Special Accommodations
If a Scout has special needs, camp staff will do whatever they can to accommodate. The troop leader should notify the camp staff of any requests during online registration.
Buddy System
All Scouts should adhere to the buddy system throughout camp. No Scout should ever be found wandering through camp alone. We recognize that this can be difficult if the Scout has not scheduled classes with fellow members of their troop. We encourage troops to attempt to pair Scouts in classes as much as possible. If this is not feasible, the Scout should walk with other Scouts in the class to the location of the merit badge class. Due to the number of Scouts and the short amount of time between classes, this should be a relatively simple exercise.
Lost and Found
Lost and found is located in the winter camp office. Items will be kept in the winter camp office through the end of winter camp. Any items left at Bovay Scout Ranch after winter camp may be disposed of as determined at the discretion of the camp director, including being donated to a non-profit organization, returned to the council office, thrown in the trash, etc. Sam Houston Area Council, nor its staff, shall be held responsible for any lost items not claimed by the end of winter camp.
To assist us in returning items to their rightful owner, please ensure that all items your troop brings to camp have the owner’s name and troop number marked on them.
Smoking / Vaping Policy
"An important way adult leaders can model healthy living is by following the policies on alcohol, tobacco, and drugs. Leaders should support the attitude that they, as well as youths, are better off without tobacco in any form and may not allow the use of tobacco products at any BSA activity involving youth participants. This includes the use of electronic cigarettes, personal vaporizers, or electronic nicotine delivery systems that simulate tobacco smoking.
All Scouting functions, meetings, and activities should be conducted on a smoke-free basis, with smoking areas located away from all participants.
As outlined in the Scouter Code of Conduct, Scouting activities are not a place to possess, distribute, transport, consume, or use any of the following items prohibited by law or in violation of any Scouting rules, regulations, and policies: alcoholic beverages or controlled substances, including marijuana.
In addition, the Code of Conduct specifies that if you are taking prescription medications with the potential of impairing any functioning or judgment, you will not engage in activities that would put Scouts at risk, including driving or operating equipment." Source
Smoking or vaping by youth at any Scouting event will not be tolerated. If a youth is caught smoking at winter camp, the youth’s parents or guardians will be contacted by phone and shall be required to pick the youth up from Bovay Scout Ranch immediately.
Smoking by adults is not permitted in any tent, pavilion or building. Smoking is also not permitted in the dining hall at any time.
While we highly discourage smoking while in camp, adults who choose to do so must not smoke within sight of any youth. Moreover, in the event of a burn ban, smoking may be prohibited on Bovay Scout Ranch property entirely. Please check with the winter camp office to determine whether such a burn ban is in place.
Alcohol, Illegal Drugs or Stimulants
The consumption, possession or use of alcohol or illegal drugs or controlled substances while participating in the program at Bovay Scout Ranch is not permitted. We will enforce all local, state, and federal laws when a violation involving the above substances is reported. Violators will be asked to leave the camp immediately.
Rifles, Ammunition, Bows and Arrows
Personal firearms, ammunition, bows and arrows, and fireworks are not allowed in camp.
Fires, Liquid Fuels and Propane
Fires are to be built only in the designated areas and under proper supervision. Liquid fuels are not permitted. Propane is to be used only under adult supervision. Empty cylinders and cans must be given to the camp quartermaster for disposal. National policy prohibits the use of open flames in tents. This includes mosquito coils, catalytic heaters, gas lanterns, stoves, candles, and smoking material. All tents and flys must be marked with "No Flames in Tents."
Internet Access
Internet and WiFi are not available at camp. If reliable internet access is needed, bring a hotspot.
Trading Post
The trading post will be located in the same building as the winter camp offices. Just look for the signs above the door!
The trading post will be stocked with an assortment of collectible items and camp essentials.
Hours for the trading post can be found on the doors to the trading post.