(May 2013) Approximately 50 Scouts and 30 adults gathered at Camp Russell this past weekend (May 18) for the Order of the Arrow Fellowship to make improvements to enhance the camper experience for the upcoming season.
Scouts and volunteers worked side-by-side making improvements that fundamentally included erecting a new fence along the driveway to minimize traffic noise from Route 28, constructing a platform in the archery area, building canoe and kayak storage racks, repainting picnic tables, repairing fences and building fire pits in campsite villages.
Since its start in 1918, Camp Russell has carried out a tradition that has lasted more than 90 years. One of three Scout camps, Camp Russell has become one of the premier camps in the country for more than 1000 youth each summer from communities throughout the East. It is located on White Lake, at the foothills of the Adirondacks.
Camp Russell is for Boy Scouts (ages 11-18 or grades 6-12). These six 1-week sessions from 6/30-8/10 are an opportunity for Boy Scouts to work on Merit Badges that can’t be completed at home. For older Scouts looking for extra adventure, there are Treks and Outposts. These hands-on experiences or “Go & Do” programs focus on challenges and include camping, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, orienteering, GPS and outdoor skills.
The camp’s adventure and placement programs give Scouts the opportunity to share experiences with existing friends and make lots of new ones.
For an application, visit www.scoutingcny.org, call the Scout Service Center at (315) 735-4437.