Elevation: 0-10 ft
GPS coordinates: 33 deg 28.048' N,-118 deg 31.832' W  

        Our campsite "Carmel" is located two campsites past the giant shipwreck. Look up "SCOUTCRAFT" on the map of Emerald Bay. The boys quickly found tents with their buddies.  The first order of business is the swim check - ALL scouts and adults are required to swim 100 yards to test their abilities.  Upon completion, they are given a swim tag which is colored red and blue if they swim the entire 100 yards.  If they are unable to swim the full length, they get only the red color.  Watch for the swim tag board during the slide show.  On the way to the waterfront our ranger took us to several stations where the staff explained what activities and advancement opportunities were available during the week.  We completed the swim check in record time and all of the scouts were clear to partake in waterfront activities.  It was time to dry off and return to camp and get ready for the first meal at camp.  Two scouts per meal were assigned as waiters. The waiters arrived at the dining hall early to set up the tables in preparation for the meal. They were allowed to eat their meal before the troops arrived, and then remained afterwards to buss an clean the tables.  The first meal was penne pasta in a red sauce, corn, biscuit, and an Ice cream cup for dessert.  After dinner, a stop at the trading post was a must for most of the boys.  The trading post carries the essentials for any scout attending summer camp - soda, candy and ice cream - yeah all the things they can't buy at school. Once back at camp, the boys verified that the merit badges they signed up for are still the ones they wish to work on while at camp.  At 8:00 pm, the highlight of the evening begins - a campfire. The staff presents a very entertaining performance and fun was had by all.  Ask your scout to explain the skit images taken during the campfire.
     The morning breakfast of cinnamon roll toast, sausage patties and strawberries were well received.  Cereal and milk were served most every day for those who didn't like what was being served or needed more subsistence.  After breakfast, the "What NOT to do on the waterfront" demonstration was performed by the camp waterfront staff.  By 9:00 am, the merit badge classes were in full swing while some of the adults decided to take a bike ride towards Two Harbors.  We actually made it about 90 percent of the way before we needed to turn around to meet the bike return deadline.  In the following days, some scuba dives were done by Mr. Voelz.  Enjoy the images with your son and have him tell you about them.