Sleeping under canvas, done right

This page covers what’s involved in running nights away — from a Cub Scout sleepover in the hall to a week-long patrol camp. Camping is Scouting’s signature experience, and a few good habits make it work every time.

Approvals before you go

• Notify and gain approval for any night away through Scouts Queensland processes — including camps at Allawah Scout Camp, BP Park and other venues.
• Leadership ratios must suit the section and activity, with appropriate supervision overnight.
• Parents receive full details: location, sleeping arrangements, program outline and emergency contacts.
• Accommodation standards apply — separate sleeping areas for youth and adults, with clear bathroom protocols.

Making camps great

• Youth involvement. Let members plan menus, activities and duty rosters. Ownership beats entertainment.
• Progressive challenge. Hall sleepovers first, then site camps, then bush camps as sections mature.
• Debrief together. Five minutes of “what worked?” on pack-up morning builds better camps forever.

Try this

Keep a Group camp kit list on your phone after every camp. Update it while packing up, not while packing — you’ll never forget the same thing twice.