(Cassie Dickenson) – Summer is in full swing for Jonesboro’s Scout Pack 523! June began with an exciting week of summer camp, where scouts were given the opportunity to learn, earn merit badges, and of course, make lasting memories.

Camp 2025 was a special milestone for Jonesboro, as it was the first year in which Troop 523 was represented at Camp TL James. While the Cub Scouts attended a four-day camp, troop members were given a week to enrich their scouting experience.

The days had scouts busy tying knots, swimming, hiking, fishing, practicing archery, boating, identifying trees, and learning about GPS technology. Many scouts were excited to hone their skills in preparing meals over the campfire. The nights were hot and humid, and a heavy rainstorm tested the strength of the campers’ tents on Saturday night.

One of the biggest hurdles that scouts must pass on the first day of camp is the swim test. It is a great honor for a scout to hear the announcement, “We have a swimmer!” as he or she completes their test. Many of Pack 523 were privileged to hear their names announced and were excited to begin the fun on the lake.

Troop members earned several badges to further their scouting careers in areas of first aid, small sail boating, and scouting heritage. These scouts also completed the Brownsea Island Program, where they learned critical skills and completed requirements for advancing through ranks in Scouting America.

While scouts were busy earning badges and attending lessons, adult chaperones were given the opportunity to earn Adult Leader merit badges as well. Assistant Scoutmasters Judd Rogers and Candace Cannady attended classes to expand their abilities in serving the pack. Rogers was also certified as an aquatics supervisor in swimming and water rescue.

There is no experience quite like the one of a child in the great outdoors, embracing and exploring nature. Summer camp at TL James has been the setting of those experiences for decades, and it will forever hold a special place in these scouts’ hearts.

If you know a youth who would love to create these same memories and experience the fun of Scouting America, contact Cubmaster Brian Hurt at (318)734-5371 or visit beascout.org for more information.