The countdown is on — only 35 days until Scouters’ Winter Campout 2026 kicks off at Woodruff Scout Camp! Whether this is your first time or your fifteenth, there’s one essential resource every patrol needs to review before arriving: the 2026 Participant Packet.
This packet is more than just a rules sheet. It’s your patrol’s guide to success — filled with event details, judging criteria, scoring rubrics, campsite information, and tips to help you make the most of your weekend. For scout leaders, especially those looking to enhance their scout leader training experience, it’s a goldmine.
Here’s what you’ll find inside and why it matters.
Why the Participant Packet Is Essential
The SWC Participant Packet isn’t just paperwork — it’s the game plan for an epic, well-organized, and high-performing patrol. This year’s event theme, “The Journey Within,” invites every adult scout leader to dig deeper, lead better, and show up with purpose.
From judged events to campsite inspections to the Saturday night campfire, the entire weekend is designed to challenge your skills, ignite your creativity, and strengthen your patrol’s bond. The packet gives you the tools to show up ready, informed, and confident.
What’s Inside the 2026 Packet
Judged Events Overview
Each patrol will rotate through a series of scored games and challenges — and this year’s lineup is looking strong. The packet outlines all events, including objectives, scoring criteria, and equipment restrictions. Planning ahead means you can strategize, assign roles, and make sure every scout is prepared to contribute.
Campsite Evaluation Criteria
Camp setup is more than just staking tents — it’s an opportunity to earn points and showcase your patrol’s skills. The checklist includes cleanliness, safety, layout, patrol flag display, and originality in theme. Don’t forget: Campsites 1–4 will be closed this year, so plan accordingly!
Full Event Schedule
From check-in to closing flags, every hour of the weekend is mapped out. You’ll find arrival windows, patrol leader meetings, mealtimes, game rotations, and even when to prepare for the campfire. Staying on schedule is a team effort — this is your roadmap.
Patrol Roster Form
Submit your roster early and make sure every scout and adult is accounted for. This helps staff coordinate rotations, safety, and communication. Bonus: it’s also required to be eligible for awards.
General Rules & Expectations
Scout spirit, preparedness, and respectful behavior are non-negotiables. The packet lays out expectations for all patrols, adult leaders, and participants — including quiet hours, fire safety, and conduct guidelines.
Tips for Scout Leaders
The Participant Packet is also an excellent scout leader training tool. It offers practical, hands-on learning opportunities you can take back to your troop long after SWC ends.
- Use the judged events to teach skill stations during troop meetings.
- Review the scoring rubrics with patrol leaders and challenge them to think critically about teamwork and communication.
- Incorporate campsite setup into your next weekend campout and do a mock evaluation.
- Encourage older scouts to help newer members understand what’s expected. It’s a perfect opportunity for peer mentorship.
Whether you’re a veteran leader or just getting started, this event is a masterclass in scout leadership, planning, and patrol management.
Stay Informed. Be Prepared. Show Up Strong.
Download the 2026 Participant Packet now, read it thoroughly, and share it with your patrol. Being informed is the first step in making this your best SWC yet.
We can’t wait to see your creativity, teamwork, and scout spirit out on the field. Let’s make this SWC unforgettable!
REGISTRATION: If you haven’t registered your patrol for SWC 2026, now’s the time! You can always add/remove patrol members, so just get started and refine later! Early registration helps our staff prepare for the best event possible! Click to register through Tentaroo.