Camping and Outdoor Education. . . . . (120 min.

)
Objective
To develop an awareness of basic camping and outdoor new skills necessary for outdoor
leadership.
Explanation
Participants are required to give study to the following:
1. Philosophy of camping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (20 min.)
2. Types of camping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (20 min.)
3. Basic components of good camping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (30 min.)
4. Basic campout planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (30 min.)
5. Nature study. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (20 min.)
Teaching Resource

I. Philosophy of Camping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (20 min)

In this section we emphasize the importance of camping and outdoor education in the Pathfinder
program. It must be emphasized that we are only discussing basic aspects in this session - the
real learning takes place in the outdoors.

Outdoor living holds a tremendous potential in spiritual values and character-building elements.
Campcraft offers great opportunity for practicing democratic group procedures; for building self-
reliance, resourcefulness, self-discipline, and respect for other people; for practical application of
nature lore and for its greatest appreciation; and best of all - Pathfinders like it. While the
Pathfinder Club is not a camping club, it is recommended that outdoor living with its multi-
skilled requirements compose a large segment of the year's Pathfinder program.

A. Recreation in the Open Air

In this age of artificial amusements and synthetic excitement, we should turn to outdoor
recreation. God counsels in Messages to Young People, pages 380, 381 "There are modes of
recreation which are highly beneficial to both body and mind. An enlightened,
discriminating mind will find abundant means for entertainment and diversion, from sources
not only innocent, but instructive. Recreation in the open air, the contemplation of the works
of God in nature, will be of the highest benefit."

Camping provides many opportunities for individual and group development. Let us discuss
these under two headings: Benefits to the Individual and Effects of Camping Activities on
Lifestyle.
B. Benefits to the Individual

1. An intimate knowledge of nature with a love for all her facets which will never leave and
will constantly bring back nostalgic memories and a longing to be outdoors again.

2. A perception of nature's blueprint for keeping all things in balance and interdependent
upon each other, and one's place in the scheme of things.

3. A meaningful spiritual awakening that reveals God's presence and touch in everything as
the camper views the majesty of a high mountain, the peace of a quiet valley, the glory of
a colorful sunset, the glint of sunlight on the lake, or dewdrops glistening on an intricate
spider web.

4. An understanding of the true meaning of conserving natural resources and the reasons
that immediate action is necessary if we are to save any of the little that remains after so
many years of neglect and destruction by our affluent society, which has assumed that the
supply of natural resources is inexhaustible.

5. A new self-respect and self-confidence as one learns to manage for oneself and to do
things others previously have done for him or her. Others are too busy with their own
jobs to pamper or pick up after another camper.

6. A pride in one's ability to improvise and make do with what is available. While on a
campout the Pathfinder cannot run to the store to replace something damaged or satisfy
the whim of the moment.

7. A feeling of at-homeness in the out-of-doors as one learns to select a good campsite, to

pitch his or her tent, and to cook one's own food over a fire or camp stove.

8. A respect for the dignity of work and the satisfaction that comes from completing a task
such as carrying one's own pack, preparing a good meal in the outdoors, or hiking to the
top of a mountain for the beautiful view.

9. Pride in good health and physical fitness that vigorous outdoor life brings as it stimulates
the camper's lungs and heart, exercises muscles, and produces an appetite for the simple,
nutritious meals cooked outdoors.

10. A new and more realistic sense of values as one notes how unimportant such things as
money, material possessions, IQ, and fine clothes are in assessing the true worth of an
individual. In camping one finds that the happiest, best liked, and most respected
counselors and campers have spurned outward appearances and material possessions.

11. A feeling of community, pride, and the satisfaction that comes from serving others, as
one maintains the campsite for the benefit of present and future campers.
C. Effects of Camping Activities on Lifestyle

1. Provides the opportunity to develop lifetime hobbies and sometimes a vocation.

Experience in a wide variety of activities discloses the camper's interests as well as
aptitudes and broadens his or her perspectives, building understanding and appreciation
for the interests of others. Camping aims to develop all-around abilities rather than
specialization in a few, as is so often done in school sports and other activities in which
only a few are chosen to participate while the majority remain on the sidelines to cheer.

2. Encourages one to try to improve one's own performance. Although there is enough
competition to give those with superior ability a chance to shine, most of the emphasis is
on self-improvement. This is preferable to the situation in a highly competitive program
where a few nearly always do well and may become smug and conceited, while others are
usually well down the scale, become dejected, and develop a "don't care" attitude.

3. Provides a method of having just plain fun as well as the excitement and new experiences
every normal child craves but doing it in a wholly safe and sane way. Youngsters who
can find their thrills this way will never "need" to resort to stealing, fighting, or doing
drugs just for "kicks."

4. Aids in developing a wholesome curiosity and desire to investigate and learn. The whole
camping approach is "Let's go and find out."

5. Teaches how to properly balance work, play, rest, and alternative periods of vigorous
activity with those less active; observing regular hours for rest and sleep.

6. Educates on the wise use of leisure time, choosing activities that recreate rather than kill
time. This fulfills one of society's greatest needs as leisure time increases and working
hours decrease. Many of the out-of-doors activities (canoeing, swimming, hiking,
boating, camping out, nature study, horseback riding) provide the interests and skills
necessary to take advantage of our parks, forests, and wilderness areas. Although football
and basketball may be fine school sports, few will continue in them after school days are
over.

7. Helps one to learn to enjoy simple pastimes that don't cost a lot of money as well as
learning to entertain oneself instead of relying on others or on canned entertainment.

8. Assists in developing appreciation for serious and thoughtful programs by participating in

vespers, observing Sabbath, and enjoying campfire programs based on thought-provoking
themes and rituals.
 Spirit of Prophecy quotations:

"Those who sacrifice simplicity to fashion, and shut themselves away from the beauties of
nature, cannot be spiritually minded. They cannot understand the skill and power of God as
revealed in His created works; therefore their hearts do not quicken and throb with new love
and interest, and they are not filled with awe and reverence as they see God in nature"
(Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 584).

"As the works of God are studied, the Holy Spirit flashes conviction into the mind. It is not
the conviction that logical reasoning produces; but unless the mind has become too dark to
know God, the eye too dim to see Him, the ear too dull to hear His voice, a deeper meaning
is grasped, and the sublime, spiritual truths of the written word are impressed on the heart"
(Christ's Object Lessons, p. 24).

"Christ sharply reproved the men of His time because they had not learned from nature the
spiritual lessons which they might have learned. All things, animate and inanimate, express
to man the knowledge of God" (Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 580).

"The more quiet and simple the life of the child, - the more free from artificial excitement
and the more in harmony with nature, - the more favorable it is to physical and mental vigor
and to spiritual strength" (Education, p. 107).

"So far as possible, let the child from his earliest years be placed where this wonderful
lesson-book [the book of nature] shall be open before him...In no other way can the
foundation of true education be so firmly and surely laid" (Education, p. 100-101).

"From His earliest years He [Jesus] was possessed of one purpose; He lived to bless others.
For this He found resources in nature; new ideas of ways and means flashed into His mind as
He studied plant life and animal life.
"...He was trying to understand the reason of things. Heavenly beings were His attendants,
and the culture of holy thoughts and communings was His. From the first dawning of
intelligence He was constantly growing in spiritual grace and knowledge of truth.
"...Every child may gain knowledge as Jesus did" (Desire of Ages, p. 70).

D. Spiritual Values in Camping

Never in the history of the world has so much depended on the spiritual orientation of youth.
And no group of people - preachers, teachers, or parents - has a greater opportunity to direct
that orientation than the people who live with children and adolescents through camping
experiences. Lives are changed by the camping experience. No one goes through a camping
experience without its leaving some mark upon his or her spirit. Whether you know it,
whether you desire it, you are going to affect, for good or ill, the spiritual lives of the young
people with whom you deal.
In speaking of spiritual values in camping we are not dealing with the teachings of any
religious group - their doctrine or any form of worship - but rather with that which will lead
us to an experience of orienting our souls toward God and toward our fellow men.

Test the spiritual values of your camp life.

1. Closeness to nature
In camping you pitch your own tent, and cook your own food over an open fire or a
camping stove. As you do these things, you are close to nature and you come to know
her as a friend. You climb hills, discover the treasures of the forest or meadow, make
friends with trees, birds, animals, and even insects. Having this experience will call out a
sense of wonder - the purest approach to the reality of God.

2. The Experience of harmony and order

The tragedy of today's living is that we have lived so long in the presence of the distorted
and the abnormal that we actually mistake abnormality for normality and distortion for
real. Think of the world to which these campers of ours belong - a world of blaring
radios, television, gangster comics, torrid movies, wild music, and art without meaning.
Then think of the world to which we are privileged to introduce them - a world of
balanced harmony in light and shade, color variety, trees, and mountains. And all have
beauty just in being themselves.

3. God's great creativeness

As we finger clay, dabble with paint, or learn to weave, we do not set out just to imitate
nature. There is within the human spirit that urge that makes us akin to God - the urge to
create out of the deepest yearnings of our spirit.

4. Adaptability
Nature is inexorable. Rain falls in spite of our fond desires. But when we learn to live
with nature, to adapt ourselves to her moods, we find that in every aspect she is beautiful.
To a real camper the circumstances of life become a challenge, and in nature's every
aspect appears the hand of God.

5. Cooperative fellowship
It is here that the camper will discover community. We are members of one another, and
our world is going to disintegrate completely unless we recognize it. There is also
discovered a democracy, the sharing of responsibility. Democracy also means a levelling
process in which at times the camper may even be able to teach the counselor, and all
artificial distinctions drop away.
E. Outdoor Code

When in the outdoors, the following "Outdoor Code" should be observed.

1. Notify the proper authorities before venturing into a wilderness area.

2. Guard against all risks of wildfire. Check with the local land managers concerning fire
regulations for the area you will be camping in.

3. Avoid damaging fences, gates, etc. Don't climb on fences or gates. Leave any gate just
as you found it. If it was open, leave it open. If it was closed, leave it closed.

4. Keep horses under proper control.

5. Leave no litter. Get rid of garbage by burning it. If you bury it, animals will dig it up and
make a mess of your campsite. Glass jars or bottles and crushed tin cans are to be packed
out with you for disposal in the garbage at home. Practice minimum impact camping.

6. Ask permission BEFORE hiking or camping on private property.

7. Check and safeguard water supplies.

8. Travel carefully on country roads.

9. Protect wildlife, plants, and trees.

10. Respect life of the countryside.

A Good Pathfinder Will

Be conservation-minded
I will help when and where I can to conserve our forests, water, minerals, soil,
grasslands, and wildlife.

Be careful with fires

I will build my fire in a safe place and keep it under control, and will be sure my fire
is dead before leaving it.

Be clean in the out-of-doors

I will not disturb the natural beauty by leaving my trash and garbage. I will not
pollute rivers or streams.

Be considerate of property
I will respect public and private property and do no damage. I will take nothing but
photographs. I will leave nothing but footprints.
CASE STUDIES

How Would You Solve These Problems?

Below are four situations typical of those which could develop in your camping or other
type of outdoor activity. After studying the case description, decide which of the
statements following it would be the best solution, and place a check mark before it.

Case One
A counselor and his Pathfinders make plans for a short hike and a cook-out. They
plan their menu and divide the responsibilities. At the campsite, Jerry and Ben go to
get firewood while the other boys cook the meal and tend to their duties. In a space
of a few minutes there is a scream, and Ben yells for help. The counselor hurriedly
makes his way to Ben and finds that Jerry has badly cut his leg with the ax. He
administers first aid, and the unit makes its way home with the wounded boy, their
fun spoiled by an accident. What would have been the best method of preventing this
misfortune?

_____ 1. The boys should not have been permitted to use the ax.

_____ 2. The counselor should have accompanied the boys who were getting wood.

_____ 3. A project that would have been safer should have been planned.

_____ 4. The boys should have been given better training in the use of the ax.

_____ 5. The ax should have been left at home and the boys should have been
collecting only small down dead wood or using a lightweight camping saw.
Comments on Case: The simplest and most effective way to have prevented this
particular accident would have been to leave the ax at home. While better training in
the use of an ax may be commendable, a lightweight saw is a much safer and efficient
alternative to the ax. The ax is heavier to carry and the Pathfinder is tempted to chop
on everything in sight, dead or alive.

Case Two

The Pathfinder unit decides to go horseback riding with their counselor, Anne. All of
them have ridden horses before. Anne asks each of them to walk the horse whenever
footing is unsure. All goes well until they start back to the stables. A short distance
from the stables, on a rocky, downhill trail, Susie, who is riding at the head of the
group lets her horse break into a trot. The other Pathfinders follow Susie's example,
but Anne who is the last rider, holds her horse to a walk and brings up the rear. When
Anne arrives at the stables she reprimands Susie and tells her she cannot ride with the
group again. What would you have done?
 _____ 1. Ignored the incident, since no one was injured?

_____ 2. Ridden at the head of the group?

_____ 3. Made the same decision that Anne made?

_____ 4. Reprimanded all the Pathfinders and deprived them of future riding?

_____ 5. Discussed the situation, explaining the reason for the safety precaution and
warn that the infraction should not occur again?

Case Three

A Pathfinder Club was having an overnight campout by the lake. When the campfire
was over, a movement starts among the group to go for a moonlight swim. What
should the director do?

_____ 1. Tell them moonlight swimming is against the rules?

_____ 2. Lecture the group on the dangers, then let them decide?

_____ 3. Tell them you wish it were possible, but the hazards outweigh the pleasure?

_____ 4. Say nothing, allow the group to swim, and do your best to insure safety?

Comments on Case: In case three, a situation is presented in which on the impulse of

the moment, Pathfinders suggest an activity having some grave safety problems. It
should be assumed here that the dangers outweigh the advantages. It is a question of
the Club director and his staff being able to present convincing and sound reasons for
refusing the request. It would also be wise to substitute some other safe activity in
place of the moonlight swim. It is a case in which the staff should carefully canvass
the possibilities and anticipate such a turn of events, getting the group to agree to a
program that did not include a moonlight swim.

Case Four

John is the counselor of a unit that has asked for an overnight hike, which will mean
the preparation of two meals out-of-doors. Although most of the members have been
on similar trips before, John does not feel that he is qualified to lead his group on the
proposed trip.

What should he do?

 _____ 1. Ask a more experienced counselor in campcraft to accompany him and his
group?

_____ 2. Persuade his unit to take a less extensive trip that he is more capable of
leading?

_____ 3. Refuse to consider the trip?

_____ 4. Go with the group and learn as he goes?

Comments on Case: Counselors need to have had experience in outdoor skills before
leading a unit. In this case, John is unfortunate to have been caught in a situation in
which he feels unqualified to lead his group on a proposed trip. A counselor's
influence with his group is greatly enhanced when he demonstrates skills that are
applauded by the group. It would be well for him to go out into his own backyard
and cook a meal or two, and then go with the group and learn as he goes.

II. Types of Camping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (20 min.)

-------Let's look now at two basic types of camping.

A. Fixed base camping
B. Traveling camping
C. It is said, "Variety is the spice of life." While this is not always true, it is fairly true of
camping. To do the same thing over and over becomes monotonous and boring.
Pathfinders, while they enjoy camping and will stick with the program, like adventure,
challenge, and development of new skills. This is especially applicable to the older age
group. The harder the challenge the more enjoyment they seem to get, especially when
the challenge can be accomplished. It is damaging to set before a young person a goal
that you know cannot be achieved. Always set realistic goals.
D. The goals you set are determined by the type of camp you have. If you plan to teach your
group rappeling, then don't wear them out by having hiking, biking, canoeing, or other
types of physically exhausting camps. Plan to concentrate your efforts in both theory and
practice on achieving the rappeling goal. A fixed base camp would be preferable for this
goal, with transport readily available in an emergency. Try to achieve ONE major goal in
a campout with subsidiary goals that point to the major goal.
E. Remember that your proposed campout location must be checked out beforehand so that
the goal you hope to achieve will be realized. Goals determine the location.
F. Don't always find a nice location and then work your campouts around that location.
Good camping sites are hard to come by and it is easy to plan a camp once you have a
campsite, but if you concentrate your camping at the same site invariably you will find
that the type of camp you offer will become stereotyped. This is all right for a new Club
or for new Pathfinders, but it is not satisfactory for older members or for you as a leader
 to continue to do this. Both your older Pathfinders and your own initiative will soon be
in a rut and the excitement of new horizons will become lost. Have you ever wondered,
"Why do kids enjoy camping so much when it seems such a lot of hard work and
inconvenience?" It just might be that you are already experiencing this syndrome. Plan
to do something exciting, something different, and your enthusiasm will challenge the
older Pathfinders.
G. Let us list some of the types of camps that you could organize.
A. Fixed base Camp
It is good to have at least one each year. A fixed base camp is simply a camp where
you erect your tents, camp at the same place for duration of your campout, and then
go home at the conclusion of the campout. This may be a campsite that you are able
to drive your vehicles directly to or may be a campsite which it is necessary to hike
to. All activities focus around the site.
These campouts are really good in that they help you to achieve a whole variety of
things such as:
Pathfinder classwork Campcraft Honors
Swimming Honors Bible camps
Hiking Track and trail
Fire building Lashings/knots
Nature Honors (trees, Orienteering
ferns, flowers, etc.)
Signaling
Make sure that there is a purpose to each campout you have, and that people are there
with sufficient knowledge in particular areas to help you realize that purpose. Don't
make your goal "to have a good time." This must be a by-product of your camp,
rather than an end in itself. Meeting new challenges, seeing new horizons, and
developing new skills (which is education) provides adventure that will ensure that
everybody has a good time. The balance between what is done in the theoretical way,
and what is done in a practical way, will largely determine the "great time" that was
had.
Don't overburden with theory, but make sure that sufficient has been learned to avoid
pitfalls. They say "a fool learns by his own mistakes but a wise man learns from the
mistakes of fools."
B. Traveling Camps
These are campouts that involve camping at a different campsite each night of your
campout. This type of campout usually involves self-powered transportation:
backpacking, canoeing, bicycling, etc. They are designed to bring out initiative,
resourcefulness, courage, strength, and ability while putting into practice the things a
Pathfinder has learned. Fixed base camps can do this, too, but there is a challenge
and a sense of achievement and adventure that can be gained on a traveling campout
that cannot be achieved on a fixed base campout. A Pathfinder has to learn to depend
on his or her physical well-being, knowledge and equipment to a far greater capacity,
and in all these things sees the hand of God more clearly revealed. When one is
halfway between point A and B, and is exhausted and feels that one more step will be
his or her last, it is then that a person realizes his or her extremity and reaches out for
help. At the conclusion of the campout that person has achieved the seemingly
impossible but is determined to be more physically fit, have better equipment, and
know more of what is to be done the next time.
It is important to encourage the ones who drift to the rear and slow those who race to
the front. The first hour or two will usually indicate what the general pattern will be,
and it is important to check it before it gets out of control. It is wise to make an
announcement that "someone" (who knows the way) will lead and "someone" will
bring up the rear. All Pathfinders must then be contained between these two leaders.
This must be strictly enforced for the first day or two, depending on how long the
group is going to travel. Nothing is more psychologically devastating to a traveling
camper than to be always at the tail end of the group, and who knows what trouble
they could be in if left to persist while everyone else tears ahead. Sometimes these
campers need to be put to the front. It is amazing how much faster they travel when
they take the lead. It is not wise to scold, for that will cause even more
discouragement. It is better to play psychological games with everyone, thus
encouraging all to be more helpful.
The person who tears away to the lead must be held back. He or she can get into all
sorts of difficulty, and may be involved in an accident or get lost by such
foolhardiness. That person also needs encouragement in being helpful to the group.
Maybe he or she could help the slower ones by walking with them and thus
encouraging them or ministering to their needs. Whatever happens, it is essential that
the group be contained and move forward as a group.
It is important that all equipment taken on a traveling campout be of good quality.
Repairs along the way often make the poor quality article worse. Sometimes
something can be rendered irreparable on the first day and you are then stuck without
a necessary piece of equipment for the rest of the campout. Although the chances of
having to do so are minimal, it is usually much easier to repair something of good
quality.
The following are a few of the traveling campouts that could be enjoyed by
Pathfinders.
a. Backpacking Campouts d. Horse pack Campouts
b. Canoe Campouts e. Bicycle Campouts
c. Cross-country Ski Campouts
Before undertaking any traveling campout make sure that a reconnaissance trip has
been made. Make sure that the leader of the trip knows exactly where to go, where
water is available, and the sights to point out to the Pathfinders. A mixed group of
fifteen or more will usually take twice the time that a leader will take. For example,
if you can briskly walk, canoe, or cycle a distance in 2 hours, it will usually take the
larger group 4 hours.
 This can be reduced somewhat for a smaller group of people.
It would be a good thing to plan a traveling campout at least once a year. Keep
Sabbaths as a rest day and generally use a long weekend. This type of campout is
especially needed by the older Pathfinders. Even the younger ones enjoy the
challenge.

III. Basic Components of Good Camping ...................... (20 min)

In order for campers and leaders to enjoy camping, one needs to be aware of several few factors.
In this section we will discuss six of these factors (see the following headings) and complete a
true-false test on camping.
A. Campsite D. Fires
B. Water Supply E. Sanitation
C. Camp Equipment F. Camp Cooking

True/False Test on Camping

Here is a list of books which will be of great benefit in your camping education:
 The NOLS's Wilderness Guide, Peter Simer & John Sullivan, A Fireside Book, New
York, NY
 Backpacking, One Step at a Time, Harvey Manning, Vintage Books, New York, NY
 Woodcraft & Camping, Bernard Mason, Dover Publications, Inc., New York, NY

A. Campsite
1. Campsite Selection
When you get to what looks like a good spot, scout it out. Take your pack off and
make a thorough inspection of the area. If you keep your gear on, you're likely to
settle for the first spot simply because you're tired. You need to check for the
following: desirable places for pitching your tents, adequate space for cooking
area(s), a sufficient supply of clear, cool, drinking water, and a good supply of
firewood if you are in an area where campfires are permitted.
In insect season, camp on higher ground where a good breeze will keep the pests
at bay.
Avoid gullies, or dry stream beds. Locate your campsite at least 100 feet away
from natural water sources to prevent contamination, and to minimize your impact
on the banks of the stream or lake. A sudden, severe storm could cause the water
in stream to overflow its unexpectedly. Careful selection of campsites helps
preserve the atmosphere of solitude even in popular areas. Choose your site
thoughtfully and use it lightly, leaving it in as natural state as possible.
 2. Tent site Selection
Select a level tent site with adequate water runoff that can never be "drowned
out," no matter if it should rain the entire time of the campout, and use plastic
under your tent to stay dry without ditching. Locate your tent site so that the
nature of the soil and the "lay" of the land will care for any oversupply of water
quickly and efficiently. Wet, or even damp beds, and muggy clothing are
responsible for all sorts of colds, sore throats, and other discomforts.
Generally, select a tent site that has already been used, to eliminate further
expansion of the camp and when possible, position your tent so that it blends with
the environment. Don't pitch your tent on a windswept ridge, in a drafty gully, or
on river banks and lakeshores likely to be subject to fog or mist. Don't pitch it
under or near a dead tree as a limb may fall on it. Don't pitch it at the base of a
steep slope or cliff where there may be a landslide. Avoid dry stream beds which
might be flooded in a sudden storm. Don't pitch it near bee, wasp, or ant nests.
Choose a site that is safe, and well sheltered. An ideal place might be near a
natural windbreak, such as a stand of trees with branches close to the ground.
After you pick a spot for your tent, spread your ground cloth and lie down. This
will help you determine which end is higher and where to put the head of your
tent (uphill). You'll also be able to find the lumps and bumps that make for
uncomfortable sleeping.
When clearing the ground for your sleeping area, never use your foot to sweep the
earth. Get down on all fours and pick up sticks, stones, and pine cones, then
gently toss them to the side. Leave all leaves and pine needles in place. In the
morning, the only telltale sign that a human slept there should be compacted
leaves, which will fluff up by the end of the day. Don't dig rain trenches around
your tent or cut evergreen boughs for bedding. Don't change or take anything
away from the land.
B. Water Supply
Quite possibly, the safest water you will have on a campout is the water you bring
with you in your canteen. Since it is not practical to bring enough water with you to
satisfy all your needs, it is absolutely essential to have a sufficient supply of clear,
cool, drinking water reasonably near your campsite. When every bucket of water has
to be carried in, the arrangement is bad because you never have the water when you
want it, and if it is hard to get, you will be entirely too sparing of its use.
You cannot be too careful about your water supply. Don't take anything for granted.
Investigate its source thoroughly before using it. Generally speaking, a spring is
safest at its source. Even if you are fortunate enough to have such a spring, look it
over very carefully and give it a thorough cleaning before use. A tiny bit of seepage,
or surface water running in from above, may pollute even a mountain spring. The
source of danger in water is always human or animal pollution, the danger is never
from ordinary decomposing vegetable matter. If you have to choose between a bright
clear stream which may be polluted at some point above, and a pond full of dead
leaves and peaty matter, but which you can inspect all around and find free from
contamination, choose the pond.
 The increasing occurrence of backcountry dysentery caused by Giardia clearly
demonstrates the impact water pollution has in the wilds. Giardia thrives in water
that has been contaminated with animal or human waste. Consider most backcountry
water to be potentially contaminated even though it appears clean and may be running
rapidly. To ensure its safety, boil or filter water, or use a chemical water purification
agent. While boiling the water is the age-old remedy for every ill, whether caused by
protozoa, bacteria, or virus, there is considerable difference among experts as to how
hot and for how long you need to heat water to render it safe. A temperature slightly
below boiling, maintained for 5 minutes will be sufficient in most cases. To be on the
safe side, bring water to a full, rolling boil for 1 minute. An equally time-honored
method of water purification is treatment of water with iodine. With water at 76
degrees a contact time of 10 minutes a concentration of 8 parts per million of iodine
in water will eradicate bacteria, viruses, parasites, and parasitic cysts with a
considerable margin of safety. With cold water the contact time should be doubled.
Lightweight filter systems being marketed today for use by campers will remove
contaminants larger than 0.4 microns in size. This means that Giardia and other
cysts, tapeworms, protozoan parasites, chlorine, thousands of hydrocarbons, asbestos
and fiberglass, tastes and odors, radioactive solids, dirt, and rust will be removed by
the use of one of these filters.
Clean water is vital to human and animal health; do everything you can to minimize
your impact on water sources. Locate your site at least 100 feet away from natural
water sources. Remember, all waste disposal must be at least 300 feet from any water
source. Try a soap less bath or clothes-wash for all but the most persistent dirt.
When using soap - even biodegradable soap - wash yourself, your hair and your
clothing at least 100 feet away from water. Toothpaste is soap, so brush your teeth
well away from water sources. Even when biodegradable, soap is a stress on the
environment, so do as much of your cleanup as possible with soap less, hot water.
When using any soap to wash yourself or your dishes, use it well away from natural
water sources; pour waste water into highly absorbent ground. Be sure to do your
dishwashing at least 100 feet away from natural water sources.
C. Camp Equipment
1. Shelters
The best camping shelter will probably be the one you take with you. When
planning your camping program, take care in planning your shelter. It might
mean the difference between a successful campout and a disastrous event.
Determine whether you need shelter from rain, cold, heat, sunshine or insects, or a
combination of several of them, and plan accordingly. Depending upon your
camping destination and the objective of your campout, there are several options;
including rustic shelters in the primitive camping areas of some parks and along
some hiking trails, large family-style tents for use when all your gear is
transported to the campsite by vehicle, lightweight backpacking-style tents, tarp
shelters, and shelters you improvise from natural materials at the campsite.
a. Tents
There are basically two approaches to the subject of tenting: heavyweight
versus lightweight.
The heavyweight category includes the large family-style tents which usually
sleep six or more campers. These tents come in a multitude of sizes, shapes,
and materials; but they all share certain features. They are too large and
heavy for the Pathfinders to handle and erect. Because of their large size, they
are more difficult to heat in cold weather. But the greatest negative feature of
this category of tents is the fact that use of these tents dictate how and where
you can camp.
The lightweight category includes tents that accommodate from one to four,
possibly six campers, with the six-camper size at the borderline between
lightweight and heavyweight. The advantages of this category are numerous.
They are light enough and small enough for youngest Pathfinder to be able to
handle and erect. Today's lightweight tents are made of fabrics that dry
quickly and are quite durable. Quite possibly the greatest advantage of this
type of tenting is the fact that when your club is equipped for lightweight
camping you have virtually unlimited options as to where and how you camp.
Shop very carefully when purchasing tenting for your Pathfinder club. While
there are many good values available, there are also tents which simply will
not stand up to the use and abuse that they will receive in club usage. Check
with other Pathfinder clubs in your area to see what tent they have had the
most success with. A tent that has proven to be quite popular with Pathfinder
clubs in North America is a tent of free-standing A-frame design, available in
2-person and 4-person sizes. Two companies that manufacture quality tents of
this design are Eureka! Tents and Diamond Brand. Both of these two brands
are available from specialty camping equipment stores and by mail-order.
There are many private label versions of this same design available at discount
stores. If you are tempted to purchase one of these discount specials, please
be cautioned "you get what you pay for.”
b. Tarps
A tarp, together with a ground cloth, can provide a very satisfactory camping
shelter. A tarp is: lightweight, adaptable to different environments, and very
economical. Campers who use tarps are true livers-with-nature, they are
rewarded with sights of moonlit clouds and shooting stars and dawn, scents of
pine needles and flowers and grasses and prowling skunks, sounds of little
feet scurrying in the darkness over sleeping bags and faces. They experience
more of everything except claustrophobia, and in retrospect their wilderness
nights are as memorable as their days.
c. Improvised
You can improvise shelters from natural materials, indeed, it is possible to
make very large and elaborate huts without man-made materials, but the skills
required are better taught at a woodcraft school than with a book. Woodcraft
 or "wilderness engineering" is good sport provided it is practiced only in
appropriate places. Places where forests are extensive enough to permit
logging can surely tolerate the less drastic chopping and whittling of
woodcraft. The practice of woodcraft gives one the opportunity to learn
something about times past that can be useful in understanding the present.
However, on most trails outside "classroom areas," woodcraft is dead. Dead
because the camper of today is trained to camp in such a manner that
following parties can find evidence of his or her stay by minute inspection of
the campsite.
2. Bedding
"One thing is certain, the Angel of the Night will never hover over one's tent with
her matchless blessing of calm, sweet sleep, the woodland's perfect rest, if one is
lying with a rock in his back and a prong in his ribs, or tossing and rolling about
with drafts of cold air stabbing him here and there. Beds are important - and
everything that goes to make beds sleep-producing. Important not only for
comfort at night, but for comfort and joy throughout the day, for nothing wears
one down quicker or jeopardizes his resistance more than inadequate sleep. The
woods will soon turn dismal, the lake will lose its charm, the sunset its flame of
beauty, and thoughts will turn to home and comfort". Woodcraft & Camping by
Bernard S. Mason, Dover Books.
a. Sleeping bag
A sleeping bag is an article of clothing that retains body-generated heat by
trapping innumerable tiny pockets of dead air. It is the insulation of the bag
that forms these tiny pockets. There are two types of insulation: natural and
man-made. Goose down is the natural insulation that is used most often. Its
advantages are many: it is very lightweight, very compressible, and very
warm for its weight. Goose down's disadvantages are its high cost and its
susceptibility to getting wet; down loses virtually all of its insulation value
when wet. There are several man-made insulations worthy of consideration.
The two most prominent are Hollofil II and Quallofil, both manufactured by
Du Pont. Another quality man-made insulation is PolarGuard made by 3M.
All of these man-made insulations approach down in their weight to insulation
value ratio and compressibility, plus they have two other benefits; they are
less expensive and they have the ability to retain 90 percent of their warmth
retention ability even when soaking wet. Look for quality construction when
shopping for a sleeping bag. A nylon stuff bag is a must for carrying your
sleeping bag.
b. Sleeping pad
Because of the fact that the insulation of a sleeping bag is compressed to near
zero under the body weight of the camper a mattress of some type is needed
between the sleeping bag and the ground to assure a warm night's sleep.
There are a number of different materials available for this purpose. The most
popular is closed-cell poly foam. It does not allow the passage of either air or
water, is very lightweight, and is inexpensive. Open-cell poly foam has a
 softer, more comfortable feel, but is heavier and absorbs water like a sponge.
A pad which combines the waterproofness of closed-cell foam and the soft
comfort of open-cell foam is actually an open-cell foam pad sealed in a bag of
waterproof nylon. The only real disadvantage of this type of pad is its price.
3. Pack Gear
Each camper will need a means whereby to pack his or her gear. Consideration of
the type of camping program will determine the best method for each situation. If
all of the gear is to be transported by vehicle to the campsite, any sturdy canvas
duffel bag would be sufficient. However, if the camper must carry his or her gear
to the campsite, consideration needs to be given to the different types of
backpacks available.
a. Backpacks
Backpacks are divided into three basic groups: those with an external frame,
those with an internal frame, and day packs which have no frame.
1. External frame packs
The external frame pack consists of a nylon bag mounted on to a frame,
rigid or flexible, which is suspended on the camper's back by padded
shoulder straps and a padded hipbelt. When properly fitted and properly
loaded, the camper can comfortably carry quite a bit of gear. This type of
backpack is best suited for carrying heavy loads while hiking on
established trails. Be very cautious in shopping for backpacks, especially
at the discount store. Pay close attention when fitting a backpack to the
Pathfinder. An ill-fitting pack can turn a campout into a miserable
experience.
2. Internal frame packs
The internal frame pack consists of a nylon bag which is stiffened
somewhat by internal stays or frame members and is carried by the camper
by padded shoulder straps and a padded hip belt. This type of backpack is
designed for use when cross-country skiing, hiking off-trail, and when
rock climbing. Loading of this type of pack is much more critical than the
external frame pack. This type of pack should only be purchased from a
camping specialty store where a knowledgeable salesperson can assist in
properly fitting the pack to the individual.
3. Day packs
A day pack is exactly what the name suggests. It is a nylon bag that is
designed to carry only the few items that might be necessary for a day
hike. They are available in all sizes and may or may not have padded
shoulder straps and may or may not have a padded waist belt.
b. Duffel bags
For packing of gear when the gear will be transported to the campsite by
vehicle any type of soft luggage or canvas duffel bag can be used. It is wise to
discourage the use of hard luggage in a camping situation. Hard luggage is
 heavier, more difficult to pack into a vehicle, and can greatly accelerate the
wear on tents.
4. Cooking Gear
a. Multi-burner stoves
The multi-burner stove used most widely in North America is the Coleman
folding camp stove. This stove is available in two-burner and three-burner
models which burn Coleman Fuel. Also available are models which burn
propane as fuel. While the Coleman fuel models are more economical to
operate, the propane models do offer some features worthy of consideration.
With the propane models you do not have to worry about spilling the fuel or
having to pump up the stove. There are some other brands available, however
the Coleman brand is most widely known and is readily available everywhere
as are replacement parts.
b. Single burner stoves
Single burner stoves are available that burn Coleman Fuel, kerosene, butane,
or propane. And, they are available in all sizes; some suitable only for vehicle
camping and others that are small enough and light enough for backpacking.
Again, the stoves manufactured by the Coleman Company are probably the
best in this category for use in Pathfinder camping. The Coleman Sportster is
a single burner stove that is intended for vehicle camping, but can be used
quite well for backpacking. The Coleman Peak 1 Stove is a smaller, lighter
weight version of the Sportster that is specifically designed for backpacking.
c. Fire grate
The easiest way to cook on a wood fire is with a metal grate or grill. Small
metal grates which are ideal for this use are available in the kitchenware
section of variety stores, they are called cake racks. Be sure to provide plastic
or cloth bags to put these in when not in use to keep them from getting all
your other gear sooty.
d. Cooking utensils
You will need pots for boiling and skillets for frying and the tools to use with
them. The size of pots and pans you need will be determined by your club's
cooking arrangements. If you cook as a single large group you will have to
have much larger pots and pans than if you cook in numerous small groups.
For your small group cooking you can purchase nesting cook sets of various
sizes or you can assemble you own kits from thrift stores for much less cost.
e. Cooking Shelter
A cooking shelter is not required, however, one can be quite convenient in
inclement weather. Again, your club's cooking style will indicate the size and
number of cooking shelters required by your club. For larger groups there are
dining flys complete with poles. For small groups a small, lightweight tarp
rigged between trees is sufficient.
 f. Safety equipment
Remember to provide for fire protection in the cooking area; a fire
extinguisher, a fire bucket with water for putting out a wood fire, earth for
smothering burning grease, etc.
5. Fires
Fire has five main uses in a camping situation.
 It keeps you warm.
 It cooks your food.
 It can help purify your water.
 It can dry you, your clothes, equipment, and food.
 It can be a signal for help.
We all enjoy campfires; however, most wildlands are feeling the effects of too
many. The wilderness is being depleted of much of its beauty by eager fuel
hunters. If you're in an area that permits campfires, keep them to a minimum.
Keep your campfires small and use only down dead wood. If there's very little
firewood lying around and you have to walk a good distance to find any, it's an
indication the area is overused, so don't build a fire.
Even when a fire is possible, consider your options; when you forego a fire you
may be richly rewarded by interesting sights and sounds usually hidden by the
fire's draw.
Leave your axes and your hatchets at home. They aren't needed. Only finger-
picking fuel ("squaw wood") should be used for your fires. If you feel you must
have a wood cutting tool, a lightweight camp saw will do the job more safely and
efficiently.
1. Fireplaces
An enclosure of rocks - the traditional "fire ring" - increases the efficiency by
reflecting heat inward, making a safer and more effective fire. If an
established fire ring is available, by all means use it to avoid killing yet
another patch of plants. Build the fire in the open and never against a large
rock because the black scar will remain for centuries. Use only small rocks
for a fire ring. Damp stones placed around a fire ring can explode when they
become hot from the fire.
Smoke follows you around the fire. It's attracted to the vacuum formed by a
large object, namely your body. Make a short wall of rocks behind one part of
the fire ring. Smoke will rise in that direction, leaving you on the other side
free to enjoy yourself. This short wall will also serve as a reflector increasing
the usable heat from your fire.
Remember to use common sense and practice safety in the use of your fire.
Keep your fire small. Remove all flammable debris within three feet of your
fire. Don't build your fire under a tree or against a tree stump. A fire made
under a snow-capped tree may melt the snow and the melting snow will put
 the fire out. A bucket of water should be kept near the fire for emergency
uses (a collapsible fabric bucket is excellent for this purpose). If you're drying
clothing and gear by the fire, never place any item closer to the heat than
where you can comfortably hold your hand. Observe fire warnings. There
should be no wind whatsoever. Low-fire conditions and regulations vary by
region, so contact the management agency with jurisdiction over the land
where you'll be camping.
2. Types of Fires
There are two basic types of campfires: cooking fires and warming fires. For
boiling water and most types of cooking, a small fire will suffice. The easiest
way to cook on a wood fire is with a metal grate or grill. Small metal grates
which are ideal for this use are available in the kitchenware section of variety
stores, they are called cake racks.
A campfire used by warming is a more substantial construction than a cooking
fire. It is simply made larger by crisscrossing three or four large logs in two
or three layers on top of your small fire once the small fire is burning well. Be
careful not to pile too much large wood on too quickly and smother the fire.
As the large pieces burn into at the center move them into the fire.
3. Firewood and kindling
Know your woods. Softwoods start a fire quickly, but they also burn up
quickly, plus they spark and can cause unwanted fires. Hardwoods make
good fires for roasting, broiling and baking and burn down to a bed of coals
ideal for most cooking.
There are two more things to remember about firewood. You will usually
need more than you think you will, cut or gather plenty of it and stack it near
your fire. It would be a good idea to cover some with a sheet of plastic in case
it rains.
4. Lighting a Fire
The four steps in lighting a fire are: start a flame or spark, apply it to tinder,
use the tinder to ignite kindling, and the kindling to set fire to heavier fuel.
Before you begin, prepare your fireplace; get your fire-starter, kindling and
fuel together; ensure you have enough fuel to keep the fire alight; then build
your fire. You build a simple fire by arranging sticks of kindling in the form
of a low pyramid. The sticks must be laid close enough together for the
flames to lick from one to another but far enough apart to allow air to
circulate. A small opening should be left at the bottom for lighting. Once the
light kindling is ablaze, lay heavier kindling across it, and then add heavier
fuel as the fire begins to burn more fiercely. Make sure that the air can
circulate freely. Don't smother your fire by adding heavy wood too quickly or
by adding too much heavy wood.
Use what's available to start a campfire. Never strip birch bark off a tree for
fire starting. Use dry evergreen needles, dry twigs under the evergreen
boughs, dry leaves, or lichens. Make a fuzz stick by shaving long slivers on a
 twig, leaving the shavings attached. In some circumstances you can waste
many matches trying to start a fire. It is therefore wise to carry a couple of
candle stubs; they are an excellent way to start a fire. A candle is easily lit, it
burns longer and more steadily than a match, and may save matches if
dampness or wind make fire lighting difficult. A number of commercial fire
starters are available: solid hydrocarbon "fuel tablets," jellies that squeeze
from tubes, wax-impregnated fiber squares, and so on. To be on the safe side,
make it a standard policy to never use any type of liquid fire starter or
accelerant. Matches should be kept in a zip-lock poly bag, a waterproof
plastic bottle, etc. Carry two or three supplies of matches in different parts of
your clothing or pack. During a period of extended wet weather a butane
lighter can be extremely useful.
To light a bundle of twigs you hold them in one hand and apply the flame to
the ends furthest from your hand. Turn the bundle so that the wind blows the
flame to the center. If you can't find dry twigs, take sticks, each about 3/4"
thick, cut away the wet bark and wood on the outside, and make fuzz sticks
shaving down curls of the dry inner wood. Leave the shavings attached to the
sticks. Light these fuzz sticks with match, lighter, or candle.
The use of matches or lighter is the easiest way to start a fire, but there are
other ways. None of them are easy and the skills required for some of them
are acquired, even by experienced people, only after much patience and
practice. You may find more information on these alternative methods of fire
starting in camping and woodcraft and survival books. These methods are:
flint and steel, fire by friction, magnifying lens, electric spark, etc.
5. Extinguish Your Fire!
The rules for putting out a fire are rigid and mandatory. Douse the ashes with
water and stir until all are cool to the touch. Be sure to check that there no
underground hot spots. Never leave a fire unattended.
Unless you are using an existing fire ring, it will necessary for you to repair
the damage your fire has created. You will able to eliminate virtually every
trace of a fire built on bare earth or gravel by returning the rocks used for your
fire ring to their original positions and widely scattering ashes and leftover
wood. If your fire was on living soil, you can restore its appearance and speed
regrowth by mulching the spot with duff or humus.
Dos and Don'ts of Fire Making
Do:
 Clear a circle of three feet radius for your fireplace.
 Keep it small for cooking.
 Build it on a platform in wet conditions.
 Use only down dead wood for fuel.
 Use softwood to start it and hardwood to fuel it.
 Gather adequate supplies of fuel.
 Keep some fuel under shelter.
 Start it with a spark or flame applied to tinder.
  Build it with kindling.
 Fuel it with heavier hardwood.
 Carry matches in waterproof containers.
 Have some candle stubs in your equipment.
 Carry fire starter with you.
 Extinguish your fire with water.
Don't:
 Light a fire on grass, moss, peat, or pine cones.
 Light a fire under a tree or against a tree stump.
 Light a fire against a boulder.
 Build big fires or waste fuel.
 Run out of firewood.
 Smother your fire by adding logs before it is ablaze.
 Waste matches.
 Leave your equipment too close to the fire.
 Leave a fire without putting it out - completely!
E. Sanitation
A campsite isn't healthy unless it is clean. Keep it clean by properly disposing of
your garbage and your human wastes.
1. Garbage
Leave no garbage - no orange peels, egg shells, nothing. They will biodegrade
but it will take years, and other people will have to look at your garbage in the
meantime. Get rid of garbage, including food scraps and packaging, by burning
it. If you bury garbage, it won't stay that way for long, animals will dig it up and
make a mess of your campsite and it may be dangerous to small animals. Glass
jars or bottles and crushed metal cans are to be packed out with you for disposal
in the garbage at home. When leaving a campsite, pick up even the smallest
pieces of trash. This is no-trace camping.
If local land managers give you the go-ahead, consider cleaning up a trashy area
and caching the garbage for later removal by a ranger.
And finally: Keep your tent neat and the campsite clean by being careful not to
drop any litter.
Always carry a litter bag to pack out all refuse - yours and that of others.
2. Human Waste
There two acceptable methods for the disposal of human waste: cat-holes and
latrines.
a. Cat-holes
Your family cat can teach you a valuable lesson about wilderness hygiene:
how to use a cat-hole. When heeding Mother Nature's call, proceed with
trowel in hand to an area at least 100 feet away from water sources, trails and
camp. After carefully removing the surface duff, dig a hole several inches into
the dirt, put all of your human wastes and toilet paper into the hole, and then
 replace dirt and duff. Cover it with a large rock or branch to prevent animals
from digging it up.
Members of the group should try to head off in different directions from the
campsite in order to minimize the impact of their cat-holes.
b. Latrines
For larger groups, especially in high-use areas, group latrines are the most
environmentally sound disposal system. Latrines should be located close
enough to camp for convenience and far enough away for privacy. To dig a
latrine, find an area that is private and covered with a sturdy ground cover
such as duff. Cut a circle of sod approximately one foot in diameter. Remove
several pieces of sod intact and place them in a cool place away from traffic.
The sod should be watered regularly so that any plants growing in it will
remain healthy. Dig the latrine ten to twelve inches deep. Leave a spade at
the latrine site, so that a small amount of dirt can be dropped on each deposit.
A new latrine should be provided for each day. In closing a latrine, it should
be filled in with dirt and the original ground cover returned to the top of the
hole.
F. Camp Cooking
The success of a campout depends largely on good food. If the Pathfinders enjoy the
food, they will forget any hardships or difficulties and look back on the campout as
being a successful and happy occasion. Meals for Pathfinder outings should be
planned by the Pathfinders themselves under the direction of their counselor.
There are a few principles you need to remember when involved in meal planning.
Vigorous outdoor activity requires more calories than normal requirements. In cold
weather even more calories are required. About half of your caloric intake should be
from carbohydrates and about one-quarter each from fats and proteins. Since
carbohydrates are easily digested they provide quick energy, but the energy from
carbohydrates doesn't last long; therefore, you need the slower, more long-term
benefits of proteins and fats. Because of the fact that proteins and fats require more
time to digest, do not eat them in large quantities. Your intake of proteins and fats
should be spread throughout the day.
Be adventurous in your meal planning. With a little planning you can have meals that
are as exciting and tasty as any you would prepare at home. Here is a list of books
that can help you in your menu-planning:
 The Well-Fed Backpacker, June Fleming, Vintage Books, New York, NY
 The NOLS's Wilderness Guide, Peter Simer & John Sullivan, A Fireside Book,
New York, NY
 Supermarket Backpacker, Harriett Barker, Conteporary Books, Inc., Chicago, IL
 Simple Foods for the Pack, Vikki Kinmont & Claudia Axcell, Sierra Club Books,
San Francisco, CA
 Roughing It Easy, Dian Thomas, Warner Books, Inc., New York, NY
 Roughing It Easy 2, Dian Thomas, Warner Books, Inc., New York, NY
1. Cooking arrangements
a. Most easily done on a portable stove which may be used under wet conditions.
Never use a stove or a lantern in a tent.
b. The easiest way to cook on a wood fire is with a metal grate or grill. Small
metal grates which are ideal for this use are available in the kitchenware
section of variety stores, they are called cake racks.
c. Plan to cook in small groups. Cooking in small groups presents more
opportunities for the Pathfinder to experience the satisfaction that comes from
perfecting his or her outdoor cooking skills.
2. Types of Cooking
a. Baking
There are many different ways of baking food with camping equipment; in
fact, you can bake almost anything on a campfire that you can bake at home in
an oven. There are commercial reflector ovens that fold up and are very light,
fitting easily into a pack. These are used with a reflector fire that reflects the
heat into the oven for baking. Please note: reflector oven baking requires a
flaming fire, unlike most other camp cooking which is best accomplished over
a bed of hot coals.
Another method of baking is with a Dutch oven. To make a Dutch oven,
place one of the larger camp pots on four stones over hot ashes and coals, and
cover it with a frying pan for a lid. Then heap hot ashes and coals on top of
the frying pan. This makes a good substitute for a Dutch oven. These ovens
may also be purchased commercially. The more things that Pathfinders can
substitute or make themselves, rather than furnishing them with commercially
made items, the more interesting the campout will be.
Camp bread can be made by cutting biscuit or bread dough into strips,
wrapping it around a stick, and baking it over hot coals. One rule about fires
in baking is that very hot coals are needed. Coals give a much more even
temperature than flame.
To bake bread using aluminum foil, place the items on heavy foil, bringing the
two sides up and folding firmly, leaving plenty of top room inside to allow the
bread to rise as it bakes. Fold and seal the ends. Place near the coals. To
brown, open end nearest the fire.
b. Boiling
Little need be said about boiling, for this is one of the simple methods of
cooking over a campfire. Any container that will hold liquid and will not burn
may be used for boiling. The best fire is one that produces a hot flame.
Remember that in a high altitude water boils at a much lower temperature, so
that cooking food requires more time.
c. Frying
Frying is another simple method of cooking over a campfire. Of all
commercial utensils that campers usually carry, the most used is the frying
 pan. As one generally has to hold a frying pan to use it over an open fire, it is
best to have a fire of hot coals rather than flames that will leap up and burn
one's hand.
d. Aluminum Foil Cooking
One of the smartest ways of cooking while camping is with aluminum foil.
You simply wrap the raw foodstuffs in foil, place the packages on hot coals,
turn them a couple of times during the cooking, and serve directly in the foil.
No dirty pots or pans or dishes to clean up afterward. What could be easier?
The fire is important in foil cookery. You need a shallow bed of glowing
coals that will last for the length of time required for cooking. Quickest way
to get this is to make a crisscross fire-lay and let it burn down to embers.
Next in importance is the way you wrap and seal the food. Be sure to make
the wrapping airtight to keep the moisture in. This way you cook by steam
and retain all the juices.
Now place the foil packages directly on the coals and wait for the food to
cook. Turn the packages at least once, halfway through cooking. Use a small
stick for turning.
When the cooking time is up, rake the packages out of the fire. Unwrap, or
make a crisscross slit in the top layer of the foil, open up, and use the foil as
your plate.
After eating, drop the foil on the coals and leave it there until all food remains
have been burned off. Dispose of the used foil by putting it in your litter bag
for throwing into a garbage can later.
Wash dishes and pots immediately after a meal, not just to keep flies away but
also because left-over food particles provide a perfect breeding ground for
certain dangerous bacteria. Put a pot of water over the fire the minute you
finish cooking; in this way you'll have scalding hot water when you need it for
clean-up. Use only a biodegradable soap.

IV. Basic Campout Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (30 min)

In this section we look at factors that relate to individual, unit, and club planning.
A. Planning a campout
B. Program planning
C. Guidelines for a good campout
D. Planning a Campout
In Pathfinder Clubs, camping and outdoor activities are a necessity and are highly beneficial
to both body and mind.
 It is our aim to give to you a sample of what is required of each leader in planning a
campout. These suggestions will prove beneficial to all who plan and those who participate,
making your campout not only successful but enjoyable.

Pathfinder Committee
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Notify Church Notify Parents
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Club Plan Unit Plan Program Site Plan Permission to use Site

A. Club Planning
a. Go for a reason; plan the campout around a theme
b. Transportation
c. Equipment
1. Shelter
a. Tents, or tarps sufficient for number of campers in attendance.
b. Cooking shelter
2. Cooking equipment
a. Camp stoves
b. Club cooking gear
c. Water containers
d. Camp lanterns
3. Safety equipment
a. First aid kit
b. Medical release forms
4. Program equipment
a. Nature study materials
b. Honor reference materials
c. Devotional materials
d. Food (if cooking as a club)
e. Campsite inspected prior to campout
1. Space
2. Water
3. Sanitation
4. Safety
f. Campout personnel
 1. Staff duties
2. Instructors
3. Programs
4. Chaplain's duties
g. Notification of parents and Pathfinders
B. Unit and Individual Planning
a. Equipment
1. Sleeping gear
2.
a. Sleeping bag
b. Sleeping pad
3. Pack
4. Cooking equipment
5. Safety equipment
6. Personal equipment
b. Food
c. Correct wearing apparel
d. Gear properly packed

C. Program Planning
Here is a suggestion for a weekend campout.
Friday
3:30 p.m. Arrive at church
4:00 p.m. Leave for campsite
5:00 p.m. Set up camp
6:30 p.m. Open Sabbath (Deputy Director)
7:30 p.m. Campfire (Devotional and Sing-a-long)
9:30 p.m. Bedtime
10:00 p.m. Lights Out
Sabbath
6:00 a.m. Rise, wash, dress
6:15 a.m. Morning worship (units)
6:30 a.m. Morning walk
7:30 a.m. Breakfast
8:30 a.m. Prepare campsite for inspection
9:00 a.m. Sabbath School and Church Service
12:15 p.m. Lunch
1:00 p.m. Free time
2:00 p.m. Sabbath afternoon program
4:00 p.m. Free time
 5:00 p.m. Evening meal
6:30 p.m. Close Sabbath (Deputy Director)
7:00 p.m. Prepare for campfire
7:30 p.m. Campfire program
10:00 p.m. Bedtime and lights out
Sunday
6:00 a.m. Rise, wash, dress
6:15 a.m. Morning worship (as a club or by units - study SS Lesson)
6:30 a.m. Breakfast
7:30 a.m. Prepare campsite for inspection
8:00 a.m. Campcraft, knots, lashings, physical requirements, games and
swimming
12:00 a.m. Lunch
1:00 p.m. Break camp
2:00 p.m. Free time
3:30 p.m. Leave campsite
5:00 p.m. Arrive at church

As leaders you may think that the above suggestions are too organized but remember
young people like to be active; if they are not active they will get into mischief. Also
remember that Satan finds something for idle hands to do.

E. Guidelines For A Good Campout

1. General rules for running the campout
a. Insist on absolute consideration for the other person. As a result there will be no
practical jokes, the person and property of each will be out of bounds for all others;
all camping chores will be shared; the nights will be quiet; sanitation and personal
cleanliness are a must.
b. Everyone will take part in the activities, including discussions, worship, instruction,
and practical learning. Teaming up is half the fun.
c. Be sure that all campers and staff recognize that God is camping with us. This will
show in our words and attitudes. Any Sabbath kept during the campout will show our
loyalty to God. We will all join in thoughtful worship, morning and evening. The
natural surroundings will be cared for as His contribution to our pleasure.
d. Bring an abundant supply of humor, patience, helpfulness, determination to make it a
good trip for all.
2. Cooking arrangements
a. Most easily done on a portable stove which may be used under wet conditions. Never
use a stove or a lantern in a tent.
b. Plan to cook in small groups, sharing some utensils but each camper should be
expected to pack his or her share of the food supplies.
3. On the Go
a. If hiking to your campsite, use Hainsmith's Rule to time your arrival at your campsite:
 Easy going 3 mph
Easy Scrambling 2 mph
Rough country, deep sand,
soft snow, thick brush 1 mph
For every hour over five hours allow one hour for fatigue. For very fit and
experienced hikers reduce time by one-third.
b. Train yourself mentally and physically to enjoy all types of weather and terrain.
Practice coping safely with night walking, river crossing, hypothermia conditions,
vertical climbs, and sleeping on the ground. Learn all you can from experienced
hikers.
c. Keep a clear personal log, making your own map and compass readings to be
responsible for your own safety. Do your own mapping where necessary. If
conditions limit accuracy, state how accurate your information is.
d. Fill in log books in huts you pass to facilitate any Search and Rescue operation,
should such be necessary.
e. Notice the thrill of overcoming the unreasonable dislike of discomfort, wet clothes,
muddy skin, darkness and solitude. You're tougher than you think.
f. Get used to the weight of boots, the feel of wool next to your skin, the full pack on
your back, and the sense of responsibility that goes with such freedom.
g. Develop the attitude that you are an invited visitor in God's world. He made it for
you. Enjoy it!
4. When you come back
a. Sort out your gear into:
(1) what you actually used
(2) what you could use from your observations
(3) what you know you'll never use
(4) discard number (3)

b. Next time look after the ounces and the pounds will look after themselves.
c. Be thankful.
d. The benefits of such an experience will be felt long after the scars have healed!
D. Basic Hiking List
What Shall We Take With Us Camping?
This question will of course depend upon the length of your outdoor experience, the type of
hike or campout, and the place to which you intend to go. We should take everything we
absolutely need, yet not one thing we do not need. The beginner will want to take everything
he can pile on his back, and usually so weights himself down that he has a hard time making
a very long hike. The "old-timer" will take only the few things he needs, and goes on his
way with a light pack and a light heart.
Here is a suggested list of food, clothing and personal gear suitable for light weight backpack
camping.

FOOD
Depending upon the amount of dried or dehydrated foods you use, 1 1/2 to 2 pounds of
food per person per day will be sufficient. Good camping food should have the following
qualities: nutritious, easy to fix, quick, lightweight, tasty, compact and sturdy, not too
costly, and be nonperishable. Vigorous activity requires more carbohydrates, not more
protein. The book The Well-Fed Backpacker by June Fleming will be of great assistance
in planning your food.

CLOTHING
One set of hiking clothes suitable to the climate.
Emergency set of clothing, including long pants or slacks, warm sweater, wool socks.
An extra wool sweater, if you think you will be cold.
Windproof parka or jacket.
Comfortable boots for walking, strong, good tread, to be worn with two pairs of socks,
one pair of thick wool socks and one pair of lightweight inner socks.
Sleeping bag in waterproof stuff sack, foam pad.
Backpack, if backpacking. Duffle bag, if not backpacking.

PERSONAL
Bible and Sabbath School quarterly
Hand towel, biodegradable soap, wash cloth, comb, and small roll of toilet paper
Knife, fork, spoon, cup, bowl
Canteen or plastic water bottle, filled with clean water
Topographical map and Silva-type compass
Small notebook and ballpoint pen in a zip-lock bag
Money for emergencies
Flashlight with batteries to give at least 4 hours light, more on long trips
Small personal first-aid kit, containing: band aids, triangular roll bandages, pain killer,
antiseptic
Braided nylon cord, 1/8" x 25 feet.
Matches in waterproof container, half candle
Whistle
Hat
ABOVE ALL
A generous supply of kindly humor, friendly patience, willing help, and a
determination to make it a good trip for everyone.

REMEMBER AND RECITE OFTEN

The benefits of such an experience are felt long after the scars are healed.
 True-False Test on Camping
1. Outdoor camping provides a favorable environment to influence young people. TRUE

2. The staff of the Pathfinder Club need not feel too concerned about the safety of the
Pathfinders, since the parents have given their consent for them to join the club. FALSE

3. Accidents on camping trips are less likely to occur when Pathfinders are tired. FALSE
4. Meals for Pathfinders on camping trips should be planned and prepared by the
staff because the members are not old enough to do it. FALSE

5. It is not important to be too particular about clothing on a campout. FALSE

6. In hiking, it is best to avoid frequent stops in mountains or hilly country because

Pathfinders are eager to get to the top for the view. FALSE

7. Fuzz sticks are made from soft woods. TRUE

8. When bark from dead trees is used for tinder, it should be separated into thin
strips and crumpled into a loose ball. TRUE

9. Pour on a lot of water quickly to put out a cooking fire. FALSE

10. To be safe when whittling, place thumb on back edge of knife blade. FALSE

11. To tighten loose head on hatchet temporarily, soak in water. TRUE

12. Water has to be boiled only five minutes for purification. FALSE

13. Bulky garbage should be buried in a fire. FALSE

14. Using a knife to poke at a hot fire will not hurt the blade. FALSE

15. If wind is coming from the east, it is best to apply the match to start the fire
on the opposite (west) side. FALSE

16. If rain is coming, tent guy and peg ropes should be loosened. TRUE

17. If you are sitting in your pup tent during a rain-storm, it is all right to have
your head or back against the canvas. FALSE

18. Resinous wood makes good coals for boiling. FALSE

19. A hatchet is safely worn back of hip with blade pointing toward the back. TRUE
20. Before starting to use an axe, underbrush and overhead obstructions should be
removed. TRUE

21. When digging a trench around a tent, scatter the removed soil around, as you
will not need it for any purpose. FALSE

22. When packing a knapsack, it is best to place the heaviest articles on top. FALSE

23. Rain caps and raincoats are packed on the top of pack for easy access and
waterproofing purposes. TRUE

24. It is best to pitch tents in a nice grassy hollow if you can find one in the campsite. FALSE

25. When splitting wood, it is best to use another log for a chopping block to support
the piece of wood being chopped. TRUE
V. Nature Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (20 min.)

Nature study is often referred to as "God's Second Book." In this section we will look at
some factors that will help us prepare our Pathfinders to discover the excitement and
thrill of nature study.
a. The Importance of Nature Study
b. Thoughts from the Spirit of Prophecy on Nature Study
c. Objectives of Nature Study
d. Nature Games Suitable for Sabbath
e. Some Nature Study Methods
f. Pointers on Leading a Nature Field Trip
g. Notes on Running a Nature Walk
h. Making Nature Hikes Interesting to Pathfinders

a. The Importance of Nature Study

"Go to the ant,...consider her ways..." (Proverbs 6:6)
"Behold the fowls of the air..." (Matthew 6:26)
"Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow..." (Matthew 6:28)
"For the invisible things of Him...are clearly seen, being understood by the things that
are made..." (Romans 1:20)
What benefits come to the Christian from studying God's book of nature?
"...through the creation we are to become acquainted with the Creator. The book of
nature is a great lesson book....In these lessons direct from nature, there is a simplicity
and purity that makes them of the highest value" (Christ's Object Lessons, p. 24).
How many need to study God's book of nature?
"All need the teaching to be derived from this source. In itself the beauty of nature
leads the soul away from sin and worldly attractions, and toward purity, peace and
God" (Ibid).
Is there any relationship between nature study and proper Sabbath observance?
"God designs that the Sabbath shall direct the minds of men to the contemplation of
His created works....The Sabbath, ever pointing to Him who made them all, bids men
open the great book of nature..." (Patriarchs & Prophets, p. 48).
What was the Creator's objective in making the Sabbath?
"The object of the Sabbath was that all mankind might be benefited...the mind cannot
be refreshed, enlivened, and elevated by being confined nearly all the Sabbath hours
within walls, listening to long sermons and tedious, formal prayers. The Sabbath...is
put to wrong use if thus celebrated" (Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 582, 583).
How should all have the opportunity to spend a portion of the Sabbath?
 "In order to keep the Sabbath holy, it is not necessary that we enclose ourselves in
walls, shut away from the beautiful scenes of nature and from the free, invigorating
air of heaven....During a portion of the day, all should have an opportunity to be out
of doors" (Ibid., p. 583).
How does Sabbath nature study concern the children?
"How can children receive a more correct knowledge of God, and their minds be
better impressed, than in spending a portion of their time [on the Sabbath] out of
doors, not in play, but in company with their parents? Let their young minds be
associated with God in the beautiful scenery of nature, let their attention be called to
the tokens of His love to man in His created works..." (Ibid., pp. 583, 584).
What are some objectives to be kept in mind during our Sabbath contemplation of
nature?
"The Sabbath, ever pointing to Him who made them all, bids men open the great book
of nature and trace therein the wisdom, the power, and the love of the Creator"
(Patriarchs & Prophets, p. 48).
"All these [the beauties and wonders of nature] proclaim the love and skill of the
heavenly Artist, and show forth the glory of God" (Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 584).
How may the book of nature be used in the work of soul saving?
"The book of nature is a great lesson book, which in connection with the Scriptures
we are to use in teaching others of His character, and guiding lost sheep back to the
fold of God" (Christ's Object Lessons, p. 24).
b. Thoughts from the Spirit of Prophecy on Nature Study
"In His teaching from nature, Christ was speaking of the things which His own hands
had made, and which had qualities and powers that He Himself had imparted. In their
original perfection all created things were an expression of the thought of God....The
earth is now marred and defiled by sin. Yet even in its blighted state much that is
beautiful remains. God's object lessons are not obliterated; rightly understood, nature
speaks of her Creator...." (Christ's Object Lessons, p. 18).
"Jesus plucked the beautiful lily, and placed it in the hands of children and youth, and
as they looked at His own youthful face, fresh with the sunlight of His Father's
countenance, He gave the lesson, 'Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow, they
toil not, neither do they spin, and yet I say unto you, that even Solomon in all his
glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the
field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall He not much more
clothe you, O, ye of little faith?'" (Christ's Object Lessons, p. 19).
"In the sermon on the mount, these words were spoken to others besides children and
youth. They were spoken to the multitude, among whom were men and women full
of worries and perplexities and sore with disappointment and sorrow. Jesus
continued. 'Therefore, take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we
drink or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye
have need of all these things.' Then spreading out His hand to the surrounding
multitude, He said, 'But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and
 all these things shall be added unto you' (Matt 6:28-33)" (Christ's Object Lessons, p.
19).
"So through the creation we are to become acquainted with the Creator. The book of
nature is a great lesson book, which in connection with the Scriptures we are to use in
teaching others of His character, and guiding lost sheep back to the fold of God. As
the works of God are studied, the Holy Spirit flashes conviction into the mind.
...unless the mind has become too dark to know God, the eye too dim to see Him, the
ear too dull to hear His voice, a deeper meaning is grasped, and the sublime, spiritual
truths of the written word are impressed on the heart" (Christ's Object Lessons, p. 24).
c. Objectives of Nature Study
1) To interest the Pathfinders in the things of nature rather than to teach them, to
arouse their curiosity so that they can make their own discoveries; this is
something that God intends that each one of us will continue to do through all
eternity.
2) To help the Pathfinders to develop inquiring minds, powers of accurate
observation, and soundness of inference; to help them to discover the meaning of
what they see, and to derive pleasure not only from the search, but from the
resulting discoveries.
3) To give the Pathfinders the benefit of an education from "God's other
book.""While the Bible should hold the first place in the education of children and
youth, the book of nature is next in importance" (Counsels to Teachers, p. 185).
4) To help the Pathfinders to develop the "Seeing Eye, the Hearing Ear and the
Understanding Heart."
5) To help the Pathfinders to become acquainted with the Creator through the
creation. "Through the creation we are to become acquainted with the
Creator....All need the teaching to be derived from this source" (Christ's Object
Lessons, p. 24).

6) To develop character. "They need to be brought into close contact with

nature....Thus the mental powers will be strengthened, the character developed,
the whole life ennobled" (Christ's Object Lessons, p. 25).

7) To help the Pathfinders to have a correct evaluation of the things of nature, not be
like the man of whom the poet Wordsworth wrote:
"A primrose by a river's brim
A yellow primrose was to him,
And it was nothing more"
(From "Peter Bell").
8) To help the Pathfinders to cultivate a sense of preservation and conservation
rather than destruction. God carefully preserved all the animals in the ark.
9) To help the Pathfinder gain true wisdom such as Solomon had. "[H]e spake of
trees...he spake also of beasts, and of fowl, and of creeping things, and of fishes"
(1 Kings 4:34)
 10) To help Pathfinders to have a real understanding of Sabbath observance (a time to
remember God's creative power). "The Sabbath bids us behold in His created
works the glory of the Creator" (Christ's Object Lessons, p. 25).
11) To help the Pathfinders to appreciate God's kindness and thoughtfulness in
providing al the wonders of nature around us. (God spent six days carefully
designing all natural objects, planning that we would enjoy them.)
12) To help Pathfinders to understand what it means to "Fear God and give glory to
Him; and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the
fountains of waters" (Rev 14:7) in the midst of a generation that denies God's
existence.

d. Nature Games Suitable for Sabbath

Sabbath Song Nature Hike
2) Divide the group into 2 to 4 sections depending on number participating.
3) Have each section appoint a leader and a scribe.
4) Designate the length of hiking time.
5) Upon a signal each group then takes a leisurely stroll leading out in various
directions from the starting point.
6) On this hike all the members of the section are to look about them for nature items
that remind them of a hymn or chorus. The scribe jots it down. (Nature item and
hymn or chorus). No song books may be used.
7) Upon returning to starting point at the agreed time, see which group listed the
most hymns and choruses properly supported by a nature item.
8) Now have a good "song fest" using the songs listed. Each section is to have an
opportunity in rotation to name the song to be sung.
Variation
Have a song leader and a naturalist go over the route of the hike some time in
advance of the group, picking out songs suggested by nature items observed. On
the hike itself the naturalist and the song leader point out the nature items and sing
the song suggested by it. A relaxed atmosphere of a Sabbath afternoon stroll will
really put this over.

Sabbath Bible Nature Hike

Same idea as the Sabbath Song Nature Hike - only at the conclusion of the hike,
compare listing of Bible texts and objects in nature that brought the text to mind.
Before starting this hike be certain the sections have agreed on whether Bibles are
to be used.
Creation Week
This is definitely a Sabbath game. It is played by dividing into 6 groups, each
group representing one of the days of Creation. At a given signal the groups go
out and collect specimens that were created on the day of Creation they are
 representing. At a given time all groups return and, beginning with the group
representing the first day of creation, each group and shows specimens collected,
telling as much as possible about them and how they fit into the week of Creation.
For such days as the fourth, where one cannot bring the sun, moon, and stars, the
group will have to bring in some of the things that are affected by the sun, etc.
For instance, the sun is responsible for green grass. So that everyone has a part in
the game, it is better if everyone in the group has a chance to speak and not just
one person.
Nature Matching Game
To play this game the leader must first go out into the game area and collect
specimens such as leaves, branches, flowers, seeds, etc. With these specimens
hidden from the view of the player (a paper bag is good for this purpose) the game
is ready to begin. To play the game take one of the specimens and show it to the
group, then ask them to match it to the plant, tree, shrub, etc. from which it came.
The first one to match it should be given one point. Repeat this by showing the
second specimen and having them match that. This is continued until all the
specimens have been used. The player with the most points wins.
Nature Identification
This is not really a game but a time when the group of players can go out and
gather materials of nature to be brought back to an assembly area for an expert to
identify and discuss.
e. Some Nature Study Methods
1) All nature study should be an adventure - and always there should be in it the
element of the thrill of discovery. For this reason, leaders should endeavor to
arouse the curiosity of the Pathfinders so that they will want to go out and make
their own discoveries.
2) Nothing should ever pass as nature study that does not involve practical
observation, investigation, or experimentation by the Pathfinders. Talks about
nature should never be taken as a substitute for the study of nature, though they
may stimulate interest.
3) The best place to study nature is in the out-of-doors.
4) The main function of the instructor is to guide and direct the activities of the
Pathfinders, and to organize, encourage, and assist them in the pursuit of nature
lore. If the Pathfinders fail to maintain interest in nature study, the fault lies with
the instructor. It is not necessary for that person to be a Ph.D. or a professor of
science, but the instructor must have a love of, and a close contact with nature.
5) The collecting instinct is strong in Pathfinders, and collections of actual
specimens should be a feature of most nature study courses. Each Pathfinder
should be encouraged to make his or her own collection. It is a good idea to have
a Club Museum to which everyone contributes.
6) Charts and graphs help keep track of nature study. Make charts of the flowering
periods of plants; weather charts; plot the movements of the moon and planets,
etc.
 7) Keep lists. For example, make a list of the birds that you see and hear, and tell
when. Keep a life list as well as a monthly and daily list.
8) Competitions and Games may be based on the recognition of tree leaves, flowers,
shells, twigs of deciduous trees, fruits, etc.
9) Nature hikes and field trips always appeal to Pathfinders. Always have a specific
objective and keep a record of whatever is seen on these trips; observe natural
objects in their natural settings.
10) Make use of individual and group projects. Set up a series of cases illustrating
with specimens the various requirements of the AY Honors in nature. If you have
a club room, these glass cases could be hung on the wall.
11) Collecting and filing pictures and articles is a good way to learn about wildlife.
These can be arranged in books to illustrate the AY Honors. Make up a complete
check-list of birds using colored illustrations. Wherever you travel you will have
opportunities to see birds, and any new ones you see can be dated on your check
list.
12) Make use of books and nature films. Subscribe to magazines such as Audubon,
International Wildlife, National Geographic, and National Geographic World.

f. Pointers on Leading a Nature Field Trip

1) Why Have a Field Trip?
 To promote love of God through nature
 To enjoy the thrill that comes from experiencing the sights and sounds of
nature
 To develop a deeper respect for living things and acquire outdoor manners
 To develop a lifelong interest for outdoors, and discover a wholesome use of
leisure time
2) Before the Trip
 Know the area and route thoroughly
3) Conducting the Trip
 Begin on time.
 Start off briskly.
 Stop where there is something to see.
 Make sure everyone sees what you are looking at.
 Encourage participation.
 Help improve powers of observation.
 Be alert.
 Be enthusiastic.
  Keep the group together.
 Treat stops like episodes in a serial story.
 Make use of quiet periods.
4) After the Trip
 Show slides or movies taken on the trip.
 Use films on topics suggested by the trip.
 Get reports from various individuals on points of interest seen on the trip.
g. Notes on Running a Nature Walk
1) Decide on the area of study.
2) Determine the best area and time of day for this particular study.
3) Visit the area of intended study before walk.
4) While on the walk concentrate on the area of study but be prepared for sidelights -
nature study often brings up the unexpected.
5) Be sure you, as leader, have done your homework. Be prepared for questions,
know where the answers can be found, give enough to maintain interest but let the
Pathfinders find out what they can.
6) Be sure the Pathfinders know the objective of the walk. Provide a means for them
to fully participate in achieving objectives, for example, use a game, quiz sheet,
etc.
7) Set a pace of the walk so that accurate observations can be made.
9) When an item is being discussed, make sure the whole group can see and
appreciate what you are talking about.
10) Encourage accurate observation, sketching, note taking, and photographs. Do not
allow reckless collecting of specimens.
11) Follow up a field trip with a talk, film, or display to summarize findings.
h. Making Nature Hikes Interesting to Pathfinders
The one golden rule for making nature hikes interesting is to have an objective. This
will change an aimless walk into an adventure. It will change an otherwise idle trip
into a treasure hunt. If you go out to find daisies, the most common little daisy will
become a great prize, if you are looking for insects, the most ordinary beetle will
assume great value to the collector.
A group of Pathfinders who are bent on fulfilling the requirements for one of the AY
Honors in nature are always keen to find specimens and make observations that will
help them to achieve their objective. However, not all Pathfinders are interested in
actually earning an honor. Even so, there are ways to interest them in nature.
1) Have a hunting party - (Cameras instead of guns). Photograph natural objects and
have an exhibition later, with possibly a prize for the best photo, the most unusual
one, or the one that required the most effort and patience.
2) Seek pitfalls for the unwary. Look for spider's webs, etc.
3) Look for accidents or untimely ends. This may suggest a search for a rock split
by a tree root, a leaf partly eaten by insects (still on the leaf), some plant crushed
by careless feet, or a tree blown over.
4) Search for remnants or discards. This is just another way to say the search this
time is for such things as a lost feather, cast-off skin of an insect or snake,
forsaken nest of bird or wasp, fallen leaf, etc.
5) Seek hitch-hikers and parasites, ticks on a possum, burrs on a sheep's wool.
barnacles on a shell, leaf parasites, etc.
6) Seek out scents - collect anything with a distinctive odor, and test blindfolded
Pathfinders.
7) Feel it - guess what it is by its feel.
8) Visit nature's restaurants - bees or insects getting nectar from flowers, ants
milking aphids, birds eating wild fruits.
9) Locate woodland apartments - bird nests, wasp nests, ant-hills, rabbit warrens.
10) Collect woodland babies - pupa or chrysalis of moths and butterflies, birds’ eggs,
ant larvae, fern prothallus, seeds of all kinds.