In just two weeks, we will get the opportunity to camp in the Tree Houses of S Bar F Scout Ranch, “Where,” according to Scouting Magazine, “the Highlights Are … Really High.” 
In celebration of the Boy Scouts of America’s first 100 years, in 2010, Scouting Magazine created a new feature, called “Cool Camps,” in which one feature of one BSA camp that was considered to be unique and truly incredible was highlighted on the back cover. This feature only extended for the centennial year, meaning only 12 BSA camps were featured. Of those 12, S Bar F Scout Ranch’s Tree Houses were the first selection to be featured, nationally:
“When you camp here in a tent, the view will undoubtedly surpass what you see out of your bedroom window. But when you camp in a tree house, the sweeping vista becomes practically ethereal. That’s the draw of the S-Bar-F Scout Ranch in Knob Lick, Mo., about 80 miles south of St. Louis. Here’s what to expect:
• Five tree houses sit atop telephone poles. Walkways connect them so that you and your Scouts don’t have to climb down to visit your neighbors. One adult tree house has an electrical outlet and light, but the others are more primitive.
• During the summer, the S-Bar-F uses the tree houses for camp programs, but it rents them out as units the rest of the year. Packs, troops, or crews can reserve one or all five. Each one sleeps six in bunk beds.
• The tree houses remain in high demand even during the dead of winter, when snow covers the ground.
• Who needs four walls? These units feature an opening on one side that gives you and your Scouts a great view of 270-acre Nims Lake nearby.”
Troop 501 will be camping in the Tree Houses February 27-March 1, 2015. This will be a unique experience that our Scouts will not want to miss! This week, the Scouts will be developing their menus, shopping lists, and duty rosters for the weekend. Be sure to come, so that your voice will be heard!
