Bashore Scout Reservation

The PA Dutch Council has much to be proud of in Camp Bashore. My son and I just returned after a week at the camp, and we were very impressed with the programming this camp offers scouts.
1. Accomodations: Standard platform tents were in good shape, with newer tents present in our campsite. Standard camp latrines were present in camp, but two bathrooms with flush toilets and showers were near campsites. Newer aluminum army cots provided decent sleep. Food in the dining hall was an 8 out of 10, with a salad bar always present, and with decent variety besides breakfasts, which usually consisted of eggs, potatoes, and something else… but otherwise, good meals with good serving sizes.
2. Staff and Programming: Most impressive part of the camp. Much of the staff had 3 – 5 years experience, a sure sign that the directors offer a work environment that keeps counselors coming back. Camp Director and Program Director both had 30+ years experience, and clearly led by example. Staff was very attentive to individual scout’s needs, and even in week 7, had a high morale and enthusiasm. Programming of activities was excellent, with a wide offering of merit badges, COPE, adult training, camp-​wide games, open periods, and the Trailblazer program, which offered older scouts acivities such as bouldering, mountain biking, and mountain boarding. Also, the first-​year scout program called «Blue Mountain Man», was a very-​well run program purposed to give first-​year scouts basic skills and meet advancement requirements to get them to first-​class. Staff in this program was helpful, friendly, courteous and kind towards these scouts. Closing campfire and OA callout were amazing.
3. Facilities: Bashore is not the biggest facility, acreage-​wise, but it does have top-​notch equipment, ranges, and watersports. A 3D range and skeet-​archery made the archery merit badge interesting. The facilities present were clean, well-​kept, and used well. In some ways, having a small camp facility lets the boys spend less time walking between activities.
It was a really good week, and I’m now a fan. Thanks, staff, for a great week in 2014!