News for everyone

Goshen Leader Update: $1 Million Investment Update, Registration Reminders, and More!

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Hello Goshen Leaders!
We’re looking forward to your arrival at the Goshen Scout Reservation in just a few short months! Please read the email below to continue to plan for your unit’s upcoming summer adventure.
$1 Million Initial Investment at Goshen Scout Reservation Update

The $1 Million Investment in Goshen Scout Reservation strengthens our future and improves the camper experience at our properties and programs. With new program equipment, facilities and infrastructure upgrades, and expanded outreach, we look forward to sharing the magic of Goshen with more Scouts and Units. Highlights from this past month include:

  • Aquatics: Program Equipment, Infrastructure
    • Landscape specialist has visited all aquatics areas to provide feedback and help plan a beach retention project to address erosion concerns.
    • Plans for a centralized winter boat storage structure are designed with a planned construction date in March.
  • Range Upgrades: Berm Work, Structures, Safety
    • A contract has been signed to re-roof 4 RATA pavilion / range structures ahead of this spring.
  • Camper Tents
    • Over 100 canvas camper tents have been purchased from Scouting America Outfitters at a significantly discounted rate! Because of this discount, this project has been expanded to include purchasing 250 new cots! The new tents are anticipated to be delivered to camp early next week.
  • Picnic Tables
    • A down payment has been made on the order for 35 sets of picnic table legs, with an anticipated delivery date in March.
  • Priority Tree Removal
    • This month, over 170 trees identified as being potentially hazardous have been felled in a strategic and select cut manner.
  • Infrastructure
    • A ventilation upgrade project at the Camp Marriott shower house is in progress, replicating the same successful projects at Camp Olmsted and Ross completed in 2025.
If you missed the original announcement of this initial investment in Goshen Scout Reservation, you can read it here: From the Desk of the Scout Executive
 
General Registration Reminders
  • Unit Registration Contacts
  • Accessing Your Unit’s Camp Registration
  • Camper Deposit Phase Extended to February 28, 2026

    • The “Camper Deposit” phase of our registration has been extended from February 15th to February 28th. The $100 camper deposit locks in a Scout’s place at camp until full payment is made, allowing for families and units to make “partial” payments prior to the end of the early bird deadline (April 15th). The camper deposit is counted towards the total cost of camp and serves as a commitment to your youth’s attendance for the coming summer. An early commitment to attending camp helps us to best plan and prepare for our total summer attendance and helps to inform items including material and equipment ordering and staff hiring.

  • Adding Campers to Your Registration
  • How to Spilt Adult Leader Registrations
    • We recognize that many adult leaders may find it difficult to attend a full week of summer camp with your unit. Goshen Scout Reservation supports “splitting” multiple adults across one adult participant registration. For example, one adult can attend camp with your unit Sunday – Wednesday, and another adult take over for Wednesday – Saturday.
    • To register “split-week” adults, please write the first and last name of the first adult in the “first name” box, and the first and last name of the second adult in the “last name” box.
  • Utilizing the Parent Portal
    • Did you know that your unit’s camp registration has a built in Parent Portal? The Parent Portal function allows for unit’s to give parents and guardians limited access to your unit’s summer camp registration to pay for Scouts once added to a unit’s camp registration. This function can also be utilized for Merit Badge signups (Scouts BSA camps only).
    • For video tutorials on how to use Parent Portal, please view the registration system’s How To Videos.
      • Parent Portal: Unit Leader’s Guide – youtube.com/watch?v=RBJmmnQuSo4
      • Parent Portal: Parents Guide – youtube.com/watch?v=Xflql-R-VZE

    • If your unit is the Parent Portal feature for your families, don’t overpay for your adults! Book your free adults before giving out Parent Portal credentials.

  • Early Bird Registration Closes April 15 at 11:59 pm
    • Early Bird Registration will close Friday, April 15 at 11:59 pm. Participants who have registered before this time will receive the posted discounted price when attending camp.
Looking for more registration tips and tricks? Review the slides from our December Webinar here: weownadventure.com/summer-camp-planning-registering-your-scouts-at-goshen-scout-reservation/
 
Camperships
Scouts who applied for a campership (financial aid program for summer camp attendance) prior to February 1, 2026, they should be expecting to hear back on the status of their application within the next week.
If your unit has Scouts who may be in need of financial aid to attend summer camp at the Goshen Scout Reservation, please encourage them to complete the NCAC Financial Support Request Form by March 1, 2026 for their application to be reviewed in the next round. Financial aid is available for qualifying families in the National Capital Area Council. The form can be found at www.ncacscouting.org/financial.
The NCAC Campership Committee will be convening again in early March to review additional applications. Applications will still be accepted afterwards and we anticipate the committee reviewing applications on a monthly basis. Camperships will be awarded into the spring as funds allow. Please help us encourage any families applying after the initial deadline to submit their application as early as possible to allow processing time and prevent delays in their registration.
Merit Badge & Activity Sign Ups: March 31 at 7:00pm
For those attending our Scouts BSA camps – Camp Bowman, Camp Marriott, and Camp Olmsted – sign ups for merit badges and activities opens on March 31. Scouts can view the class sign up schedule without being booked, but in order to save their selection, they will need to be “booked.” If they still have “Checkout Required” in red under their name, their class selection will not be saved. This means that any Scouts who pay their $100 non-refundable deposit by February 15 will be able to save their selection without needing to be paid in full. They will have until April 15 to make final payments to receive the Early Bird Discount price. After the February 15 deadline, Scouts will need to be paid in full to be “booked” and save their badge and activity selection.
Leader and Program Guides, Program Schedules
Copies of the 2026 GSR Leader Guides, Program Guides, and Program Schedules will be posted on www.gotogoshen.org in the coming weeks. Thank you for your patience as we continue to plan for an exciting Summer 2026!
 
Yours in Scouting,

Elisabeth Warren | Goshen Scout Reservation Director

Goshen Leader Update: Camper Registration Opens Tommorow!

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Hello Goshen Leaders!,

As many of us navigate winter weather this time of year, I’m sure you’re dreaming about summer camp! At this point, your Unit has registered to attend camp at Goshen Scout Reservation this coming summer and you’re gaining commitment from Scouts and leaders/parents to attend.

Camper registration opens tomorrow (December 10, 2025), meaning that your unit will be able to begin adding individual Scouts and leaders to your Unit’s registration. Please read this email carefully, as it will guide you through the camper registration process.

Camper Registration Webinar Recording

Last week, the GSR team hosted a webinar reviewing how to prepare for the opening of camper registration. If you weren’t able to join us, we encourage you to watch the webinar recording, linked below. Downloads of the presentation are also available at this link:

Summer Camp Planning: Registering Your Scouts at Goshen Scout Reservation

https://weownadventure.com/summer-camp-planning-registering-your-scouts-at-goshen-scout-reservation/

Unit Registration Contact Information
You are receiving this email because you are listed as your unit’s Unit Registration contact (point of contact between your unit and GSR). If you are no longer serving in this role for your unit, please reference the blogpost linked below on how to update your unit’s registration information with the updated contact.

How to Access Your Unit Registration

To begin adding campers to your unit registration, you’ll have to log in to your registration! Please use the link below for guidance on how to access your unit’s account.

https://www.gotogoshen.org/registration/registration-tips-re-accessing-your-registration/

How to Add Campers to Your Registration

Camper registration opens December 10, 2025! You may begin adding campers to your unit’s summer camp registration when you are ready to issue payment for them. At this time, we are collecting a one-time, non-refundable $100.00 deposit for each youth camper added to your registration. This $100.00 deposit is placed towards the total camper cost. Adult campers do not have deposit in place at this time.

Please use the link below for guidance on how to add campers to your unit’s registration.

https://www.gotogoshen.org/registration/registration-tips-how-to-add-more-campers/

Camp Cards – Fund

Looking for a fundraiser to support attending summer camp? NCAC’s Camp Card Program is designed to help youth and units fundraise for their upcoming 2026 program year. Many Scouts use this program to cover the cost of attending camp! Attend the Camp Card Interest Webinar on January 4, 2026 at 7:00 pm (virtual) and learn more here!

Provisional Camping Opportunities

There are several opportunities for individual / provisional scouts at Goshen this summer! Scouts interested in attending summer camp without their unit through our Provisional Camp program can find more information here: www.gotogoshen.org/provisional.

Scouts interested in attending a provisional Trail  or River Trek at Lenhok’sin High Adventure, sponsored by the NCAC High Adventure Committee can find more information here: www.gotogoshen.org/lenhoksin.

Looking for a two-week experience? Members of the Order of the Arrow are invited to join the Goshen Order of the Arrow Trail (GOAT) Crew for two weeks at Lenhok’sin High Adventure. Learn more at www.gotogoshen.org/about.

Join Goshen Scout Reservation Summer Camp Staff!

Goshen Scout Reservation is hiring Camp Staff for the Summer 2025 Season! Working on Camp Staff is a memorable experience that promotes growth, independence, and creates memories that last a lifetime. Staff help to teach essential scout skills, such as tying knots and building fires, and have the opportunity to make lasting impressions on campers while showing them the wonders of the outdoors!

At this time, Goshen Scout Reservation is actively hiring:

  • Camp Leadership Positions (Camp Director, Program Director, Facilities Director)

  • Specialty Program Area Directors and Program Staff (Aquatics, Range and Target Activities, COPE & Climbing)

  • Area Directors and Program Staff (Handicraft, Scoutcraft, Ecology, and more!)

  • High Adventure Outpost Directors and Program Staff

  • First Aid Staff

  • Operations & Support Staff (Retail, Business Operations)

Learn more about Goshen Staff at www.gotogoshen.org/staff.

Yours in Scouting,

Elisabeth Warren | Goshen Scout Reservation Director

SCOUTING AMERICA
National Capital Area Council

Serving youth in Washington, DC; Maryland; Virginia; and Direct Service

NCAC Board Approves $1M Investment in Goshen Scout Reservation & Launches Feasibility Study

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Dear Scouting Friends,

I’m pleased to share two exciting decisions made today by National Capital Area Council’s (NCAC) Executive Board that mark a bold step forward in strengthening our outdoor programs and securing the long-term impact of our Scouting mission.

1. $1 Million Investment in Goshen Scout Reservation

In alignment with the feedback received through our Outdoor Programs 2025 initiative, the Board has authorized an initial investment of up to $1,000,000 for priority improvement projects at Goshen Scout Reservation (GSR).

This funding will support:

  • Acquisition of new program equipment
  • Facility upgrades and hazard mitigation
  • Infrastructure updates
  • A targeted marketing campaign to raise awareness of GSR’s offerings.

All improvements are scheduled for completion ahead of the 2026 camping season, ensuring Scouts, Units, families, and volunteers can enjoy an enhanced experience next summer.

We invite all Scouting Units to consider Goshen Scout Reservation as their summer camp destination in 2026. To show your support and be among the first to experience these exciting upgrades, click here to learn more or reserve your spot.

2. Launch of a Fundraising Feasibility Study

Because the above only represents the initial investment or the first phase of a broader reinvestment strategy, additional funding will be allocated in future phases as priorities are refined and resources become available. As such, the Board also approved the launch of a fundraising feasibility study to assess our Council’s capacity to undertake a transformative Capital Fundraising Campaign.

This campaign would aim to:

  • Modernize facilities
  • Expand and enrich Scouting programs
  • Strengthen long-term operational stability through endowment growth

This study represents the most basic first step in building a sustainable future for NCAC and ensuring we continue to deliver exceptional experiences to Scouts, families, and leaders.

These decisions reflect our shared commitment to ensuring the excellence of Scouting in NCAC and our belief in the power of outdoor adventure to shape young people’s lives. We are excited about the journey ahead and hope your Unit — whether a Pack, Troop, Crew, Post, or Ship — will join us in supporting these efforts.

Together, we are building a stronger future for NCAC’s Scouting families. By attending one of our summer camp programs, you help ensure every Scout has access to the best programs, facilities, and opportunities to thrive.

 

Mario A. Pérez, Scout Executive/CEO

GSR Leader Update #4: Goshen Bus Service, Camp T-Shirt Pre-Sale, Adult Leader Opportunities, & more!

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Hello GSR Leaders!
We are just 50 days until your arrival at the Goshen Scout Reservation! Please read the email below carefully and share it with your Unit and fellow attending adult leadership.

Goshen Bus Service

Did you know that you can take the bus to camp? Goshen Scout Reservation supports shuttle buses from Fairfax Government Center and Largo, MD each week to transport units to and from camp. If you have more than 45 scouts attending, we’ll even send a bus to you! Interested? – Learn more at https://www.gotogoshen.org/information/transportation/. Tickets are available now and can be purchased through your camp registration.

Click here for instructions on how to purchase bus tickets: https://www.gotogoshen.org/general/how-to-purchasing-bus-tickets/.

Cross Over Youth Discount Reminder

Do you have youth how have recently crossed over from Cub Scouts to your Scouts BSA Troop? Scouts who are crossing over from Arrow of Light to Scouts BSA will receive the Early Bird Discount, no matter when they register! We want to ensure that the time of their crossover ceremony does not deter an incoming Scouts BSA member from attending camp with their new Troop. Simply select “Cross Over Youth” when completing their registration.

Summer Camp T-Shirts: Pre-Camp Sale!

Get your summer camp t-shirt on our online trading post! Shirts for all camps at the Goshen Scout Reservation will be available to order prior to your arrival at camp, and shipped straight to your door.

Want to add your Unit Number to your shirt? Sleeve customizations are available for an additional $4.00 per shirt. Shirt orders can be completed individually or as a group/unit order.

The GSR Spring Trading Post can be accessed at https://nationalcapitalareacouncil-2025.itemorder.com/shop/home/ and will be open until May 25, 2025. Orders will be shipped following the closing of the online store.

Lenhok’sin High Adventure – Pre-Camp Survey Due May 10th

For crews attending Lenhok’sin High Adventure Backpacking Trek, be sure to complete your Pre-Camp Survey by May 3rd. The online survey can be found in the Lenhok’sin Downloads section: www.gotogoshen.org/lenhoksin/#downloads.

Pre-Camp Swim Checks – May 31 and June 1, 2025

The NCAC Aquatics Committee is hosting Pre-Camp Swim Checks on May 31 and June 1 Camp William B. Snyder (Haymarket, VA)!

Units are able to complete swim checks on their own ahead of camp and bring verification of this to camps at Goshen Scout Reservation. This will allow you to have a more relaxed pace for campsite set-up when you arrive on Sunday and it allows us to relieve congestion at our waterfront for units that are unable to complete their swim checks ahead of time. This is by no means mandatory, but encouraged.

Pre-Camp swim checks will be accepted for Units attending Camp Olmsted, Camp Bowman, Camp Marriott, and Lenhok’sin High Adventure. Please note that the GSR Aquatics Staff reserve the right to request any camper (youth or adult) to retake the swim test during their time at GSR if they have concern about a camper’s swimming ability.

Register at https://scoutingevent.com/082-95148

Scouting America Annual Health and Medical Record

As we get closer to the start of the summer camping season, this is a friendly reminder that all campers at the Goshen Scout Reservation must bring a completed Scouting America Annual Health and Medical Record (AHMR), also known as a “med form.”  All campers must have completed Parts A, B, & C of the AHMR. Please note that Part C of the AHMR includes a physical with a medical provider’s signature. If you are staying at camp for less than 72 hours, Part C is not required. The AHMR Form and other helpful forms and information can be found in the Forms & Downloads section on your camps page as well as atwww.gotogoshen.org/forms.

Please note that the NCAC Health Risk Advisory was discontinued at the close of last year, and is no longer collected.

Allergies & Dietary Restrictions
All allergies and dietary restrictions must be added to your camper registrations ahead of your arrival at the Goshen Scout Reservation. This helps us to best prepare our food service staff and informs ordering needs prior to your arrival at camp. Please update all dietary restriction information no later than June 1, 2025.

Adult Leader Training Opportunities

Registration for adult leader training opportunities at the Goshen Scout Reservation is now live! GSR is proud to partner with the NCAC Training Committee to offer training opportunities to Adult Leadership during the summer while in attendance at a GSR Camp. Adult Leader trainings are available to all attending adults, no matter which camp at the Goshen Scout Reservation you are attending. Registration is available on your camp registration, and can be added by selecting “update information” on your camper profile.

Interested in helping GSR and the Training Committee to provide a training opportunity? Please contact NCAC Training Committee Chair Tom Dimisa at tdimisa@yahoo.com.

Adult Volunteer Opportunities – We Need You!

Curious of how you can spend your day while at the Goshen Scout Reservation? You’re invited to join our Volunteer Corp and provide assistance in supporting a merit badge program, providing additional supervision to a program area, assisting our Ranger and Facilities team, and providing training opportunities to fellow leaders!

Take a look at the form below to learn more and volunteer!

2025 GSR Volunteer Form: https://forms.gle/aFo3PicxAG2DLGWC7

Yours in Scouting,

Elisabeth Warren | Goshen Scout Reservation Director

SCOUTING AMERICA

National Capital Area Council

Goshen Leader Update #3: Early Bird Deadline on April 15th at 11:59 pm!

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Good afternoon Goshen Leaders,
We are just 5 days away from the Early Bird Deadline for the Summer 2025 Season at the Goshen Scout Reservation!
Ahead of this deadline, we encourage you to be prepared and begin registering and paying for attendees in full prior to the April 15th deadline so that you have a smooth registration process. Sarah Moses, NCAC Camping Specialist, and I are here to help! We appreciate your patience as we process the large volume of emails and phone calls. We’ll be there to support you, but please do your best to not leave getting your payments in until the last minute!
How does the Early Bird benefit you and your Scouts?
  • Campers with registrations made before the early bird deadline (April 15, 2025 at 11:59 pm) will attend at a lower cost!
  • With more accurate attendance numbers, our team is best able to prepare for your arrival and focus on service and a high-quality camping experience.
  • Enable camp coordinators to have the majority of youth enrolled so that they can help parents be prepared (AHMR, gear and equipment readiness, pre-camp meeting with all attendees, etc.)
Registration “How To” Reminders
Adding Campers to Your Registration
Need a reminder on how to sign up your campers? Check out this post: www.gotogoshen.org/registration/registration-tips-how-to-add-more-campers/ .
Splitting Adults on Your Registration
If you have adults that are planning to split the week and are wondering how to register them, check out this post: www.gotogoshen.org/registration/registration-tips-splitting-adults/
Registration Troubleshooting
  • Having issues applying a campership or popcorn voucher? Contact Camping Specialist Sarah Moses at sarah.moses@scouting.org
  • If you have unallocated credit on your account that you aren’t able to apply during check out, please contact Sarah Moses prior to completing checkout. If you have unallocated credit, your registration summary will have two separate line items: Allocated Credit and Unallocated Credit. If you only see Credit as a line item in your registration summary, all of your credit has been allocated.
  • If within a week of making your EFT payment (e-check) you receive a notice from the system that your payment has been reversed, the most common error is that there was a typo when entering the routing or the account number. Please double check your numbers and try the payment again. If you run into an instance where you were paid in full prior to the Early Bird deadline, but the system is now charging the regular rate, please contact Sarah Moses at sarah.moses@scouting.org to get this addressed before completing checkout.
Three Month Count Down! – Reminders and Upcoming Opportunities
What Documents Do You Need to Bring to Camp?
  • Unit roster reflecting current Scouting America registration of youth and adults attendees (see “Adult Leadership Requirements” section of the GSR Leader Guide for more details)
    • All youth and adult attendees must have an active membership with Scouting America in order.  Camp Ross Leaders: See the note below under “Adult Leader Requirements” for the Cub Scout Pack exception, per the Guide For Safe Scouting.
  • Scouting America Annual Health and Medical Records, Parts A, B, and C for all attendees (two copies recommended – one for you, and one to be filed in the Camp First Aid office)
  • Scouting America Pre-Event Medical Screening Checklist for all participants.
  • Completed Pre-Camp Swim Check Form (not required, Scouts BSA and High Adventure only)
  • If attending Lenhok’sin High Adventure:
    • CPR Certification for one crew member
    • Wilderness First Aid Certification for one crew member
    • Weather Hazards Training Certification for one crew member
    • Safe Swim Defense Certification for one crew member
    • Safety Afloat for one crew member (River Trek Only)
    • Paddle Craft Safety Certification for one adult leader (River Trek only)
Adult Leader Requirement Reminders
Over the past weeks, I’ve received several questions regarding adult leader requirements for Units while at camp. Please review page 21 of the Goshen Scout Reservation Leader’s Guide for specific guidelines for Camp Ross, Scouts BSA Camps (Camp Olmsted, Bowman, and Marriott), and Lenhok’sin High Adventure.
Camp Ross Leaders, if you are having difficulty identifying a BALOO training prior to the start of camp, please send me an email directly.
Pre-Camp Swim Checks – May 31 and June 1, 2025
The NCAC Aquatics Committee is hosting Pre-Camp Swim Checks on May 31 and June 1 Camp William B. Snyder (Haymarket, VA)!
Units are able to complete swim checks on their own ahead of camp and bring verification of this to camps at Goshen Scout Reservation. This will allow you to have a more relaxed pace for campsite set-up when you arrive on Sunday and it allows us to relieve congestion at our waterfront for units that are unable to complete their swim checks ahead of time. This is by no means mandatory, but encouraged.
Pre-Camp swim checks will be accepted for Units attending Camp Olmsted, Camp Bowman, Camp Marriott, and Lenhok’sin High Adventure. Please note that the GSR Aquatics Staff reserve the right to request any camper (youth or adult) to retake the swim test during their time at GSR if they have concern about a camper’s swimming ability.
Summer Camp T-Shirts: Pre Sale Opening Soon!
GSR is hosting an online trading post ahead of your arrival at the Goshen Scout Reservation where you can order camp-specific t-shirts, exclusive to Summer 2025! Sleeve customization is also available to include your Unit Number. Orders must be placed before May 23, 2025 and will be shipped to your door. Not able to place an order in time? No worries – they will be for sale at your GSR’s camp trading post this summer!
Please stay tuned for an order link!
Adult Leaders – Volunteer While You’re at Camp!
Curious of how you can spend your day while at the Goshen Scout Reservation? You’re invited to join our Volunteer Corp and provide assistance in supporting a merit badge program, providing additional supervision to a program area, assisting our Ranger and Facilities team, and providing training opportunities to fellow leaders!
Take a look at the form below to learn more and volunteer!
2025 GSR Volunteer Form: https://forms.gle/aFo3PicxAG2DLGWC7
We are currently working on finalizing our Adult Leader Training Schedule. Please stay turned for more information!

Yours in Scouting,

Elisabeth Warren | Goshen Scout Reservation Director

Goshen Scout Reservation: Merit Badge Sign-Ups at 7:00 pm! – Final Reminders

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Hello Goshen Scout Reservation Scouts BSA Leaders,
We are looking forward to Merit Badge Signups for you and your Scouts this evening at 7:00 pm. Please see the following final reminders to assist you and your Scouts in signing up for Merit Badges and programs.

Who can register for Merit Badges and Programs?

In order to be eligible to register for badges and activities, Scouts need to be “booked” on your summer camp registration.

  • If you booked the Scout with the $100 camper deposit prior to the February 15 deadline, that Scout is all set to sign up for badges and activities!
  • Scouts who have been registered since this date and are paid in full are also eligible to sign up for badges and activities.
  • A Scout who has not been registered or paid in full will not be eligible to sign up for merit badges until they have been fully “booked”.
Merit Badge and program signups will continue on a rolling basis until the start of camp, but be aware that some classes have class limits!

Program and Prerequisite Guide Reminder

Please ensure you have read the Scouts BSA Program and Prerequisites Guide, which has descriptions, age recommendations, prerequisite requirements, parent/guardian permission notes, and other helpful information. It can be found in your camp’s downloads sections as well as here: www.gotogoshen.org/forms.

Activities Requiring Pre-Camp Registration

Due to popular demand, Mile Swim is now part of Merit Badge & Activity Sign Ups! Scouts hoping to participate in the Mile Swim event to earn the award will need to sign up before camp. Capacity is limited, but there will be a waitlist. Some camps may offer a second time for the Mile Swim based on interest, so be sure to sign up for that waitlist as needed. Scouts will be prioritized, but adults will be able to participate as space allows at camp.

Updates to the Guide for Safe Scouting for Merit Badge Advancement

Beginning January 1, 2025, several Merit Badges require a discussion between the Scout and a Unit Leader and/or Parent/Guardian permission to begin working on a Merit Badge. To comply with these updates, there are now two radio buttons as a part of your Scouts’ Merit Badge sign ups:

  • Unit Leader Discussion: This Scout has discussed their merit badge selection with their unit leader or designee.
  • Parent/Guardian Permission: This Scout has obtained permission from their parent/guardian for any merit badge requirements that require permission. A list of merit badges this applies to can be found in the Program and Prerequisites Guide.

These radio buttons must be selected for a Scout to participate in the particular merit badge class.

Parent Portal

As a reminder, you have the ability to activate a Parent Portal on your Unit’s registration, allowing parents to assist with registering their youth for camp AND merit badge programs.
For video tutorials on how to use Parent Portal, please view the registration system’s How To Videos.

Merit Badge Sign Up Walk Through

Ready to sign up for badges and activities? Check out the How To Guide for a walkthrough and FAQs here: www.gotogoshen.org/general/how-to-merit-badge-activity-sign-ups/

Other Announcements and Reminders

Request for a Female Adult Volunteer for a Lenhok’sin High Adventure Trek

The High Adventure Committee is putting out a call for a volunteer female adult to join them for a week of backpacking on the Provisional Trail Trek on July 6 – July 12, 2025. If you know of someone who may be interested, please have them contact the Lenhok’sin High Adventure team at lenhoksin@gotogoshen.org.

Reminder of Early Bird Rate Extension for Youth Crossing from AOL to Scouts BSA

As a reminder, Youth Crossing Over from Arrow of Light (Cub Scouts) to your Troop are eligible for the Early Bird rate until June 1, 2025. This is listed as a “New Crossover Scout Youth” during the registration process. We look forward to having your newest Scouts to join us as a part of our First Year Camper Programs.

Adult Leader Training Opportunities

Adult Leader Training Opportunities are under final review and will become available registration during the month of April. Please stay turned!

Yours in Scouting,

Elisabeth Warren | Goshen Scout Reservation Director

Goshen Leader Update #2: Registration Reminders, Merit Badge & Program Schedules, and Additional Guidance (03/04/2025)

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Hello Goshen Scout Reservation Leaders!
We are just a few months away from welcoming you and your Scouts to the Goshen Scout Reservation for an incredible summer adventure. Please review this email carefully for information on registration, merit badge and program schedules, and additional guidance.

General Registration Reminders

The Goshen Scout Reservation Early Bird Deadline is April 15 at 11:59 pm. Registration made before this time will receive a discounted rate. As the Camper Deposit phase has ended (enable Units to register youth at a $100 deposit rate, to be applied to total cost of camp), full payment is now available for youth and adult campers.

We encourage that you register your attending youth and adult campers as soon as possible so that we can best plan and prepare for a high quality camping experience and your arrival at camp!

Parent Portal

Did you know that Goshen Scout Reservation has a “Parent Portal Option” to pay for scouts once added to a Unit’s Camp Registration, as well as to manage Merit Badge signups.

For video tutorials on how to use Parent Portal, please view the registration system’s How To Videos.

Adult Registration Requirements

We have received a few questions regarding adult leader requirements from Units. Please see the guidance below, in line with the Guide for Safe Scouting, and as listed in the GSR Leader Guide.

At any time, each unit must have at least two adults over the age of 21 who are registered members of Scouting America If there are female youth members with your unit, one of these registered leaders must be female. While not required, one of these leaders would preferably be your unit’s year-round leader or assistant leader. Unit leaders are responsible for the good behavior and practices of their scouts at all times and are expected to be available to assist their Scouts and Camp Staff in assuring the best camping experience possible.

Scouting America Registration Requirements — Scouts BSA & High Adventure Camps

All adults, ages 18+, staying overnight must be currently registered as an adult volunteer or an adult program participant in Scouting America. Registration as a Merit Badge Counselor position does not meet this requirement. Please refer to the Guide to Safe Scouting for a list of approved adult registration fee required positions. While there is no required adult to youth ratio for Scouts BSA troops and Venturing Crews, however we recommend a ratio of one adult to every ten youth, not including the minimum of two Adult Leaders to satisfy the requirements above.

Scouting America Registration Requirements — Camp Ross

We require a 1:4 adult to Webelos/AOLs with a minimum of 2 adults per unit. To give all Webelos & AOLs the best program, please avoid a direct 1:1 adult to youth ratio. Adults splitting the week are welcome! At least of these two adults must be registered leaders, as described above. All other adults, if they are parent/guardians attending with their child, are not required to register as leaders, but must be accompanied by a registered leader any time they are with youth members other than their own child. Phoenix Nest adults must be registered leaders.

At least one leader (we recommend more) must be BALOO trained.

Guidance for Units in the Approved Combined Troop Pilot Program

If your Unit is a part of the approved Scouting America Scouts BSA Combined Troop Pilot program, please use your primary Unit number and register all Scouts and adults under the single registration. If you a part of the pilot program and already registered your Units separately, please contact Sarah Moses at sarah.moses@scouting.org.

Scouts BSA Boys and Girls units who are not a part of the combined troop pilot program must complete separate registrations, regardless of if units are linked. Venturing Crews and Cub Scout Packs may continue to register male and female youth campers on the same registration, as these programs are considered to be co-ed.

GSR Leader Guide

To review the 2025 Goshen Scout Reservation Leader Guide and receive guidance on GSR policies, procedures, services, and recommended best practices, please visit  www.gotogoshen.org/information/forms-downloads. We highly recommend that all attending Adult Leaders and Unit Registration contacts review this document prior to their arrival at GSR.

Merit Badge and Program Schedules

Merit Badge Program Schedules for all GSR Camps have been updated and posted online! Please refer to the forms and downloads section of your camp webpage to view and download.

Program and Pre-Requisite Guide (with subject to change note)

The Goshen Scout Reservation Scouts BSA Program & Prerequisite Guide for Merit Badges at Camps Bowman, Marriott, and Olmsted has been posted! This Guide shares Merit Badge descriptions and specifics on requirements that must be completed prior to arriving at camp in order for your scouts to complete the merit badge.

You can download a copy of the 2025 Program & Prerequisite Guide in the Scouts BSA Specific downloads section of your camp webpage or on the GSR Forms & Downloads page. Please note that select merit badge pre-requisites are under final review and may be subject to change. We will be sure to inform you if that is the case. For the most up to date requirements for all merit badges, please refer to https://www.scouting.org/skills/merit-badges/.

Older Scout Programs – Updates for Summer 2025

Osprey – GSR’s New Older Scout Program: I am very excited to announce Goshen Scout Reservation’s NEW Older Scout Program – Osprey!  Offered to Scouts at Camps Bowman, Marriott, and Olmsted, Osprey is a full day, week-long program that includes high adventure opportunities and explores Goshen Scout Reservation. Over the course of the week, Scouts will become a team at Low COPE, participate in a service project, circumnavigate Lake Merriweather in canoes, engage in a metalworking and welding workshop, and embark on a backpacking overnighter with Lenhok’sin High Adventure activities. The Osprey program is based out of Camp Marriott is a replacement for the former Goshen Vets program.

I am also pleased to share that Goshen Scout Reservation recently hired an ATV Director for the 2025 Summer season, and we look forward to hosting this program again this summer.  We are currently still hiring a second ATV Director position so that we may host our expanded ATV program – if you aware of anyone over the age of 21 that may be interested, please send them our way!

Goshen Scout Reservation will continue to host COPE and Climbing programs! Learn more at www.gotogoshen.org.

Merit Badge Registration:

Merit Badge Registration for Camps Olmsted, Bowman, and Marriott will open March 31, 2025 at 7:00 pm. Please be sure check out the Program & Prerequisites Guide for the latest prerequisites, class descriptions, age recommendations, and specialty class fees.

Scouts BSA Program and Prerequisites Guide (available under “Forms and Downloads”): www.gotogoshen.org/forms

Questions about Merit Badge Sign Ups? Check out the “How To: MB Sign Ups” Guide (also available under “Forms and Downloads”). https://www.gotogoshen.org/general/how-to-merit-badge-activity-sign-ups/

Scouts interested in participating in “Open Program” blocks do not need to register for these sections.

If your unit is opting to use the “parent portal” feature for merit badge sign ups, please be sure to select the “allow parent portal class selection” check box under the “use parent portal” section of the registration contact section.

Camperships

If your unit has any families that are in need of financial assistance for their Scout to attend summer camp at Goshen Scout Reservation this summer, please have them fill out a campership application, available here: www.gotogoshen.org/camperships.

The Greg Augustine Campership Fund allows applicants to be granted up to 50% of the cost of summer camp. The deadline is March 1, but we will be accepting applicants afterwards as well. Applicants that submitted by March 1 will receive their initial approval should expect their Goshen specific voucher code via email by March 15, 2025.

Annual Health Medical Form Reminder

Don’t forget! – Everyone in camp must have completed Parts A & B of the BSA Medical Form with them upon arrival at Goshen. Any youth or adult camper staying for more than 72 hours and/or participating in camp activities must also have Part C and the NCAC Health Advisory.

Pre-Camp Swim Checks

Camps Bowman, Marriott, Olmsted, and Lenhok’sin High Adventure allow pre-camp swim checks to be submitted. Pre-camp swim checks are only valid if conducted by approved certified instructors, as listed on the GSR Pre-Camp Swim Check Form. Pre-camp swim checks must be submitted to the Goshen camp you are attending using the “GSR Pre-Camp Swim Check Form,” available under the “Forms and Downloads” section of each camp webpage and at www.gotogoshen.org/information/forms-downloads.

Although pre-camp swim check can be administered on a Unit level given appropriate administrators are present, National Capital Area Council is hosting pre-camp swim checks at Camp William B. Snyder May 31 and June 1! More information, including registration links, to come soon!

Pre-Camp Swim checks are not required and swim checks are conducted as a part of your Unit’s check in process upon arrival at GSR. Please note that Camp Ross does NOT accept pre-camp swim checks.

Yours in Scouting,

Elisabeth Warren | Goshen Scout Reservation Director

SCOUTING AMERICA
National Capital Area Council

Serving youth in Washington, DC; Maryland; Virginia; U.S. Virgin Islands; and Direct Service

Goshen Leader Update #1: Registration Reminders, Webinar Series, Programs and Opportunities (01/19/2025)

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Hello Goshen Leaders!
My name is Elisabeth Warren, Goshen Scout Reservation Director, and I am very excited to welcome you and your Units to GSR for Summer 2025! The 2025 Camp Director team is hard at work preparing for your arrival this summer, and are looking forward to preparing memorable experiences and programs for your Scouts.
Below to important reminders to keep in mind as you begin to prepare for this summer!
Registration Reminders
This past November, Goshen Scout Reservation made an announcement regarding 2025 Fee Adjustments. We have received a few questions since this announcement, and wanted to clarify a few points below.
Registration Terms:
  • All-Inclusive: Goshen Scout Reservation is now all-inclusive! An all-inclusive fee structure means that there are no hidden fees or additional costs for your Scouts or leaders to attend a GSR camp beyond the registration fee. Previous additional costs for items and programs such as basketry kits, leather crafts, shotgun ammunition, and the ATV program are now included. Merit Badge program supplies will be provided to your Scouts during their merit badge session and will not need to be purchased in the Trading Post.
  • Unit Deposit: All units attending Goshen Scout Reservation will make a “unit deposit” in the form of a one-time, non-refundable $200 registration fee. This deposit is not rolled into the registration fee of a youth participant, and is a standalone fee. Units who send multiple groups to GSR Camps will only need to make one Unit Deposit (e.g., a Unit sends one group to a Scouts BSA Camp and one group to Lenhok’sin High Adventure. Please contact Sarah Moses if you are sending multiple groups to camp).
  • Camper Deposit: A $100 “camper deposit” is now in place that will lock in your spot at camp until full payment can be made. This camper deposit is a part of the overall cost of camp and is not an additional fee. Scouts BSA youth who have not made full payment at the time of Merit Badge Registration, but have made a camper deposit will be able to take part in Merit Badge signups.
Registration Timeline / Important Dates:
  • November 15, 2024: Camper Deposit Phase opens. At this time, youth campers are able to register with a $100 deposit that is a part of the overall cost of camp.
  • February 15, 2025: Camper Deposits due. After this point, youth registrations will be made for the full cost of camp, and will not be broken into the $100 deposit and remainder fee.
  • March 1, 2025: Campership applications due. Applications will be accepted afterwards on a rolling basis as funds are available.
  • March 31, 2025: Merit Badge Sign-ups open at 7:00 pm. More instruction to come closer to the registration date.
  • April 15, 2025: Early Bird period ends. After this point, the cost of camp increases for new registrants. New Scouts BSA members who have crossed over from the Arrow of Light Rank will still be eligible for the early bird rate to encourage new Scouts BSA youth to attend summer camp with their new Troops.
  • May 1, 2025: Bus Transportation registration opens. Transportation to the Goshen Scout Reservation via bus is provided to Units at an additional cost.
  • June 1, 2025: Final payments for camp attendance are requested by June 1st to best plan for your attendance at camp. Accepted at a minimum of two weeks before arriving on site.
If you are no longer the Registration Contact for your unit, this post goes over how to update your registration:
If you need to access your registration, this post goes over how to do so:
Remember, as you begin to add participants to your registrations, you should only add participants as you are ready to pay for them. When you are ready to add participants, this post has a quick walkthrough:
Leader and Program Guides, Program Schedules
Copies of the 2025 GSR Leader Guides, Program Guides, and Program Schedules will be posted on www.gotogoshen.org in early February. Thank you for your patience as we continue to plan for an exciting Summer 2025!
Orientation Webinar Series
Are you a Bear or Webelos leader or parent? Join us for our monthly Camp Ross Webinar series! Each month, we gather to discuss a different topic that will assist you in planning for your Camp Ross Adventure.
This coming Tuesday, we will be reviewing “how to fund your summer camp adventure,” and will talk about NCAC’s Camp Card fundraiser, how to apply popcorn vouchers, apply for camperships, and more.
For more information and dates for upcoming webinars, please visit https://weownadventure.com/webinar-series-cub-scout-summer-camp/.
Camperships – Rolling Applications
If you know of any scouts in your unit who may benefit from financial assistance to attend summer camp at the Goshen Scout Reservation, please encourage them to complete the NCAC “Financial Support Request Form.” Recipients can receive assistance for up to 50% of the cost of camp. Please visit www.gotogoshen.org/camperships for more information.
Early Bird Registration Closes April 15 at 11:59 pm
Early Bird Registration will close Friday, April 15 at 11:59 pm. Participants who have registered before this time will receive the posted discounted price when attending camp.
Merit Badge and Activity Signups – Opens March 31 at 7:00 pm
Merit Badge & Activity Signups for Camps Olmsted, Marriott, and Bowman will open on March 31 at 7:00 pm. Merit Badge Program Schedules will be available under “forms and downloads” on each Camp’s webpage. The updated Program and Pre-Requisites Guide will be released shortly – stay tuned!
Provisional Camping Opportunities
There are several opportunities for individual / provisional scouts at Goshen this summer! Scouts interested in a provisional merit badge experience can find more information here: www.gotogoshen.org/provisional.
Scouts interested in attending a provisional Trail Trek at Lenhok’sin High Adventure, sponsored by the NCAC High Adventure Committee can find more information here: www.gotogoshen.org/lenhoksin.
Looking for a two-week experience? Members of the Order of the Arrow are invited to join the Goshen Order of the Arrow Trail (GOAT) Crew for two weeks at Lenhok’sin High Adventure. Learn more at www.gotogoshen.org/about.
Join Goshen Scout Reservation Summer Camp Staff!
Goshen Scout Reservation is hiring Camp Staff for the Summer 2025 Season! Working on Camp Staff is a memorable experience that promotes growth, independence, and creates memories that last a lifetime. Staff help to teach essential scout skills, such as tying knots and building fires, and have the opportunity to make lasting impressions on campers while showing them the wonders of the outdoors!
At this time, Goshen Scout Reservation is actively hiring:
  • Camp Leadership Position (Camp Director, Program Director, Facilities Director)
  • Aquatics Director(s) and Aquatics Program Staff
  • ATV Director(s) and Assistant(s)
  • COPE Director and Program Staff
  • Range and Target Activities Director(s) and Program Staff
  • Scoutcraft Director(s) and Program Staff
  • Ecology Director(s) and Program Staff
  • High Adventure Outpost Directors and Program Staff
Learn more about Goshen Staff at www.gotogoshen.org/staff.
Volunteer Service Weekend: May 9 – 11
Looking for a service opportunity for your unit or family? Join members of the Goshen Scout Reservation Staff for a weekend of service to assist in camp beautification and prepare for Summer 2025! This past fall, we painted buildings rebuilt lifejacket and canoe racks, installed campsite signs, and built picnic tables (to name a few!) Learn more and join us at www.gotogoshen.org/vww
Family Camp: May 23 – 26
Join the Goshen Scout Reservation this coming Memorial Day Weekend for a fun-filled Family Camping Experience! Soar through the sky on the giant swing, cool off on beautiful Lake Merriweather, test your aim at Shooting Sports, challenge your inner artist at Handicraft, and spend time with your family and friends in the great outdoors. All are welcome, not just registered scouts. Find more information at www.gotogoshen.org/familycamp

Yours in Scouting,

Elisabeth Warren | Goshen Scout Reservation Director

Goshen Scout Reservation 2025 Fee Adjustment

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In keeping with our commitment to deliver a high-quality camp experience for Scouts and Leaders attending summer camp at the Goshen Scout Reservation, and in response to feedback from the Scouting Community, National Capital Area Council is moving Goshen Scout Reservation to an “all-inclusive” fee structure.

An “All-Inclusive” fee structure means that there are no hidden or additional costs for your Scouts or leaders to attend a GSR Summer Camp beyond the camp registration fee! Previous additional costs for items and programs such as Basketry kits, leather crafts, shotgun ammunition, and the ATV program are now included!

Goshen Scout Reservation will now be a tiered structure, based on the needs and requirements of the program level they support; Cub Scout: Camp Ross, Scouts BSA: Olmsted, Marriott, Bowman, High Adventure: Lenhok’sin High Adventure.

For the upcoming 2025 season, this shift in fees will allow us to increase camp staff salaries and invest in program supplies and camp facilities.

The Cost of Camp for Summer 2025 at the Goshen Scout Reservation will be:

  Cub Scout (Ross) Scouts BSA (Olmsted, Bowman, Marriott) Lenhok’sin High Adventure
Youth Early Bird $525 $565 $625
Youth Regular $555 $595 $655
Adult Early Bird $270 $300 $330
Adult Regular $310 $340 $370

Scouts who are crossing over from Arrow of Light to Scouts BSA will receive the Early Bird Discount, no matter when they register! We want to ensure that the time of their crossover ceremony does not deter an incoming Scouts BSA member from attending camp with their new Troop.

Unit and Camper Deposits

The initial Unit reservation for a GSR Summer Camp is now made through a one time non-refundable $200 “Unit Deposit.” Units who are sending multiple groups to GSR Camps will only need to make one Unit Deposit (e.g., a Unit sends one group to a Scouts BSA Camp and one group to Lenhok’sin High Adventure). Please contact us for more information if you are considering sending multiple groups to GSR.

Knowing that this price structure represents a change, we are also moving forward with a deposit structure for youth campers. This method has been used to help support Unit Camping Coordinators in making camp accessible and approachable to all families. A deposit represents a commitment, and one we value greatly. In return, our team is best able to be prepared for your arrival and to focus on service. This $100 camper deposit will lock in your spot at camp until full payment can be made and allow Scouts BSA youth to register for merit badges and activities earlier.

Free Adults

Units attending Goshen Scout Reservation are permitted free adult leaders based on the number of youth attending. The more youth who attend with your Unit, the more free adults you receive!

1 – 10 Youth: 1 Free Adult 11 – 20 Youth: 2 Free Adults 21 – 30 Youth: 3 Free Adults
And so on…

Transportation Fare

Transportation to the Goshen Scout Reservation via bus will continue to be provided to Units. Tickets will be available for an additional cost beginning May 1, 2025.

Important Dates

Date Event
July 1, 2024 Unit Deposit Phase opens.
November 15, 2024 Camper Deposit Phase opens.
February 15, 2025 Camper Deposits due.
March 1, 2025 Campership applications due. Accepted afterward as funds are available.
March 31, 2025 Merit Badge Sign Ups open at 7:00 pm.
April 15, 2025 Early Bird period ends.
May 1, 2025 Bus Transportation registration opens.
June 1, 2025 Final payments requested by June 1st to best plan and prepare for your attendance at camp. Accepted a minimum of two weeks before arriving on site.

 

Thank you for your continued support and your commitment to the Scouting program. We look forward to serving you this summer!

Yours in Scouting,

Dave Seitz

Chair, Camping and Outdoor Program Committee

 

 Elisabeth Warren

Reservation Director

Goshen Scout Reservation

 Matt Keck

Director of Support Services

National Capital Area Council

The fully announcement and Frequently Asked Questions is available here for your review.