Scoutcraft (Scout Use Only)

Nestled in the scenic beauty of the Pocono Mountains, Scoutcraft (Scout Use Only) serves as a vital hub for youth development and outdoor education within the historic Goose Pond Scout Reservation. This specialized campground and program area are designed specifically to meet the needs of those involved in the scouting movement, providing a controlled and focused environment where the next generation of leaders can master the art of the outdoors. Located near the shimmering waters of Lake Wallenpaupack, the facility offers a quintessential Pennsylvania wilderness experience, characterized by lush forests and diverse terrain that challenge and inspire visitors.

Unlike public recreational areas, Scoutcraft is a dedicated space where the values of the scouting program are woven into every activity. It is not merely a place to pitch a tent; it is an outdoor classroom where traditional skills are preserved and passed down. From the smell of woodsmoke at a pioneering site to the quiet concentration of a geocaching expedition, the atmosphere is one of purposeful adventure. For residents of Pennsylvania looking for a structured and high-quality camping environment for their youth groups, this location represents a cornerstone of the regional scouting infrastructure.

Accessibility to the site is straightforward for those living in or traveling through the Northeastern Pennsylvania region. Situated within the Wallenpaupack Lake Estates area in Lake Ariel, it is conveniently reachable from major hubs like Scranton and Wilkes-Barre. The campground is part of a larger 500-plus acre facility that has been in operation for over a century, ensuring that the trails and program areas are well-established and integrated into the natural landscape. The proximity to the glacial beauty of Goose Pond provides a serene backdrop that enhances the educational mission of the site.

• Professional merit badge instruction for youth and adult leaders.
• Dedicated program areas for pioneering and complex rope-work projects.
• Guided sessions in wilderness survival and emergency preparedness.
• Organized geocaching and orienteering courses through varied terrain.
• Seasonal resident camping programs and weekend leadership retreats.
• Training facilities for outdoor skills ranging from fire building to campsite management.
• Access to the broader amenities of the Goose Pond Scout Reservation.

The features and highlights of Scoutcraft are centered around the "learning by doing" philosophy. The quality of the experience is deeply rooted in the expertise of the staff and counselors, many of whom are seasoned outdoorsmen and women with years of experience in the scouting program. The area is famous for its pioneering projects, where scouts use logs and ropes to construct functional bridges and towers, fostering teamwork and engineering skills. The wilderness survival area allows participants to test their mettle by building natural shelters and learning to thrive in the woods with minimal gear.

• Historic location within a 542-acre glacial lake reservation.
• High-quality instruction in traditional scouting skills and modern outdoor technology.
• Extensive trail networks suitable for hiking and orienteering.
• Safe and supervised environment restricted to registered scouting participants.
• Proximity to specialized facilities like the C.O.P.E. (Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience) course.
• Diverse ecosystem perfect for nature study and conservation projects.
• Well-maintained campsites designed for troop-sized gatherings.

For those planning a visit or seeking to coordinate a troop outing, it is important to remember that this facility is strictly for scout use only. Reservations are typically managed through the Northeastern Pennsylvania Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Ensuring you have the correct contact information is vital for scheduling and obtaining the necessary permits for entry.

Address: CP5F+27, Wallenpaupack Lake Estates, PA 18436, USA

Phone: (570) 689-2561 (Goose Pond Scout Reservation Main Office)

What is worth choosing about Scoutcraft is the authenticity of the experience it provides. In an age where digital distractions are everywhere, this Pennsylvania gem offers a rare opportunity for youth to disconnect and engage deeply with the natural world. The focus on specific merit badges like Camping, Pioneering, and Wilderness Survival ensures that every minute spent at the site contributes to personal growth and self-reliance. Choosing Scoutcraft means choosing a legacy of excellence in outdoor education, backed by over 100 years of camping tradition in the heart of the Poconos.

Whether you are a scout leader looking to challenge your troop with a pioneering project or a youth member eager to earn your next badge, Scoutcraft provides the resources, the environment, and the expertise to make your goals a reality. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the great outdoors and the importance of preserving these spaces for the scouts of today and tomorrow.