VA Creeper Bike Trip
Apr 12 – 14, 2024
RSVP LINK - Troop 964 Biking Trip to the Virginia Creeper Bike Trail
Who: Scouts and Leaders who have registered by the end of day Sunday, March 31, 2024. (There is a waitlist if you missed the deadline. Email Ms. Erica if you would like to see if there is space available.)
Cost: $60 - The cost will include the cost of the shuttle, food, campground and gas. Don’t forget about the Dr. Mac scholarship fund!
What: Bicycling on the Virginia Creeper Trail in Damascus, VA and tent camping on Friday and Saturday nights.
When: Friday, April 12, 2024 thru Sunday, April 14, 2024
Where: Arrive at the Scout Hut no later than 5:30. Depart from the Scout Hut Friday at 6:00, camping at High Country Horse Camp in Troutdale, VA (6866 Whitetop Road, Troutdale, VA 24378), biking on the VA Creeper Trail, return to the church on Sunday around 2:00pm.
Bike shuttle: Adventure Damascus Virginia Creeper Trail Best Bike Rental and Shuttle Service | Adventure Damascus, Virginia High Country Horse Camp VA | Campgrounds | Horseback Riding | Trout Dale
Details: We will leave the church as usual around 6:00 but please arrive by 5:30 (bring dinner or have eaten, and wear Class A!!). We will camp in tents at a campground in Troutdale, VA. We will have bathrooms, YAY! On Saturday we will bicycle (all downhill!!) on the VA Creeper Trail to Damascus VA, which is approximately 20 miles on a bike-only rail-to-trail gravel pathway. Camp Saturday night and return to the church on Sunday. Bikes are NOT available to rent, but I think we can accommodate anyone who does not have a bike, but please let us know now. If you are bringing your own bike please check it out before you come. Look at the air in the tires, brakes, and loose parts. No single speed bikes; they just don’t work for this distance. YOU MUST WEAR A HELMET! Gloves are highly recommended. A daypack to wear while you bike down the mountain for you to keep your trail lunch & water is also a very good idea.
We will be cooking by patrols, which we will establish in the meetings before we leave. Patrols will buy their own food.
If you need your bike checked out, we have multiple expert bike mechanics who are happy to check your equipment. Please check with Mr. Alexander.
Beyond that just normal car-camping gear, weather will be cool/cold at night, bring warm sleeping bags (or two bags).
Bring your own tent or use one of the Troop tents (NO HAMMOCKS FOR SLEEPING).
Meals: We will cook by patrol for Saturday breakfast, Saturday dinner, and Sunday breakfast. Saturday lunch will be a “trail” lunch that we will eat while biking. Scouts will need money $$ for lunch on Sunday at the proverbial Wendy’s stopover.
We will stop at Hellbender's Cafe towards the end of the ride. If your scout is interested in buying ice cream, cake, or food, please bring some money.
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Camp Card Fundraiser 2024
When: Mar 13 – May 9, 2024
Description: Camp Card Fundraiser runs from March 13 - May 9
The Camp Card Sale is the perfect opportunity for Scouts to raise funds for their summer camp fees, camping equipment, or other program supplies & expenses. Each card offers discounts from local vendors that are valid during the 2024 calendar year. Most offers can even be redeemed multiple times!
Please see Dr. MacDonald for more information.
Each card costs $10. For every card you sell, $5 goes towards your scout account. Dr. MacDonald will pass out 5 cards at a time. What you don't sell, you'll return to Dr. Mac.
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Grayson Highlands Trip 2024
RSVP by May 2nd
Grayson Highlands Backpacking Trip
May 10-12, 2024
Who: Scouts and leaders who have already registered (due to the leader:scout ratios needed for this trip, we unfortunately cannot accept additional registrations unless we have a cancellation). Cost is $25 per person. Please pay ASAP. Request INVOICE
What: Backpacking in Grayson Highlands State Park/Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. Since everyone going on this trip has backpacking experience, we have opted for everyone to do the long trek = approximately 12.8 miles total. #YOUCANDOIT!
When: Friday May 10, 2024 through Sunday May 12, 2024
Where: 829 Grayson Highland Lane, Mouth of Wilson, VA 24363
Details: Please arrive at the church by 5:30 pm on Friday. (Wheels up at 6:00.) Eat dinner before you come or bring it with you. Dress in Class A. We will camp at Hickory Ridge Campground in Grayson Highlands State Park on Friday night. On Saturday morning we will park in the backpacker’s parking lot at Massie Gap and hike the Appalachian Trail (AT) to the AT/Pine Mountain Trail junction. At this point, we will continue on Pine Mountain Trail and the AT before reaching our primitive campsite for the night at an area known as The Scales. Everyone will hike back to the backpacker’s parking lot on Sunday morning, and we will return to the church between 3:00 to 4:00 pm.
Important changes:
All scouts have a mandatory shakedown. We must ensure that you have the gear you need and nothing extra. If at all possible, bring your fully loaded backpack to the meeting on Thursday. A leader will inspect your pack. If you are not able to bring your backpack to the meeting, you will have a leader inspection before we leave on Friday.
Make sure you use the Backpacking List.
Food: you are in charge of bringing your own meals on all backpacking trips. You will need the following:
Friday dinner (eat on the way while on the bus)
Saturday breakfast: freeze-dried meals are great! Walmart and Academy have freeze dried food. (If you have a stove, great! If you don’t, we’ll share.)
Saturday lunch: we will eat while hiking on the trail.
Ideas: jerky, chicken/tuna pouches, nuts, crackers, individual peanut butter
Saturday dinner: freeze-dried meals are great!
Sunday breakfast: protein bar, breakfast bar (something fast) We will get up and go Sunday morning so think “trail breakfast”.
Sunday lunch: we will stop at Wendy’s on the way home so bring money.
Backpacking food illustration for inspiration HERE
Scouts are encouraged to coordinate with each other to share tents/stoves/water filters in order to minimize the weight carried (and to prevent some parents from having to buy gear that their Scouts may not have yet). We will devote some time Thursday night to working on this. Additionally, if your Scout is bringing their own tent, they need to bring it Thursday night so that they can get some practice setting it up prior to the trip. No hammocks for sleeping. If you do not have all the gear needed, talk to us. We have some items available to borrow.
Backpacking information about Grayson Highlands:
We will be backpacking a section of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) in May and thought it would be helpful to give everyone the inside scoop! First, check out this site and educate yourself on all things A.T.
Grayson Highlands is a very popular section of the A.T. and is absolutely breathtaking! We will be leading both a short hike and a long hike. Both hikes will include a lot of uphill hiking and by uphill we mean over rocks. What’s the payoff for so much physical exertion you ask? Wild ponies! Yes, that’s right! Grayson Highlands is home to beautiful ponies. They graze the highlands and live peaceful, happy lives.
It’s a 2-hour drive to Grayson Highlands. When we arrive, we’ll set up camp at Hickory Ridge Campground. On Saturday morning, we’ll pack up and head out on our adventure on the A.T. The short trek and long trek groups will part ways and once they each reach their campsites, they’ll set up camp again. Sunday morning we’ll break down camp and hike back. It’s going to be amazing!
Here are a few suggestions from a brand new backpacker:
1. Trekking poles are a lifesaver. We recommend each scout take at least one pole.
2. Rain gear is a must! You just never know when a shower will pop up.
3. The weather at Grayson Highlands is often colder and windier than the weather apps indicate. Keep this in mind when choosing your clothing. Dressing in layers is key.
4. Water! Water! Water! Water is heavy but it’s necessary. There are water sources so scouts can refill their bottles or camelbacks. By water source, we mean a stream running down the mountain. If you have a water filter, bring it, if not, we can share filters.
5. Hiking shoes! We will be hiking over rocks and boulders. Scouts need good fitting hiking shoes with solid soles.
6. P-Style... Ladies, if you’d rather stand than squat and not have to bare it all, then this item is for you! ;). Check it out on Amazon. The carrying case was a great accessory, too.
7. Scouts are responsible for all of their food on backpacking trips. Freeze-dried food is the way to go. It is light and easy to pack. You can buy it in store at Walmart or order it from Amazon. If you don’t have a camping stove, don’t worry. We can share.
Leading up to the trip we will be having backpack “shakedowns”. For any scout who is new to backpacking, this is mandatory. Scouts need to load up their pack with everything they plan on taking and bring their pack to the scout meeting. During the meeting, their pack will be checked. It will be a good time to find out exactly what items each scout needs to obtain prior to the trip. If something is in need, don’t fret. We will band together and help acquire anything that is needed.
This backpacking list provides the items needed.
Scout meeting backpack shakedowns: 4/18, 4/25, 5/2, 5/9
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CKR Swim Checks 2024
SWIM CHECKS: May 18th 9 - 11AM at Jerry Long YMCA in Clemmons.
All scouts who will be attending summer camp must complete a swim check. If they are not able to attend the May 18th swim check, they will have to complete it at camp on July 14th during check-in.
Once you complete your swim check, you are free to leave. You will not be there for 2hrs.
Bring: towel, one piece swimsuit & goggles (optional)
You must RSVP here.
Please contact Carleigh Scott if you have questions.
Swim check details: The swim check consists of a continuous 100-yard swim. Scouts start by jumping from standing into water over the head in depth, and swim 75 yards on the surface of the water continuously in a strong manner using one or a combination of the following strokes: front crawl, breaststroke, side stroke, or trudgen. The remaining 25 yards are swam on the back in a restful manner. The swim check is finished with a float on the back or on the stomach.
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Who: Scouts and Leaders who have registered by the end of meeting on Thursday September 12. Cost will be $80. Don’t forget about the Dr. Mac scholarship fund!
What: Whitewater Rafting on the Tuckaseegee River in Bryson City, NC; and tent camping overnight at a campground on Friday and Saturday nights.
When: Friday September 20, 2024 thru Sunday September 22, 2024.
Where: Depart from New Philadelphia Moravian Friday at 5:30, staying both nights at the Ela Campground outside Bryson City, rafting on the Tuckaseegee River in Bryson City NC, return to the church on Sunday around 2:00pm.
Websites: Ela Campground website (elacampground.com)
Rafting website (northcarolinarafting.com)
Details: We will leave from the church as usual around 5:30 (bring dinner or have eaten, and wear Class A!!). We will camp at Ela Campground in Bryson City, this will be tent camping. On Saturday we will whitewater raft on the Tuckaseegee River. We will be running the river in two-person rafts. Camp again Saturday night and return on Sunday.
We will be cooking by patrols, which we will establish in the meetings before we leave.
STRONG SWIMMING SKILLS ARE A NECESSITY! While this is not a dangerous activity and life jackets will be worn at all times, there is a chance of being in the river with whitewater, so strong swimming skills could be needed. The water is also typically cold, but the outfitter will provide “splash jackets” to help keep warm. Footwear that can get wet and protects your feet is also a necessity. This can be old tennis shoes, water shoes, or Chaco type sandals. River wear should be a swimsuit with synthetic shorts and a synthetic shirt over the top. Beyond these things, just normal car-camping gear. Rafting is a fun and safe activity that is also adventurous!
Meals: We will cook by patrol for Saturday breakfast, Saturday dinner, and Sunday breakfast. Saturday lunch will be a “trail” lunch that we will eat before (or after) getting on the river. Scouts will need money ($) for lunch on Sunday at the proverbial Wendy’s stopover.
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Sam's Knob Backpacking Trip
Who
Troop 964 Scouts and Registered Adult Leaders
What: Backpacking, 2 trek lengths and groups in the Art Loeb Trail. Link to AllTrail’s description:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/north-carolina/sams-knob-flat-laurel-creek-mountains-to-sea-loop
Both groups camp together on Friday night. Saturday the short trek group will do an out and back (roughly 3 miles). The long trek group will hike the loop and return on Sunday (roughly 8 miles).
When: Arrive at scout hut on Friday October 17th at 5, either already eaten or with bag supper, in Class As. Return Sunday October 19th, mid afternoon. Will send ETA while stopping at Wendy’s on the way back.
Cost: $20 is the cost of the trip (plus Wendy’s lunch money on Sunday)
Meals: 2 breakfasts, 1 trail lunch, 1 supper. The scouts & leaders are to provide their own food. No food will be provided by the troop. Trail lunch means ready to eat, for instance, pre-made sandwich, pre-made wrap, chicken or tuna pouch. Food should all be lightweight, and any cooking should be able to be done by just boiling water on a backpacking stove. In other words, no canned products, no 5 pound bags of candy as a meal…should also plan some trail snacks like GORP, aka trail mix, jerky, etc…
Packing List: *REMINDER* pack rain gear, plus an extra pair of dry socks in a dry bag, along with 2 quart sized plastic bags in case your shoes get soaked and you need to provide a barrier between dry socks and soaked shoes
Also, here’s a link to the packing list resource: Packing List - Backpacking - Packing List - Backpacking.pdf
Cost: $195 by April 25, 2024 (Cost goes up to $210 after April 25)
When: Nov. 15-17 & Nov. 22-24
Where: Camp Raven Knob
National Youth Leadership Training is an exciting, action-packed program designed for councils to provide youth members with leadership skills and experience they can use in their home troops and in other situations demanding leadership of self and others.
The NYLT course centers around the concepts of what a leader must BE, what a leader must KNOW, and what a leader must DO. The key elements are then taught with a clear focus on HOW TO. The skills come alive during the week as the patrol goes on a Quest for the Meaning of Leadership.
NYLT is a six-day course. Content is delivered in a troop and patrol outdoor setting with an emphasis on immediate application of learning in a fun environment. Interconnecting concepts and work processes are introduced early, built upon, and aided by the use of memory aids, which allows participants to understand and employ the leadership skills much faster.
In order to attend a NYLT course, a youth must have the following qualifications by the beginning of the course:
Must be a registered member of a Scouting unit.
Must have a current BSA Health and Medical Record form parts A, B, and C.
As of March 1, 2019, Scouts BSA members (male and female) must be at least 13. They must have completed Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops. For 2019 only, an exception will be granted for girls registered in Scouts BSA to attend NYLT without first achieving the First Class rank. Boys registered in Scouts BSA will still be required to earn the First Class rank before attending NYLT.
Have a unit leader recommendation.
Old Hickory Website
Troop 964 October 18-20 2024, Uwharrie Mountains
It is going to be COLD this weekend. Bring a base layer & cold weather gear. The temperature on Friday will be 38, so if you are bringing a forty degree bag you may also want a liner to give extra warmth.
Who: Scouts and Leaders registered by the end of the leader’s meeting on October 10th. Cost is $15, plus $ for possible quick lunch on the way back.
What: Backpacking in primitive, wooded areas. Carrying all equipment, food, water, filters. Tent camping Friday and Saturday off a loop trail, about 3.5 miles on Saturday and Sunday (potential for side hikes available).
When: Read the title.
Where: Depart from New Philadelphia Moravian Church on Friday October 18th at 6:00, which means scouts should get to the Church at 5:30! Drive to Robbins Branch Trailhead, camp nearby, hike to camping spot on Saturday, then finish the hike back to vehicles and drive home Sunday. Early afternoon expected return time, depending on how fast our slowest hiker hikes.
Details: As usual, wear Class A’s on the drive out and back, and keep class A top in the vehicle so it isn’t gross for traveling in. Arrive to the church Friday night having already eaten or have bag supper.
This is true backpacking, arrive with a properly packed backpack. See sample backpacking list here: https://sites.google.com/view/troop964/resources Bring two PRE-FILLED water bottles that each hold at least a Liter of water. Also, if you have a personal water filter system, bring this. ALL food is what the scout packs, light-weight, dehydrated foods that will give your body the energy (calories) it needs in order to carry your pack and not feel hangry. Please ask questions if you have never backpacked (candy doesn’t count as healthy food). Also, don’t bring cans of food. Scouts can share backpacking stoves and fuel–get with your buddy and share the load! Bring a spork! Lunch on Saturday is on the trail, so it should be packed ahead, and won’t be able to be heated.
Bring an extra quart or gallon sized ziplock to pack out ALL feminine hygiene products that may get used on the trip. These items should not be buried with bodily waste products (though, yes, DO bury any and all bodily waste products, nobody wants to smell that or see that). Also, you can share a small shovel/spade with your buddy, since you have to watch out for each other anyways…
Don't forget money for Wendy's on Sunday for lunch.
It may be cold. Bring a base layer & cold weather gear. The temperature may be low, so if you are bringing a forty degree bag you may also want a liner to give extra warmth.
Who: Scouts and Leaders registered by the end of the meeting on April 24th. Cost is $15/person (non-Philmont crew) and $50/person (Philmont crew, cause food included), plus Wendy’s $ for quickish lunch on the way back.
What: Backpacking in primitive, gorgeous areas. Carrying all equipment, food, water, filters. Tent camping Friday near the trailhead. After breakfast on Sat morning we will start hiking as one group for the first 1.9 miles then the trail splits after Jane Bald. The Philmont crew will continue the AT trail following the white blazes towards Yellow Mountain and the (previous) Overmountain Shelter and famous bedazzled toilet. That is a 5.3 mile trek (each way) with a 2329’ elevation gain. The meadow at Overmountain will be used Saturday for camping. The short trek splits from the AT. We ascend through rhododendron thickets to the Grassy Ridge Bald that provides 360 degree views of the surrounding hillsides. There the short trekkers will set up camp, but this is primitive, so we will need a handful of trowels for our toileting needs. The distance is 2.5 miles each way with a 1099’ elevation gain.
When: Read the title.
Where: Depart from New Philadelphia Moravian Church on Friday May 2nd at 5;30, which means scouts should get to the Church at 5! Drive to Carver’s Gap Trailhead, camp nearby, hike to camping spot on Saturday, then finish the hike back to vehicles and drive home Sunday. Mid afternoon expected return time, depending on how fast our slowest hiker hikes.
Appalachian Trail: Carvers Gap to Yellow Mountain Barn on AllTrails
Grassy Ridge Bald via Appalachian Trail on AllTrails
This is true backpacking, arrive with a properly packed backpack. See sample backpacking list here: https://sites.google.com/view/troop964/resources Bring two PRE-FILLED water bottles that each hold at least a Liter of water. Also, if you have a personal water filter system, bring this. ALL food is what the scout packs, light-weight, dehydrated foods that will give your body the energy (calories) it needs in order to carry your pack and not feel hangry. Please ask questions if you have never backpacked (candy doesn’t count as healthy food). Also, don’t bring cans of food. Scouts can share backpacking stoves and fuel–get with your buddy and share the load! Bring a spork! Lunch on Saturday is on the trail, so it should be packed ahead, and won’t be able to be heated.
Bring an extra quart or gallon sized ziplock to pack out ALL feminine hygiene products that may get used on the trip. These items should not be buried with bodily waste products (though, yes, DO bury any and all bodily waste products, nobody wants to smell that or see that). Also, you can share a small shovel/spade with your buddy, since you have to watch out for each other anyways… Also, toilet paper, very important.
Weather in this area in May averages in the mid sixties during the day and upper thirties at night. That means you need LAYERs so you are warm enough at night, and comfortable during the day. Bring a sleeping bag rated for 20 degrees or less, alternatively bring a liner to add 10 degrees. Bring a beanie. Bring a warm jacket that squishes up small. Bring gloves. Bring enough socks to keep your feet dry! Multiple pairs Also, bring rain gear, because the weather is unpredictable.
Don't forget money for Wendy's on Sunday for lunch.
RSVP here. Scouts cost is TBD. Leaders cost TBD.
Who: Troop 964 Scouts and Registered Adult Leaders
What: Two nights of Car Camping at Sugar Valley Airport, 249 Gilbert Rd, Mocksville, NC 27028
Aviation Merit Badge, including a flight in a small private plane around Forsyth County (subject to weather)
When: Friday, 8th November thru Sunday, 10th November
Arrive at New Philadelphia at 5:30 and departure is at 6:00
Planned return is just before lunch on Sunday – HOWEVER, in the past the weather (wind/fog, not rain) has prohibited flying on Saturday and we delayed flying to Sunday. Please be flexible!
Cost: Scouts $75 / Adults $50. This includes three meals on Saturday and Sunday breakfast.
Bring money for lunch on Sunday – we probably won’t need it but if we do stay later than planned on Sunday we will send an adult leader for sandwich supplies.
Meals: Bring a bag dinner for Friday night. All other meals will be by patrol.
On Saturday morning before breakfast each patrol will be given a “mystery box” of groceries and will be asked to create a menu on the spot for four meals. A portion of every ingredient in the mystery box must be used at some point during the weekend. Grades will be given.
Car Camping: This is car camping. Backpacks are not needed / pack in a large duffle.
The Sugar Valley micro-climate is damp and chilly – waterproof boots/shoes and layers for warmth!
You will need a folding chair to sit by the fire. Also sunglasses for the flight.
If you have an extra pop-up shelter please bring it to the drop off. If rain is in the forecast we will need it.
EAA Young Eagles Permission Form
A hardcopy of the EAA Young Eagles permission slip signed by a parent is required. We do not have electronic copies (yet). YOU CANNOT FLY WITHOUT A SIGNED PERMISSION SLIP. EAA requires an original hardcopy. We will have them in the parking lot at drop off.
Troop 964 Klondike Derby!
Who: Scouts and Leaders who have registered. RSVP
Please RSVP so we have an accurate headcount.
Meals: Lunch on Saturday will be provided by the leaders. Feel free to bring snacks.
Cost: $15 Don’t forget about the Dr. Mac scholarship fund!
What: The Klondike Derby consists of a race between multiple stations where patrols/ teams/ units will test their Scoutcraft skills and their leadership abilities, earning points towards a total score. Each team must transport their gear that will be necessary to complete the stations on a homemade sled pulled by the Scouts. It will be cold! Come prepared!
When: Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025 from 8:30 - 4:30
Where: 6710 Vance Road, Kernersville, NC. We will return to the church around 4:30
Details: We will no longer be camping due to the very low temperatures. This will be a day trip. We will leave from the hut at 8:30AM & return around 4:30PM on Sat., Jan. 25.
This is an active event in a farm field of taller grass, so waterproof hiking boots or running shoes with WOOL socks would be appropriate. We do have to transport the gear around 200 yards to the starting line.
Pack ALL of the following items in your day pack for Klondike:
Compass
Sun protection
Extra clothing (Layers, socks, beanie, gloves, etc)
Flashlight/headlamp
First Aid Kit
Matches/Lighter
Pocket knife
Snacks
Water bottle
Rain gear
Scout book
AND most importantly, your SCOUT SPIRIT! (also bring a Hawaiian lei to show off your spirit if you have one)
I look forward to reclaiming the trophy with you all tomorrow! Meet at the Scout Hut no later than 8:30am. We'll back back around 4:30pm
Let's have some fun and defend the CHAMPIONSHIP!!
July 13 - 19, 2025
Summer Camp Information (Swim check info below - scroll down)
SignUp Genius Potluck at 5:30 (Seton campsite) Wednesday, July 16, 2025 HERE
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Email Andy sent 4/8/25 below:
Hi fellow Campers!
We hope you are getting ready for an unforgettable summer camp at Camp Raven Knob! Thank you to everyone who has already submitted their deposit and medical health forms.
If you are still getting everything together, please remember that medical forms A, B, and C, copy of insurance card, as well as the outdoor parental release form (RKSR form) are due prior to camp departure. If you have any special diet needs, please fill out this form and return it to me ASAP: *Special-Diet-Form (ravenknob.com). HERE
Swim Test: Any scouts who have not taken the BSA swim classification test prior to arrival at camp will have the opportunity to take the test on arrival day. Scouts needing to take the test upon arrival should bring their bathing suit (1-piece only, 2-piece not allowed) and towel on the camp tour. The test will be administered immediately after our group photo at the OA arena.
Schedules and Prerequisites: Attached you will find the Troop 964 Summer Camp Schedules for our Scouts. To see your Scout’s final schedule, please see the attached PDF for your session information. Prerequisites can be found HERE
Raven Parents: All the Raven Scouts have the same summer camp schedule developed by our Adult Leaders. This is a fun schedule that will move them along in rank and merit badges, as well as prepare them to participate in more trips with the troop next Fall.
Packing Lists: Packing lists are available on the Troop website HERE
· We will pack the trailer with troop gear and each scout's personal gear on Sunday before leaving for camp.
· Trunks and Locks: Below are links to trunks and locks. Please feel free to source these items anywhere, these are simply suggestions. DO bring a lock for your trunk/footlocker and keep it locked when you are not in your cabin. This keeps out the 2 and 4-legged pests.
· Trunk: Purchase HERE
· Lock: Purchase HERE
Departure for camp: On Sunday, July 13th 2025, we will meet at the Scout Hut at 10:30 a.m.
· For departure, the scouts should wear their Class A uniform. Merit badge sashes are not needed.
· Scouts should bring a bag lunch (fast food is fine also). The first camp meal is not until dinner.
· Check In with the Scoutmaster to verify contact information and medical paperwork upon arrival at the Scout Hut.
· Medication Check In: Please be sure medication is in a Ziplock bag, labeled with instructions and your Scout’s name.
· Trunk Extra Key Locks/Combos: Please be sure to bring an extra trunk key lock or a copy of your Scout’s combination. The leaders keep the keys and combinations in case your Scout loses their key or forgets their combination.
Return Protocol: The Scouts will return to the Scout Hut on Saturday, July19 around 11:30 a.m. Scouts are expected to unpack the troop equipment prior to departing.
Electronics: Personal electronics, especially cell phones, need to be left at home. We have had multiple incidents with inappropriate things being shown or heard on the phones. If your Scout needs their phone for medical reasons that is fine, but please limit its use to that purpose. There really is no need for the phones while enjoying the best week of the summer at camp.
Camp Raven Knob Address: 2666 Raven Knob Rd, Mt. Airy, NC 27030
Scouts will be staying in the Seton Campsite.
Camp Raven Knob’s phone number is 336-352-4307. Phones are monitored from 8:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. daily.
Map HERE
Mail: Scouts are eligible to receive mail. USPS makes daily mail deliveries to camp. Address letters to scouts in this format:
Scout Name
Troop 964G
Camp Raven Knob
2666 Raven Knob Rd.
Mt. Airy, NC 27030
Family Potluck Dinner: On Wednesday, July 16th, there will be a potluck dinner with your Scout. Please plan to be there at 5:30 p.m. and bring enough food to feed your family and some lawn chairs. The Scouts really look forward to this event. We will eat at the campsite picnic shelter and after dinner parents can attend the evening ceremony. The OA ceremony runs from 8:15 pm to 9:45 pm, so we recommend bringing flashlights or headlamps to be able to return to your vehicle safely.
SignUp Genius Potluck at 5:30 (Seton campsite) Wednesday, July 16, 2025 HERE
Cabin Assignments (Don't forget to decide on a theme & decorate your cabin!)
Cabin 1 Cabin 2 Cabin 3 Cabin 4 Cabin 5
Diya Lexie Mae Harper Sophie
Lilly Ridhi Zoe Selah Nivedya
Aubrey Maddie Meghan Victoria Kayla
Emily Viola Kaylee
Please watch our Troop website and emails for additional information and updates.
Thanks,
Andy Jones
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RSVP - Summer Camp 2025
Forms for Camp:
Medical Forms - Parts A and B are completed annually by participants in all Scouting events. Part C is required for participants in any event that exceeds 72 consecutive hours & must be completed by a physician.
Outdoor Release - This form must be filled out & turned in each year your scout attends camp.
When: July 13 - 19, 2025 (Session 5)
Cost: $435 - $475 (Deposit $150 due by March 6)
Some classes have an age requirement (see the registration grid below)
Some classes cost extra (see the registration grid below)
Where: 266 Raven Knob Rd, Mt Airy, NC 27030
Campsite: Seton (CRK Campsite Map)
Classes: You must turn in your class request by March 6, 2025
CRK MB Class Picks - This is the list each scout will use to pick her classes. This gets turned in. Some classes cost extra & have a minimum age requirement. This allows you to see the classes clearer than the Class Picks. Please turn in the CRK MB Class Picks not the registration grid.
Some merit badges cannot be completed during one week of summer camp. The Prerequisites List provides which requirements you need to complete prior to camp. Make sure you take your work to camp so the Scoutmaster can determine if credit was earned. The Session List also gives information about each class & what, if any, special clothing will be required.
Parent Guide - This is lots of useful information about CRK.
Final payment will be due May 15, 2025. Please wait until you receive an invoice before you pay the final amount due. More information to come.
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CKR Swim Checks 2025
SWIM CHECKS: Date May 10th at 11am at the William G. White YMCA. 775 W End Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
May 10th from 11am
All scouts who will be attending summer camp must complete a swim check. If they are not able to attend the May 10th swim check, they will have to complete it at camp on July 13th during check-in.
Once you complete your swim check, you are free to leave. You will not be there for 2hrs.
Bring: towel, one piece swimsuit & goggles (optional)
Please contact Carleigh Scott if you have questions.
Swim check DETAILS: The swim check consists of a continuous 100-yard swim. Scouts start by jumping from standing into water over the head in depth, and swim 75 yards on the surface of the water continuously in a strong manner using one or a combination of the following strokes: front crawl, breaststroke, side stroke, or trudgen. The remaining 25 yards are swam on the back in a restful manner. The swim check is finished with a float on the back or on the stomach.
** NOTE: We have had a slight change of plans for the ski trip this weekend. The area around the Summit is expecting about 8 inches of snow this evening. The other leaders on this trip and I have decided to cancel our overnight stay at the Summit and make this ski trip a day trip, as we are worried about safely driving in and out of the Summit Bechtel Reserve.
With that being said, let's meet at the Scout Hut tomorrow morning around 6:15 am so that we may leave by 6:30 am and arrive at Winterplace around 9 am. Please eat breakfast before or bring something you can eat on the ride there. We have decided that you do not need to wear your Scout uniform because it will be so cold, and it would probably be covered up anyway. Again, please dress in layers and prepare for very cold weather!! Also, please still bring a change of clothes for the ride home. Sweaty clothing can make you feel colder, and I also do not fancy smelling body odor on the 2-hour ride home :).
RSVP - CLOSED
The deadline to sign up is Jan. 22, 2026.
Our one-night ski trip to Winterplace Ski Resort is coming up in February. Here are some important details:
What: Ski/snowboarding trip
Where: Winterplace Ski Resort in Ghent, West Virginia. We will stay overnight at the Summit Bechtel Reserve on Friday night. The Summit will provide pillows and bedding!
When: Friday, Feb. 6, 2026 - Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026. We will leave the hut at 5:30pm and return in the evening on Saturday.
How: We will travel by bus and two leader vehicles.
Cost (includes breakfast & lunch, lodging, gasoline, sales tax): (NO REFUNDS)
Helmet & Lift Ticket only: ~$146
Lift Ticket only: ~$135
Lift ticket, ski/snowboard rental, helmet bundle: ~$199
No lift ticket - just meals, lodging & gas - $66
Why you should come:
This trip is a super fun snow day! No camping is involved; you get to sleep in a heated building with your friends!
What to bring:
layers/snow clothes for one day (the snow pants/jackets are not included in equipment rental. Please bring your own winter coat, gloves, snow pants, ski goggles or sunglasses, etc.)
Pajamas
Toiletries
Money for dinner on the ride home on Saturday
Change of clothes for the ride home cause no one wants to smell sweaty teenagers. LOL!
WAIVER - Signed waiver for RENTAL WAIVER (This is REQUIRED). After filling out the form online, print it. You must hand it to Carleigh before we get on the bus. Your parent/guardian must sign the form. Scouts will not be permitted to board the bus unless the form is completed in full. Forms & Information
Email Carleigh Scott with questions - scott.c0118@gmail.com
March 21 - 23, 2025
RSVP - Deadline March 18
Who: Scouts and Leaders who have registered by the end of meeting on Thursday, March 6th. Cost will be $40. Don’t forget about the Dr. Mac scholarship fund!
What: Wilderness survival-themed car camping trip.
When: Friday March 21, 2025 thru Sunday March 23, 2025. Depart from Scout Hut on Friday at 5:30pm, return to the Scout Hut on Sunday around 10am.
Where: Tent camping overnight at Camp Raven Knob, Cripple Creek campsite, on Friday and Saturday nights.
Details: We will leave from the church as usual around 5:30 (bring dinner or have eaten, and wear Class A!!). We will all tent camp Friday night. On Saturday we will take blacksmithing lessons, throw tomahawks, and work on the Wilderness Survival merit badge (which will culminate in the Scouts building an improvised shelter and sleeping in it overnight Saturday). Scouts - Review requirement 5 and bring your wilderness survival kit on the trip to meet this requirement (hint: include a tarp and some paracord in your survival kit). Wilderness Survival worksheet & Wilderness Survival Merit Badge Info
We will NOT shoot .22 rifles on the camp rifle range, so no permission form is necessary. Unfortunately, the camp staff was unable to complete the legal paperwork from the recent changes made to the range operating procedures in time to support our shooting activity. Instead, we will do blacksmithing and tomahawk throwing.
Meals: We will cook by patrol for Saturday breakfast, Saturday lunch, Saturday dinner, and Sunday breakfast. Saturday breakfast and dinner must be cooked using a dutch oven, so plan accordingly. Saturday lunch should be something simple that does not require cooking.
There have been a few late signups. IF YOU SIGNED UP AFTER MARCH 6, MAKE SURE YOU GET IN A FOOD PATROL SO THEY KNOW TO BUY ENOUGH FOOD TO COVER YOU!
April 11-13, 2025
Who: Cost is $45
What: Troop 964 Canoe Trip to Lake James State Park 2025
Leader: Richard Alexander 336-399-3884 ralexander@fourthelm.com
When: April 11-13, 2022. Departure Friday 4/11 5:30pm. Return Sunday 4/13 around 4:00pm.
Where: Lake James in beautiful Nebo, NC. Lake James State Park
Website for Lake James State Park
What: Camping Canoe Trip
We will meet at the church at 5:30pm on Friday. It’s a two hour drive, arriving at the State Park to camp the first night in the campground. On Saturday morning we will pack up the canoes and the campsite is a good paddle across the lake, over two miles. We will camp Saturday night at Long Arm sites 21-24. On Sunday we will pack up, paddle back across the lake and return home. Arrival time around 4:00pm on Sunday. It will be an adventurous and fun trip, like backpacking in a canoe. The scenery is amazing and the camping is right on the lake.
Gear needed:
Usual backpacking camping gear appropriate for the weather. We will sleep in tents. Troop tents will be provided if needed. Hammocks may be taken but not slept in. Gear can be packed in a small duffel, but everything should be in waterproof bags, or you can line the whole of your duffel with a contractor type trash bag. I have a waterproof duffel like this one on Amazon, but it is not necessary. What is necessary is to be able to fit a REASONABLE size bag into a canoe (no 4’ long duffels!). If your clothes are in Ziploc bags, your sleeping bag is in a waterproof bag, and it all fits in a duffel bag, you will be set. Also, please bring your own life jacket (personal flotation device PFD) if you have one. Life jackets will be worn at all times on the water.
Food: Food will be cooking by patrols. There will be two patrols and each patrol should plan and shop for their meals. The Troop will reimburse the Scouts for this shopping (within reason, no Sour Patch Kids!!) Meals needed are:
1. Saturday Breakfast
2. Saturday trail lunch
3. Saturday dinner
4. Sunday breakfast
5. Bring money for fast food on Sunday.
6. Snacks as needed.
Deep Creek Tubing / Nantahala Rafting Trip 2025 (click here)
Sign This rafting Waiver To Attend!
Troop 964 Deep Creek Tubing / Nantahala Rafting 2025
Who
Troop 964 Scouts and Registered Adult Leaders
What
Two nights of Car Camping at Deep Creek Campground in GSMNP near Bryson City, NC
Saturday morning: Whitewater rafting on the Nantahala; Saturday afternoon: Tubing on Deep Creek in GSMNP
When
Friday, 19th thru Sunday, 21st September
Arrive at New Philadelphia Friday between 5.00/5.15pm for a 5.30/5.45pm departure with a bag dinner
It's about a 3.5 hour drive so bring something to do in the car
Planned return is mid-afternoon on Sunday after a lunch stop at Wendy’s. Please be flexible!
Cost
Scouts & Leaders $85/person (does not include Friday’s bag dinner or Sunday lunch)
Being High Adventure, this is defiantly a “more expensive” trip. Please know the rafting is heavily discounted.
Remember that Dr. Mac funds may be available – you just have to ask!
Schedule
Saturday morning rafting: Be at Wildwater between 9:15 and 9:30am. About 6 people on each raft with a minimum of 1 leader per raft.
Saturday afternoon tubing: Everyone will walk to the top of the creek with their tube and float all the way back to the campsite. After that the scouts MUST be with a buddy while tubing and can walk up and tube down as they would like.
After tubing on Saturday, dinner will likely happen late. Plan accordingly. Patrols should communicate dinner time.
Meals
Bring a bag dinner for Friday night and money for fast food at Wendy’s on Sunday. All other meals will be by patrol.
Scouts will organize their meal plans during the Troop meetings on the 11th and 18th and will shop for groceries shop prior to arrival. A cooler with ice will be provided for the scouts to use.
Saturdays breakfast should be relatively simple for the scouts. Lunch will be immediately after we get back to the outfitter. Keep Lunch simple as well. Ex: Sandwiches with chips and fruit. Dinner will probably happen late. Patrols need to communicate a dinner time so that no one misses it because they were too busy tubing.
There might be an opportunity to go visit a spooky abandoned tunnel and see an amazing view of Lake Fontana Sunday morning. After breaking down camp, patrols will plan breakfast accordingly. We have a 3.5 hour ride home.
Adults will be a separate patrol. Menu TBD.
Packing List
This is car camping. Technical backpacks are not needed / pack in a large duffle. Bring a gym bag/daypack to take a towel and a change of clothes to the rafting outfitter. Check the list on the Troop website HERE
The group campsites are close to Deep Creek but are small – expect 3- or 4-scouts to a tent. No hammocks.
Swimsuits under shorts and a t-shirt and closed toe shoes for both rafting and tubing. Tubing requires walking 1-2 miles up the creek on a loose gravel path and you usually do this 2-3 times. Old lace-up sneakers work best. No flops or crocs.
The Nantahala River is COLD. A 100% poly (zero cotton) hoodie will help keep you warm. A raincoat will not.
All participants must wear a PFD (life vest). The tube rental company does provide, but you may want to bring your own. Also, a rash guard to avoid chafing once the PDF is wet. Shorts are a good idea.
Bring two towels, a folding chair to sit by the fire, a jacket for Sunday morning and money for lunch on Sunday.
If you have an extra pop-up shelter, please bring it to the drop-off. If rain is in the forecast we will need it.
We will collect signed release forms for rafting (and possibly tubing) before departure.
Lost Sea Cave Dec. 6 - 7, 2025 (click here)
Troop 964 Fort Loudoun & Lost Sea Cave Trip
Note about cost for future trips:
tip Lost Sea Cave guide (1 to 20 participants) $20/guide
tip at Bradley's BBQ. In 2025 we left $50 tip
RSVP HERE - Unfortunately we have hit our max of 20 participants; however, if you would like to sign up to be an alternate if someone isn't able to go, please sign up. The alternate list will be a first come, first serve basis.
COST: $80 plus the cost of Sat. dinner at Bradley's BBQ. Ex: $80 + loaded baked potato & drink $11 = $81 total trip cost Bradley's BBQ dinner form. You must fill out the Google form for dinner to know the total cost of the trip. Dinner Google Form HERE
When: Dec. 6 - 7, 2025
Depart: Saturday, Dec. 6 at 9:30am (wheels up at 10AM) Scout Hut, New Philly (We have to check-in to Lost Sea Cave b/w 5:30-6:00PM)
Return: Sunday, Dec. 7 at 3:45pm (Scout Hut, New Philly)
Who: Scouts and Leaders who have signed up and paid TBD. Deadline to sign up Nov. 20, 2025. Max number of participants is 20 on this trip.
What: Tour Fort Loudoun State State Park and Lost Sea Caverns - There will be reenactors present and in character while we’re at Ft. Loudoun.
Where: Fort Loudoun State Historic State Park (Vonore, TN) and Lost Sea Caverns (Sweetwater, TN)
You need to wear the clothes & shoes you will be spelunking in under your Class A uniform. You will leave your Class A uniform in the car when we arrive. After spelunking, you will change into your clean clothes before bed. You will put your clean shoes on when we return to the car.
Be prepared to get muddy! Bring clothing that you are willing to sacrifice and shoes you don’t mind getting dirty! GoodWill is a great spot to purchase items you can just throw away after the trip. The red clay is likely to cover your clothes & shoes.
We will visit Fort Loudoun State Historic Area to get a glimpse of what a British frontier fort was like back around 1756. There will be reenactors! After that we’ll travel to the Lost Sea Caverns and participate in the Wild Cave Tour, where we’ll enjoy a boat ride on the largest underwater lake. Later, there will be an opportunity to squeeze through cracks, crevices, nooks, and crannies. This is where you’ll get dirty. All this excitement will culminate with sleeping the night inside the cave.
Meals:
Saturday Breakfast: Bag breakfast from home or eat before you arrive at the hut.
Saturday Lunch (while driving up): Bag Lunch from home
Saturday Dinner: Bradley’s BBQ
Sunday Breakfast: Troop provided (granola bars, bagels, fruit, juice, etc)
Sunday Lunch: Wendy’s (Bring $$)
What to Bring:
Clothing: We will travel in Class A uniform.
Bring a rain jacket for Fort Loudoun, just in case.
A full change of clothes (including shoes) for the spelunking tour that you don’t mind getting muddy, with a chance of ruin. Goodwill is a great place to find these if you don’t have anything that falls within this category. REQUIRED: Long pants, closed toed shoes. Recommended: Long sleeve shirt.
A full change of clothes to change into after the spelunking tour, Saturday night. The temperature in the cave is a humid 56 degrees. A light jacket may make you more comfortable when you’re not moving around. Bring a trash bag to put the muddy clothes & shoes.
Other Gear: Headlamp/flashlight with extra batteries. (It’s dark in the cave.)
A water bottle or two. (There is no water in the cave.)
Gloves for spelunking fun!
Sleeping bag, Sleeping Pad, and ground tarp. This is so your bag and pad aren’t on the moist, red clay.
Wet wipes. Did I mention, you’ll get dirty?
Snacks
Garbage bag for dirty clothes/shoes.
Cards or small games or books for the bus ride. (It’s a 5hr drive each way.)
There are 100+ steps to reach the campsite, so pack accordingly.
Optional: Extra spending money for the gift shops at Fort Loudoun and Lost Sea Cave.
Carolina Zipline Trip (click here)
11/14-16, 2025
RSVP is closed! (DEADLINE Nov. 6)
Carolina Zipline Website HERE
Who: Troop 964 Scouts and Registered Adult Leaders
What: Two nights of car camping at Carolina Zipline Canopy Tours 1085 Nickell Farm Rd, Westfield, NC 27053
After a morning of gliding through the Carolina skies, be prepared to expand your imagination at Hanging Rock where a Ranger will lead a discussion on birds of prey, turtles & rattle snakes.
When: Friday - Sunday (November 14 - 16)
Arrive at New Philadelphia at 5:30 and departure is at 6:00
Planned return will be before noon, Nov. 16. The troop will NOT stop for lunch at Wendy’s. 🙁
Cost: Scouts $75. This includes three meals on Saturday and Sunday breakfast.
Meals: Bring a bag dinner for Friday night. Sat., breakfast, dinner, & Sun. breakfast will be by patrol. The troop will feed the scouts for Sat. lunch.
After ziplining on Sat., the troop will picnic before we leave for Hanging Rock.
Car Camping: This is car camping. Backpacks are not needed / pack in a large duffle.
The campsite will have a picnic shelter, water and flushable toilets. (No poop beads can be earned. 🙁)
You will need a folding chair to sit by the fire.
Zipline gear requirements:
Please wear secure shoes. It takes too much time for our guides to find the shoes that fly off. (Yes they will come off).
Hair ties for long hair are recommended. We provide helmets.
Leather work gloves are encouraged
Financial donations for your leaders are encouraged. 🙂
Screams - It’s a given!
Packing list HERE - Don’t forget rain gear. It’s also likely to be cold. Come prepared.
Carolina Zipline Waiver is REQUIRED! You will not be allowed on the bus without a signed waiver. Please print & bring with you! WAIVER HERE
Klondike Derby Trip (click here)
Jan. 16-17, 2026
NOTES for Next Year:
Register through the council.
Events: sled inspection & bow saw relay (take 2 clipboards & pens, sheets for inspection & relay to record results on, log for bow saw, bow saw, (2) leather gloves, permanent marker)
Jimmy Holder is the contact. 336-399-7257
Who: Scouts and Leaders who have registered. RSVP
Please RSVP so we have an accurate headcount.
Meals: This is only a 1 night trip, Friday to Saturday. Scouts are cooking by patrol. They will prepare 1 breakfast (Sat. morning). Lunch on Saturday will be provided by the leaders. Feel free to bring snacks. You will be home on Sat. in time for dinner.
Cost: $25 Don’t forget about the Dr. Mac scholarship fund!
What: The Klondike Derby consists of a race between multiple stations where patrols/ teams/ units will test their Scoutcraft skills and their leadership abilities, earning points towards a total score. Each team must transport their gear that will be necessary to complete the stations on a homemade sled pulled by the Scouts. It will be cold! Come prepared!
When: Friday, Jan. 16 through Satuday, Jan. 17, 2026 Meet at the hut at 5:30. Wheels up at 6:00.
Where: 6710 Vance Road, Kernersville, NC. We will return to the church around 4:30 on Sat.
Details: We will leave from the church as usual at 6:00pm (bring dinner or have eaten, and wear Class A!!). We will camp in tents at the site and we will be using portable toilets. Saturday we will compete in the Klondike Derby Scout Skills event. We will leave Sat. late afternoon after the awards ceremony.
It will be cold. It will be rainy (most likely). Come prepared! Bring rain gear (always bring rain gear!) and bring multiple sleeping bags, hot hands, blankets, sweatshirts... bring items that will keep you warm. Did I mention that it will be cold?!
This is an active event in a farm field of taller grass, so waterproof hiking boots or running shoes with WOOL socks would be appropriate. We do have to transport the gear around 200 yards to the campsite, so pack everything in a bag that can be carried. Beyond that, just normal car-camping gear. We have plenty of room so feel free to bring two sleeping bags if needed. Bring your own tent or use one of the Troop tents. This is a great time to show the Council all of the Scout Skills we have learned!
We anticipate a return around 4:30PM on Sat., Jan. 17th
Pack ALL of the following items in your day pack for Klondike.
Day Pack Essentials:
Compass
Sun protection
Extra clothing (Layers, socks, beanie, gloves, etc)
Flashlight/headlamp
First Aid Kit
Matches/Lighter
Pocket knife
Snacks
Water bottle
Rain gear
Scout book
Each sled/Patrol should have:
1. Patrol First Aid kit (per handbook)
2. Water bottles per Patrol members
3. (3) six foot poles
4. (12) six foot lengths of rope
5. One tarp - Minimum 6’ x 8’
6. Fire starter and tinder
7. Matches
8. (1) one Bow Saw
9. (1) one Compass
10. 1) one Patrol size Cooking pot
11. Scouts BSA Handbook
12. Notepads
13. Pens and/or pencils
14. (1) one bandana per Patrol member
15. Patrol Flag with Patrol name and troop number
AND most importantly, your SCOUT SPIRIT! (also bring a Hawaiian lei, tropical shirts, and grass skirts to show off your spirit if you have one)
Let's have some fun and defend the CHAMPIONSHIP!!