Nestled in the scenic woodlands of Milburn, Oklahoma, Camp Simpson BSA stands as a beacon of adventure and learning in the Arbuckle region. Known for its stunning natural landscapes and proximity to notable landmarks like the Arbuckle Mountains and the Blue River, this camp offers a unique backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities and educational experiences.

Founded with the purpose of nurturing young minds and bodies, Camp Simpson has a long-standing tradition of fostering leadership, teamwork, and self-reliance among its campers. Their mission is to provide a safe and dynamic environment where boys and young men can explore the great outdoors while learning valuable skills that will aid them throughout their lives.

As a Boy Scouts of America affiliated camp, Camp Simpson is designed specifically for boys and caters to various age groups, from Cub Scouts to high school-aged Scouts. Their programs are tailored to challenge and excite young adventurers at every level of their scouting journey, ensuring that each camper leaves with not just memories, but also skills and friendships that last a lifetime.

Join us at Camp Simpson BSA for an unforgettable summer of exploration, learning, and growth.

Programs Offered by Camp Simpson BSA

Camp Simpson BSA offers a variety of programs designed to cater to the interests and development of young scouts. Whether your child is looking for a one-week adventure or a full summer of growth and learning, they have options that fit.

Description of Programs

Their camp sessions typically run in one-week increments, allowing scouts to immerse themselves in the full camp experience, from sunrise to sunset. Scouts can also opt for specialty two-week sessions that delve deeper into specific skills or themes.

Length of Sessions

Regular Sessions: One week
Extended Specialty Sessions: Two weeks
Full Summer Option: Scouts with a profound interest in personal development and outdoor skills can join us for the entire summer, rotating through different specialties.

Specialty Programs

Arts: Camp Simpson’s arts program includes woodworking, leather crafting, and pottery, all taught in their well-equipped craft center.
Sports: They focus on traditional scouting activities like archery, swimming, and hiking, along with team sports and water sports on nearby lakes.
Science: Their science programs encourage environmental stewardship and outdoor survival skills, including orienteering and wildlife study.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:00 AM: Wake up and personal time
7:45 AM: Flag ceremony
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Morning program sessions (rotating through selected activities)
12:15 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Siesta (rest period, free time, or light activities)
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Afternoon program sessions
5:30 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfires, night hikes, special guest presentations)
9:00 PM: Return to campsites
10:00 PM: Lights out

Camp Simpson BSA is dedicated to providing a structured, engaging, and fun environment where scouts can learn new skills, make lasting friendships, and develop into confident and capable young men.

Accommodations in Camp Simpson BSA

Camp Simpson BSA offers well-planned and comfortable accommodations designed to enhance the camping experience while ensuring safety and convenience for all scouts and leaders.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their cabin accommodations provide a secure and communal living experience, housing 8-12 scouts each. Equipped with bunk beds and storage space, cabins are clustered in designated camp areas with easy access to central facilities.
Tents: For those seeking a more traditional camping experience, they provide tent sites where scouts pitch their tents in small groups. Each tent site has a fire pit and seating area for evening activities and cooking.
Dorms: Available primarily for older scouts and leaders, their dormitory facilities offer individual beds in a shared, larger building, providing comfort and a bit more privacy.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Simpson operates a central dining hall where all meals are served buffet-style. The meal plan is included in the camping fees, and they ensure that each meal is balanced, nutritious, and energizing for active scouts.
Dietary Accommodations: They cater to various dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Parents are encouraged to communicate specific dietary requirements during registration to ensure they can accommodate all their campers adequately.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathrooms: Strategically located throughout the camp, their bathroom facilities are maintained with the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene. Each bathroom unit is equipped with flush toilets and sinks.
Showers: Separate shower facilities are available near the sleeping quarters. Showers are partitioned for privacy and offer both hot and cold water options.

At Camp Simpson BSA, they prioritize a comfortable and accommodating environment that allows scouts to focus on their growth and enjoyment without the inconveniences that often come with outdoor experiences. Their facilities are designed to be environmentally friendly and respectful of their beautiful natural surroundings.

Activities in Camp Simpson BSA

Camp Simpson BSA is bustling with activities that cater to a wide range of interests and skill levels. Here’s a breakdown of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Enjoy their lake and pool facilities, offering both instructional swimming and free swim times.
Hiking: Summer camps, explore the trails around the Arbuckle Mountains, ranging from leisurely walks to challenging hikes.
Crafts: Engage in various crafting activities such as leatherworking, pottery, and woodcarving.
Archery and Shooting Sports: Learn precision and patience through archery and other shooting activities under careful supervision.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Paddle in the serene waters of nearby lakes and rivers.
Climbing: Test your limits with their climbing walls and ropes courses designed for various skill levels.
Fishing: Relax and fish in the well-stocked waters around the camp.
Environmental Education: Participate in nature studies and conservation projects.
Scoutcraft Skills: Develop traditional scouting skills such as fire building, knot tying, and orienteering.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfires: Regular campfire programs featuring storytelling, skits, and songs are a highlight for many scouts.
Color Wars: Campers participate in a variety of team-based competitions, fostering spirit and camaraderie.
End-of-Summer Gala: Celebrate the achievements of the summer with a gala that showcases the skills and crafts developed by scouts.

Skill Development Opportunities

Merit Badge Workshops: Scouts can earn merit badges in areas like environmental science, emergency preparedness, and survival skills.
Leadership Training: Older scouts can participate in leadership development programs, which are crucial for their growth within the scouting community.
Advanced Outdoor Skills: Special sessions for wilderness survival, advanced first aid, and high-adventure trek planning are offered for more experienced scouts.

At Camp Simpson BSA, they ensure that every scout has the opportunity to try new activities, develop their skills, and, most importantly, have fun in a safe and supportive outdoor environment. Their diverse range of activities and special events are designed to promote personal growth, team-building, and a deep appreciation for nature.

The staff of Camp Simpson BSA

At Camp Simpson BSA, they take pride in their dedicated and highly qualified staff who play a crucial role in ensuring a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers. Here’s an overview of their staffing details, including the staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, qualifications, and training programs.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Staffing: They maintain a staff-to-camper ratio of 1:8, ensuring that each camper receives personalized attention and guidance.
Specialized Activities: For activities requiring specific skills or safety measures, such as swimming and climbing, the ratio is adjusted to 1:5 to provide enhanced supervision and support.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Their staff are typically recruited from a pool of former campers, experienced educators, and outdoor enthusiasts who have a passion for youth development and the outdoors.
Background Checks: All potential staff members undergo rigorous background checks, including criminal history and references, to ensure the safety and well-being of their campers.
Qualifications: They look for candidates who have experience in youth programs, education, or specific activity areas. Many of their staff members are college students or graduates in fields related to education, environmental science, or recreation.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: All staff undergo a comprehensive pre-camp training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child behavior management, and activity-specific safety protocols.
CPR and First Aid: Every staff member is required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training in AED use and handling of specific medical conditions is also provided.
Specialized Certifications: Depending on their roles, staff members may also hold certifications in areas such as lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, archery instruction, and climbing safety.

Continuous Professional Development

Ongoing Training: Throughout the camping season, staff participate in ongoing training sessions to refine their skills and adapt to any new camping standards or practices.
Feedback and Evaluation: Regular feedback sessions and performance evaluations help staff to continuously improve their performance and ensure high standards of camper care and program delivery.

At Camp Simpson BSA, their staff are more than just supervisors; they are role models, educators, and caretakers. They are instrumental in crafting a camp environment that is both enriching and safe, allowing campers to explore, learn, and grow with confidence.

Safety and Health in Camp Simpson BSA

Safety and health are paramount at Camp Simpson BSA, where they maintain rigorous standards and protocols to ensure the well-being of every camper and staff member. Here’s a detailed look at their safety protocols, health facilities, and emergency handling policies:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Safety Drills: They conduct regular drills for fire, weather emergencies, and other potential incidents to ensure that both campers and staff are well-prepared in case of an emergency.
Activity-Specific Protocols: Each activity offered at the camp has its own set of safety guidelines, which are strictly followed. Equipment is regularly inspected, and safety gear must be worn for certain activities like climbing and archery.
Secure Environment: The camp is monitored with appropriate security measures to ensure a safe environment. Staff and campers are educated on maintaining personal safety and respecting each other’s boundaries.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Simpson BSA is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and paramedics. The health center is operational 24/7 during camp sessions.
Medical Equipment and Supplies: The health center is stocked with necessary medical supplies and equipment to address a range of health issues, from minor injuries to more urgent medical conditions.
Partnerships with Local Hospitals: For more serious injuries or illnesses, the camp maintains partnerships with local hospitals to ensure quick transportation and high-quality care.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Immediate Response: In case of an emergency, their trained staff initiate an immediate response protocol which includes stabilizing the camper, providing necessary first aid, and alerting their on-site health professionals.
Emergency Contact and Communication: Parents are immediately notified in the event of an emergency involving their child. They maintain clear lines of communication at all times.
Evacuation Procedures: The camp has well-defined evacuation routes and procedures in place, which are communicated to all staff and campers at the beginning of the camp session and practiced during drills.

Continuous Training and Awareness

Staff Training: All staff members receive training in first aid, CPR, and emergency response procedures. They are also trained to identify potential hazards and prevent accidents before they occur.
Camper Education: Campers are educated on the importance of safety in daily activities and are encouraged to communicate any health or safety concerns to their counselors or any staff member.

The safety and health measures at Camp Simpson BSA are designed to create a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities without worry. Through comprehensive planning, regular training, and vigilant monitoring, they uphold the highest standards of safety and care for all participants.

Cost and Registration in Camp Simpson BSA

Understanding the financial aspects and registration process is crucial for families planning to join Camp Simpson BSA. Below, they provide details about the cost of attendance, what it includes, the registration process, payment options, and financial aid opportunities.

Cost of Attendance

Standard Fee: The cost of attending Camp Simpson BSA varies depending on the session length and type of program. A typical one-week session is priced at approximately $400. This fee includes all meals, lodging, activities, and program materials.
What’s Included: The fee covers full participation in camp activities, meals, accommodation, basic medical care, and camp merchandise such as a T-shirt and a cap.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Registration is primarily conducted online through their camps. Families can access the registration form, fill it out with the necessary details, and submit it electronically.
Deadlines: The registration for summer sessions typically opens in January and runs until sessions are full. Early registration is recommended as spots fill up quickly, especially for popular sessions.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: They offer flexible payment plans that allow families to spread the cost over several months leading up to the camp session.
Refunds: Full refunds are available up to a month before the session start date. After this, partial refunds may be offered depending on the timing of the cancellation.
Cancellation Policy: If the camp must cancel a session due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., extreme weather events), full refunds or options to transfer registration to another session will be provided.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Simpson BSA is committed to making camp accessible to all. They offer a number of scholarships based on financial need, merit, or both. These scholarships can cover part or all of the camp fees.
Financial Aid Application: Families interested in applying for financial aid can fill out a separate application form detailing their financial situation. This process is confidential and aims to assist as many eligible campers as possible.

Their goal at Camp Simpson BSA is to ensure that no camper misses out due to financial constraints.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Simpson BSA

Preparing for a stay at Camp Simpson BSA is an exciting process for both parents and campers, especially if it’s their first time. Here’s a detailed guide on what to pack, the camp’s rules and policies, and some helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

Clothing: Pack enough comfortable clothing for the session, including long pants, shorts, T-shirts, and a jacket or sweatshirt for cooler evenings. Include a raincoat or poncho and at least one set of nicer clothes for special camp events.
Footwear: Bring durable, closed-toe shoes for hiking and activities, plus a pair of sandals or flip-flops for showers and the pool.
Bedding and Toiletries: A sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow, towels, and personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.) are essential.
Swimwear and Gear: Include swimwear and a beach towel. If the camper will participate in water sports, consider packing items like goggles and water shoes.
Sun and Bug Protection: Sunscreen, a hat for shade, and insect repellent are important for protection against the sun and insects.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight or headlamp, water bottle, and a backpack or day pack for carrying items during activities.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, the use of personal electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles is generally restricted at camp. Devices may be allowed at specific times and places determined by the camp staff.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to respect the camp schedule, with designated visitation days usually set for specific times during longer sessions to minimize disruptions.
Behavioral Expectations: Camp Simpson BSA promotes a respectful, inclusive environment. Bullying, aggressive behavior, and possession of contraband are strictly prohibited and may result in dismissal from camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation for Independence: Discuss what the camp experience will be like focusing on the fun and learning opportunities. Encourage independence by practicing basic self-care skills at home, like packing and organizing their belongings.
Homesickness: It’s normal for some campers to experience homesickness. Encourage your child to talk about these feelings, and let them know that it’s okay. Camp staff are trained to help ease this transition.
Communication: Learn about the camp’s communication policies. Some camps may allow letters or emails, and knowing how to stay in touch can reassure both campers and parents.
Stay Positive: Show excitement about the adventure ahead. A positive outlook from parents can boost a camper’s confidence and enthusiasm.

With the right preparation and mindset, the experience at Camp Simpson BSA can be both memorable and transformative, providing skills and memories that last a lifetime.

Camp Simpson BSA embodies the spirit of adventure and learning in the heart of Oklahoma’s beautiful landscapes. With a focus on safety, skill development, and personal growth, their camp offers a rich environment where young scouts can thrive, challenge themselves, and forge lasting friendships. Through their diverse programs, committed staff, and comprehensive facilities, they ensure that each camper experiences the joy and excitement of outdoor adventures while gaining valuable life skills.

Whether it’s mastering a new craft, conquering a trail, or simply enjoying the camaraderie around a campfire, Camp Simpson BSA is more than just a summer camp—it’s a community where young individuals grow into leaders of tomorrow. They invite you to join us for a summer filled with discovery, learning, and unforgettable memories. Here, the journey is just as rewarding as the destination. Welcome to Camp Simpson BSA, where lifelong adventures begin!