OUTBACK ADVENTURE
AT CAMP ALEXANDER
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 1 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 Contents
WELCOME LETTER ...... 3 LEADER GUIDE ...... 4 MISSION ...... 4 PLANNING AHEAD Plan the Work, Work the Plan ...... 4 HOW TO GET TO CAMP ...... 5 2015 CAMPING SESSIONS: ...... 6 2015 FEE SCHEDULE ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. PAYMENT SCHEDULE ...... 6 REFUND POLICY ...... 6 REQUIREMENTS ...... 7 ARRIVING AT CAMP ...... 8 WEATHER ...... 8 OUR TEAM ...... 9 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES ...... 9 FIRST AID ...... 9 EMERGENCY RESCUE POLICY ...... 9 PROGRAM ...... 12 WEEK LONG PLAN/SCHEDULE ...... 13 ACTIVIES ...... 14 Backpacking ...... 14 WHITE WATER RAFTING ...... 14 FOOD ...... 15 SAMPLE WEEKLY MENU ...... 15 PACKING LIST ...... 16 MEDICAL ...... 21 POLICIES ...... 22 Outback Team Members Needed ...... 23
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 2 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 WELCOME LETTER
Dear Scout Leader,
Our Outback Adventure program was designed to highlight true Colorado adventures. We take scouts Rock Climbing, Backpacking, Rafting, Mountain Boarding, and Mountain Biking! Scouts will be part of a crew, no more than 8 people, traversing across the Rocky Mountains in Pike National Forest, applying skills learned to triumph over their challenges. Each crew is led by two highly qualified staff members and will point out historical and natural highlights along the way.
Outback Adventure Program is embarking on its 4th year in operation and will be serving over 100 campers this coming summer. The program is based from Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council in 11- Mile Canyon, Colorado. At a base elevation of 8,400 ft, Outback crews will venture to new heights and experience the backcountry of 11 mile canyon while climbing at some of its best spots. Groups will then travel over to Pikes Peak and attempt to summit the 14,114’ ft climb. After summiting, they will have the option of biking Phantom Canyon or Shelf Road, both of which are part of Colorado’s Gold Belt Tour. On the final day of our adventure they will have a full day of rafting before heading back to camp to return to their troops.
Planning an adventure like this for your troop can be a daunting task but please do not worry as this guide is your best resource for planning a “Mountain-Top Experience” for your unit during their stay and adventures here in Colorado. If further assistance is needed, please do not hesitate to contact me at719-219-2907.
The Pikes Peak Council Camping Program is proud to be a part of your Unit’s efforts in serving the youth of your area.
Thank you,
Cameron Ackley
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 3 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 LEADER GUIDE This guide is designed to be used by the unit to plan travel, calendar, and resources in order to ensure a successful summer camp at Camp Alexander. This planning guide encompasses only planning aspects of Camp Alexander and no program. The design is to publish the document in the early fall to assist with the planning stages of the camp experience. A second guide will be released in January containing all the program activities at for Camp Alexander.
MISSION Camp Alexander will provide a unique and steadily expanding “Colorado Mountain-Top Experience” emphasizing life skills and instilling Scouting values in Scouts, volunteers, and others throughout the Pikes Peak region and surrounding communities. PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY
Outback does not teach merit badges; instead it is intended to challenge older scouts to put into use the skills they have already learned from their merit badges. Putting what they learned in class into real life scenarios with dangers at hand and self-fulfillment in success. Scouts will take away from this program lifetime memories and the skills to backpack and climb back to their troops.
PLANNING AHEAD Plan the Work, Work the Plan Below are steps to use to create a successful summer camp experience. Please use them as a tool in your planning stages. 1. Read this Guide Completely 2. Schedule Parents meeting 3. Hold PLC to review Guide 4. Plan your units program schedules 5. Complete medical forms 6. Conduct pre-camp swim test 7. Review Sunday check-in list 8. Arrive at camp happy and ready for FUN!
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 4 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 HOW TO GET TO CAMP **Please note: The physical address is not computable with Google Maps or any GPS units as it is not a true postal address. You can use Lake George city as a reference point and then follow the directions below .
Camp
Alexander Directions to Camp Alexander from Colorado Springs, CO Take Highway 24 west to the town of Lake George. Entering the town of Lake George, take the first left onto County Road 96. (If you cross the river, you have gone too far) Follow County Road 96 (about 1 mile) to the 11-Mile Canyon Entrance. Turn right into 11-Mile Canyon and proceed to the Forest Ranger Station. Tell the gate attendant that you are heading to Camp Alexander, as entry fee is free.
Follow 11-Mile Canyon past Riverside Campground about 2 miles (watch for oncoming traffic!). Look for the Camp Entrance on the left. Follow the road to the parking lot where a staff guide will greet you and take you to your campsite. Camp Phone # 719-748-3254.
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 5 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 2015 CAMPING SESSIONS: Session 1:……Jun 7-13 Session 5:……Jul-5-11 Session 2:……Jun 14-20 Session 6:……Jul 12-18 Session 3:……Jun 21-27 Session 7:……Jul 19-25 Session 4:……Jun 28-Jul 4 Session 8:……Jul 26-Aug1
PAYMENT SCHEDULE Please make checks Payable to Pikes Peak BSA. The following payment schedule has been established by Camp Alexander for units to make timely payments throughout the year. Campsite confirmations will be sent to the unit contact person along with e-mail receipts for payments. All payments will be made using www.tentaroo.com/pikespeak January 14, 2015 $100 per camper per minimum campsite fee rqmt *
March 11, 2015 $75 per camper per minimum campsite fee rqmt*
May 6, 2015 All remaining fees, adjustments, and unit balance due for ALL Scouts, and leaders who are attending camp.
(This payment reflects your FINAL COUNT – not just the minimum.)
FEES PAID AFTER MAY 15, 2015 WILL INCUR A $15 PER PERSON LATE FEE Reservations accepted after April 1, 2015 will be accepted with a minimum ½ total payment due at that time.
REFUND POLICY Any time a unit does not meet the payment schedule, the unit risks losing its reservation, including all monies paid up to that point. All monies paid to Pikes Peak Council are non-refundable at anytime. Monies paid by the unit are transferable between campers IN THAT UNIT before the final payment date of May 6, 2015. If a Scout/Scouter cancellation occurs AFTER the May 6, 2015 payment date, NO fees will be refunded unless documented by a medical doctor, military deployment or a death occurred in the family.
If a unit books more than one site and cancels out of a site their monies paid toward that site are non- refundable nor transferable. All refund requests MUST be made IN WRITING and contain all pertinent information surrounding the cancellation AND MUST BE RECEIVED by September 3, 2015. For information about obtaining a refund, please contact the Camp at 719.748.3254 or write to PO Box 450, Lake George, CO 80827.
The council camping committee will make refund determinations by October 15, 2015 following the camping season. The minimum campsite fee requirement must be met before refunds will be given. All refunds are subject to a minimum of $75.00 cancellation fee.
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 6 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 REQUIREMENTS Outback High Adventure and Camp Alexander abides by the national standards of the Boy Scouts of America for the High Adventure Programs.
All participants in units from within the United States must be currently registered with the Boy Scouts of America. Units from outside the United States must be registered with a nationally recognized Scouting organization.
Camp Alexander is an equal opportunity service provider and a permitee of Pike National Forest.
Scout must be 14 years old by Jan 1, 2015
Complete Annual BSA Health and Medical Form Part A-D,
HEIGHT AND WEIGHT STANDARD
All participants must be at or under the Max weight for their height. Each participant will be checked upon arrival and denied access on the trip if they are outside the limits. In the event, the participant does not meet the standard after they arrive at camp that person will be sent home with no fees refunded.
HEIGHT WEIGHT (POUNDS) FT IN RECOMMENDED MAX 5' 0" 97-138 166 5' 1" 101-143 172 5' 2" 104-148 178 5' 3" 107-152 183 5' 4" 111-157 189 5' 5" 114-162 195 5' 6" 118-167 201 5' 7" 121-172 207 5' 8" 125-178 214 5' 9" 129-185 220 5' 10" 132-188 226 5' 11" 136-194 233 6' 0" 140-199 239 6' 1" 144-205 246 6' 2" 148-210 252 6' 3" 152-216 260 6' 4" 156-222 267 6' 5" 160-228 274
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 7 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 6' 6" 164-234 281 6' 7" 170-240 295
Physically ready: 90% of the time participants will be above 9000ft.
Complete Swim test as a Blue or Swimmer level
Camp management reserves the right to pull any participant from the program for any reason with or without the recommendation of the Outback Adventure Staff. ARRIVING AT CAMP Check-in will be held on Sunday from 1:00 to 4:00pm. It is in the best interest of your unit to arrive the closet to the opening time at 1:00pm. This will allow the group a more relaxed check in. All camp facilities will be closed until 1:00pm; the gate will be unlocked at 12:00pm for units to arrive in the parking lot. Camp Alexander does not have provisions for accommodating early arrivals or late stays at camp.
Your unit will be greeted upon arrival in the parking lot by your Outback Adventure staff for the week. This staff member will guide you through the entire check in process. He/she will lead you on the hike into camp stopping at these locations
Your first stop along the tour is Medical Re-Checks . Please have scouts prepared with all medications and medical forms out and ready to be reviewed. Each Scout needs to carry his own medical form and medications, you can have them organized by one adult but please hand them out prior to walking up the building.
WEATHER Summer weather at Camp Alexander is usually very nice with warm days, 80 degrees and cool nights, around 40 degrees: we have seen snow during the summer months so Be Prepared! If you are coming in the month of June please be prepared for some cold nights in the 30’s. A Scout’s sleeping bag that worked at a southern camp will not be adequate for cool nights in Colorado. Participants will be subject to extreme temperature changes during their week long adventure. The nighttime lows on the trail could be in the single digits and then daytime highs along the mountain bike trail might be in the high 90’s. Please take a look at our packing list to help you pack accordingly.
AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 8 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 June July
Average High: 70°F Average High: 75°F
Average Low: 40°F Average Low: 46°F
OUR TEAM Our camp team prides itself in finding the best skilled staff to guide your kids on their adventure. We begin this task in the fall, 10 months prior to your arrival. We search for the best and brightest talent to fill each role to ensure you receive the best service possible. All of our Outback Staff are 18 years old or older and have a particular skill which they will train your scouts in during the week.
Our Outback staff certifications:
National Camp School Trek National Camp School Trek Safely Trained Leader Climbing Director LNT trained Wilderness First Aid BSA Climbing Instructors
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
FIRST AID In addition to the above certifications all staff will are certified in CPR & First aid. We have emergency procedures put in place in case any emergencies do arise. Our staff carries a “Spot” device which transmits their exact location to local emergency response teams. The “Spot” device also allows our staff to check in at predetermined checkpoints throughout the week. In the event a check in is not received we have action plans to connect with the crew.
EMERGENCY RESCUE POLICY All emergency rescues and recoveries will be executed by local EMS and Search & Rescue officials. All non-emergency extractions will be charged $100 since these extractions tax our resources. THIS FEE IS FINAL AND NON-NEGOTIABLE. This includes any Scout(s) who decide to wander off from the group or campsite on their own and cause the camp to enter Lost Camper mode. Remember, we operate in National Forest and remote areas non-accessible by vehicles.
Parents, guardians and potential participants in our Outback Adventure program are advised that journeying to and from camp, and one’s stay at camp, can involve exposure to accident, illness, and/or injury associated with high elevation, physically demanding, high adventure program in a remote mountainous area. Campers may be exposed to occasional severe weather conditions such as lightning,
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 9 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 hail, flash floods and heat. Other accidental possibilities include injuries from tripping and falling, motor vehicle accidents, asthma and diabetes related incidents, heart attacks, heat exhaustion and more. Colorado trails are steep and rocky at elevations about 8,000 ft. Wild animals such as bears, rattlesnakes and mountain lions are native and usually present little danger if proper precautions are taken. Please refer to this guide book, speak with previous high adventure participants, or call Camp Alexander for further information concerning risks and measures which can be taken to avoid accidents. Our staff is trained in preventing accidents, first aid and CPR and is prepared to assist in recognizing, reacting, and responding to accidents, injuries, and illnesses. Medical and Search and Rescue services are provided by Park & Teller County and Camp Alexander in response to an accident or emergency, however, response times can be affected by location, weather, or other emergencies and could be delayed 3 or more hours.
RECOMMENDATIONS REGARDING CHRONIC ILLNESSES
Camp Alexander requires that this information be shared with the parent(s) or guardian(s) and examining physician of every participant. Camp Alexander does not have facilities for extended care or treatment, therefore, participants who cannot meet these requirements will be sent home at their expense.
CARDIAC OR CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE
Adults or youth who have had any of the following should undergo a thorough evaluation by a physician before considering participation in Outback Adventure.
1. Angina (chest pain caused by heart or coronary artery disease)
2. Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
3. Surgery or angioplasty to treat coronary artery disease; surgery or treat congenital heart disease or other heart surgery
4. Stroke or transient ischemic attacks
5. Claudication (leg pain with exercise caused by hardening of the arteries)
6. Family history of heart disease or a family member who died unexpectedly before age 50
7. Excessive weight
8. Smoking
The altitude at our High Adventure Program and the physical exertion involved may precipitate either a heart attack or stroke in susceptible persons. Participants with a history of any of the first six (6) conditions listed above should have a physician supervised stress test. A thallium stress test is recommended for participants who have coronary heart disease. Even is the stress test is normal, the
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 10 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 results of testing done at lower elevations and without the backpacks carried at Camp do not guarantee safety. If the test results are abnormal, the individual is advised not to participate.
HYPERTENSION (HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE)
The combination of stress and altitude appears to cause significant increase in blood pressure in some individuals attending our high adventure programs. Occasionally hypertension reaches such a level that it is no longer safe to engage in strenuous activity. Hypertension can increase the risk of having a stroke, developing altitude sickness, or angina. Persons coming to camp should have a normal blood pressure (less than 135/85). Persons with significant hypertension (greater than 150/95) should be treated before coming to Camp, and should continue on medications while at Camp. The goal of treatment should be to lower the blood pressure to normal. Persons with mild hypertension (greater than 135/85 but less than 150/95) probably require treatment as well. It is the experience of the medical staff that such individuals often develop significant hypertension when they arrive. Participants already on antihypertensive therapy with normal blood pressures should continue on the medications. Diuretic therapy to control hypertension is not recommended because of the risks of dehydration which exist with strenuous activity at high altitude and low humidity. Each participant who is 18 years of age or older will have his or her blood pressure checked at Base Camp. Those individuals with a blood pressure consistently greater than 150/95 probably will be kept off the trail until the blood pressure decreases.
INSULIN DEPENDENT DIABETES MELLITUS
Exercise and the type of food eaten affect insulin requirements. Any individual with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus should be able to monitor personal blood glucose and to know how to adjust insulin doses based on these factors. The diabetic person also should know how to give a self injection. Both the diabetic person and one other person in the group should be able to recognize indications of excessively high blood sugar (Hyperglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis) and to recognize indications of excessively low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). The diabetic person and one other individual should know the appropriate initial responses for these conditions. It is recommended that the diabetic person and one other individual carry insulin on the trek (in case of accident) and that a third vial be kept at the Health Lodge for backup. Insulin can be carried in a small thermos, which can be resupplied with ice or cold packs. A diabetic person who has had frequent hospitalizations for diabetic ketoacidosis or who has had frequent problems with hypoglycemia should not participate in a trek, until better control of the diabetes has been achieved.
EXCESSIVE BODY WEIGHT
Any youth or advisor who exceeds the maximum weight limits on the Scouting weight chart is at extreme risk for health problems. The Height and Weight standards listed above must be met and no participant can be outside the Max category.
SEIZURES (EPILEPSY)
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 11 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 A seizure disorder or epilepsy does not exclude an individual from participating on our High Adventure trek. However, the seizure disorder should be well controlled by medications. A minimum one year seizure-free period is considered to be adequate control. Exceptions to this guideline may be considered by camp’s chief medical officer and will be based on the specific type of seizure and the likely risks to the individual and to other members of the crew. The medical staff at the Health Lodge may place some restrictions on activities (rock-climbing, mountain biking, etc.) for those individuals who are approved for participation but whose seizures are incompletely controlled.
Weight Limits for Backpacking & Hiking
Each participant in a Outback Adventure must not exceed the maximum acceptable limit in the weight for height chart available at: http://www.scouting.org/scoutsource/HealthandSafety/ahmr.aspx . The right hand column shows the maximum acceptable weight for a person’s height in order to participate in the Outback Adventure. Those who fall within the limits are more likely to have an enjoyable trek and avoid incurring health risks. Every adventure involves hiking with a 35-50 lb. Backpack between 8,500 and 11,500 ft. elevations. Camp Alexander recommends that participants carry a pack weighing no more than 25-30% of their body weight.
PROGRAM Outback Adventure Program is an off-camp experience that is designed to provide a taste of all the outdoor adventures Colorado has to offer. The program will include team building skills and leadership development in accordance with the aims and methods of the Boy Scouts of America, plus these great activities;
Rappelling - Mountain Biking – Hiking – Whitewater Rafting – Backpacking – Rock Climbing
LEADERSHIP AND DEVELOPMENT
All activities are designed to reinforce the principles of the Scout Oath and Law.
Outback Adventure includes a number of activities designed to stretch participants outside of their usual comfort zone. Many of the activities involve an element of danger and all of them are physically demanding. In addition to these activities, the staff will lead Scouts in other personal development exercises. The principles of Leave No Trace and Trek Safely will also be reinforced during the entire adventure.
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 12 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 WEEK LONG PLAN/SCHEDULE Sample schedule of a typical week.
SUNDAY -Scouts set up camp, staff sets up climbs
- Meet Scouts at main parking lot and rappels -Take them to the Outback base. NOON - Lunch -Do medical checks -Climb, rappel -Shake down -Clean up and collect all climbing gear -Distribute food and climbing gear 4PM -Drive to Pikes Peak Campground -Overview and set goals for the week 6PM -Dinner and games -Short hike to first campsite 9PM -Lights out -Set up camp WEDNESDAY -Play an icebreaker to learn names and 4AM -Wake up/breakfast get to know each other 5AM -Start hike up Pikes Peak -Dinner Noon -Summit no later than noon -Lights out by 9pm 3PM -Reach base camp MONDAY -Relax rest of day 7AM -Wake up 5:30PM-Dinner -Breakfast then pack up camp -Charades or some game 9AM -Hike to Bat cave -Thorns and roses NOON -Lunch close to or at Bat Cave 9:30PM-Lights out -Set up camp, while staff sets up climbs and rappels -Climb, rappel, explore all afternoon THURSDAY 6PM -Dinner 7AM -Wake up/Breakfast -Top of Bat Cave for sunset, thorns and 10AM -Break down camp, hop into van and roses, and night rappel drive to Phantom or Shelf Road 9PM -Lights out 10:30 -Bike Phantom or Shelf road 12:30 -Load bikes and eat lunch TUESDAY 1:30PM-Bike Red Canon Park or guided tour at 7AM -Wake up/breakfast Dinosaur Museum in Canyon City -Hike to river wall 4PM -Arrive at river campsite
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 13 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 6PM - Dinner 3:30PM -Load van and head back to camp 9PM -Lights out -Outback surveys on drive FRIDAY -Pick up gear from outback area 7AM -Wake up/Breakfast - Closing remarks hand out patches -Break down camp -Released to Troop and dinner. 8:15AM-Load vans and head to Echo Canyon SATURDAY -Go rafting all day! Leave with Troop ACTIVIES
Backpacking Your crew can choose between 1-3 days of backpacking and climbing in 11 mile canyon and then attempt to summit Pikes Peak which stands at 14,114 ft.
Summiting Pikes Peak will most likely be a full day trip depending on the physical fitness of the crew. It’s a 13.25 mile roundtrip with an elevation gain of 4,300 ft.
Climbing
Outback’s climbing program strives to implicate what is taught in the Climbing Merit Badge, following BSA standards. We practice the “teach while doing” and “lead by example” techniques. All of our climbing spots are reached by backpacking.
Our 2 climbing areas are the Bat Cave and the River Wall in 11 mile canyon.
The Bat Cave: Is our favorite location with hard climbs ranging from 5.8 and up. Kids love to go night rappelling here because of the amazing over hangs that allow free-rappels. We have a campsite at the bottom with the option of sleeping on the top of this massive rock.
The River Wall: This area is situated on the edge of the Lower Platte River in 11 Mile Canyon. It has a variety of climbs ranging from 5.4-5.12; from cracks to arêtes and slabs along with an amazing overhanging rappel.
WHITE WATER RAFTING Crews will be able to choose between 2 sections of the river. The Big Horn Sheep Canyon section typically has class 2-3 rapids while the Royal Gorge section has class 3-5 rapids. Which section we go on also depends on the age, skill level, team work, and endurance of all participants and also on the water level. Enjoy paddling a full day through Colorado’s backcountry.
SWIM TEST
Every participant must pass the BSA swim test prior to arriving at camp. One person is not able to skip the rafting section of the trip. Everyone is required to participate and be a confident swimmer.
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 14 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 FOOD All food is pre-packaged backpacking food along with fresh fruit. We use Bear bags and bear cans. We pack out everything we pack in.
Food substitutions for individuals with allergies:
Trail food is, by necessity, a high carbohydrate, and high caloric diet. If an individual crew member is allergic to one or more food products or requires a special diet, suitable trail food should be purchased at home and brought to Camp Alexander. This ensures that each person with allergies has the proper food. Lightweight and low bulk foods are recommended for backpacking. Package each day's meals separately and write the person's name and unit number on each package. Upon arrival, please notify your staff of this situation before we distribute food. Some requested items may be impossible to get, or impossible to get without proper notice. Without two weeks’ notice on Special Needs Request form, we cannot guarantee that these requests will be met. Follow up with a phone call to the camp about one week prior to arrival to assure that all paperwork is complete and the Food Service Manager has received your request. Special Dietary requests are limited to medical and religious needs, not picky eaters.
We pack our food in Ziploc bags and at each campsite we set up a bear bag 100 + feet away from the campsite. Food waste will be put in Ziploc bags and packed out with us.
SAMPLE WEEKLY MENU This menu is just a sample and may be altered prior to your arrival depending on food cost and planning.
Sunday Dinner Tuna salad w/ crackers English muffins
BBQ Sauce with Chicken Cliff Bars Squeeze jelly (Mountain House) Apples Dried apricots Pitas Drink mix Tuesday Lunch Oranges Cheez its Canned chicken OCPs (Oatmeal Cream Pie) Monday Dinner Cliff bars Monday Breakfast Sweet & Sour Pork Ritz crackers Granola (Mountain House) Drink mix Dehydrated milk Instant mashed taters Raisins Bananas Candy bars Tuesday Dinner 1 Poptart Tuesday Breakfast Rice & Chicken (Mountain Monday Lunch Scrambled eggs (Mountain House) House)
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 15 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 Fruit Mountain House meal Canned chicken
Assorted Cookies OCP Cliff bars
Wednesday Breakfast Instant rice Thursday Dinner
2 Oatmeal packets Thursday Breakfast Mountain House meal
Pop tarts Granola & Blueberry Cookies (Mountain House) Snack pack gummies Fruit Canned Pineapple Wednesday Lunch Chips 1 pop tart Jerky Salsa Thursday Lunch Tuna fun pack Friday Breakfast Bread Bananas Yogurt Peanut butter packets Cliff bars Granola Squeeze jelly Drink mix Bananas Bananas Wednesday Dinner Cliff bars
PACKING LIST This is not a comprehensive list of gear but a starting point for each participant to begin. Please pack according to your personal needs for a week long remote trip. Our staff practices to be minimalists and will teach your scouts pointers on how to pack light.
Clothing (No Cotton) • 1 Pair of pants (no jeans) • Swim trunks Camping Gear • 1 Pair of shorts • 2-3 Pairs of hiking • 2-3 Pairs of underwear • 4 liter water capacity socks • Sun hat (Nalgenes/Hydration • 2-3 Shirts • Beanie pack) • Shoes comfortable for • Wool sweater or • Minimum 35 liter hiking (boots, close fleece backpack toed sandals w/ backs, • Outer shell for (2,000 cubic inches) trail runners) layering • 1 or 2-person • Rain gear (pants & (ex: waterproof wind backpacking tent jacket) breaker) • Sleeping pad • Class A
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 16 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 • Sleeping bag (rated at • Personal hygiene kit Optional +15 to +30) (toothbrush, tooth paste, chapstick, • Water filter Cooking Gear deodorant) • Water shoes • Camera • Backpacking stove • $5 tips for rafting • Climbing shoes • Spork/utensil guides • Climbing harness • Cooking Pot • Bug spray • Sun block (SPF 30+) • Climbing helmet Miscellaneous • Medical form • Bowl • Medications • Pocket knife/ • Flashlight (headlamp • Medication form small multi-tool recommended) • White Water Rafting • Extra batteries form
PACK
Choose between an internal or external frame. Internals ride closer to your back and are more stable on rugged terrain. Carrying comfort of an internal frame is directly related to how well the contents are packed. External frames are better at handling larger, heavier loads on established trails. They lend themselves to better organization with multiple outside pockets. With both types of packs, fit is crucial. Take the time to have the pack fitted to your back at a reputable outdoor store. Internal frame packs should measure 4,000 to 6,000 cubic inches. External frames should hold at least 3,000 cubic inches but not much more than 5000 cubic inches. Anything smaller than this is too small, anything larger is overkill and asking to be over-filled. Pack cover: No pack by itself is waterproof. A coated nylon cover helps keep out rain. Make sure the cover is sized to fit your fully loaded pack.
SLEEPING
Sleeping bag: A sleeping bag that is rated as comfortable to 20ºF should be adequate for the Colorado High Country during the summer months. Choose a mummy or a modified mummy shape for efficiency in weight and volume. The primary choices are between down-filled bags or those bags filled with synthetics. Down bags are lighter, more compressible and last longer. They are also more expensive and difficult to wash and dry. The major advantage of synthetic bags is that they provide some insulation when wet. However, with a little care and preventive maintenance, it is not difficult to keep a down bag dry. Choose a good, waterproof stuff sack. Store your sleeping bag in a plastic garbage bag inside the stuff sack. A compression stuff sack may be a valuable space saving feature, especially with synthetic bags. Spend some time and care choosing the right sleeping bag for you. You will, after all, be spending close to one-third of your adventure in it.
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 17 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 Sleeping bag liners: Help keep you a little bit warmer and are also a plus so you don’t have to wash your sleeping bag so often.
Sleeping pad: Important both for comfort and for insulation from cold, damp ground. Two basic types are available. Closed cell foam are inexpensive and lightweight. Self inflating pads are somewhat heavier and more expensive but are quite a bit more comfortable. Weight can be saved by using the 3/4 length version of either type. The sleeping pad should be carried in a nylon stuff sack.
SHELTER
Tent: Weight and space are the two major factors to consider in tent selection. Try to keep your share of the tent to less than four pounds. How big a tent you need, will be determined by whether you travel with a companion or by yourself. Make sure there is enough room for gear storage as well as for sleeping. You will appreciate a tent that is quick and easy to pitch if you find yourself setting up camp late or in poor weather conditions. Tents can be freestanding or staked. A freestanding tent allows more campsite options, especially on rocky ground, but should be staked for added strength in exposed or windy sites. Most tents need to have the seams sealed before use. The tent should be carried in a stuff sack to protect it and to help keep the pieces together. Tent repair supplies should be included in your group repair kit. Large, four man dome style tents will often cause problems in finding proper backcountry camp sites.
FOOTWEAR
Hiking boots are probably the most important piece of equipment you will choose for your trip. When shopping for new boots, consider the following guidelines: Buy a boot from a reputable outdoor store with a knowledgeable sales staff. Try on several models with the socks you plan to wear. Tell the salesperson what you plan to use them for and the kind of terrain you expect to encounter as well as the fact that you will be carrying a full pack. Take the boots home and wear them for a few hours inside. If they don't fit then, they won't get better on the trail. Take them back. Choose a boot that is designed for hiking. Work boots and hiking boot look-a-likes aren't comfortable over the long haul and won't hold up or give you the support you need. The trails are rocky and steep in many places, so choose a medium weight boot. Ultra-lite hiking boots won't give enough ankle and arch support or protection from rocks underfoot. Heavy mountaineering boots are more weight than you need to carry on your feet. Remember the old adage, "a pound on the foot is equal to five on the back". Both all-leather and combination nylon/leather boots are suitable for use on the trail. All-leather boots tend to be more waterproof, give more support and protection, and last longer. They are also heavier, hotter and take longer to dry. All- leather boots may take longer to break in than the combination boots. A Gore-Tex liner in the boot is a nice option for either type, if you can afford it. As with all of your gear, buy the best boot you can afford. Trying to save money on the initial purchase by buying poorly made products is false economy. Wear your boots on at least one shorter trip before you attempt a longer hike. Carry a full pack and try to find terrain similar to that found in Colorado. Thicker or thinner insoles can be added to the boot to customize the fit. Most established companies will repair or replace their product should any defects
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 18 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 occur during this break-in period. Change of shoes: Lightweight sneakers or sandals are a real treat at the end of the day. They are also very useful in river crossings, and will save your boots from getting wet while providing traction and protection for the feet.
Socks
Socks deserve your close attention. They are one of the least expensive pieces of equipment that help protect a backpacker's most important asset, their feet. Many excellent socks made specifically for hiking are now available. Frequent washings of the socks help keep your feet healthy and restore some of the cushioning the sock provides. The layering principle applies to socks as well. Sock liners: Inner layer. Thin polypropylene or Hydrofil liners. Designed to "wick" sweat away from your foot into a more absorbent outer layer. Socks: Outer layer. Combination wool blends and synthetic blends. 100% wool tends to wear poorly and is difficult to take care of. Look for no more than 85% wool content. The higher the wool content the warmer the sock, but the slower it dries; a real consideration if your clothes line is located on the top of your pack. Synthetic blends work well for those who don't like wool. Look for socks with plenty of padding, but not so bulky as to make your hiking boot tight.
Clothes - Inner Layer
Underwear: Try to avoid all cotton. Look for the cotton/poly blends; you'll appreciate the quicker drying time on rainy days as well as on hot sticky ones. A clean pair at night helps to keep your sleeping bag clean. Long underwear (bottom): Polypropylene, Capilene, Thermax and the like are all excellent. Wear under shorts or wind pants on chilly mornings or cool evenings. Also used to extend the temperature range of your sleeping bag on cold nights. Either lightweight or midweight are suitable for trail use in the summer. Long underwear (top): Tops come in a variety of different styles. Crew necks and button "Henley" style are the most versatile. Turtlenecks can be too warm in some situations.
Clothes - Middle Layer
Shorts: Most of your hike will be spent in shorts. Look for a tough, 100% synthetic in a length that's comfortable for you. Cotton shorts take much longer to dry. A draw string or built-in belt helps keep the shorts from riding too low. Shorts worn over long underwear can substitute for long pants in cooler weather. Look for shorts with cargo pockets. Shorts II:* A pair of lightweight cotton shorts can be a real treat to change into at the end of the day and to sleep in. Shirts: T-shirts are great for warm weather use. You can find cotton/polyester blends in T-shirts that dry quickly. Top insulation: Wool sweaters are the old standby and they work. The new generation of synthetic pile and fleece work even better. Polartec 200 and similar fabrics seem just about right for summer in the mountains. The material holds only a small percentage of its weight in water and therefore dries incredibly fast. It is warm, virtually indestructible and a real treat on a cool evening. A wool or fleece sweater, combined with a windproof/waterproof jacket provides more than adequate insulation for most of the weather you will encounter.
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 19 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 Clothes - Outer Layer
Headgear: Baseball caps can't be beat in the summer. Bandannas work too. Keep the sun off your head and out of your eyes on sunny days especially when you travel above timberline. Headgear II:* A lightweight wool or fleece ski hat is nice for cool nights and mornings. It can also extend the comfort range of your sleeping bag. Raingear: Raingear serves two principle functions; 1) to keep body heat in and 2) to keep rain, snow and wind out. All well constructed raingear fulfills the first function. The second function is accomplished in basically two different ways. Waterproof / breathable fabrics such as Goretex, Entrant, etc. claim to allow body perspiration to escape while keeping rain out. Waterproof / non-breathable fabrics such as coated nylon, PVC etc. do just as good a job at keeping wind and rain out but tend to get damp inside from trapped perspiration. Breathable raingear is quite a bit more expensive, but many serious hikers consider it worth the investment. A built-in hood is recommended on either type of garment, as are zippered underarm pits, which aid in the ventilation process considerably. Ponchos do not provide adequate rain protection, especially in windy conditions. If you carry rain pants, they can do double duty as wind pants. No trash bags for rain suits! Long pants: If you plan on participating in rock climbing or C.O.P.E. events you will be required to wear long pants. A pair of pants with zip off leggings can work as your shorts too. Gaiters:* Gaiters are leggings that protect your lower legs from brush and wetness. They also add a surprising degree of warmth on windy days. Gore-tex gaiters are waterproof and breathable, but are somewhat more expensive than the nylon versions. Coated nylon gaiters, while waterproof, are less breathable and may feel "sticky" on hot days. Look for gaiters made specifically for hiking or backpacking, they are smaller and lighter.
Scout Uniform
The Scout uniform is a very important part of the Scouting program. The complete "field uniform" should be worn at the opening and closing meals and campfires while at Camp Alexander. Scouts and leaders are not required or advised to wear the uniform while on high adventure activities.
Unacceptable Clothing
All Scouts and adult leaders must be informed that the wearing of hats, T-shirts, sweatshirts, jackets, or other items of clothing with alcohol or tobacco ads, drug or sexual connotations, or any other un Scout like design or wording, are not permitted. If observed, Scouts and leaders alike will be asked immediately to remove them. Items of this sort have no place in a Scout camp.
COOKING GEAR
Gas stove: A compact backpacking. We strongly encourage the use of canister fuel stoves. A stove is also an important element in low impact camping. Butane and propane models are available but re-fill canisters are not easily available. We also recommend that you bring a repair kit. Camp Alexander suggests bringing MSR or Sigg aluminum bottle approved for backpacking and travel.
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 20 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 EATING AND DRINKING
Water bottles: Metal was out a long time ago, Nalgene (a kind of plastic) is in. Look for the wide-mouth design. They are easier to drink out of, easier to filter into, and have many uses other than carrying water. The most convenient size is 32 oz. (1000 ml). Plan on carrying two, one on each side of your pack to balance the weight. Drinking cup: A simple plastic cup, available in most camping stores, is usually adequate. Spoon: On the trail a fork is obsolete. Most things you end-up cooking can be eaten with a spoon. Consider a light weight, heavy-duty plastic (or Lexan) one. Knife: Small and lightweight is the key here. Mess kit: Usually all that is needed is a plastic bowl.
FOOD
Food bag: four nylon stuff sacks to carry your food and double as a bear bag in the evening are essential. Food: All meals are supplied by the camp. Snack items are the responsibility of the individual.
DO NOT BRING
Firearms / Mace / Large Knives / Ax / Hatchet / Saw / Cell Phone/ MP3 Players/ Radio / Large Lantern or Light.
FUEL
No liquid fuels are allowed on property.
MEDICAL Camp Medical Forms:
Annual BSA Health and Medical Record Part A, B, C, and D are required to attend for any participant. Only a doctor may complete this form and is required to sign the document stating the correct information has been recorded.
All Campers, Scouts, Venturers and Scouters must have an Annual BSA Health and Medical Record within the past 12 months of arrival at Camp Alexander. Please use the form: http://www.scouting.org/scoutsource/HealthandSafety/ahmr.aspx
The record must be completed and signed by a medical doctor, M.D., D.O., R.N.P. or P.A./C. These are the only signatures which the Colorado Department of Social Services will allow to sign the Health Form. Chiropractic doctor, D.P.M. signatures are unacceptable under Colorado Department of Social Services requirements.
MEDICATION LOG FORM
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 21 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 Each and every Scout should have a Medications form completed prior to arrival at camp. This form is used to record any medications the Scout will need to take during the week they are here. Our staff will record the dates and times of medication administration.
MEDICATION
All medication, even vitamins, must be in the original container with a doctor’s prescription label. No weeklong pill containers are permitted. The Outback Adventure staff will collect all medications on Sunday and work with the youth to ensure proper dosage and frequency is achieved. Medical marijuana is not a permitted medical drug on Boy Scouts of America programs or property.
POLICIES NATIONAL CAMP GUIDELINES
At Camp Alexander, the Scout Oath and Law are our guiding principles. We expect each leader to provide the guidance within the unit to follow these principles, the policies of Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council and the Boy Scouts of America. Please reference the Guide to Safe Scouting for all camp- related BSA policies.
CAMPER MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS
All campers staying overnight must be a registered Boy Scouts, Venturer, or adult leaders. All female campers staying overnight and under the age of 18 years, must be attending camp with a Venturing Crew and be registered as a Venturing scout with that crew. All Venturing Crew members must be at least 13 years of age. Scouts, Troops, Adults and Venturing units (or similar section) attending Camp Alexander from outside the United States and the Boy Scouts of America must be registered members of an International Scout movement recognized by the World Scout Bureau in Geneva, Switzerland.
TOBACCO USE
In accordance with BSA National Policy there will be no use of any tobacco products in the presence of youth at Camp Alexander. In addition, the camp is considered to be “Smoke Free Environment”. Any violation of this policy and your camping privileges will be revoked without a refund.
BEARS AND TRASH
Please keep all food out of the tents and lock all food items in bear bags or other critter-proof containers and away from tenting areas.
CAMPSITE CAMPFIRES
All cooking that takes place in your campsite must utilize a backpacking stove. Fires will be allowed when permitted by Local Fire District and the National Forest Service.
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 22 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636 RELEASE OF CAMPERS
It is the responsibility of the unit leader to release Scouts from camp to a parent or other legal guardian. The unit leader should have a letter from the Scouts parent/legal guardian as to whom he can be released to. The camp will not release any Scout; it is up to the unit leader to release a Scout from Camp Alexander. All campers leaving camp early must check out at the Camp Office prior to leaving.
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES AND ILLEGAL DRUGS
Alcoholic beverages and illegal drugs are not permitted in Scout Camp or the Outback Program. Possession or use of them on camp property will be cause for removal from camp. Any violation of this policy and your camping privileges will be revoked without a refund. Medical marijuana is not a permitted medical drug on Boy Scouts of America programs or property.
PERSONAL ITEMS
The camp is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items. Personal bikes or mountain boards are not permitted at camp.
PLEASE REVIEW THE “GUIDE TO SAFE SCOUTING” FOR ALL SAFETY POLICIES
Outback Team Members Needed
TEAM MEMBERS NEEDED : Camp Alexander is always seeking Scouts, Explorers, and/or Venturing Scouts to serve as staff members. Whether you have an extensive background in the Scouting program or are brand new and at least 18 years or older Camp Alexander is a great place to work, especially for those who want something more out of a "summer job" than a paycheck. Servicing as an Outback Staff Member at Camp A is challenging and rewarding. If you want more out of a summer camp experience and are an outstanding person who wants to contribute to the growth of Scouts, Ventures, and Leaders there might be a position for you. Contact the Camp Director for further information.
OUTBACK ADVENTURE 719 748.3254 Page 23 Camp Alexander, Pikes Peak Council fax 719 352-3636