GAM FAQs
If you are new to GAM, welcome!
2025 GAM registration: https://www.girlscoutsoc.org/en/sf-events-repository/2025/gam---save-the-date-may-2-4--2025.html
GAM website: https://sites.google.com/view/gsocgam
GAM email: gsocgam@gmail.com or ejohnson@girlscoutsoc.org
Instagram: @gsoc.gam
2025 Cadette Stowaway registration: https://www.girlscoutsoc.org/en/sf-events-repository/2025/stowaways--gam-lookie-loo-.html
What is GAM?
GAM is a weekend boating/nautical camping event hosted by Girl Scouts of Orange County for Senior and Ambassador Girl Scouts in grades 9-12, typically held in May. GAM is a friendly competition and events include boating, knots, compass, code flags, emergency preparedness, sea shanty, and more.
GSOC has held GAM for more than 50 years, and troop participants include legacy troops who’ve been coming for decades and newer troops. The focus today, as in the past, is on camaraderie, fun, and a display of one's best. Experienced troops and new troops are all welcome!
Where is GAM?
GAM is at the Newport Dunes in the Back Bay, in Newport Beach. Troops camp on the sand and do boating events in the bay. A map with exact campsite location and a detailed schedule will be provided to participants.
How do we find out info about the skill events?
The GAM o Gram is the holy grail! It has event descriptions, what to know, how many points each event is worth, and more. You can find it on our website.
Do we need a swim test?
Swim test forms are required for any Girl Scout going in a boat, helping push off a boat, or swimming. The form is in the GAM o Gram. This can be signed by any certified lifeguard. We strongly suggest you complete the swim test before GAM, but if you don’t have access to a lifeguard/pool, we can usually do a swim test at GAM Saturday morning (in the bay) - however this is not guaranteed. Participants who have passed the swim test will receive a wristband at GAM.
Do we need a special permission form?
The GSOC permission form for overnights is here: https://www.girlscoutsoc.org/content/dam/girlscoutsoc/documents/VolunteerResources/Permission_Slip_English.pdf
You should also bring health history forms for each participant.
Does GAM provide lifeguards?
Yes. Troops do not need to bring their own lifeguard.
What do we need to set up our campsite?
Besides your camping equipment, each troop needs to display an American flag and a troop banner with your troop number and ship name on it. More info is in the Campsite Inspection section of the GAM o Gram.
What is a ship name?
GAM troops have “ship names” along with their troop numbers. You choose your own name! It can be nautical themed or not. Some examples of troops we have: Spinnakers, Crossroads, Horizons, Odyssey, MSS Sovereign, Tidal Wave, MSS Aquila
Should we bring SWAPs?
Troops at GAM typically don’t bring SWAPs.
What should we cook?
As GAM is a busy weekend for Girl Scout participants, adult advisers typically help out with cooking meals. Some troops choose to order food (pizza, Subway, etc) for delivery or pickup.
What should we wear?
Many troops have matching troop shirts/attire throughout the weekend and for School of the Crew, but this is not required. Appropriate footwear is required as the bay gets muddy and there are many sharp shells around - closed toe shoes and/or secure water shoes are required at all times, even when boating. Flip flops and Crocs are not permitted. You should also bring a hat with a brim for sun protection.
We’ve never been to GAM and have little experience. Do we have to do all the events?
No! Many new troops choose to skip some events their first time at GAM. There are a few required all-troop events (see the GAM o Gram), but many events are optional.
We are worried about competing because we may not perform well. Do you have advice?
We welcome ALL troops to GAM! Some troops study hard all year, some come just for fun, and some are in between. Though it’s a competition, the spirit of GAM is truly focused on camaraderie and friendship. GAM troops are very supportive and encouraging of all participants. Expect positive attitudes, good sportsmanship, and lots of fun!
One of our Girl Scouts can’t be at GAM all weekend. Can they still participate?
Yes, but they and all troop participants must be present for the required all-troop events. Email us with your specific situation and we can help you.
Do you host boating practice days before GAM?
Yes! This year's dates are Oct. 12, 2024; Feb. 23, 2025; and April 12, 2025. Check the GSOC event calendar for updates.
We aren’t from GS Orange County. Can we come?
Of course! We’ve had many troops come from other councils, as close as Los Angeles and San Gorgonio and as far as Utah and Arizona.
We are a Cadette troop. Can we come as lookie-loos?
Yes! Cadette Stowaways (what we call lookie-loos at GAM) can come during the day on Saturday. Stowaways participate in special programming to give them a taste of GAM. Troops and individual Cadettes are welcome. 2025 Stowaway registration is here: https://www.girlscoutsoc.org/en/sf-events-repository/2025/stowaways--gam-lookie-loo-.html
Can I volunteer at GAM?
Yes! Experience with GAM, land skills, and boating is helpful but not required. Email us!