Involve girls in the planning process
Get input from your girls about what types of activities they want to do while at camp—this will help make their experience feel unique and tailored to their interests. The great thing about troop camp is that there’s also built-in downtime to relax and bond with your group.
Keep it simple
Don’t worry about how many clothes you can cram into a big suitcase—this is camp! Use our packing lists for suggestions on what to bring, but leave the kitchen sink at home. Pro tip: Camp staff will usually have extra sunscreen, bug spray, and toiletries, so if something gets left behind, don’t sweat it!
Live in the moment
You’ve heard this before—live in the now. It isn’t often that you get to spend extended time with your troop at camp or meet other Girl Scouts from all parts of Minnesota and Wisconsin. Camp is the time to put down those devices (reminder: they’re not allowed at camp), enjoy the outdoors, and make new friends! Whether that’s soaking in the sun by the waterfront or playing an intense game of Gaga ball, take advantage of this time to bond with your troop and your Girl Scout sisters.
Be flexible and try new things
Part of what makes troop camp so special is that it pushes girls to go outside their comfort zone and try new activities they might not be familiar with. Remind girls that the key to keeping a positive attitude is to have an open mind! Human foosball might not sound like their jam (or up your alley for that matter), but they might be surprised at how fun it is! On another note, if there is an accommodation needed for your troop that might impact your participation in an activity, always speak up—camp staff is there to help in any way they can.
Troop camp offers a positive outdoor experience for girls of all ages. Whatever session you choose to attend, there are so many opportunities for troops to create memories and build lifetime friendships. If you haven’t registered already, check out our Camp Calendar to see what sessions are available. Remember, financial assistance is available so that all girls can participate in this wonderful experience. We hope to see you this summer!
Cara Johnson – Cara is a Program Associate at Girl Scouts River Valleys, where she supports girls working on their Highest Awards, and assists the program team in a myriad of ways (hello, event and camp emails and web pages!). She earned her BA from Hamline University. Before joining Girl Scouts River Valleys, Cara worked on social media for a non-profit and did event marketing with the Minnesota Timberwolves. In her free time, she loves watching movies (she feels like she sees one at least once a week!) and trying out new Pinterest recipes.