Camp Yawgoog in Rockville Kicks Off Its 109th Summer Season with Excitement and Adventure

The air buzzes with excitement as Camp Yawgoog, one of America’s oldest Scout camps, opens its gates for the 109th summer season, welcoming an estimated 5,000 Scouts and several hundred dedicated adult volunteers. This eight-week extravaganza, spanning June through August, promises a whirlwind of exploration, fun, and lifelong memories. Scouts from across the nation travel to Rockville  for this year's adventure.

Founded in 1916, Camp Yawgoog is the second oldest continuously operating Scout camp in the United States. The sprawling 2,000-acre landscape is home to three unique camps: Camp Three Point, Camp Medicine Bow, and Camp Sandy Beach. Each camp boasts its own rich heritage, signature colors, songs, and cheers, yet they all converge to provide a unified experience of growth, camaraderie, and boundless adventure.

"Camp Yawgoog isn't just a place; it's a community of discovery, blending nature's beauty with the bonds of friendship and the pursuit of life skills," says Tim McCandless, CEO of Scouting America, Narragansett Council. “With units traveling from as far as Texas and Florida, our council and camp staff are thrilled to celebrate another season of legacy, learning, and laughter at Camp Yawgoog.”

This season promises a mix of traditional and new activities. Scouts can look forward to hiking, swimming, fishing, and boating on Yawgoog Pond alongside campfires, friendly troop competitions, and the opportunity to earn from a selection of 46 merit badges. From camping and first aid to swimming and environmental science, the badges offer valuable life skills.

Adding to the excitement, new activities include horsemanship at Stepping Stone Ranch and ice skating at Boss Arena at the University of Rhode Island. Camp Yawgoog director Jonathan DiLuglio shares his enthusiasm: "Our rangers and staff have worked hard to prepare the camp for another memorable summer. Witnessing the joy and excitement on the Scouts' faces is what makes all our efforts worthwhile."

In a proud stride toward inclusivity, Camp Yawgoog has welcomed female Scout troops for the past five years. With dedicated campsites and facilities, nearly 400 girls from over 30 troops participated in the last season. The camp anticipates even greater participation from female Scouts this year, enriching the Yawgoog experience for all. Learn more about Camp Yawgoog by visiting Yawgoog.org, and find Scouting programs and groups near you at BeAScout.org.