Please note that BSA policy states that youth and adults must pass their Swimmer's test to be allowed to take out a boat. There are options for those who do not pass their Swimmer's test, but those are offered at the discretion of the aquatics director.
The Waterfront Is the coolest place in camp, especially on those scorching summer days! Earn the Swimming or Lifesaving Merit Badges or just come down to get wet and have some good, clean fun.
1. Merit Badges
Merit Badge Activities and advancement are morning activities so that we may offer open swimming and boating in the afternoon.
1.1 Swimming
This merit badge teaches scouts all about basic swimming skills, from the basic strokes, to snorkelling, to clothes inflation, and much more. The only pre-requisite to this merit badge is to have passed the swimmers test. Typically takes 3 to 4 days to complete.
 Swimming Merit Badge |
This is an Eagle Required Merit Badge.
1.2 Lifesaving
This merit badge is more advanced than swimming and it is suggested that scouts have completed their swimming merit badge or be a strong swimmer to take lifesaving. Lifesaving teaches scouts all of the basic lifesaving training and many of the requirements that are taught in BSA lifeguard. Scouts taking this merit badge must have passed their swimmers test.
 Lifesaving Merit Badge |
This is a Eagle Required Merit Badge.
1.3 Canoeing
This merit badge teaches scouts how to canoe, teaching them basic stokes, how to have safe trips, what to do in case of capsizing, and much more. There is no pre-requisite for this merit badge except that the scout must have passed their swimmers test. Typically takes 3 days to complete.
1.4 Rowing
Rowing is the use of oars as a means of propelling boats, has grown from a basic method of transportation to a competitive sport and an enjoyable method of exercising. This merit badge teaches scouts the basic rowing maneuvers, different styles of rowboats, basic water rescues, and much more. There is no pre-requisite for this merit badge except that the scout must have passed their swimmers test. Typically takes 2 to 3 days to complete.
1.5 Small Boat Sailing
Sailing is one of the most enjoyable pastimes on the open water. The quiet and peacefulness of the water can provide a pleasant break from everyday life. However, smooth sailing requires paying careful attention to safety. This merit badge teaches scouts about the various parts of a sailboat, how to sail in the wind, and what to do if their boat capsizes. There is no pre-requisite for this merit badge except that the scout must have passed their swimmers test. Typically takes 2 to 3 days to complete.
2. Certifications Offered
2.1 Safe Swim Defense
Any adult 21 years of age or older who works with a Scouting unit is eligible for training to become a qualified supervisor of aquatic activities. Training sessions are typically offered once a week, with the day and time announced that week. The Safe Swim Defense certification is valid for two years, and is and is required for those working on Swimming and Water Rescue certification.
2.2 Safety Afloat
Any adult 21 years of age or older who works with a Scouting unit is eligible for training to become a qualified supervisor of aquatic activities. Training sessions are typically offered once during the week, with the day and time announced that week. The Safety Afloat certification is valid for two years, and is required for those working on Paddle Craft Safety certification.
2.3 Swimming and Water Rescue¶
Training for BSA Swimming & Water Rescue provides BSA leaders with information and skills to prevent, recognize, and respond to swimming emergencies during unit swimming activities. It expands the awareness instruction provided by Safe Swim Defense training. Persons completing the training should be better able to assess their preparation to supervise unit swimming events. The BSA recommends that at least one person with this training is present to assist with supervision whenever a unit swims at a location that does not provide lifeguards. This training is open to any registered adult leader, Scout, Venturer, or Explorer who is age 16 or older, and is valid for 3 years. This course typically takes 2 days to complete
2.4 Paddle Craft Safety
Float trips are popular Boy Scout and Venturing activities. Safety Afloat awareness training provides guidelines for safe float trips and is required of unit leaders, but does not provide the skill training mandated by those guidelines. BSA Paddle Craft Safety expands Safety Afloat training to include the skills, as well as the knowledge, needed for a unit leader to confidently supervise canoeing excursions on flat water. Persons completing the training should be better able to access their preparation to supervise paddle craft activities. The training is open to any registered adult leader, Scout, Venturer, or Explorer who is age 16 or older, and is valid for 3 years. This course typically takes 2 days to complete
2.5 Mile Swim, BSA
Do you want to develop your fitness and stamina? If so, the Mile Swim could be the program for you. It may even be easier than you think! During the first four days of the program (you must start on Monday) the aquatics staff will train and prepare you for the swim, which is on Friday. Scouts, venturers and adults that complete the program receive a special pocket card.
2.6 BSA Lifeguard
BSA Lifeguard certification is an all-week program designed for scouts ages 15 and older who wish to work on staff at a BSA summer camp. Scouts who are interested must possess current certifications in CPR for the Professional Rescuer (or equivalent) and First Aid prior to starting the program at camp.
3. Other Activities
Merit Badge Activities and advancement are morning activities so that we may offer open swimming and boating in the afternoon.
3.1 Iceberg
In 2010 a giant inflatable iceberg was added to the Waterfront area for scouts to climb on and slide down. The iceberg is typically open in the afternoons during open swim and open boating. Scouts are called up in small groups, put on lifejackets, and then typically have 15 to 20 minutes as a group to climb the iceberg. All scouts must pass their Swimmer's test in order to be allowed to climb the iceberg
3.2 Thursday Night Luau
Each week the Waterfront staff hosts a luau on Thursday night after dinner. This is often grouped together with a euchre tournament sponsored by the Handicraft staff. Common luau activities involve beach volleyball, music dance parties, a bonfire, and some occasional boating activities. There is typically no open swimming during the luau.
3.3 Unit Swims
Unit Swims may be scheduled by your SPL or Crew President. Make sure that he or she reserves a time for your troop as early as possible. The activity must be supervised by an adult from your unit who is currently certified in Safe Swim Defense.