As a Scout Leader, the idea of running a week-long summer camp often comes up in discussions. However, despite the allure of campfires, s’mores, and outdoor adventures, I have yet to take the plunge into organizing a summer camp. My experience is limited to just one week-long camp at Tolmers Scout campsite almost 12 years ago — a wonderful campsite, I must say — but that was back when life was quite different, before my kids came along. Here are some of the reasons why I choose not to run summer camps now in 2025:

1. Family Commitments

First and foremost, my family comes first. Every summer, my wife and I look forward to our long family holiday, where we can create lasting memories together. The time spent with my kids is precious, and I cherish those opportunities to bond as a family, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and the daily commute into Central London.

2. Limited Annual Leave

As a Scout Leader, my annual leave is often consumed by various scouting events. I typically take time off for camps, including the Friday before and the Monday after, as well as for events like the Gilwell Reunion or speaking engagements, Bushcraft Skills day or even County training weekends. With all these commitments, there’s simply not enough leave left to dedicate an entire week to a summer camp.

## 3. Scouts on Holiday

Another significant factor is that many of my scouts go away on their summer holidays. Coordinating schedules becomes a challenge when the majority of the troop is unavailable. It’s disheartening to think about organizing a camp only to find that most of the scouts are off enjoying their own vacations.

The reality of summer scheduling means that even the most enthusiastic scouts might miss out on camp due to pre-existing family commitments.

4. Low Attendance

In the past, I attempted to organize summer camps before I had a family, but attendance was often low. With only a handful of scouts in the area, it didn’t seem financially viable or worthwhile to run a week-long camp for just three or four scouts. The effort, planning, and resources required for such a small group didn’t justify the outcome.

5. Balancing Family and Leadership

Finally, the idea of being away for an entire week with a group of young people, while my own kids are at home, is not something I’m comfortable with. I find it difficult to reconcile the thought of missing out on important moments with my family, especially when my wife is also juggling her own responsibilities. Being a Scout Leader is rewarding, but my role as a father takes precedence.

Conclusion

While summer camps can be a fantastic experience for many Scout Leaders and their troops, it simply isn’t the right fit for me at this stage in my life. I value the time I spend with my family and the other scouting events I participate in throughout the year. Every Scout Leader has their own unique circumstances, and it’s essential to find a balance that works for both personal and scouting commitments.

For those considering running a summer camp, I encourage you to reflect on your own priorities and circumstances. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to being a Scout Leader, and it’s okay to carve your own path!