Camping with Pack 1533

Pack 1533 typically hosts two family campouts each year: a Fall Campout and a Spring Campout.

Cub Scouts pitching a tent beside a lake at sunset

An Essential Scouting Experience

While most Pack events are optional and we understand that every family has different schedules and commitments, we highly encourage attendance at our campouts. These overnight camping experiences are essential Scout experiences that help Cubs develop outdoor skills and accomplish den activities and advancement opportunities that we can’t do elsewhere.

If you have a scheduling conflict, we encourage you to attend for the portion that works for your family. If you’re not comfortable staying overnight or are new to camping, come for the day and participate in the activities, then head home after the evening Campfire activities.

Our Camping Style: Car Camping

Pack 1533 campouts are “car camping” experiences at established campgrounds with facilities. You’ll drive to the campground, park near your campsite, and set up your tent with easy access to your vehicle. No need to prepare like backpacking-style camping.

Where We Camp

We typically camp at two locations in Northern Virginia:

Camp Snyder 6100 Antioch Rd, Haymarket, VA 20169 View on Google Maps

Camp Wilson at Pohick Bay Regional Park 6501 Pohick Bay Dr, Lorton, VA 22079 View on Google Maps

Who Can Attend

Cub Scout camping is family-centric. Cubs should attend with their parent or guardians. Only registered Scouts, their parents or guardians, siblings under 18, and registered adult leaders may camp overnight. Other family members (grandparents, aunts/uncles, adult siblings) are welcome during the day but cannot stay overnight unless they are registered with Scouting America.

What to Bring

Essential Camping Gear:

  • Tent (family-sized for your group)
  • Sleeping bags and sleeping pads or camping mattresses
  • Pillows
  • Folding camp chairs (one per person)
  • Flashlights or headlamps

Clothing & Personal Items:

  • Pack 1533 Class B t-shirt
  • Layers for varying temperatures (mornings and evenings can be chilly)
  • Rain gear (jacket and/or poncho)
  • Extra clothes for sleeping
  • Closed-toed shoes suitable for hiking
  • Hat, gloves, and warm jacket (especially for Fall Campout)
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.)
  • Any necessary medications (in original containers)

Cold Weather Items (for Fall Campout):

  • Long underwear
  • Winter cap (for daytime and sleep)
  • Blanket (place over top of sleeping bag)
  • Insulated camping mattress

Additional Recommended Items:

  • Bug spray
  • Sunscreen
  • Small backpack for day hikes

Six Scout Essentials (to keep with your Scout):

  • First-aid kit
  • Filled water bottle
  • Flashlight or headlamp
  • Trail food or snacks
  • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
  • Whistle

If you need to borrow camping equipment (tents, sleeping bags, etc.), email pack1533cubmaster@gmail.com. We’ll do our best to help you get what you need.

What NOT to Bring

  • Electronics (tablets, phones, gaming devices)
  • Foods containing peanuts or tree nuts (due to allergies)
  • Pocket knives (unless your Cub has earned the required adventure for their rank)

Meals

The Pack provides Saturday dinner and Sunday breakfast. Families should eat lunch before arriving on Saturday or bring their own. Details about meal costs, food sign-ups for sides and supplies, and any special dietary accommodations will be provided in the specific campout emails sent beforehand.

Temperature Considerations

Fall Campout: Expect cool to cold weather. High temperatures may be in the 50s–60s with overnight lows in the 30s–40s. Bring plenty of warm layers, hats, gloves, and extra blankets.

Spring Campout: Temperatures are generally milder with highs in the 60s–70s and overnight lows in the 40s–50s. Still bring layers and rain gear as spring weather can be unpredictable.

If your Cub is new to camping or doesn’t have appropriate cold-weather gear, there’s no judgment in heading home to sleep in your own bed. Our primary goal is for everyone to have a fun and safe camping experience.

Typical Campout Schedule

Saturday:

  • 1:00–2:00 PM — Arrival and tent setup
  • 2:30 PM — Opening ceremony
  • Afternoon — Den activities, hiking, games, and free time
  • Evening — Dinner preparation and meal, s’mores
  • After dinner — Campfire program
  • Bedtime routine and lights out

Sunday:

  • Morning — Breakfast
  • Mid-morning — Camp cleanup (Leave No Trace)
  • 10:00 AM — Departure

Specific schedules will be provided before each campout.

First-Time Campers

If you’re new to camping, don’t worry. Many families start their camping journey with Pack 1533. Our leaders and fellow parents are happy to help answer questions and offer guidance. Consider reaching out to your Cubmaster, Den Leader, or other Pack families if you need advice or want to borrow equipment.

Required Forms

All Cubs and participating adults must have a completed Annual Health and Medical Record on file. Forms should be given to your Den Leader before or at the campout. Download the form here.