Scouting in Virginia

Scouting in Virginia refers to the activities and organizations of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) and the Girl Scouts of the USA in the state of Virginia. Scouting has a long history in Virginia, with numerous councils and troops serving youth across the state.

History

Scouting in Virginia began in the early 20th century, shortly after the founding of the Boy Scouts of America in 1910. The first BSA council in Virginia was established in Richmond in 1913. The Girl Scouts of the USA also established a presence in Virginia around the same time, with the first troop forming in Norfolk in 1914.

Boy Scouts of America in Virginia

The Boy Scouts of America is divided into several councils that serve different regions of Virginia. These councils provide support, training, and resources to local troops and units.

Councils

• Blue Ridge Mountains Council - Serving the southwestern part of the state, including Roanoke and surrounding areas.
• Colonial Virginia Council - Covering the southeastern region, including Newport News and Hampton.
• Heart of Virginia Council - Serving the central part of the state, including Richmond.
• National Capital Area Council - Covering the northern part of Virginia, including the suburbs of Washington, D.C..
• Shenandoah Area Council - Serving the northwestern region, including Winchester.

Camps

Virginia is home to several BSA camps that offer a variety of outdoor activities and programs for Scouts.

• Camp Powhatan - Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering traditional summer camp programs.
• Camp Shenandoah - Situated in the Shenandoah Valley, providing a range of outdoor activities.
• Camp T. Brady Saunders - Located near Richmond, offering a variety of Scouting programs.

Girl Scouts of the USA in Virginia

The Girl Scouts of the USA also have a strong presence in Virginia, with several councils serving different regions of the state.

Councils

• Girl Scouts of the Commonwealth of Virginia - Serving central Virginia, including Richmond.
• Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast - Covering southeastern Virginia, including Norfolk and Virginia Beach.
• Girl Scouts Nation's Capital - Serving northern Virginia, including the Washington, D.C. suburbs.
• Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline - Covering the western part of the state, including Roanoke and the Shenandoah Valley.

Camps

Girl Scouts in Virginia have access to several camps that offer a variety of programs and activities.

• Camp Kittamaqund - Located in the Tidewater region, offering traditional summer camp experiences.
• Camp May Flather - Situated in the Shenandoah Valley, providing outdoor adventure programs.
• Camp Pamunkey Ridge - Located near Richmond, offering a range of Scouting activities.

Notable Scouting Events in Virginia

Virginia has hosted several notable Scouting events, including National Scout Jamborees at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in nearby West Virginia. These events bring together Scouts from across the country for a week of activities, fellowship, and learning.

See Also

• Boy Scouts of America
• Girl Scouts of the USA
• Scouting in the United States
• National Scout Jamboree