A Guide for Scouts, Parents, and Leaders

Summer camp is one of the most memorable and transformative experiences in a Scout’s journey—and if you’re lucky enough to be attending Camp Sequassen in Connecticut, you’re in for a week filled with adventure, growth, and camaraderie. Nestled on the shores of West Hill Pond in the northwest corner of the state, Camp Sequassen has been welcoming Scouts for nearly a century with its pristine setting, engaging programs, and strong Scouting traditions. Whether you’re a first-time camper or a seasoned veteran, here’s what you need to know to make the most of your week at Camp Sequassen’s Scouts BSA summer camp.

1. Not a Scout Yet? Here’s How to Join
   If your child isn’t already a member of Scouts BSA, don’t worry—it’s never too late to join. Scouting is open to all youth ages 11–17 (or younger for Cub Scouts), and joining is simple. Start by visiting the BeAScout.org website. There, you can enter your ZIP code to find a local troop near you.

Once you find a troop that fits your family’s schedule and interests, reach out to the Scoutmaster or troop contact listed online. Most troops are happy to welcome new members year-round and will help you with:

1. • Registration and fees
   • Getting a uniform
   • Completing a BSA Health and Medical form
   • Preparing for summer camp
   • In many cases, your child can join the troop and be registered in time to attend Camp Sequassen the same summer—sometimes even within a few weeks. The camp’s Wilderness Patrol program can be a perfect introduction for new Scouts, helping them learn foundational outdoor and leadership skills while working toward early rank advancement. 
   • Joining Scouts BSA before camp also ensures your child gets the full experience—advancement opportunities, merit badge credit, and access to programs only available to registered Scouts.
2. Register Through Your Troop (or Individually)
   Most Scouts attend Camp Sequassen as part of a troop or crew. Typically, your Scoutmaster or summer camp coordinator will handle group registration, including campsite selection, payment schedules, and merit badge sign ups. Ask your Scoutmaster if your unit is going and make sure your name is included. If your unit isn’t attending camp—or you can’t go the same week—we offer a Provisional Camper Program. This allows individual Scouts to attend on their own, joining a temporary troop formed by the camp or being placed with a welcoming host unit. It’s a great way to still have the camp experience, make new friends, and earn advancement.
3. Prepare Early and Pack Smart
   Preparation is key to a smooth and successful week at camp. Camp Sequassen releases a Leader’s Guide each spring, which outlines what to bring, the week’s schedule, and important policies. Read it thoroughly (you can find it on the Sequassen.org/forms).
   • Essentials to pack include:
     • Field uniform (Scout shirt, shorts/pants, belt, socks)
     • Comfortable clothes for a week outdoor adventure
     • Sleeping bag or bedding, pillow
     • Bathroom supplies
     • Sun screen, water bottle, flashlight
     • Towel and swimwear for the waterfront
     • Closed toe shoes, rain gear and a sweatshirt
     • Scout handbook and writing materials
     • Some money for the trading post and program materials
     • Also bring any merit badge prerequisites or materials. 
4. Choose Your Merit Badges and Programs Wisely
   One of the biggest draws of Camp Sequassen is its wide range of merit badges and activities. From canoeing and archery to welding and wilderness survival, there’s something for everyone.
   • First-year Scouts might benefit most from the Wilderness Patrol program, a special track focused on Scout skills like knots, fire-building, and basic camping knowledge. It’s designed to reinforce the basics while earning advancement requirements in a fun and structured way.
   • Older Scouts may want to check out more advanced programs, like:
     • COPE (Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience in the Older Scout Program) – A high ropes and team-building course
     • STEM and Trades programs – Featuring welding, programming, or plumbing
     • Island overnight or War Canoe Trip – For those looking for a true adventure
   • Signups for merit badges usually happen online through the troop or camp portal, so don’t wait too long—popular classes fill quickly.
5. Follow Camp Rules and Stay Safe
   Camp Sequassen places a strong emphasis on safety and the Scout Oath and Law. When you arrive, all provisional Scouts and troop leaders check in at the Alderman Center and go through medical recheck and later at the waterfront swim tests. Make sure your CT Yankee Council Medical Form (Parts A, B, C, and addendums – sequassen.org/medical-form/) is fully completed and signed by a physician. The camp follows Youth Protection Guidelines strictly, and every adult leader must be YPT trained. Scouts should always use the buddy system, stay in designated areas, and follow guidance from staff and troop leaders. The camp’s Health Lodge is staffed 24/7 for any injuries or illness.
6. Get Involved and Make Memories
   Beyond merit badges, Camp Sequassen offers a vibrant camp-wide program with something fun every evening. These include:
   • Campfires on Sunday and Friday with skits and songs
   • Inter-troop competitions like the Fire Hose Competition or Land & Sea Games
   • All Faith service at the chapel
   • Open shooting, boating, and climbing sessions
   • Order of the Arrow day for eligible Scouts
   • Don’t miss opportunities to bond with your patrol or meet Scouts from other towns, states, and countries. Trading patches, joining camp-wide games, and trying new things are part of the adventure.
   • Also, consider taking part in camp service projects, working on the Sequassen Trail Award, or even getting started on your Red Cross Lifeguard certification or Adult Leader trainings.
7. Reflect and Advance
   At the end of the week, your troop will receive a packet listing each Scout’s achievements, including partial and completed merit badges. Use this to update your advancement records back home. More importantly, take time to reflect on what you learned—whether it was how to build a fire, how to lead a group, or simply how to unplug and enjoy nature. These lessons are what make summer camp one of the most meaningful experiences in Scouting.

Final Thoughts
Camp Sequassen is more than just a summer camp—it’s a community rooted in Scouting tradition, offering a safe and exciting environment for personal growth. Whether you’re swimming across West Hill Pond at sunrise or sharing a laugh around the campfire, the memories you make here will stay with you long after the week ends.

So, whether you’re a seasoned Scout or brand new to the movement, lace up your hiking boots, pack your Scout spirit, and get ready for a summer adventure you’ll never forget. Camp Sequassen awaits!