Okpik Cold Weather Camping Training for Cub Scout adults, Scouts BSA and Venturing adults and youth ages 14 and up.
The Train the Trainer program provides you the knowledge and materials to conduct cold weather camping within your units. This program covers the skills and techniques needed to ensure a successful, fun, and safe cold weather camping experience. These include physical preparation, clothing, food & water, sanitation, first aid and emergency procedures, shelter building, traveling in snow, and making equipment. Cold weather camping mistakes can be deadly. The skills learned in the Okpik Course will make cold weather camping an enjoyable, safe Scouting experience.
TRAIN THE TRAINER
To provide a train the trainer opportunity to Scout leaders and experienced youth in the unique skills of winter camping. The intent of this course is to help Packs, Troops and Crews extend their camping season to all 12 months of the year. It is expected that the participants of this course will go back to their units and share the knowledge and skills learned in this course. Because of this, the course is limited to adults and mature youth. Youth must be at least 14 years old, approved by their unit leader and the Course Director.
Dates & Times:
Attendance at all of the following dates is required for graduation:
11/14/2026, 8:30am – 3:30pm (Indoor/outdoor classroom training)
12/12/2026, 8:30am – 3:30pm (Indoor/outdoor classroom training)
1/9/2027, 8:30am – 3:30 pm (Indoor/outdoor classroom training)
1/30/2027 – 1/31/2027, (Practical – outdoor campout)
Location: All sessions will be held at Camp Lowden.
BSA Camp Lowden
4418 South Scout Road
Oregon, IL 61061
Course cost: is $150 until September 30, 2026 and will increase to $170 after that date. Applications are accepted on a first-come first serve basis determined by when the application is received at Council Service Center.
For More Information Contact
Cody Elston, Okpik 2026-2027 Course Director at: codyelston@gmail.com
Andy Elston, Okpik Course Coordinator at: aelston@comcast.net
SPACE IS LIMITED…Last day to register is October 14
