Located in the scenic landscapes of Wheatland, Wyoming, Laramie Peak Scout Camp offers a unique wilderness experience against the backdrop of the majestic Laramie Range. This camp, nestled near the iconic Laramie Peak, provides a perfect setting for adventure and exploration in the heart of the Rocky Mountain region.

Founded with the spirit of scouting in mind, Laramie Peak Scout Camp has been developing youth leadership and outdoor skills for several decades. The camp’s mission is to foster a deep respect for nature and to instill the values of the Scout Oath and Law in young individuals.

Laramie Peak Scout Camp is primarily a boy scout camp, catering to scouts from various age groups, typically ranging from 11 to 17 years old. The camp focuses on traditional scouting activities, including hiking, camping, and merit badge programs, all designed to challenge and inspire the scouts in a supportive wilderness environment.

Programs Offered by Laramie Peak Scout Camp

Laramie Peak Scout Camp offers a variety of programs designed to engage scouts in hands-on learning and adventure. The sessions typically last one week, allowing scouts to immerse themselves fully in the camp experience without the commitment of a full summer.

Program Description: The programs at Laramie Peak Scout Camp are centered around outdoor skills and scout crafts. Key activities include hiking, backpacking, and orienteering, as well as environmental science and wildlife studies. The camp provides an excellent platform for scouts to earn various merit badges related to outdoor activities and survival skills.

Specialty Programs:

Environmental Science Program: Scouts can participate in guided nature walks and hands-on ecology projects, learning about local flora and fauna and the importance of conservation.
Leadership Development: This program focuses on building leadership skills through team-building exercises and leadership challenges.
Outdoor Survival Skills: This specialty includes learning about first aid, emergency preparedness, and survival techniques in the wilderness.

Typical Daily Schedule:

Morning:
- Reveille and Flag ceremony
- Breakfast in the dining hall
- Morning program session (merit badge workshops or specialty program activities)
Afternoon:
- Lunch and rest hour
- Afternoon program session (outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, or archery)
- Free time for personal exploration or informal activities
Evening:
- Dinner in the dining hall
- Evening campfire program or group games
- Taps and lights out

Each day is structured to balance instructional time with free time, allowing scouts to explore their interests while gaining valuable skills and making lasting friendships.

Accommodations in Laramie Peak Scout Camp

Sleeping Arrangements: Laramie Peak Scout Camp offers a rustic and immersive camping experience, primarily utilizing tents for accommodations. Scouts are housed in patrol tents set up within designated camping areas, allowing them to live close to nature while fostering a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. Each tent is designed to accommodate two to four scouts, ensuring a comfortable and secure environment.

Dining Options: The camp features a central dining hall where all meals are served. The meal plan includes three well-balanced meals per day, prepared under the guidance of experienced camp chefs. The dining hall atmosphere is lively and communal, providing a great space for scouts to interact and share their daily experiences. Laramie Peak Scout Camp is committed to accommodating dietary needs; vegetarian, gluten-free, and other dietary options can be provided upon request to ensure that all scouts have healthy and enjoyable meal options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities: The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities strategically located near the tent areas. These facilities are maintained with high standards of cleanliness and hygiene, ensuring comfort and convenience for all campers. Separate facilities are provided for staff and adult leaders to maintain privacy and decorum throughout the camp.

Activities in Laramie Peak Scout Camp

List of Activities Offered: Laramie Peak Scout Camp provides a wide range of activities designed to engage scouts in learning, adventure, and personal growth. Some of the key activities include:

Swimming and Water Safety: Summer camps can enjoy swimming in natural water bodies under the supervision of trained lifeguards. Water safety and swimming lessons are also offered.
Hiking: The camp’s location near Laramie Peak offers ample opportunities for hikes of varying difficulties, exposing scouts to beautiful vistas and rugged terrain.
Crafts: Scouts can engage in various craft activities, including woodworking, leatherworking, and other traditional scout crafts.
Archery and Rifle Shooting: These activities are supervised by certified instructors, focusing on safety and skill development.
Climbing: With access to natural rock formations and a climbing wall, scouts can learn basic and advanced climbing techniques.
Canoeing and Kayaking: These water-based activities teach scouts paddling skills and water navigation.

Special Events or Traditions:

Campfires: Regular campfire gatherings are a central tradition, featuring storytelling, skits, and songs, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.
Scout’s Own Service: A non-denominational service held to reflect on personal beliefs and values, typical of scout camps.
End-of-Week Celebration: A special event to celebrate the achievements of the week, including award ceremonies for merit badges and other recognitions.

Skill Development Opportunities: Laramie Peak Scout Camp is dedicated to helping scouts develop a range of skills, not only in traditional outdoor activities but also in leadership and personal development. The camp offers merit badge programs in areas such as environmental science, emergency preparedness, and survival skills. Leadership training programs are also available for older scouts, aimed at enhancing their ability to lead and mentor younger scouts. These opportunities are structured to help scouts build confidence, resilience, and a deep respect for nature and their peers.

The staff of Laramie Peak Scout Camp

Staff-to-Camper Ratio: Laramie Peak Scout Camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and a safe environment for all participants. Typically, the ratio is about one staff member for every eight scouts, which facilitates effective supervision and engagement in all activities.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications: The camp employs a rigorous hiring process to select highly qualified and motivated staff members. Prospective staff must undergo a comprehensive application and interview process, background checks, and reference verification. Staff members are typically experienced in scouting, outdoor education, or related fields. Many are former scouts themselves who bring a passion for scouting and youth development to their roles.

Training and Certifications: All staff members at Laramie Peak Scout Camp are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid to ensure they are prepared to handle any emergencies that may arise. Additionally, staff who lead specific activities such as swimming, climbing, or shooting sports hold specialized certifications:

Lifeguards: Certified through programs like the American Red Cross or YMCA.
Climbing Instructors: Trained and certified in rope safety and climbing techniques.
Shooting Sports Instructors: Certified through the NRA or similar organizations for handling firearms and archery equipment safely.

Furthermore, before the camp season begins, all staff undergo a mandatory training program. This training covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child safety guidelines, and specific training for their assigned activities. This comprehensive preparation ensures that staff are well-equipped to provide a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers.

Safety and Health in Laramie Peak Scout Camp

Safety Protocols and Procedures: Laramie Peak Scout Camp prioritizes the safety of all campers and staff by implementing rigorous safety protocols and procedures. The camp’s safety measures are designed to prevent incidents and to respond effectively should any arise. These protocols include:

Regular Safety Drills: Conducting fire, weather, and emergency evacuation drills to ensure everyone knows how to respond in different scenarios.
Activity-Specific Safety Guidelines: Enforcing strict safety rules during activities such as swimming, climbing, and archery to prevent accidents.
24/7 Supervision: Ensuring that campers are under constant supervision by trained staff members.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff: The camp features a well-equipped health lodge staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor. The health lodge is prepared to handle routine health checks and minor injuries, and it is stocked with essential medications and first aid supplies. Staff members are trained to recognize health issues quickly and to provide necessary interventions or escalate to more specialized care as needed.

Policies on Handling Emergencies: Laramie Peak Scout Camp has a comprehensive emergency response plan that includes:

Immediate Care: Initial assessment and stabilization of any individual in need of urgent medical attention.
Communication Protocol: Immediate notification of camp leadership and, if necessary, local emergency services. Parents or guardians are informed as soon as possible in the case of a serious incident.
Evacuation Plan: Clear procedures for evacuating the camp in case of natural disasters or other severe emergencies, with designated safe areas and routes clearly marked and regularly reviewed with all campers and staff.
Partnerships with Local Authorities: The camp maintains strong relationships with local emergency services, including fire departments, police, and hospitals, to ensure quick and coordinated responses when external assistance is required.

These measures collectively ensure that Laramie Peak Scout Camp is a safe and secure environment, allowing campers to focus on learning and enjoying their camp experience.

Cost and Registration in Laramie Peak Scout Camp

Cost of Attendance: The cost of attending Laramie Peak Scout Camp varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs chosen. Typically, a standard one-week session costs around $350 to $450. This fee includes:

All meals and accommodations.
Program materials and equipment.
Access to all camp facilities and activities.

Registration Process and Deadlines: Registration for Laramie Peak Scout Camp is handled online. Parents or guardians can complete the registration forms, select session dates, and choose specific programs. Early registration is encouraged as spaces fill up quickly. Deadlines for registration are usually set about one to two months before the start of each session to allow for adequate planning and preparation.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: The camp offers flexible payment plans that allow families to spread the cost of attendance over several months. These plans typically require a deposit at registration with the remainder paid in installments.
Refunds: Full refunds are available until a specified date, usually one month before the session begins. After this date, refunds may be partial or unavailable, depending on the camp’s policies.
Cancellation Policies: In case of cancellation by the family, fees are partially refundable as per the terms stated at the time of registration. If the camp must cancel a session due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., extreme weather conditions), full refunds are typically issued.

Scholarships and Financial Aid: Laramie Peak Scout Camp is committed to making the camp experience accessible to all scouts, regardless of financial background. Scholarships and financial aid are available based on need. Families can apply for these funds through a separate application process, which requires documentation of financial status and a written statement of need. The camp works closely with scouting organizations and community groups to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent enthusiastic scouts from attending.

These policies ensure that the camp remains accessible and manageable for families, emphasizing inclusivity and the developmental benefits of the scouting experience.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Laramie Peak Scout Camp

Packing List: To ensure campers are fully prepared for their experience at Laramie Peak Scout Camp, a detailed packing list is provided, which includes:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing including t-shirts, long pants, shorts, and layers for cooler evenings. Waterproof jackets and sturdy hiking boots are essential.
Camping Gear: Sleeping bag, pillow, and a flashlight or headlamp.
Personal Items: Toiletries, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.
Optional Items: Cameras (non-digital for younger campers), books, and a journal or notebook.
Prohibited Items: All electronics such as smartphones, tablets, and gaming devices are not allowed to encourage engagement with the environment and fellow campers.

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, the use of personal electronic devices is restricted at the camp. Campers are encouraged to disconnect from digital devices and connect with nature and each other.
Visitation: Parents are allowed to visit on designated days typically towards the end of the session to observe activities and participate in special camp events. Specific visitation guidelines and schedules are provided prior to the start of camp.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to adhere to the Scout Law and Oath, promoting respect, courtesy, and responsibility towards others and the environment.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

For Campers:
- Embrace the experience with an open mind. Be ready to try new activities, make new friends, and learn new skills.
- Pack according to the list provided and label all belongings to avoid losses.
- Engage actively and ask for help whenever needed. Camp staff are there to ensure a positive and safe experience.
For Parents:
- Discuss what to expect at camp with your child, including the typical daily schedule and the importance of following camp rules.
- Ensure all forms, including medical and emergency contact information, are completed and submitted before the deadline.
- Encourage your child to be self-reliant but reassure them of the support system available at camp.

Preparing both parents and campers with these guidelines and tips ensures that everyone is ready for a fulfilling and enjoyable camp experience at Laramie Peak Scout Camp.

Laramie Peak Scout Camp in Wheatland, Wyoming, offers a distinctive and enriching experience that combines the timeless values of scouting with the adventures and challenges of outdoor learning. With a variety of programs, from environmental education to leadership development, the camp fosters growth, self-reliance, and a deep appreciation for nature among its young participants. The carefully crafted safety protocols, qualified staff, and comprehensive preparation guidelines ensure a secure and rewarding experience for all campers.

By emphasizing community, character building, and outdoor skills, Laramie Peak Scout Camp not only shapes young scouts into responsible and capable individuals but also creates lasting memories and friendships. It stands as an ideal destination for scouts seeking adventure, learning, and personal development in the great outdoors.