Wilderness Patrol
The Wilderness Patrol Program at Camp Sequassen is a hands-on, skill-based experience designed for first-year Scouts who are working toward Tenderfoot through First Class ranks. The program introduces Scouts to essential outdoor skills—such as fire building, knot tying, first aid, and map reading—while helping them build confidence and adjust to camp life. Through teamwork, outdoor challenges, and patrol-based instruction, Wilderness Patrol helps Scouts develop a strong foundation for their Scouting journey.
Wilderness Patrol is divided into three unique classes—Trailblazers, Expedition Wilderness, and Journey to Adventure—each tailored to different experience levels. Scouts can enroll in one of these tracks for their morning program or choose to pair Trailblazers with one of the other two for a well-rounded experience. All classes use the patrol method and emphasize teamwork, hands-on learning, and Scout skill development. Scouts remain with their troop outside of class time, fully participating in meals, evening programs, and troop activities across camp.
Trailblazers
Offered at 9AM and 11AM (1 hour session)
Trailblazers is the perfect introduction to Scouting at Camp Sequassen for first-time campers. This class is built around the essential Scout skills required for early rank advancement, focusing on flag etiquette, knife safety, basic first aid, map and compass use, and the fundamentals of the patrol method. Scouts learn how to work together as a patrol, navigate camp as a team, and understand the values of responsibility and cooperation. Instruction is hands-on, encouraging Scouts to try, fail, and succeed in a supportive environment where learning is active and rewarding.
As part of the Trailblazers experience, Scouts complete the Art merit badge, which is fully integrated into the course. Rather than a separate or secondary task, Art is used to reinforce Scout skills—projects may tie into camp experiences, patrol identity, or even fire-building demonstrations. Scouts explore creativity while learning how merit badges work, building confidence to pursue others throughout the week or in future summers. Trailblazers offers a balanced and welcoming path into Scouting, blending foundational skill-building with fun, creativity, and team development
Expedition Wilderness
Offered at 9AM (2 hour session)
Expedition Wilderness is designed for Scouts who are ready to take on the next level of Scouting’s outdoor challenges. The program expands on basic Scout skills with a focus on first aid, trail safety, weather identification, and hiking preparation. Instruction is scenario-based, giving Scouts the chance to problem-solve in realistic outdoor situations such as responding to injuries or preparing for a sudden change in weather. The program also includes basic rescue techniques, including swimming-based safety skills, taught in collaboration with the camp’s waterfront team. These components help Scouts become more confident, capable, and aware in the backcountry.
In addition to practical skill development, Expedition Wilderness emphasizes group learning and shared experience. Scouts work together to complete tasks, support one another through challenges, and reflect on what they’ve learned. Instructors act as mentors and facilitators, encouraging Scouts to ask questions, share knowledge, and build trust with their patrol. By the end of the week, Scouts not only check off numerous rank requirements but also gain valuable insight into how to be safe, supportive, and resourceful members of their troop.
Journey to Adventure
Offered at 10AM (2 hour session)
Journey to Adventure is the most immersive Wilderness Patrol experience, tailored for Scouts who want to go beyond the basics and develop deeper outdoor survival skills. This course focuses on fire building and safety, advanced lashings and knot tying, and practical knife and blade work. Scouts build structures, practice backwoods techniques, and work together on complex campcraft projects that mimic real survival situations. These lessons challenge Scouts to be self-reliant, pay attention to detail, and think creatively in the outdoors.
A key highlight of Journey to Adventure is the optional overnight experience at the Wilderness Patrol site. During this event, Scouts plan, prepare, and execute a night in the woods using the skills they’ve developed throughout the week. They set up their own shelters, cook their own meals, and operate independently with supervision and guidance from trained staff. It’s an unforgettable experience that reinforces the spirit of Scouting—building confidence, independence, and a sense of accomplishment that lasts long after camp ends.
Afternoon Activities
In the afternoon, Wilderness Patrol participants can dive into the full camp experience. Scouts may choose to earn a merit badge during the 2:00 PM session—options often include Weather, Fire Safety, Mammal Study, and Game Design—or take part in free-choice activities around camp.
They also have the opportunity to complete water-based rank requirements at the waterfront and their Totin’ Chip during an evening session. Whether they’re sharpening their aim at the archery range, crafting something in handicrafts, or exploring the ecology area, afternoons offer freedom, discovery, and fun for every new Scout.
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