Troop Camp and Group Encampments
Camping and the out-of-doors has been the bedrock of the Girl Scout program since it’s founding in 1912. We understand that it satisfies a girl’s sense of wonderment and curiosity, a deep sense of connection to the natural world, and skill-building opportunities in a cooperative and friend-filled learning environment.
GSWPA offers our girls the opportunity to camp year-round on weekends and even during the weekday when school isn’t in session (summer, spring/winter breaks, etc.) with their troop or with all or several troops in their area.
Troop camping trips and group encampments are planned by girls in partnership with adult volunteers. Our council offers training and resources for volunteers to ensure a safe and memorable experience in the out-of-doors. Parents, with a deep appreciation and love of the outdoors may wish to take the training and become the Girl Scout volunteer in their girl’s troop or service unit. Today’s busy Girl Scout leader will thank you for sharing your time and interest!
Groups reserve their own site, organize their transportation, decide and plan their own meals and activities set their own fees based on these expenses. Other user groups can also reserve a camp site when facilities aren’t being used by Girl Scout troops or groups. E-mail us at camp@gswpa.org for more information.
For many kids today, exploring nature and time in the outdoors has been replaced by time in front of a computer or television screen; unstructured play has been replaced by organized events run by adults; the art of daydreaming has been replaced by a non-stop schedule. Author Richard Louv, who writes about this in his book Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder, believes that the result is a younger generation that is less active and children who may have a tougher time understanding why they should care about conservation.
