I can see my house from here...almost!

Watch the video above to see how a basic tripod can become much more than an object from which to hang pots over a fire.  Then check out your Handbook to brush up on square, Japanese square. diagonal and shear lashings as well as the square knot, clove hitch, and timber hitch.  Now study up and go get your Pioneering merit badge!  Remember that if you need it and don't have it you can always build it. 

The lesser-known doctrine of Scouting.

There are many components of the Scouting doctrine: The Motto, Slogan, Oath and Law all come easily to mind.  These help us to remember how to best conduct ourselves as Scouts and are a reflection of the values of Scouting to the community in which we live.  It is interesting to note, however, that none of these deal specifically with how to behave while hiking, camping or while on an outing.  This is especially odd considering that a good amount of time in Scouting is spent doing outdoor activities.  Thankfully though, we have the Outdoor Code to remind us all how we can help maintain and preserve the special environments and natural spaces in which we practice our Scouting skills.  Take this opportunity to familiarize (or reacquaint) yourself with the Outdoor Code and think about how you can make the outdoors better through good stewardship of the natural resources and consideration for the person that follows you on the trail.

The future before you.

Take time to remember and savor this moment!  Remember the Scouts and friends who camped with you and helped with your service project.  Certainly do not forget your family that has supported you throughout your Scouting adventures, as numerous as they have been over the years.  The community in which the Troop exists has also made your progress in Scouting possible by supporting the Troop directly through its charter and through donations of time, space and materials for various projects, activities and fundraisers.  Also reflect fondly on all of your memories that were made possible by volunteers in your Troop, from the Troop Committee to the Scoutmaster.  Finally, remember the Eagle Scouts, for you are now part of a brotherhood that shares the same values, training and hopeful focus for the future.  In the Centennial Year of the Eagle Scout award remember the path that has been laid before you.  Now aren't you glad that you are prepared?  Keep your eyes keenly fixed on the road ahead, but do not forget this moment.

Congratulations Nathan from everybody in Troop 1!

Knowledge: The original multitool.

There are many things to consider when you are taking stock of your camping equipment or making a holiday wish list: Titanium tent stakes, high tech stoves, ultralight air mattresses or sleeping pads, backpacks with more features than a luxury car, new boots, compact water filters and much more.  There are many ways to improve your comfort on the trail or simplify regular camping tasks with additions of new equipment but don't forget the most important thing, knowledge!  Keep your skills sharp and be prepared.  Knowledge does not add any weight to your load and is the original multitool.

Getting it tied without having fits.

Setting up camp is difficult if you don't have a good array of hitches at your disposal.  To help you develop your rope skills check out these two excellent hitches.  The elder Siberian hitch is very useful for setting a ridge line and can be easily set at awkward angles or while wearing gloves.  The modern Farrimond friction hitch is another easily tied "slipped-hitch" that is reminiscent of a Prusik knot or Lark's Head/Cow Hitch.  Study the diagrams and videos then practice these two hitches until you can tie them with your eyes closed so that you can have the best chance of securing your shelter and camp with the least amount of frustration.

Tent designs: Staked or freestanding?

Shelters are important when camping for obvious reasons.  Unfortunately, when trying to find a good value on a tent many people overlook a basic tent design feature; whether it requires staking or is "free standing."  A staked tent requires staking (and usually guy lines) as the primary support for the tent whereas a freestanding tent does not.  Some tent models, such as the MSR Fling tent (picture at left), allow for both pitching options and will have different packed weights depending on the configuration.  Overall, your choice of tent design should depend upon your terrain and weather more than anything else.  If you remember to try to anticipate where and when you will be camping you will also give yourself the best chance of not waking up in a collapsed, flooded or destroyed shelter!

How to avoid becoming a popsicle!

Camping is enjoyable.  Freezing, on the other hand, is not!  When you are sleeping your body can lose heat in a variety of ways.  Read through these basic gear guides on sleeping pads, sleeping bags, and bivys to learn more about the interchangeable parts of a basic sleep system so that you can be prepared for inclement weather and give yourself the best chance of comfort while sleeping on the trail.  After all, a good night's rest makes for a good day's hike!