Scouting News

 Upcoming Events

Important Announcement 

Dear Scouting Families,

We are writing to share an important update regarding camping programs at Camp Karankawa and outdoor activities across the Bay Area Council. We also want to inform you that our Council is working with National Scouting America, other Texas councils and the State of Texas to ensure that a 2025 Hill Country tragedy does not happen again.

The Bay Area Council is currently undergoing the 2026 recertification and authorization process for Scouting America’s National Camp Accreditation Program (NCAP). NCAP is an ongoing year-round process, with a more comprehensive review every five years to ensure camps and programs nationwide meet the highest standards for health, safety, and quality. In addition to NCAP, we have also been evaluating compliance with updated requirements under the Texas “Heaven’s 27 Act” that will affect only the council’s long term camping requirements.

For now, long-term camping programs (those lasting more than three days) must be adjusted while we work to meet enhanced state requirements. One major challenge is the lack of fiber optic internet service in the area around Camp Karankawa. These communication and monitoring standards affect not only Camp Karankawa, but also other council outdoor program locations, including Cub Scout Twilight Camps. At this time, the law does not permit alternative services for long-term camps.

We understand how meaningful these outdoor experiences are for Scouts and their families, and these decisions were made with compliance and the long-term strength of our programs in mind. Council leadership is actively exploring solutions and evaluating infrastructure improvements that will help support expanded camping opportunities in the future.

The good news is that Bay Area Council will continue offering a full calendar of short-term camping, weekend events, and day-program opportunities. Scouts will continue to enjoy outdoor adventures, advancement opportunities, leadership development, and fellowship through events such as Cub Shooting Sports Days, Ghosts & Goblins, Space Weekend, Cub-O-Ree, Merit Badge Days, Camp-O-Ree, National Youth Leadership Training, and Order of the Arrow activities.

We are also redeveloping the programs for Fall Camp 2026, Winter Camp 2026, and Cub Twilight Camp will be returning in Summer 2027 to serve more Scouts in new and creative ways.

Thank you for your understanding, flexibility, and continued support of Scouting in our community. Please continue to visit bacbsa.org for the latest program information, reservations, and calendar updates.

Beware At Camp

Please be aware that Camp Karankawa is home to many dangerous animals including alligators, snakes, feral hogs, and bobcats.
Stay at least five feet away from the water, remain on walking paths, wear closed-toed shoes. Do not attempt to feed or engage any of the animals.