, directions, and reservations can be found at:
http://www.vccbsa.org/Camping/Camp%20Three%20Falls/Summer%20Camp
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2.10 Camp Whitsett
Camp Whitsett is located in the Sequoia National
Forest at an elevation of 4,300’ and was featured in
the TV Program “Are you Tougher Than a Boy
Scout?”. Founded in 1947, this wilderness camp
offers a unique and extensive high adventure
program that specializes in mountain biking,
climbing and rappelling, low and high COPE,
shooting sports, whitewater rafting, and horse and
packing expeditions. This camp is ideal for older
Scouts looking to challenge themselves and serves
as an excellent jump off spot for backcountry trips
into the Sierra Nevada’s.
Camp Whisett boasts its own lake, Lake Ida and
offers a traditional waterfront program featuring
swimming and boating merit badges. What makes
this camp unique is that it is one of the only
summer camps in Southern California that offers
both mountain biking and whitewater rafting.
Additional information regarding Camp Whitsett’s
activities, costs, directions, and reservations can be
found at: http://www.campwhitsett.org/
2.11 Fiesta Island - Youth Aquatics Center
The Youth Aquatics Center is based on Fiesta Island in a
protected cove in the heart of Mission Bay, San Diego. This
summer camp is oriented towards Scouts looking for a unique
waterfront experience. The Youth Aquatics Center offers
swimming, snorkeling, lifesaving, sailing, canoeing, kayaking,
rowing, motor boating, water skiing, windsurfing, and paddle
boarding taught by a highly experienced staff. The facility is
surrounded by sandy bay front beaches with access to the
Pacific Ocean.
The Youth Aquatics Center features a number of STEM oriented
hands-on programs at their marine biology laboratories, touch
tanks, and shark and sting ray tanks. Scouts will gain valuable skills and knowledge associated
with marine biology, oceanography, and water/resource conservation all while having fun.
Additional information regarding the Youth Aquatics Center activities, costs, directions, and
reservations at Fiesta Island can be found at: http://camping.sdicbsa.org/YAC/
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2.12 Forest Lawn Scout Reservation
Forest Lawn Scout Reservation is composed of three
camps consisting of over 2,000 acres of land in the
San Bernardino Mountains near Lake Arrowhead. The
primary Scout summer camp is the Circle X Ranch at
Big Horn. Opened in 1950, this camp is located at
5,300’ altitude and features a quality shooting sports,
nature, Scout skills, crafts, wrangler, climbing,
aquatics, and outdoor program.
This camp offers a substantial number of merit
badges and appeals to Scouts of all interests. Forest Lawn Scout Reservation is ideal for a unit
looking to get back to the basics. Additional information regarding the Forest Lawn Scout
Reservation’s activities, costs, directions, and reservations can be found
at: http://www.flsrlaac.org/
2.13 Holcomb Valley Scout Reservation
Holcomb Valley Scout Reservation is located in the San
Bernardino Mountains at 7500' altitude near Big Bear
Lake. This rustic ranch-style summer camp has been
featured in a number of television programs and
movies and is known for its cattle and wrangler
programs. Many of the original ranch buildings from
the turn of the century still exist and are incorporated
into the camp’s program to include the ranch house
and barn.
Camp Holcomb Valley incorporates its ranching and prospecting history into the summer camp
program and Scouts feel like they’ve stepped back in time. The camp offers traditional nature,
Scout skills, crafts, shooting sports, wrangler, climbing, aquatics, and outdoor activities amidst a
sub-alpine forest setting. Additional information regarding the Holcomb Valley Scout
Reservation’s activities, costs, directions, and reservations can be found at:
http://www.sgvcbsa.org/programs/camping/holcomb-valley-scout-reservation
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2.14 Lost Valley, Schoepe Scout Reservation
The Schoepe Scout Reservation at Lost Valley is a rustic
wilderness camp located adjacent to Cleveland National Forest
the Anza Borrego Desert State Park. Attending Scouts travel an
eleven mile dirt road to get to the camp which features high
desert forests of oaks, pines and chaparral. Lost Valley is found
at 4,600’ altitude and its facilities include (2) full-size swimming
pools, a seasonal lake, shooting sports ranges, wrangler
facilities, an observatory, nature and craft centers, a 65’ natural
rock climbing wall, and low and high COPE courses.
The Lost Valley program offers a variety of merit badges that appeal to Scouts of all interests
and ages. Scouts can test themselves on the climbing wall, take a leisurely horse ride with the
wrangler program, mountain bike through the rolling hills. The camp also offers traditional
nature, Scout skills, crafts, shooting sports, aquatics, and outdoor activities. Additional
information regarding the Schoepe Scout Reservation’s activities, costs, directions, and
reservations can be found at: http://www.ssrlv.org/
2.15 Mataguay Scout Reservation
Mataguay Scout reservation consists of over 840 acres of
summer camp fun. The camp offers an extensive wrangler
program for those Scouts looking to earn a merit badge or
explore the surrounding wilderness. Mataguay offers
extensive hiking trails for the beginning and experienced
day hikers and backpackers as well as other adventurous
program activities to include climbing, rappelling, COPE,
and geocaching activities.
The camp program offers mountain boarding as well as
nature, Scout skills, crafts, shooting sports, aquatics, and
outdoor activities. What makes this camp unique though is
that it offers glider flights and instruction to attending
Scouts. Additional information regarding the Mataguay
Scout Ranch’s activities, costs, directions, and reservations
can be found at: http://camping.sdicbsa.org/MSR/
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3.0 Forms, Policies and Permits
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Forest Adventure Passes may be obtained at U.S. Forest Visitor Centers , most commercial
sport and adventure stores (e.g. Big 5) and
at:
http://www.fs.usda.gov/main/sbnf/passes-permits/recreation
Campfire permits may be obtained at http://www.preventwildfireca.org/Campfires/
Wilderness permits for the San Gorgonio Wilderness may be obtained
here: http://www.sgwa.org/
Wilderness permits for the San Jacinto Wilderness may be obtained
here: http://www.fsva.org/pdf/Wilderness%20Permit%20App%20MSJW.pdf
Wilderness permits for Cleveland National Forest may be obtained
here: http://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/cleveland/passespermits/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5228226&width=full
•
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Wilderness permits for most wilderness areas can also be picked up at the local ranger
station. More information about designed wilderness areas may be found
at: http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sbnf/passes-permits/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5421918
LBAC’s high adventure program is can be found
http://longbeachbsa.org/activities/high-adventure
here:
Remember to always abide by the Outdoor Code:
As an American, I will do my best to Be clean in my outdoor manners.
Be careful with fire.
Be considerate in the outdoors.
Be conservation minded.
The 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
Reminders:
• Units must file a Tour Plan for all camping trips outside of the LBAC’s boundaries
• Units should review the Guide to Safe Scouting prior to engaging in their camping trips
and maintain a copy with them on the
outing: http://www.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/34416.pdf
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•
Units should be familiar with the BSA’s Wilderness Use
Policy: http://www.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/20-121.pdf
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