Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan Outdoor 2

Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan Outdoor 2

Welcome Welcome to Outdoor 2. This module will prepare you for camping trips when girls sleep out in platform cabins/tent, Adirondacks, A-frames or pitch their own tents. This module will take about 2 hours to complete. If you don’t have time to finish it in one sitting, that’s okay. Just make note of the last page you accessed (page numbers are on the bottom right of each slide) and continue from there. 2

Welcome During this home study course, you will need access to
the following documents: Safety Activity Checkpoints: Group Camping (pp ), Outdoor Cooking (pp ) and Trip/Travel Camping (pp ) Volunteer Essentials, Part 2: The Program (Traveling with Girls section). Volunteer Essentials, Part 3: Safety. Please be patient when downloading files; it may take a few minutes. 3

Welcome You will be asked to complete a learning log as you move through this module. Please refer back to your “course confirmation ” for the link to access your Learning Log. Either save it on your computer or print it and complete it by hand. Learning log questions will be identified with this graphic: Complete the learning log and forward it to: GSSEM Attn: Adult Learning 3011 West Grand Blvd 500 Fisher Bldg Detroit, MI Or you can fax to ; Or to To receive credit for this course, you must submit your completed Learning Log. 4

Course Objectives By the end of this course,
participants will be able to: Use the Girl Scout Leadership Experience to plan and execute a camping experience when girls sleep and cook outside of a building. Determine the readiness of individual girls and the group to participate in this type of camping experience. Direct girls in the planning and implementation of a camping experience following all Girl Scout policies, procedures, guidelines and Safety Activity Checkpoints. 5

Course Objectives Prepare girls to use outdoor personal hygiene skills using water, wells, latrine and “catholes”. Make girls aware of harmful insects, animals, snakes, and plants. Tie knots that are necessary for tent camping. Demonstrate their understanding of use and care of established units and pitching a complete tent unit. Instruct the girls on Leave No Trace principles and going “green”. 6

Introduction While camping isn’t a required activity in Girl Scouting,
it’s a great opportunity for girls to gain confidence, develop character, learn new skills, and explore new ways to make the world a better place. Sleeping and cooking outside of a building gives girls the opportunity to explore our world and enjoy & care for its resources. GSSEM provides many camp program opportunities for all grade levels. Girls can camp with their troop/group, girls from their community and attend summer camping experiences on their own. Check out the “Camp” section of our website ( for more information. When your girls are ready, let them choose where to reach outside of GSSEM for a meaningful camping experience (a campground in Michigan, the United States, Canada, etc. ?). The imaginations of the girls are the only limits! Not sure about this slide too wide of range 7

What are the benefits for girls?
Can you think of other ways that camping experiences can benefit girls? Can you think of any badges or awards that girls could earn while preparing for their camp experience or while at camp? 8

Title Goes Here Your responsibilities after completing this course
Prepare girls to successfully and safely experience a camping event while sleeping and cooking outside a building. Ensure troop/group is emotionally ready to go camping Ensure event is the right length, and is appropriate for the grade level of the girls, to be of benefit Ensure troop/group has had time to work on planning and that plans are in accord with Volunteer Essentials and Safety Activity Checkpoints Ensure that some of the activities selected by the girls enable them to develop values associated with their impact on the environment Ensure that camping events are inclusive – that all girls have the same opportunity to participate in all the activities 9

Review of previous material
Some of the information in this course is a partial review of information that was presented in Trip & Camp Readiness. There are a couple of reasons for this: It may have been quite a while since you completed Trip & Camp Readiness; this review can refresh your memory. You may have taken Trip & Camp Readiness to prepare for a simple overnight trip and now you are planning a more advanced outdoor activity with girls. In many cases, the information has been expanded to address the specific needs of a troop/group that is planning a more advanced outdoor experience. Please DO review this material with new eyes. You and your girls are progressing together to be ready and able to plan & participate in an awesome new camping experience! 10

The Girl Scout Leadership Experience is the driving force
Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE) The Girl Scout Leadership Experience is the driving force - THE ENGINE – for everything we do. The focus of the program (creating girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place) is fueled by 15 short-term and intermediate outcomes. It is ignited by three keys – Discover, Connect and Take Action – and it runs on three processes – Girl-led, Cooperative Learning and Learn by Doing. 11

It’s What We Do! Everything we do with the girls
It’s simple. Everything we do with the girls starts with the Girl Scout Leadership Experience. Every activity should: involve at least one of the three keys (discover, connect, take action) - and incorporate the processes (girl-led, learning by doing, cooperative learning). On the following pages, you will explore how camping experiences can incorporate the Girl Scout Leadership Experience. 12

Girl Scout Leadership Experience at Camp (1)
Introduction (cont’d) GIRLS DISCOVER What is something a girl could Discover for herself while sleeping and cooking outside of a building? Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! Plan and Measure Discover Fill in at least 3 rows on the Discover Outcomes chart. Five Discover Outcomes Camp –related Activity Process Girls develop a strong sense of self Girls develop positive values Girls gain practical life skills Girls seek challenges in the world Girls develop critical thinking 13 8

Introduction (cont’d) GIRLS CONNECT How can girls Connect during a camping experience? Plan and Measure Connect Fill in at least 3 rows on the Connect Outcomes chart. Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! 14 8

Introduction (cont’d) GIRLS TAKE ACTION How can girls Take Action in the outdoors or when camping? Plan and Measure Take Action Fill in at least 3 rows on the Take Action Outcomes chart. Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! 15 8

Remember the processes!
Introduction (cont’d) Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! Girl-led Cooperative learning Learning by doing 16 8

The girls benefit from doing the work themselves.
So, let them (girl-led) work together (cooperative learning) to learn (learn by doing) about how to take care of themselves in the out-of-doors. They may make some mistakes along the way --- but the lessons will be valuable and provide the best benefit to the girls! Introduction (cont’d) Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! 17 8

A Job for Every Girl Every girl is assigned tasks that she completes.
The role of adults is To supervise and answer questions – NOT to do the girls’ jobs. Have the girls form groups (patrols) to complete their tasks. Rotate tasks throughout the trip through use of a Kaper chart. Modify it as necessary for the group’s size and activities. (See sample types of jobs - called kapers - on the next page.) KAPER CHART Food and table prep Sat. Breakfast Sat. Lunch Busy Bees Crazy Caterpillars Cook Artful Ants Clean up 18

Sample Kapers for Camp Wood Gatherer/Fire Tender Cook Dishwashers
Gather needed firewood or prepare heat source for cooking Lay fire, light and tend campfire for cooking & cleanup Extinguish fire or clean/store other heat source Cook Review menu and recipes Gather/prepare food and set it up for easy access and cooking Cook food according to recipe Dishwashers Prepare dish line and call groups to dish line Wash any preparation dishes Store all leftover food and dispose of waste Unit Housekeepers Insure orderly, usable handwashing area Clean latrine area Properly dispose of garbage 19

Trip Readiness Progression –
From Volunteer Essentials, Part 2: The Program (Traveling with Girls Section) List one item from the checklist above that really stands out that to you. 20

Daisy Brownie Junior Cadette Senior Ambassador Transitioning from Adult-Led to Girl-Led Adult Responsibilities Adult-Led Adult-Planned Girl Responsibilities Girl-Led Girl-Planned Progression It begins with the first experience away from the troop meeting place and progresses to more advanced camping and trips. The responsible adult must take the training appropriate for the planned experience. Allow enough time to teach new skills to the girls prior to the activity. Outdoor education emphasizes teaching the girls the skills they need to have a positive outdoor experience. 21

(Progression) It starts slowly…
Look Out Wonder what the world is like at our doorstep Meet Out Look outdoors See trees, birds, buildings Listen outdoors Hear nature sounds and city sounds Feel outdoors Enjoy games and songs outdoors Learn ways to protect the environment Move Out Plan a walk around the block Touch a tall tree Locate a food chain Watch the sky Examine a micro-habitat Trace neighborhood smells Look for tracks, trails, traces of other living things Find pollution problems Explore Out Walk/hike with a purpose Rock hike Gadget hike Metric hike Penny hike Color hike Shape hike Compass hike Day pack Visit nature centers Plant a tree Plant a garden 22

(Progression) …and then it soars!
Sleep Out Prepare for overnight List and prepare equipment Bedroll Sit-upon Toiletries Plan menus (NO cooking) Learn knot tying Spend night away from home Learn about Leave No Trace Cook Out Prepare menus Prepare shopping lists Learn/try cooking No-cook meal Nosebag lunch One-pot meal Skillet Stick cooking Foil cooking Charcoal Box oven Propane stove Learn knife safety Learn fire building Learn safety and first aid rules Camp Out Prepare packing lists For troops For individuals Plan activities at camp Budget for troop activities and meals Know safety and first aid rules Shop for menu items Establish campsite Sleeping areas Latrines Kitchen areas Pitch and strike a tent Use sound environmental policies Pack Out Plan meals, menus, shopping lists Purchase and provide storage of food Plan routes, transportation, travel arrangements Use maps, charts, timetables, compasses Budget trip costs Keep financial records Select and transport minimum personal and group equipment 23

What steps have you and your girls made in Progression for
the outdoors? What “Look Out” activities have we done? What “Meet Out” activities have we done ? What “Move Out” activities have we done? What “Explore Out” activities have we done ? What “Sleep Out” activities have we done? Are you and your girls ready to “Cook Out”? “Camp Out”? “Pack Out”? 24

Progression at GSSEM Camps
Council Sponsored Summer Camp This is an outdoor experience for an individual girl. A girl chooses activities planned and delivered by GSSEM camp staff and eats meals in the dining hall. Facility Rental Camp activities are planned and delivered by the troop/group. The troop/group cooks all their own meals. Community Sponsored Weekend Camp Activities are planned by a Community (older girls & adults). At Camp Hawthorn Hollow & Innisfree, meals are provided in dining halls. At Playfair community volunteers & girls cook their meals. Council Sponsored Weekend Camp Activities are planned and delivered by GSSEM camp staff. Meals provided in dining halls. 25

Trip & Camp Readiness Ask yourself and the girls:
Are the girls ready for an advanced camping experience? Are you ready? Have you given yourself and the girls enough time to prepare/plan? Are you including your parents/guardians in the planning? Are there special trainings or procedures that are required for this type of camping experience? Hint: Refer to Group Camping (pp ) and Trip Travel Camping (pp ) Safety Activity Checkpoints. What advance preparation needs to be done to prepare the girls for this camping activity? How long will that take? Have we planned other activities that have Safety Activity Checkpoints? 26

Safety Policies, Procedures & Guidelines
Review Volunteer Essentials, Part 3: Safety for the trip as well as the activities planned. You are responsible for keeping the girls safe. When planning trips/activities you must review and follow the guidelines as stated in the Safety Activity Checkpoints. List one item from Volunteer Essentials, Part 3: Safety or the Safety Activity Checkpoints that was new information to you. Involve the girls in the use of Safety Activity Checkpoints When working with Daisies and Brownies, read the information to the girls. Juniors will look at it with you. For example, they might say, “Can we go….” and your response is, “Let’s check the Safety Activity Checkpoints.” Cadettes, Seniors, & Ambassadors should be able to review the Safety Activity Checkpoints with their advisors. 27

Introduction (cont’d) Travel by Automobile Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! Most likely, your trip will involve travel by automobile. Review Volunteer Essentials, Part 3; Safety. Pay close attention to guidelines and policies related to transporting girls and Girl Scout Activity Insurance in the ICE Toolkit section. What can you, as a troop/group leader, do to help create a safe travel space for the girls? 28 8

Each group should carry a first aid kit adapted to the kinds of activities that will take place during the camp experience. The contents of the kit will vary according to its intended use and the size of the group. The American Cross has suggestions; check out the Anatomy of a First Aid Kit. What items should be in your first aid kit? How will you involve the girls? What first aid skills are important for your girls to learn? Safety Planning with Girls Make sure they know the obvious – don’t assume: Who is the first aider for this camping experience? What does the first aider do for us? How to summon help in an emergency How to treat basic injuries until help is available Where the first aid kit is kept, during transit and at destination. 29

Medications & Safety Refer to Volunteer Essentials, Part 3: Safety ALL medications should be in original containers and prescribed doses should be given by a responsible adult (usually the first aider) based on written permission of a parent or guardian Inhalers and other self-administered medications can remain with the girls with the leader’s advance knowledge This applies to ingested or topical medications – do not give prescription or over-the-counter remedies to girls without parent permission. Additional Notes for You and Your First Aider Be aware of girl health issues/special needs Allergies Triggers Reactions Treatment Be aware of the energy level of the girls and balance the activities. Too much stimulation leads to fatigue - leads to injury. Too little stimulation leads to boredom - leads to injury. 30

General Safety Rules ---- The buddy system should be in effect at ALL times. Even better (in case of emergency), travel in groups of three or four. All the girls should know your count-off system and, if appropriate, remember their numbers. Remind them to watch out for each other and alert an adult if there is a concern! If Lost - Hug a tree Stay by a tree – don’t wander looking for group (The troop/group will be looking for the girl!) Yell – use a whistle – make loud noises If you give each girl a garbage bag at the beginning of the hike it can be used protect the girl from the elements . 31

Emergency Preparedness
General Precautions Before you arrive, check with the authorities where you will be camping to learn their procedures for emergencies. Pack a battery-powered radio that’s tuned to a local station that broadcasts weather information and extra batteries. Pack a battery-powered flashlight, extra batteries and an extra bulb. When you first arrive on site, locate emergency exits and/or sheltered areas for safety from fire, storm and tornadoes. Store important papers in a ziplock baggie and keep them handy. STAY CALM! Understanding the potential dangers and preparing for them will help you and the girls keep a cool head if you encounter an emergency. For more information on prevention and what to do in case of emergencies, visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency website ( 32

Forest Fires Before you leave, check local conditions for fire danger and active fires in the area. Don't intentionally put yourself in harms way by trying to see or photograph wildfire. Don't enter an area that has been closed to camping or hiking due to fire danger. Ensure girls know what to do in case a person catches on fire -- STOP – DROP – ROLL. Hold fire drills during meetings and on arrival at site. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Know your evacuation route ahead of time and prepare an evacuation checklist and emergency supplies. If you get caught in a forest fire Don't try to outrun the blaze; look for a body of water such as a pond or river to crouch in. If there is no water nearby, find a depressed, cleared area with little vegetation, lie low to the ground, and cover your body with wet clothing, a blanket, or soil. Stay low and covered until the fire passes. Protect your lungs by breathing air closest to the ground, through a moist cloth, if possible, to avoid inhaling smoke. 33

Thunder and Lightning Storms You are cooking dinner when you hear distant rumbles of thunder. Your tent and a large open sided picnic shelter are nearby. Your vehicle is about quarter of a mile away parked at the trail head. What should you do? Go to your vehicle! The tent and picnic shelter are NOT safe places. Wait 30 minutes until after the last rumble of thunder before going back to the campsite. Remember, there is NO safe place outside in a thunderstorm. If you absolutely can't get to safety, here are some suggestions: Avoid open fields, the top of a hill or a ridge top. Stay away from tall, isolated trees or other tall objects. If you are in a forest, stay near a lower stand of trees. If you are camping in an open area, set up camp in a valley, ravine or other low area. Remember, a tent offers NO protection from lightning. Stay away from water, wet items (such as ropes) and metal objects (such as fences and poles). Water and metal are excellent conductors of electricity. The current from a lightning flash will easily travel for long distances 34

Tornado You can survive a tornado! Even in the heart of tornado alley, chances are you will never experience a direct hit by a tornado. However, being prepared is critical. By following these simple guidelines, you can protect yourself. Ask the park ranger or campground owner if there are any shelters available for use. Cabins may offer limited protection from a weak tornado, but succumb quickly as the wind speeds increase. If you are caught outside with no buildings available, the best option is to find the lowest spot in the ground and lay flat, covering your head (use pillows, blankets, coats, helmets, etc) to protect your head and body from flying debris. 35

Introduction (cont’d)
Review of Safety Policies, Procedures & Guidelines Emergency Preparedness Introduction (cont’d) What can you and your girls do to prepare for emergencies before the camping trip? What are some important things to do as you first arrive at your campsite to help ensure the safety of your troop/group? Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! 36 8

Introduction (cont’d) Poisonous Plants Troup/Group leaders and girls need to be aware of the poisonous plants that they may encounter in the outdoors. Read “Poisonous Plants” from Wilderness Survival and “The Don’t Touch Me Plants” from Purdue University. The Department of Natural Resources for each state will also have information on poisonous plants. In Michigan, go to: to learn more. How can you share this information with your girls? What new information did you learn from the articles? Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! 37 8

Poisonous & Dangerous Insects Troup/Group leaders and girls need to be aware of the poisonous and dangerous insects that they may encounter in the outdoors. Read “Dangerous Insects and Arachnids” from Wilderness Survival and “Biting Bugs” from the USDA Forest Service. The Department of Natural Resources for each state will also have information on dangerous insects. In Michigan, go to: to learn more. What insects will be in the area where you and your girls will be camping? How will you prepare for exposure to these insects? 38

A Word about Ticks Ticks are known to transmit infection from animals to people and person to person, such as Lyme Disease. They burrow under the skin and are often difficult to see unless you’re looking for the tell-tale signs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has information about the prevention and removal of ticks. Share the article with your girls! 39

Coyotes and Raccoons and Bears ---- Oh My! Since you and your girls will be camping in the great outdoors, you will be in the “living room” of many animals. As always, it is important to be safe and prepared. Read “Wildlife Safety Precautions” from the California State Compensations Insurance Fund and “Hiking Safety: Encountering Predators on the Trail” from Go Pet Friendly. What wild animals might you and your girls encounter? How should you react to these encounters? 40

What about Snakes? Do we have to worry about poisonous snakes in Michigan? What about the rest of North America? For answers to these questions and more --- Read “Venomous Snakes” from Backyard Nature and “FAQ: Snakes” from Michigan State University. 41

Finding Your Way Introduction (cont’d) Which way is North? The movement of the sun can illuminate your way true north. In the Northern Hemisphere, the sun always rises in the east and sets in the west. At noon, it looms in the middle of the horizon and directly south. That means when you're facing the sun at noon, walking directly toward it will take you south. Walking with the sun at your back means you're heading north. Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! 42 8

Finding Your Way Which way is North?
In the Northern Hemisphere, the North Star, or Polaris, guides you true north. You can find Polaris by first locating the Big Dipper and Little Dipper constellations Draw an imaginary line from the two "pointer stars" at the base of the bowl of the Big Dipper to the last and brightest star in the handle of the Little Dipper. Polaris is also the middle star in the 'M' shaped neighboring constellation, Cassiopeia. 43

Finding Your Way Map and Compass / Orienteering
Even in this high-tech GPS era, nothing replaces the value of a magnetized compass, a paper map and the understanding of how both can help you find your way in the wilderness. Check out the following articles and videos to learn more: There’s also a Girl Scout Safety Activity Checkpoint for Orienteering: 44

Finding Your Way Geocaching is a free, real-world outdoor treasure hunt. Players try to locate hidden containers (called geocaches) using a smart phone or GPS and can then share their experience online. For more details on this new outdoor activity, check out the following website: Also review Girl Scout Safety Activity Checkpoints for Geocaching (pp 77-79): 45

Personal Hygiene at Camp
Introduction (cont’d) Good health habits are particularly important when camping. Remind girls to brush their teeth, wash their hands and face, and shower or wash with a cloth. Other tips: Change clothes (including under garments) totally before going to bed to make sure you will not be chilled during the night. Baby wipes, wet one, etc. can be used for bathing purposes when no water is available. Use a wash basin away from the campsite area for washing. Bring sufficient clothing so that doing laundry is not necessary. Limited washing may be done by setting up bucket for washing and rinsing. Hang clothes on a line strung away from foot traffic areas. If heavier washing of a large quantity of clothing is necessary, schedule time to go to a laundromat. Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! 46 8

Introduction (cont’d) Restrooms If composting or flush toilets or latrines are provided at the site, girls should clean them daily as part of their kapers (unless a cleaning service is provided). Replenish paper supplies, sweep the floor, clean sinks, and disinfect toilet seats. Showers In established units, use the showers provided. Conserve water and take short showers. Rinse, turn off the shower and lather up, then turn on the shower for the final rinse. If a cleaning service is not provided, include daily cleaning of shower with a disinfectant on the group kaper chart. *Note: Use biodegradable soap when possible, hand sanitizer, or liquid soap in a pump container. Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! 47 8

Introduction (cont’d) Hand Pumps and Wells Make sure to keep hands and fingers at the end of the pump handle. This will avoid pinching fingers or hands in the joint of the handle and the pump stem. DO NOT put anything down the pump area. No washing dishes, hair, brushing teeth, garbage/food scrapings, etc. at the pump area. The disposal of used water and other waste must be 200 feet from natural water sources. Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! 48 8

If no latrine is available, use a cat hole. Dig 6-8 inch deep hole. 200 feet from water source, camp and trails. Cover when done with dirt and leaves if possible. Dispose of used toilet paper and feminine hygiene products. (in plastic lined paper bags) 49

Ecology minded campers and Leave No Trace, Inc. recommended that you dump waste water and make catholes at least 200 feet from water sources and trails. This is so that those water sources do not become contaminated. So ---- Where to dump waste water when camping? How far you have to go to make that cathole? Just how far is 200 ft.? It's yards or 2/3 the length of a football field. Still no clue? Try the 200 Feet Activity! You will need: Enough balls of 200 ft. of string according to how many are in the troop/group and lots of room to walk. What to do: The troop/group can be divided into groups of 4 to 6. Have half of group can walk the guestimate of 200 ft. and stay there. Then have the other half walk with the string unwinding to the end of the 200 ft. ball of string while an adult or non-participating member holds beginning of string at the “campsite”. 50

POP QUIZ Why will changing everything from the top layer of clothes down to the underwear keep you warmer? (Hint: Slide 46) How do you dispose of feminine hygiene supplies at camp? (Hint: Slide 49) When washing hair or brushing teeth, what do you need to be aware of? (Hint: Pages 48, 50) 51

Ideas for what to bring –
Personal Gear Clothing based on weather and planned activities Comfortable shoes (enclosed – no sandals) or boots plus extra Pajamas -- Slippers – Extra day’s clothes and underwear Rain gear -- poncho and boots Medication (Labeled, and turned in to adult in charge) Toothbrush/toothpaste – Hairbrush/comb – Soap – Washcloth – Towel – Other toiletries Dirty laundry bag Insect Repellant and/or Sunscreen (non-aerosol) Blanket or pad to sleep on (if needed) - Sleeping bag (if needed) - Extra sheets/blanket - Pillow Flashlight with Fresh/Extra batteries - Sit upon Dishes and dishbag Optional - Handbook or Journey Book – Cards - Quiet games - Stuffed animal -Inexpensive camera 52

What to bring – Personal Gear
Introduction (cont’d) Have the girls make up their own personal packing lists. Compare lists. What is missing? Things that should be left home: Jewelry, fancy clothes that cannot get dirty, perfume/cologne, anything in a glass container, open shoes (sandals, crocs, etc.) Plan a “rehearsal packing” when girls and adults pack all their personal gear and bring it to a meeting. How did everyone do? Any lessons learned? The Group Camping Safety Activity Checkpoint may have some other ideas for you (pp ): Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! 53 8

Going Green Be aware of your host’s policies and adhere to them.
Reduce - reuse – recycle: Model this and encourage your girls to bring their own cup wherever possible! If Mother Nature put it there, it’s there for a reason. Take only pictures, leave only footprints Use environmentally and septic-friendly cleaning supplies and paper products. 54

Leave No Trace Camping Lightly on the Land
Our Girl Scout Law reminds us to use resources wisely and to make the world a better place. When living in the out-of-doors, we have a perfect opportunity to live those parts of our Girl Scout Law. Leave No Trace is a national and international program designed to assist outdoor enthusiasts with their decisions about how to reduce their impacts when they hike, camp, picnic, snowshoe, run, bike, hunt, paddle, ride horses, fish, ski or climb. The program strives to educate all those who enjoy the outdoors about the nature of their recreational impacts as well as techniques to prevent and minimize such impacts. Leave No Trace is best understood as an educational and ethical program, not as a set of rules and regulations. 55

Leave No Trace Introduction (cont’d) The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace: Plan Ahead and Prepare Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces Dispose of Waste Properly Leave What You Find Minimize Campfire Impacts Respect Wildlife Be Considerate of Other Visitors For more information about Leave No Trace, go to: Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! 56 8

Safe Drinking Water There are a variety of microscopic organisms that can contaminate water supplies and cause potentially serious, even fatal, illnesses among wilderness travelers. So, it is very important to check with the park ranger or campground owner to insure that the drinking water available for your use is tested by an approved government agency regularly. If there is ANY doubt about the safety of water for human consumption, you will need to purify any water that will be ingested. Check out the following articles for information on how to purify water in the wilderness: Wikipedia: Portable water purification Survival Training: How to make safe drinking water 57

Food Storage Food preparation and storage areas should be kept clean for health purposes. To protect from rodents and insects, screens or doors should be used. Stored food should be kept off the floor or in properly sealed containers. If you are camping in more primitive conditions and must leave your food out of doors, it is a wise practice between meals to gather your non-perishable food into a bag and hang it from a tree. Although there may not be a bear within a thousand miles, ground squirrels, mice, raccoons and dogs can create havoc with unprotected provisions and if there are bears around, it's extremely important that you get all the “smellables” out of your tent and pack before you bed down for the night. 58

Hanging a Bear Bag: for non-perishable foods
Food Storage Hanging a Bear Bag: for non-perishable foods While there is still plenty of daylight, find a tree with a sturdy horizontal branch about 20 feet above the ground. Tie one end of a 50-foot bear bag cord around a rock and toss it over the branch, taking care not to let the stone strike anyone on its way down. Stash your provisions in a sturdy plastic trash bag, or in a burlap or mesh sack lined with plastic, twist it closed and tie it to one end of the cord with a clove hitch. Pull the other end to raise the bag (at least 12 feet) until it is beyond the reach of bears that might stand beneath it or that may crawl up the tree trunk and out onto the branch, and secure the cord to a tree. 59

Food Storage Perishable Foods
Remember to keep perishable foods cold (40 degrees) or frozen. Some tips for storing perishable foods in coolers: Freeze water in two liter bottles or milk cartons. If you’re taking juice or bottled water, freeze that before putting it in the coolers. Freeze water in cake pans, then remove from pans before putting ice in the cooler. These flat pieces of ice are easier to stack between packages of food in the cooler. Use perishable foods first. Freeze meats as cold as possible. Ice blocks keep cold longer than ice cubes. Open cooler only when really necessary to keep inside cold Keep cooler out of sun, cover with blanket to help insulate. 60

Title Goes Here Safe Drinking Water and Food Storage
What steps will you (and your girls) need to take to ensure that the drinking water during your camping experience is safe for consumption? How will your troop/group store non-perishable foods during your camping trip? How can you include your girls in the safe storage of perishable foods? 61

The Square Knot is used as a binding knot, the classic joining knot.
Useful Knots for Camp Square Knot The Square Knot is used as a binding knot, the classic joining knot. Right Left Pull over over tight! left ….. right ….. 62

The Lark’s Head Knot is good for tying down tarps with grommets.
Useful Knots for Camp Lark’s Head Knot The Lark’s Head Knot is good for tying down tarps with grommets. 1. Fold the rope in half. Place the loop made at the halfway point behind your support (ring or post or another rope or cord). 2. Fold the rope in half. Place the loop made at the halfway point behind your support (ring or post or another rope or cord). 3. Take the loop over and in front of the support. Place the two cord ends through the loop from front to back and pull to tighten. 63

Useful Knots for Camp Clove Hitch Knot
The Clove Hitch Knot is used fasten one end to a tree or post. 1. Go around the post with the free end. 2. Go around again wrapping below previous loop and ….. 3. …..feeding rope through loose opening. Pull tight. 64

Useful Knots for Camp Taut-Line Knot
The Taut-Line Knot is used tightening tension on guy lines and holds fast under a load. 1. Wrap your rope around a pole, cross the lose end underneath the long running length of the rope, and drop it down through the hole between where the rope crosses and the pole. 2. Do another turn by bringing the rope around and drop it through again. 3. Bring the end of the rope to the front of the two loops you just made, and tie another half-hitch (just like the first one in step one). Pull to tighten. Now you can slide the knot along the rope to tighten the line. 65

More Fun with Knots For more information about knots and fun ways to learn how to tie them, check out the following websites and articles: knot_games/knot_games.htm What knots will be important for you and your girls to learn for your camping trip? What ideas do you have for making learning how to tie knots fun? 66

Sleeping Out in Established
Units at GSSEM Camps Title Goes Here There are three options for girls to “sleep out” in established units At GSSEM camps: Seasonal Platform Cabin Seasonal A-Frame Cabin Primitive Tenting Area For more information on these camp housing options, check out the Camp section at 67

Remember a Girl Scout always leaves a place nicer than she found it!
Sleeping Out in Established Units at GSSEM Camps Groups that use GSSEM facilities to camp will receive detailed information on care of the facilities and clean up required in check-in materials. Some general rules to follow include: Report any equipment or facility in disrepair If you brought it with you, pack it up to take home Clean all areas in the established unit before checking out Be considerate of other campers Girls do not run in & out of buildings, slamming doors or windows Remember a Girl Scout always leaves a place nicer than she found it! 68

Care of Tents DO .... Keep all tent parts together at all times.
DO …. Be sure tent is completely dry before packing. DO …. Keep tents clean and tidy and sweep floors and walls before striking (taking down). DO …. Roll flaps toward inside of tent to prevent water from catching in roll. DO …. Tie tape in half-bow so they can be untied even if wet. DO …. Sweep the outside of the tent as you fold it. DO …. Use ground sheets (footprints) the same size as your tent one place under your tent and the second inside the tent 69

Care of Tents DO NOT …. Use ANY SPRAYS inside or near tent, it can destroy the waterproofing. DO NOT …. Leave an exposed mirror in tent. DO NOT …. Eat or store food inside tent, even gum or candy bars. DO NOT …. Hang anything on guy ropes, tapes or poles. DO NOT …. Roll wet or damp flaps on window flaps. DO NOT …. Pin anything to the tent. DO NOT …. Touch the canvas if it is at all damp or if it is raining. DO NOT …. Use heaters. DO NOT …. Have open fires or anything flammable inside the tents. 70

Choosing a Tent Camping Site
Look up. See what is above you. Well drained, level ground, high and dry, to minimize impact try to choose and established campsite. Keep away from lush vegetation (marsh), and clay soil (puddles and mud when it rains). Favorable exposure, south-east Safe surroundings. Avoid overhead wires. Avoid being under large trees. Avoid being under lone trees. Avoid tall grass, swampy areas, heavy underbrush. Watch for low areas, poison ivy, poison oak or other plants of this kind. If camping in “pristine” area for more than 2 days, move campsite to preserve area. Use already established site instead of creating a new one when possible. 71

Tent Campsite Setup As you set up a troop/group tent campsite, you will want to include: Sleeping tents Storage tent(s) Tools Cooking equipment Screen tent for food prep, eating and dishwashing (at least 200 feet from natural water sources) Cooking area / Campfire (at least 30 feet from tents & storage areas) Hand washing / Sanitation station (at least 200 feet from natural water sources) 72

Tent Campsite Setup Important tips for setting up your tenting campsite: Keep room to walk between the tents without tripping over the guide lines. Mark hazards such as guide wires, stakes and dangerous landforms with reflective markers. Dishwashing and handwashing areas need to be at least 200 feet from natural water sources Cooking area / Campfire needs to be at least 30 feet from tents & storage areas) 73

Sleeping Assignments at Camp
A couple of notes on sleeping assignments: Provide separate sleeping and bathroom facilities for adult males. Each participant has her own bed. Adults and girls never share a bed. It is not mandatory that an adult sleep in the sleeping area with the girls. If an adult female does share the sleeping area, there should always be two unrelated adult females present. During family or “He and Me” events (in which girls share sleeping accommodations with males), ensure the details are clearly explained in parent/guardian permission slip. You and your girls can check out Group Camping Safety Activity Checkpoints and Volunteer Essentials, Part 3: Safety for more information on setting up your campsite and girl/adult ratios and guidelines for sleeping assignments. 74

Review of Established Units and Tent Camping Sites
Introduction (cont’d) What type of housing will you and your girls be using for your camping adventure? What information will your girls and their parents need before the trip? During the trip? How can you involve girls in the setting up of the campsite (in any setting)? What sleeping assignments will be made for your camping adventure? Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! 75 8

Pitching (putting up) Tents
Clear area of sharp objects like stones, sticks, etc. Put down ground cover, make about same size as floor of tent, fold any extra under not up. Situate door, unfold then lay flat. Stake corners, being sure tent is “square”. Insert poles, raise tent, stake and adjust any guide ropes. Set up rain fly if available. Layout interior ground sheet Set up tarp for bad weather using appropriate lashing. After tents are set up have the girls do fire and/or storm drill(s). 76

Striking (taking down) Tents
Sweep out inside. Loosen guide ropes. Pull stakes. Remove poles and allow tent to come down. Remove and sweep any dirt and debris from outside of tent. Fold, roll up or stuff tent depending on manufactures directions. Wet tents that need to be transported should be packed loosely and set up to dry as soon as possible. 77

Preparing Girls to Pitch/Strike Tents
Introduction (cont’d) Remember that the girls will benefit from the experience of setting up their own tent and the group’s campsite. Adults can help (they are part of the group too) – but the girls need to do the work themselves. They will learn lasting lessons from their mistakes and successes! Watch the girls confidence grow as they do for themselves in the great outdoors! What can you do with the girls before the trip to help them prepare for this task? What ideas do you have for making the preparation fun? (Don’t forget to ask the girls for ideas too!) Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! 78 8

What to Bring – Troop/Group Ideas
Troop roster Kaper chart/activity schedule Menu and recipes First aid kit – First aid book Safety Activity Checkpoints (sections specific to activities) Alarm clock – Battery-Powered Radio – Extra batteries Sponges and towels – Dish soap – Bleach - Toilet paper Craft Supplies Plan “B” Activities to fill programming gaps Napkins - Plastic garbage bags – Can opener Disinfectant - Pots, pans and utensils – Measuring cups and spoons – Bowls and serving dishes – Colander – Matches – Coffee pot/tea kettle – Cutting Board – Paring knives/vegetable peelers – Pot holders 79

What to Bring – Troop/Group
For ideas on what to pack for your troop/group, refer to the Safety Activity Checkpoints: Group Camping: pp (Camping Gear) Outdoor Cooking: pp (Outdoor Cooking Gear) Trip/Travel Camp: pp (Trip/Travel Camping Gear) Make sure to pack for the type of trip you are taking! A troop/group equipment list will have some basic categories: Shelter Cooking Supplies Washing Supplies Group Tools/Supplies What are some things that should go on your group/troop equipment list? How can you involve girls in creating this list? 80

Hiking Introduction (cont’d) Hiking is a favorite activity at camp. No matter where you are, there are always some hiking trails! Hiking can be done when it’s cold, windy, rainy or hot; a versatile activity that is a favorite of the girls. Review the Hiking Safety Activity Checkpoints (pp ). Here are some ideas for hiking themes (ask your girls for more ideas): ADVENTURE HIKE: Several groups all take a separate direction, but they end at the same spot. BEE LINE or CROW FLIGHT HIKE: Follow a compass bearing just as closely as possible to see what interesting scenery it leads through. Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! 81 8

Hiking Introduction (cont’d) BREAKFAST HIKE: Hike to a good vantage point to see the sunrise and to cook breakfast. Lunch and dinner hikes may also be taken. CAMERA HIKE: Hike to see which camper can snap the most interesting pictures. MAP HIKES: Hike to collect information to use in constructing a trail map or try to follow a trail map someone has made. MOONLIGHT HIKE: Hike at night to see the entirely different nightlife of nature. STAR HIKE: Hike to a hill on a clear evening to study the stars and their legends. Sleeping bags may be taken for an overnight sleep-out. Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! 82 8

Backpacking Backpacking can entail a low-budget method of travel in just about any part of the globe, particularly in urban areas. Backpacking can also entail front-country or back-country environments in parks or wilderness areas. No matter the destination, a backpacker’s primary mission is to explore on foot, while carrying all her gear in a backpack and being a good steward of the land. To learn more about Girl Scout standards in backpacking, look at the Backpacking Safety Activity Checkpoints (pp ). Backpacking is not recommended for Girl Scout Daisies and Brownies. 83

Backpacking Remember it’s all about progression. So, once the girls have mastered cooking out and camping out; maybe you should explore “Packing Out”. For more information about backpacking, check out the following websites and articles: 84

Hiking & Backpacking Introduction (cont’d) What kind of hiking will your girls enjoy? How will you involve girls in planning hikes? What steps of progression should you and your girls complete before going on a backpacking adventure? Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! 85 8

Other Activities at Camp
Introduction (cont’d) When your girls are planning activities for camp – always remember safety! When they ask: Can we go swimming? Can we go canoeing? What about snowshoeing? Ice fishing? ---- Encourage them to find their own answers. There are Safety Activity Checkpoints for that! For information on restricted activities, see Volunteer Essentials, Part 3: Safety. When planning activities with girls, note the abilities of each girl. Make sure the complexity of the activity does not exceed girls’ individual skills. Bear in mind that skill levels decline when people are tired, hungry or under stress. Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! 86 8

And now the adventure begins!… Introduction (cont’d) Stretch your own wings to help your girls learn how to fly! Have fun! The opportunities are endless and the rewards will last a lifetime. Think about it …… What are some first steps in preparing for our campout? How can I prepare myself and the girls for the camping experience? Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate for their troop/group grade level. For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout experience! 87 8

Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan Outdoor 2

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