Located in the scenic surroundings of Lebanon, Tennessee, Boxwell Scout Reservation stands as a premier destination for scouting activities. Nestled within the heart of the state, this camp is conveniently situated near key landmarks, offering a blend of natural beauty and accessibility.

Boxwell Scout Reservation has a storied history, serving as a foundational site for the development of young scouts since its establishment. The camp has evolved over the years, adapting to the changing needs of its participants while maintaining its core values and traditions.

The mission of Boxwell Scout Reservation is to provide a safe, nurturing environment that fosters personal growth and leadership skills through scouting. The camp is dedicated to building character and outdoor ethics in young people, helping them to become responsible, community-minded individuals.

Boxwell Scout Reservation caters primarily to Boy Scouts of various age groups. It offers a range of programs that are designed to challenge and inspire, from basic camping skills to advanced leadership training. The camp provides an inclusive, supportive setting where boys can learn, explore, and grow under the guidance of experienced leaders.

As a hub of scouting activity, Boxwell Scout Reservation remains committed to its philosophy of encouraging exploration, stewardship of nature, and the development of strong leadership skills. It continues to be a place where traditions are cherished, and new adventures begin.

Programs Offered by Boxwell Scout Reservation

Boxwell Scout Reservation offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental needs of young scouts. Each program is crafted to enhance skills, foster personal growth, and provide memorable outdoor experiences.

Standard Scouting Programs

The core of Boxwell’s offerings revolves around traditional scouting activities. These programs typically run in one-week sessions throughout the summer, giving scouts the opportunity to engage in a comprehensive scouting experience. Activities include camping, hiking, swimming, canoeing, and orienteering, with an emphasis on teamwork and leadership development.

Specialty Programs

In addition to traditional scouting, Boxwell Scout Reservation features several specialty programs that focus on specific interests or skills:

Aquatics Adventures: This program is designed for scouts who wish to delve deeper into water-based activities. It includes advanced swimming, lifesaving, boating, and fishing, usually offered in one-week sessions.
Eagle Scout Workshops: Tailored for scouts aiming for the Eagle Scout rank, these workshops provide guidance on project planning, leadership skills, and community service. They are typically shorter, often spanning a few days to a week.
Environmental Science Programs: These sessions focus on nature and the environment, teaching scouts about wildlife, conservation practices, and ecological responsibility through hands-on activities and explorations.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Boxwell Scout Reservation is structured to maximize learning and fun while providing enough flexibility to meet the needs of individual scouts and troops. The daily schedule generally includes:

Morning Assembly: The day starts with a flag-raising ceremony and announcements, setting the tone for the day’s activities.
Activity Sessions: Morning and afternoon sessions are dedicated to scheduled activities, which vary depending on the program. Scouts rotate through different stations or areas to engage in various skills training and recreational activities.
Meal Times: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are communal times where scouts gather to eat and share experiences. Meals are followed by short rest periods.
Evening Programs: The day often ends with special evening programs, such as campfires, storytelling, skits, and occasionally night hikes or star gazing.
Lights Out: After a full day of activities, scouts retire to their tents for a well-deserved rest, gearing up for another adventurous day.

Boxwell Scout Reservation’s programs are meticulously planned to provide a balanced mix of education, physical activity, and fun, all within the framework of scouting’s core values and objectives.

Accommodations in Boxwell Scout Reservation

Boxwell Scout Reservation provides well-equipped accommodations designed to enhance the camping experience while maintaining a connection with the natural environment. Here’s what scouts and leaders can expect in terms of sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities.

Sleeping Arrangements

Boxwell Scout Reservation primarily utilizes tent camping to give scouts a true outdoor experience. Campsites are equipped with:

Canvas Tents: Mounted on platforms, these tents house two scouts each and are strategically placed to foster a sense of community and camaraderie among campers.
Adirondacks: Some areas of the camp feature Adirondack-style shelters, which are three-sided structures that offer more exposure to the environment while still providing basic shelter.

For leaders and special programs, there are occasionally cabin facilities available, which include basic amenities like bunk beds and storage areas.

Dining Options

Boxwell Scout Reservation operates a central dining hall where most meals are served. The meal plan includes:

Three Meals a Day: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided, with menus designed to be hearty and suitable for active youths. The dining hall experience also serves as an opportunity for scouts to bond and share their daily experiences.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, Boxwell offers options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific dietary restrictions such as gluten-free or allergen-free meals. Scouts or leaders with particular dietary needs are encouraged to communicate these requirements in advance.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

The camp is equipped with multiple bathroom and shower facilities strategically located throughout the site to ensure accessibility and convenience. Facilities are typically divided by gender and include:

Flush Toilets and Sinks: These are maintained regularly to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
Shower Blocks: Separate shower facilities are available, providing hot and cold running water. These areas are also well-maintained and cleaned daily to uphold health and sanitation standards.

Boxwell Scout Reservation’s accommodations are designed to balance comfort with the rustic nature of a traditional scouting experience, ensuring that all participants can enjoy their time in a safe and supportive environment.

Activities in Boxwell Scout Reservation

Boxwell Scout Reservation offers a wide range of activities that cater to the diverse interests and skill levels of scouts. These activities are designed not only for fun and enjoyment but also for personal growth and skill development.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming and Water Sports: Summer camps feature lakefront access where scouts can swim, canoe, kayak, and participate in boating activities.
Hiking and Orienteering: There are numerous trails for hiking and opportunities for scouts to learn and practice orienteering skills using maps and compasses.
Crafts and Art: A variety of crafting activities are available, allowing scouts to explore their creative sides by making items like leather goods, wood carvings, and custom insignias.
Climbing and Rappelling: For those looking for a challenge, the camp offers climbing towers and rappelling stations supervised by trained staff to ensure safety.
Archery and Rifle Shooting: These activities are supervised by certified instructors, providing a safe environment for scouts to learn marksmanship and proper handling of equipment.
Nature Studies and Environmental Education: Scouts can participate in environmental education programs, which include nature hikes, wildlife identification, and conservation projects.

Special Events or Traditions

Boxwell Scout Reservation hosts several special events and traditions that highlight the scouting experience, such as:

Campfires and Ceremonies: Regular campfires provide a time for scouts to gather, share stories, perform skits, and participate in traditional ceremonies.
Scout Olympics: An event featuring various competitive activities, fostering team spirit and friendly competition among the scouts.
Heritage Days: These events celebrate the history of scouting and the legacy of Boxwell Scout Reservation through exhibitions and special activities.

Skill Development Opportunities

The camp is dedicated to helping scouts develop a range of skills, both practical and interpersonal:

Leadership Training: Programs are designed to enhance leadership qualities, including decision-making, teamwork, and responsibility.
Survival Skills: Scouts can learn essential survival skills such as fire building, emergency shelter construction, and water purification.
First Aid and Safety: Training in first aid and safety is provided, equipping scouts with the knowledge to handle emergencies both in and out of camp settings.

Boxwell Scout Reservation’s activities are structured to ensure that every scout has the opportunity to learn new skills, make lasting friendships, and leave with a sense of accomplishment and growth.

The staff of Boxwell Scout Reservation

The staff at Boxwell Scout Reservation is essential to the camp’s operation and success, ensuring a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers. Here’s a breakdown of the staff dynamics, including the staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, qualifications, and training.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Boxwell Scout Reservation maintains a favorable staff-to-camper ratio to ensure adequate supervision and personalized attention. The typical ratio is approximately one staff member for every ten campers. This ratio helps the staff effectively manage safety and provide quality programming across various activities.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Hiring Process: The hiring process at Boxwell Scout Reservation involves a thorough selection procedure that includes application screening, interviews, and background checks. The camp seeks individuals who are passionate about youth development and have a strong background in scouting or outdoor activities.
Staff Qualifications: Potential staff members are typically required to have prior experience in camping, youth programs, or education. Specialized roles, such as lifeguards or instructors for high-adventure activities, require specific skills and experience related to their duties.

Training and Certifications

General Training: All staff undergo comprehensive pre-camp training that covers camp policies, child safety, emergency procedures, and program delivery. This training ensures that staff members are well-prepared to manage their roles effectively.
CPR and First Aid: Certifications in CPR and First Aid are mandatory for all staff members. These certifications are typically obtained before the start of the camp season and are kept current to handle any medical emergencies that may arise.
Specialty Certifications: For activities that require special skills, such as archery, climbing, or aquatic sports, staff members must hold appropriate certifications from recognized authorities. This ensures that high-risk activities are conducted safely and professionally.

Boxwell Scout Reservation places a strong emphasis on the quality and training of its staff to ensure that the camp environment is not only fun and engaging but also safe and conducive to learning. The commitment to staff development is a cornerstone of the camp’s ability to provide a high-quality scouting experience.

Safety and Health in Boxwell Scout Reservation

Boxwell Scout Reservation prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing rigorous protocols and maintaining well-equipped health facilities. Here is an overview of the safety measures, medical facilities, and emergency procedures in place at the camp.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Activity Safety: Each activity offered at Boxwell is governed by specific safety protocols, including gear checks, safety briefings, and strictly enforced rules. Activities such as swimming, climbing, and shooting sports are closely monitored by certified instructors.
Regular Drills: The camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuation drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are prepared for any unforeseen situations.
Buddy System: Boxwell enforces a buddy system to keep track of all campers at all times. This system is especially crucial during swimming and other high-risk activities.
Secure Premises: The camp is secured and monitored to ensure that only authorized persons are present on the grounds. This includes secure check-in/check-out procedures for campers.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Lodge: Boxwell Scout Reservation operates a health lodge that is staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses or paramedics, who are on duty 24/7 during camping sessions.
Medical Equipment and Supplies: The health lodge is equipped with essential medical supplies and equipment needed to treat minor injuries or illnesses. It also has the capability to stabilize individuals needing emergency care while transportation to a hospital is arranged.
Health Checks: Upon arrival at camp, each camper undergoes a health check to identify any existing medical conditions or needs, ensuring that individual health plans are in place and understood by relevant staff.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Boxwell has a comprehensive emergency response plan that includes procedures for handling different types of emergencies, from medical issues to natural disasters.
Communication: In case of an emergency, there are protocols for communicating quickly and effectively with camp staff and emergency services. This includes the use of radios, cell phones, and other communication tools.
Parental Notification: Parents are immediately notified in the event of any serious incident involving their child, as per the guidelines set out in the camp’s safety protocols.
Transportation for Emergencies: The camp maintains vehicles that are ready to transport individuals to the nearest hospital in case of a medical emergency. This ensures rapid response times and immediate care when necessary.

Overall, Boxwell Scout Reservation’s commitment to safety and health is evident in its detailed planning, staff training, and the facilities it maintains to ensure that every camper has a safe, healthy, and enjoyable experience at camp.

Cost and Registration in Boxwell Scout Reservation

Boxwell Scout Reservation offers a structured registration and payment system to make the process transparent and accessible for families. Below are details regarding the cost of attendance, registration procedures, and financial policies, including scholarships.

Cost of Attendance

Cost Details: The cost to attend Boxwell Scout Reservation varies depending on the program and the length of the session. Typically, the fee covers all necessary aspects of the camp experience, including lodging, meals, program materials, and activities. Additional costs might be associated with specific specialty programs or optional extras.
What It Includes: The registration fee generally includes accommodation in tents or cabins, all meals at the camp dining hall, full access to camp facilities, participation in scheduled activities, and 24/7 medical support.

Registration Process and Deadlines

How to Register: Registration for Boxwell Scout Reservation is typically done online. This process includes filling out necessary forms and providing medical and dietary information.
Deadlines: Registration deadlines are usually set a few months before the start of the camp season. Early registration is encouraged as some programs may fill up quickly. Specific deadlines are clearly communicated on the camp’s and through promotional materials.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Boxwell Scout Reservation often offers payment plans to spread the cost of camp over several months, making it more manageable for families.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp has a refund policy that typically allows for a full or partial refund up until a certain date before the camp begins, after which refunds may not be available. Fees for late cancellations are often non-refundable unless due to medical reasons or family emergencies, for which documentation might be required.
Cancellation Policy: Specific details of the cancellation policy, including deadlines and any potential fees, are provided during the registration process.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships Available: Boxwell Scout Reservation is committed to making camp accessible to all scouts and often offers scholarships based on need, merit, or both.
Application for Scholarships: Families seeking financial aid are required to fill out a scholarship application, which typically involves providing information about financial need and a statement of why the scout wants to attend camp.
Financial Aid Details: The amount of financial aid can vary, covering partial to full costs of camp attendance. Decisions about scholarships are usually made well in advance of the camp season to allow families to plan accordingly.

Boxwell Scout Reservation aims to ensure that no scout is turned away due to financial constraints. The camp encourages families to inquire about financial assistance options if needed, promoting an inclusive environment where all young individuals have the opportunity to experience scouting.

The summer camp fees for Boxwell Scout Reservation are:

Early Bird: $345
Second Week Camper: $320

Parent and Camper Preparation in Boxwell Scout Reservation

Preparing for a stay at Boxwell Scout Reservation involves understanding what to pack, being aware of camp rules and policies, and knowing some tips to make the first-time experience smooth and enjoyable for both campers and their parents.

Packing List

Parents and campers should ensure they pack all necessary items for a comfortable and safe camping experience. A typical packing list includes:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing (including rain gear and warm layers), hats, and sturdy footwear for hiking.
Bedding: Sleeping bag, pillow, and an extra blanket for cooler nights.
Personal Items: Toiletries, sunscreen, bug repellent, and a small first aid kit.
Gear: Flashlight or headlamp, water bottle, and a backpack for day trips.
Optional Items: Camera, books, and a journal or notepad for recording camp experiences.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Boxwell Scout Reservation generally encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and fellow scouts. Devices such as smartphones, tablets, and video games are usually discouraged or restricted to certain times and places.
Visitation: Parents are advised on specific visitation days or events where they can visit the camp. Outside of these times, visits are typically not allowed to ensure the smooth running of programs and the security of the campers.
General Conduct: Campers are expected to follow the Scout Law and Scout Oath, maintaining respect for fellow campers, staff, and the natural environment.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Engage Fully: Dive into the activities offered, even those that might be out of your comfort zone. It’s a chance to learn new skills and make new friends.
- Stay Organized: Keep your belongings organized in your tent or cabin to avoid losing items.
- Communicate: If you’re feeling homesick or have any concerns, talk to the camp staff. They are there to help and make your experience positive.
For Parents:
- Stay Informed: Read all provided materials from the camp before your child attends. Understanding the schedule, rules, and what your child will be doing can help ease any anxieties.
- Pack Smart: Make sure your child has everything they need, but avoid overpacking. Label all items with your child’s name to prevent loss.
- Prepare Emotionally: Discuss what the camp will be like focusing on the exciting aspects. If it’s the first time being away from home, reassure your child that they will be safe and have a great time.

With the right preparation, campers and their parents can ensure that the experience at Boxwell Scout Reservation is not only enjoyable but also enriching, fostering growth and independence in young scouts.

Boxwell Scout Reservation stands out as a beacon of adventure, learning, and growth in the heart of Tennessee. With its comprehensive array of programs, dedicated staff, and robust facilities, Boxwell offers a unique environment where scouts can explore the outdoors, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships. The camp’s commitment to safety, combined with its rich array of activities, ensures that every camper’s experience is not only enjoyable but also enriching.

The carefully structured registration and financial aid options make Boxwell accessible to scouts from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing the camp’s philosophy of inclusivity and community building. Whether it’s through challenging physical activities, creative crafts, or leadership training, Boxwell Scout Reservation provides an invaluable platform for young individuals to grow into responsible, confident leaders.