A Weekend of Camping and Skill-Building Encourages Mothers to Step Into Leadership Roles
Troop 3329 in Phoenix recently kicked off their Scouting season with a memorable campout featuring some special guests: the troop’s moms. The goal of the event was to strengthen adult leadership, provide a unique Scouting experience, and create lasting impacts for the all-girl troop. This “Mother/Scout Campout” was a tremendous success, achieving all its objectives.
The campout was designed to bring Scouts and their mothers together for a weekend of camping and skill training, with the hope of encouraging participation in future events. All-girl troops like Troop 3329 require female leadership at every activity, and while the troop already benefits from a strong group of parent volunteers, they identified a need for more women to step into leadership roles. A poll revealed that while many mothers were eager to get involved, some had reservations about camping outdoors. The Mother/Scout Campout was created to ease these concerns and to demonstrate that any woman, regardless of experience, can be a positive role model for Scouts.
Planning the campout required some adjustments to the troop’s usual outings. The campsite chosen was at R-C Scout Ranch in Payson, a location that was both accessible and comfortable for everyone in the group, including those less experienced with camping. For those unable to stay overnight, the troop arranged for them to join the following morning’s instructional program, led by Scouts and trained leaders. The weekend was filled with inclusive and fun activities, blending traditional Scouting skills with hiking and games.
Among the highlights was a moderately challenging hike along the Waterwheel Falls trail in Payson, ending with a refreshing swim at the waterfall. Back at camp, the group divided into two patrols: “Mom Patrol” and “Scout Patrol,” giving the newer Scouts a chance to learn the patrol method while allowing the moms their own space around the campfire. Meals were prepared by each patrol—Scouts cooked burgers and Dutch oven s’mores pound cake, while the moms learned to make foil dinners over campfire coals. Sunday saw all the mothers complete wood tools training and earning their Totin’ Chip! A medical professional also led a first aid discussion, and Scouts performed a skit to teach Leave No Trace principles. The event wrapped up with a briefing on future events needing female volunteers and an overview of training opportunities offered by the BSA Council.
The Mother/Scout Campout was a resounding success for Troop 3329. Participants learned new skills, with many signing up for future events and expressing interest in formal training such as Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills (IOLS). By fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment, the campout demonstrated the invaluable role that mothers can play in Scouting activities simply by participating. This event served as a powerful reminder of the positive impact that engaged adult leadership can have on a troop, paving the way for even greater success in the future.
Submitted by Rachel Luman, Scoutmaster, Troop 3329
