Guide to Camps - Girl Scouts of West Central Florida

Guide to Camps
Revised 02/12
www.gswcf.org
1

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Whom to Call 3
Progression in the Out-of-Doors 4
Leadership for Troop Camping 5 – 6
How to Reserve a Campsite 7
Welcome to Camp – Site Information 8 – 9
Guidelines When Men Are In Camp 10
Guidelines for Aquatic Activities 10 – 11
Major Emergency Procedures 12
Emergency Procedures and First Aid 13
Quick Reference for Girl Scouts of West Central Florida’s Camps
Camp Dorothy Thomas 14
Camp Indian Echo 17
Camp Scoutcrest 20
Camp Wai Lani 24
Camp Wildwood 27
Plant City Troop House 30
Map of Girl Scouts of West Central Florida 31
2

Whom to Call
Outdoor Program Manager: (ext. 1819) Questions regarding the camp pathway, outdoor
programs, challenge course, aquatics programs, resident and day camp programs for all camp
properties.
Adult Learning Manager: (ext. 1783) Responsible for adult trainings
Equestrian Program Manager (Camp Wildwood): (813-417-9583) Questions regarding
equestrian programs (not registration), care of horses, oversees maintenance of riding areas and
barn.
Program Pathways Manager (ext. 1817) schedules challenge course.
CAMP RANGERS
Matthew Swallow Camp Dorothy Thomas 813-689-8061 813-758-4501
Erik Adams-Witte
Camp Dorothy Thomas
(Assistant Ranger)
813-689-8061 813-451-2421
Deb Dereniski Camp Indian Echo 727-856-6760 813-758-4591
John Nichols Camp Scoutcrest 813-920-2873 813-325-1836
Shane Colvin Camp Wai Lani 727-937-0203 813-758-4516
Elton Lackey Camp Wildwood 352-748-2825 813-417-5467
Jeff Locke
Camp Wildwood
(Assistant Ranger)
352-748-2825
3

LEADERSHIP FOR TROOP CAMPING
Leadership ratio requirements for Girl Scout camping can be found in Safety Activity
Checkpoints on page 119, or Volunteer Essentials. All grade levels require a minimum of two
adults. To enable girls to learn outdoor skills and enjoy nature, the number of additional adults
should be limited at camp. Training requirements are as follows:
Basic Outdoor Leadership Training is required to camp one to three nights in a lodge,
cabin or tent unit, including tree houses and tepees. Plan sufficient time to train the girls in
the troop prior to applying for a camp site.
To build on outdoor skills leadership experiences, outdoor skills workshops are offered
throughout the year (i.e. outdoor cooking, GPS, knots …) Visit www.gswcf.org /calendar for
upcoming adult trainings and events.
Wilderness Part 1 is required to take girls primitive backpacking/camping in wilderness
areas with no facilities available.
A minimum of six to eight weeks is suggested to prepare for a camping experience
to ensure that all girls are ready for this outdoor experience.
While working and planning with girls, you will want to refer to the Group Camping Activity
Checkpoints in Safety Activity Checkpoints to evaluate the readiness of your troop. Additional
considerations might include:
Girls have experience with overnight sleep over.
Girls have participated in these evening activities:
Night hike
Astronomy (star-gazing)
Campfire
Animal observations
Recording wind and animal sounds
Games like “Predator vs. Prey,” “Owls,” “Blind Eagle,” or “Night Eyes”
Girls are prepared for inclement weather.
A hot/cool weather fashion show has been shared with the girls.
Girls have used knife safety to prepare meals and have made fire starters.
Girls have practiced fire building skills.
Girls have planned their own meals and practiced cooking.
The troop has visited the campsite during daylight hours for day activities prior to staying
overnight.
Girls have participated in grade appropriate activities within the outdoor environment.
5

Girl Scout Daisies, under the leadership of an adult, may participate in an occasional overnight
camping experience as a troop. Daisies who have completed kindergarten may independently
participate at day camp and in resident camp experiences lasting up to three nights. Daisies who
have completed first grade may independently participate in resident camp experiences lasting
four or more nights. All Daisies should sleep only in bottom bunks.
Girl Scout Brownies who have experienced several outdoor days and have been acquainted with
a campsite may camp overnight at the following sites:
• Camp Dorothy Thomas – Holiday House and C.I.T. Unit
• Camp Indian Echo – Log Cabin
• Camp Scoutcrest – KP Lodge
• Camp Wai Lani – All units
• Camp Wildwood – Friendship House, Health Center and Horseshoe Meadows
• Plant City Troop House
Inexperienced Girl Scout Juniors may be more comfortable camping at a dormitory site like
those listed above before experiencing cabin camping. As girls progress, they can experience
platform tents, tepee and tent camping.
Girl Scout Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors may camp in the tree houses as well as any
available camp unit.
Progression in outdoor skills is vital as a troop moves from cabin to tent camping. Practice
in these skills enhances the confidence level of girls.
Camp Ranger/Camp Watch Volunteer – The ranger’s/camp watch volunteer’s duties are to
maintain camp buildings and facilities. Please allow him/her to use his/her time to the best
advantage by not asking him/her to do things troops should do. If needed equipment is missing
or broken, ask for help, but respect his/her time and duties. If equipment is missing but not
needed during your stay, list it on the After Camp Report so that it can later be replaced.
Camping at Girl Scouts of West Central Florida camps is on a “time sharing basis” – If
your troop is camping Friday night only at a Girl Scouts West Central Florida site, checkout is no
later than 1 p.m. Saturday. If you are camping Saturday night only, arrival time is no earlier than
3 p.m. Saturday. Many troops participate in our one-night camping programs, so that more troops
are able to camp. It is a great way to camp for a troop without prior camping experience. All
facilities may be shared with others.
Camping during holidays and school breaks – You may camp at council sites when there are
“days off,” such as Winter and Spring breaks. For specific holidays, check the Council Calendar
to find out when camps are closed: www.gswcf.org/camps/camp_availability .
VISITING GIRL SCOUTS OF WEST CENTRAL FLORIDA’S CAMPS
All program sites and camp units are available for after school and weekday
use on Monday through Friday. To reserve a camp, please contact the
appropriate Camp Ranger or Outdoor Program Manager.
6

All visits to our campsites must be coordinated through the facilities manager at the Tampa
Service Center. The facilities manager will contact the camp ranger so he/she will know you are
coming to camp. Upon arrival, visitors must check in with the camp ranger/camp watch
volunteer.
HOW TO RESERVE A CAMPSITE
Find out what is available: To find availability of units/facilities for troops to camp, visit our
council website at www.gswcf.org : Click on “Calendars,” then “Camp Availability Calendars,”
then select the camp you are interested in. The units and facilities that are listed have been
reserved.
Use the “Troop/Group Application” form to apply for a campsite. Camp reservations are not
made by phone. You may request a form be faxed or emailed to you; contact the Tampa Service
Center: (813) 281-4475/ 800-881-4475.You may also visit our council website at
www.gswcf.org : Click on “Resources,” then “Camp Resources,” then “Troop/Group Camp
Application.”
Communities obtain their campsite applications online and must submit them with signatures
from their camp pathways coordinator, encampment/events director and program pathways
manager. Encampments may be scheduled the first, third and fifth weekends of the month at
Camp Wildwood and Camp Dorothy Thomas. There are no restrictions for reserving camps by
communities at Camp Indian Echo, Camp Scoutcrest and Camp Wai Lani.
Troops must have the signature of their troop pathways coordinators to process reservations.
Applications cannot be processed unless the appropriate approval has been obtained. All fees,
completed forms and training documentation for the campsite you are requesting must be
included.
When completed paperwork, training documentation and fees arrive at the Tampa Service
Center, the available date is verified and payment is processed though the accounting
department, the ranger is notified of your reservation and the troop leader is sent a confirmation.
The camp ranger or outdoor program manager then verifies troop camp certification, lifeguard
certification (if necessary) and other required certified consultants accompanying the troop. If
fees, signatures, or training documentation are missing, processing is stopped and a call is made
to the applicant indicating the items needed to continue processing. Camping confirmations will
be sent out once all the above is completed, which will include final confirmation of your
campsite, and date as well as a map to camp and a site map.
All sites owned and operated by Girl Scouts of West Central Florida Council, Inc. are
available for weekday use by Girl Scout troops and outside groups, as well as for weekend
camping.
7

Welcome To Camp – Site Information
Check In with the ranger/camp watch volunteer upon arrival. Indicate the numbers of girls,
adults and tag-a-longs, and give him/her the troop’s or event’s emergency contact’s name and
number. The emergency contact person is someone who will be at camp for the entire weekend
or event. Also indicate the definite time of your departure on your last day. The ranger/camp
watch volunteer will arrive in your unit to check you out half an hour before your departure time,
unless other arrangements have been made.
Park your vehicles in the main parking lot as directed by the ranger/camp watch volunteer.
Unload your gear and walk to your site. Only at Camp Wildwood will you unload your gear and
place it into the trailer for the unit you will be staying in; it will be delivered. The trailer is
located in main parking lot, under the pole barn at the trail head.
Two emergency vehicles per unit will be allowed to drive to the unit and park in the designated
parking area. If you are sharing the unit, you may want to discuss who will have the emergency
vehicle prior to your trip. The emergency vehicle in the unit is for the use of all campers in that
unit, so it is essential that the vehicle’s owner understands that and communicates the location of
the keys to all adults in that unit.
Trails: Please only use designated walking trails.
Camp gate: The entry gate is closed at 9 p.m. and reopened at 8 a.m. Please ask for the
combination/gate code, if applicable.
Bath House: Please use trash cans for trash and feminine sanitary supplies disposal. Do not
throw trash, food, or sanitary supplies into the toilets. Camps use septic systems, and these items
will cause clogs. Do not use the sink basins in the bathrooms for washing dishes; it is unsanitary
and septic systems can’t handle grease.
Food Storage: Make sure that you secure all food at night in tightly sealed containers and store
them in the unit house or emergency vehicle. Keep no food or sweetened drinks in the sleeping
quarters because animals will find it. Remind girls of this.
Dishwashing: Girl Scouts West Central Florida prefers dishwashing to the use of disposable
dishes and utensils. Use biodegradable soap. Strain your dishwater to remove food particles (use
a strainer or a bandana.) Straining the water eliminates animals finding it and it is better for the
environment. Dispose of the water by scattering it away from the fire ring and living area.
Propane stoves must be used away from all structures. Cooking in-cabin is strictly prohibited by
the fire department. Guidelines for cooking, food preparation and cleaning, and cooking fires can
be found in Safety Activity Checkpoints.
Electricity: A light (night light where provided) should be left on in the bathroom at night. All
other lights should be turned off when going to bed. All lights should be turned off during
daylight hours.
Smoking is not permitted in the presence of girls. Please smoke in designated areas only.
8

Lights Out is 10 p.m. to respect other troops’ needs for quiet or sleep. Leaders do bed checks
before retiring. Check again after all is quiet.
Running: Walk – do not run in camp. It assures a safer camp experience. Camp hazards that
may trip you include rocks, roots and gopher tortoise borrows. Run in designated areas only.
Chewing Gum: Gum is not permitted in camp, it is bad for wildlife.
Footwear: Fully enclosed shoes are required in camp to protect you and your campers.
Check Out: Half an hour before your departure time, the ranger/camp watch volunteer will
come down to inspect the unit. Unit inspection will include checking all the sleeping areas, bath
house, unit house and fire circle for trash, left items and graffiti. You may be asked to correct
any problems. When the unit is cleaned satisfactorily to all concerned and the End of Camp
Report has been submitted, your camp stay is completed.
Camping Equipment: To reserve equipment, use the Troop/Group Application.
Not permitted at GSWCF camps: Alcohol, fire arms, ammunition, fireworks, all-terrain
vehicles, personal pets, bad attitudes.
Program Totes: Use the Program Totes and Equipment Request Form located on the website to
use Program Totes at camp. Visit http://www.gswcf.org/resources/volunteer-resources, for a
complete list of totes, and how to reserve for your troop. We have programs that can be checked
out for your next troop meeting.
Campfires: Never leave fire unattended, and always fill your bucket of water, have the
provided rake and shovel at hand. Fires should only be built in fire rings or fire circles.
• Consider wind conditions and site when burning.
• Long hair and loose garments should be kept tied back for personal safety.
• Make sure fire ring/fire circle is free from all debris.
Disposing of campfire ashes
• GSWCF camps have special trashcans in each unit marked “ASH DISPOSAL.”
• After your campfire is completely out (i.e., sprinkled with water, stirred, sprinkled again
and allowed to sit long enough so that it is cool to the touch), scoop the ashes up and
place them in this can.
• The ranger/camp watch volunteer will dispose of the ashes.
Garbage Disposal
• When you arrive at camp, check with the ranger/camp watch volunteer for garbage
procedures for that camp.
• Throw any trash and food scraps into garbage can.
• Please recycle.
9

Guidelines When Men Are In Camp: The female role model is essential to fulfilling the
purpose of Girl Scouting. Each Girl Scout troop or group should have at least one female adult
not related to the other adults on the leadership team. Men may camp with troops or service units
only if separate sleeping quarters and bathrooms are available for their use. Men:
may live in unoccupied cabin within unit.
may use a tent in a designated tent camping unit as long as appropriate adult coverage is
provided in unit.
must have a designated bathroom with a “Men” sign.
GUIDELINES FOR AQUATIC ACTIVITIES
Before scheduling waterfront activities with Girl Scouts, read and follow guidelines on
waterfront activities in Safety Activity Checkpoints. In addition, the following Girl Scout West
Central Florida guidelines must be followed:
Swimming
The following information may be used to help determine the swim level of girls:
A beginning swimmer should be able to:
• Jump into water over head, level off and swim 20 feet without stopping.
• Be able to change direction while swimming, rotate to a back position and float for 30
seconds, rotate to front position and return to starting point.
An intermediate swimmer should be able to:
• Do a standing front dive; swim under water 15 feet; surface and survival float for 5
minutes.
• Swim continuously for 5 minutes using any or all of the following strokes: front, side, or
back.
An advanced swimmer should be able to:
• Swim for 10 continuous minutes.
• Do a coordinated and effective breast stroke, side, crawl and back crawl stroke in deep
water.
• Disrobe in deep water, inflate trousers and use as a flotation device; stay afloat for 5
minutes.
10

LIFEGUARDING REQUIREMENT CHART
Ensure the presence of watchers. A watcher is a person trained in the use of
basic water rescue equipment and procedures who works under the direction
of the lifeguard. American Red Cross Basic Water Rescue certification or
equivalent is appropriate. Lifeguards and watchers are stationed at separate
posts and stay out of the water, except in emergencies. An American Red
Cross Lifeguarding Instructor or American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor
(WSI) can provide training in Basic Water Rescue.
Number of
Swimmers
Lifeguards Watchers
1-10 1 Adult 1*
11-25 1 Adult
2 persons, at least 1 is an adult;
2*
26-35 others may be 16 years of age
or older.
2 persons, at least 1 is an adult;
3*
36-50 others may be 16 years of age
or older.
4*
* Some states allow watchers to be under the age of 18, but in all states, they must be at least
16 years of age.
At no time may the number of lifeguards and watchers who are under the
age of 18 be greater than the number of adult lifeguards and watchers.
Accepted Training:
• YMCA Lifeguard Training (YMCA Lifeguard Training certification
valid only if the individual has current certification in first aid and
CPR)
• Boy Scouts of America Lifeguarding (pool only)
• Royal Life Savings Society of Canada: National Lifeguard core course
(must have one of the following options: pool, waterfront, surf, or
water park)
• Royal Life Saving Society United Kingdom: Pool Lifeguard Bronze
Medallion and Beach Lifeguard Bronze Medallion.
• United States Lifesaving Association – Open Water Lifeguard
SMALL CRAFT ACTIVITES – canoes, kayaks, rowboats, sailboats
To use canoes, kayaks, rowboats and various sailboats, a group must be accompanied by
1) an adult (18 years or older) who holds an American Red Cross Small Craft Safety
certification. See Safety Activity Checkpoints for specific safety requirements for each
boating activity.
2) an adult certified First-Aider, see Volunteer Essentials for additional information.
3) an adult certified in CPR, see Volunteer Essentials for additional information.
11

MAJOR EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Person in charge at the scene follow these procedures:
Use the GSWCF Incident/Accident Information Report found at
www.gswcf.org in Resources/Forms section under Volunteer Resources.
1) GIVE PRIORITY ATTENTION TO PROVIDING PROPER CARE FOR THE
INJURED PERSON. Secure doctor, ambulance, clergyman and police as appropriate.
Retain a responsible adult at the scene of the accident/emergency, provide all possible care
for the sick and injured. Notify camp ranger/camp watch volunteer.
2) NOTIFY PARENT OR GUARDIAN, reporting nature of emergency, condition of injured
and present location of the injured person.
3) REPORT THE INCIDENT TO STAFF AT THE SERVICE CENTER at (813)281-4475,
or 1-800-881-4475, as soon as possible within 24 hours or on the first working day following
incident. The responsible adult and camp ranger should coordinate getting the report to the
Tampa Service Center.
4) IN THE EVENT OF A DEATH, SERIOUS ACCIDENT, or MAJOR EMERGENCY,
contact by telephone one of the following (call collect, if necessary; continue calling until
one is reached.)
a) In the event of a fatality, always notify the police. Retain a responsible adult at the scene
of the accident and see that no disturbance of victim or surroundings is permitted until the
police have assumed authority.
b) Contact by telephone one of the following (call collect, if necessary; continue calling
until one is reached.)
• The camp ranger/camp watch for your site.
• Kim Jowell, Chief Executive Officer – Office: (813) 262-1812, Cell: (813) 368-1900
• Antwinette Battle, Chief Membership and Program Officer – Office: (813) 262-1760,
Cell: (813) 300-0566
• Kristen Whitaker, Chief Marketing and Strategy Officer – Office: (813) 262-1778,
• Cell: (813) 263-7592
5) MAKE NO STATEMENTS (talking or in writing), which could be interpreted either as an
assumption or rejection of responsibility for the accident. Refer all media (press, radio, TV)
to Chief Marketing and Strategy Officer, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Membership and
Program Officer....they are the only official spokespersons for the organization.
6) PREPARE A CHRONOLOGICAL WRITTEN REPORT RECORDING:
• Exact time of each occurrence.
• Each step taken and by whom.
• Exact statements made to whom and by whom.
• A sketch of the scene, including physical pertinences and placement of people involved.
• Names and addresses of all witnesses.
• File the report, fax to (813) 282-8374, or email to ksandy@gswcf.org
12

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES & FIRST AID
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Where Girl Scouts gather, the leader or another responsible adult accompanying the troop should
be able to administer First Aid. While First Aiders may not be required for regular troop
meetings, they are a must for activities such as camping, swimming, competitive sports, etc.
A general First Aid kit should be available at the meeting place and accompany the troop for all
activities, including transportation to and from an event. Troops should also have with them the
current American Red Cross First Aid book along with directions and phone numbers to the
nearest hospital.
For any accident/incident on a Girl Scout facility, the camp ranger/camp watch volunteer should
be notified and an accident/incident report should be completed.
ACCIDENT - ILLNESS
All accidents or illnesses requiring a visit to a doctor or hospital shall be reported to the council
within 24 hours, or the next regular business day, using the Incident/Accident Information
Report, found in volunteer essentials, page 104 or gswcf.org/resources/volunteer-resources.
In the event of a death, serious accident, or other major emergency, follow the procedures on the
Major Emergency Procedures, on page 12.
BAD WEATHER
In case of a tornado watch or warning, the camp ranger/camp watch volunteer will inform the
emergency contact person of the condition. Campers are usually safer to stay where they are.
If you see a tornado approaching, have everyone lie flat on the ground in a low area (ditch, if
available) and protect their heads by covering with jackets, blankets, and mattresses, whatever is
readily available. Do not waste time running. Drop and protect.
Leaders should call the girls’ listed emergency contacts as soon as safely possible to assure them
that girls are safe if the weather has been severe.
FIRE
In case of fire, call the Fire Department first then notify camp ranger/camp watch volunteer
immediately. Emergency numbers are posted at all camps.
If it is necessary to evacuate, account for each Girl Scout and move quickly away from the
danger area towards a hard surface road or a body of water. Follow evacuation routes located at
each camp site. Keep girls supervised so that the leader knows where every girl is at all times.
Return to unit only when the all-clear signal has been given.
13

CAMP DOROTHY THOMAS
200 ACRES; UNIT CAPACITY: 211; DINING HALL CAPACITY: 281
RANGER ON SITE: (813) 689-8061, Cell (813) 758-4501
Camp Dorothy Thomas (CDT), in southeast Hillsborough County about 25 miles from Tampa,
offers progressive camp experiences for beginning to experienced campers.
Take I-75 to the Gibsonton/Riverview exit (exit #250). Turn left (east) on Gibsonton Road and
drive 1.5 miles. At the intersection of Gibsonton Road and Route 301, turn right (south) on 301
for 2.5 miles. Turn left (east) onto Rhodine Road and continue 5.3 miles until Rhodine dead ends
at Boyette Road. Turn left on Boyette and drive 0.25 mile to CDT entrance gate, which is on the
left.
or
Take I-75 to the Gibsonton/Riverview exit (exit #250). Turn left (east) on Gibsonton Road and
drive 1.5 miles. Gibsonton Road becomes Boyette Road at the intersection of Route 301.
Continue east on Boyette 3.6 miles to the intersection of Bell Shoals/Boyette Road. Turn right
(south) and continue on Boyette Road 3.1 miles to CDT. Boyette makes several 90-degree turns
between the intersection of Bell Shoals and the CDT entrance gate, which is on the right side of
the road and is flanked by white brick pillars.
14

CAMP
SLEEPING SUITABLE
UNITS
CAPACITY
FOR
Chigger
Oak
Skunk
Sleepy
7 cabins, unit house, bathhouse, electric lights
7 cabins, unit house, bathhouse, electric lights
7 cabins, unit house, bathhouse, electric lights
7 cabins, unit house, bathhouse, electric lights
28
28
28
28
Brownies, Juniors,
Cadettes, Seniors, &
Ambassadors
Pioneer
Campers may pitch tents, screened unit house
(w/electric lights), bathhouse
36 Experienced campers
Ladybug
Dormitory with bunk beds, leader room,
electricity, kitchen, bathroom and fire circle.
28 All campers
Holiday
House
Floor sleeping (20 cots provided), electricity,
kitchen, bathroom, fireplace
Sleeping dormitory with bunk beds, leader’s
20 All campers
C.I.T. room, electricity, kitchen, bathroom and fire
circle
28 All campers
Wilderness
Water, picnic table, primitive camping equipment
(tents). Use Sleepy bathhouse
36 Experienced Campers
15

Other Camp Dorothy Thomas Facilities:
Swimming Pool – shared by all troops. See Safety Activity Checkpoints for lifeguard
requirements, or page 11 of this guide.
Archery Range – Must have certified council-approved instructors.
Other Sports Equipment – Equipment is available to provide sports related activities for girls
and can be requested from ranger upon check-in.
Lizzard (Craft Building) – Kiln is available if troop has a certified, council-approved
instructor. Water and electricity are available if needed for group activities.
Luggage/Day Shelter-may be used for group activities. No electricity or water is available at
this shelter.
Challenge Course – low and high ropes course. Must have certified-council approved
instructors. Contact the Tampa Service Center to arrange for use.
Special use cabins – listed below are used only for council, service unit events, and resident
camp:
STAFF CABIN – 6 beds, bath, electric lights
COOK’S CABIN – 6 beds, electric lights
Lodge/Kitchen – the lodge may be reserved for use without the kitchen. If use of the kitchen
facilities is needed, contact the Outdoor Program Manager for the current requirements for
kitchen staff.
16

CAMP INDIAN ECHO
160 ACRES; UNIT CAPACITY: 144
RANGER ON SITE: (727) 856-6760, Cell (813)758-4591
Camp Indian Echo in Pasco County is about 43 miles northwest of Tampa and 10 miles northeast
of Port Richey. This ecologically undisturbed site features rolling land covered with oak and
pine. A small lake completes the camp area.
From Pinellas, Pasco or Hernando counties, take US 19 to Hudson Avenue, turn east. Camp
entrance is 1 mile east of intersection of Hudson Avenue and Hicks Road. Those coming from
Pasco County can also take Little Road (CR 1) to Hudson Avenue or CR 77 (Seven Springs
Blvd./Rowan Road/Regency Park Blvd.) to US 19, then proceed to Hudson Avenue.
From Tampa, take I-75, US 41, or the Suncoast Parkway (toll road) north to SR 52, turn left
(west), *go to Hayes Road (12 miles west of I-75 or 4 miles west of US 41 or 1 mile west of
Suncoast Parkway). Turn right (north), follow Hayes Road 2 miles to Hudson Avenue. Turn left
(west) onto Hudson Avenue, drive 4 miles. Camp entrance is on left side of road
From Brooksville, take I-75, US 41, or the Suncoast Parkway (toll road) south to SR 52, turn
right (west) and follow instructions from *above
17

CAMP UNITS SLEEPING SUITABLE
CAPACITY FOR
Log Cabin
Floor sleeping (cots provided), kitchen,
bathroom, fireplace, and fire circle
32 All campers
Platform Tents
Teepees
Treehouses
7 platform tents, open unit shelter, fire
circle, bathhouse
7 teepees, open unit shelter, fire circle,
bathhouse
6 treehouses, 1 platform tent, open unit
shelter, fire circle, bathhouse
Primitive units have cleared areas for
28
42
28
Juniors, Cadettes,
Seniors, &
Ambassadors
Owassee
Potawatomi
Calusa
pitching tents. (Bring your own tents.)
Good for beginning tent campers.
Bathhouses available for shared use by
troops using primitive camp units.
Experienced
Campers
1. Equipment House
2. Ranger’s House
3. Parking Lot
4. Platform Tents
5. Log Cabin
6. Treehouses
7. Riding Ring
8. Stable
9. Teepee Unit
10. Latrines & Showers
11. Well
12. Lupine Trail
13. Archery Range
18

Other Camp Indian Echo Facilities:
Lake – suitable for canoeing and swimming. See Safety Activity Checkpoints for lifeguard
and/or small craft safety facilitator requirements, or page 11 of this guide. All instructors
must be council approved.
Nature Trail and Hiking Trails
Archery Range – Must have certified council, approved instructors.
Other Sports Equipment – Equipment is available to provide sports related activities for
girls and can be requested from ranger upon check-in.
19

CAMP SCOUTCREST
24 ACRES; UNIT CAPACITY: 128; DINING HALL CAPACITY: 128
RANGER ON SITE: (813) 920-2873, Cell (813)325-1836
Camp Scoutcrest is in Odessa (northwest Hillsborough County), about 24 miles from Tampa, 30
minutes east of Tarpon Springs. The camp offers a wide variety of waterfront programs:
swimming, canoeing, sailing and fishing.
From Tampa, go north on Dale Mabry to Van Dyke Road (Highway 685), first street past Lake
Park. Turn left (west), go 2 miles, turn right (north) onto Gunn Highway (Highway 587), go
north approximately 1½ - 2 miles to Tarpon Springs Road, turn left (west). If using Veterans
Expressway, exit at Ehrlich Road (Exit 10), turn left (west). At Citrus Park road joins Gunn
Highway, go north approximately 5 ½ miles to Tarpon Springs Road, turn left (west). *Go to
first road on right, Blake Road, turn right (north), **go 1/10 mile to Crescent Road, turn left
(west) follow Crescent Road 1 mile to Woodstock Road, turn right (east) into camp area.
Coming from the north, take SR 54 to Gunn Highway, turn south to Tarpon Springs Road, turn
right (west) and follow directions from *above.
From Pinellas County, take US 19 to Tarpon Springs Road east to Blake Road. Turn left (north)
onto Blake Road and follow directions from **above.
20

CAMP UNITS SLEEPING SUITABLE
Dormitory, floor sleeping (cots provided)
bathroom, electric lights, small kitchen with
CAPACITY FOR
K.P. Lodge stove, refrigerator, fireplace. Screened porch and
open unit shelter with lights, fire circle and BBQ
grill.
24 All Campers
Old Hickory
5 cabins, open unit shelter with lights, fire circle,
BBQ grill and bathhouse
20
Brownies,
Juniors,
8 cabins, open unit shelter with lights,
Cadettes,
Palmetto Ridge refrigerator, fire circle, BBQ grill and bathhouse 32 Seniors, &
Ambassadors
Singing Pines
8 platform tents, leader’s cabin, open unit shelter
with lights, BBQ grill, fire circle and bathhouse
36
Experienced
Campers
Old Hickory, Palmetto Ridge and Singing Pines can each accommodate four
additional people sleeping in tents. These tents must be brought in by troops.
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Other Camp Scoutcrest facilities:
CAMP SCOUTCREST
Co-op Shelter - the shelter may be reserved for use without the kitchen. If use of the kitchen
facilities is needed, contact the Outdoor Program Manager for the current requirements for
kitchen staff.
Crescent Lake – Swimming, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and sailing. See Safety Activity
Checkpoints for lifeguard and/or certified small craft safety facilitator requirements or page 11 of
this guide. All instructors must council approved.
Check the current edition of Safety Activity Checkpoints for all aquatic activities.
Archery Range – Must have certified, council-approved instructors.
Other Sports Equipment – Equipment is available to provide sports related activities for girls
and can be requested from ranger upon check-in.
22

CAMP WAI LANI
48 ACRES, UNIT CAPACITY: 144; DINING HALL CAPACITY: 168
RANGER ON SITE: (727) 937-0203 Cell (813)758-4516
Camp Wai Lani is on the Gulf of Mexico approximately 25 miles northwest of Tampa and St.
Petersburg. Camp faces the Gulf, with an island off-shore and a protected harbor with waterfront
facilities. The camp is excellent for beginning campers as well as those with advanced
experience.
Take Hillsborough Avenue (SR 580) from Tampa through Oldsmar, continuing on Tampa Road
(SR 584) to US Alternate 19. Turn right (north) on U.S. Alternate 19 and proceed through Palm
Harbor for 3.4 miles. Turn left onto Wai Lani Road (second road) and proceed to the end of the
road.
Those north of the camp, travel south on U.S. 19, turn right on Klosterman Road. Continue to the
stop light at U.S. Alternate 19, turn left and travel south 0.9 mile to Wai Lani Road. Turn right,
go to the end of the road and into camp.
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CAMP UNITS
Bathroom, wheelchair accessible. No
Staff Unit
kitchen use – see Kaminis BBQ
shelter.
He’e Nalu* Bathroom, bunk beds, screened
downstairs area for food & equipment
storage, outdoor grill. Fire circle.
SLEEPING
CAPACITY
SUITABLE
FOR
14 All campers
40 All campers
Lani Kai* 40 All campers
Kai Lua* 40 All campers
* Two buildings accommodate 16 each in bunk beds. The third building sleeps 8 in bunk beds.
Reservations are made by building, not by unit. The buildings should be reserved according
to the number of girls camping in each Troop. This may mean sharing the unit. In each unit,
the building with 8 beds is designated as a Leader’s Cabin, and shared if two or more troops
are occupying the unit.
Other Camp Wai Lani facilities:
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Swimming Pool – shared by all troops. See Safety Activity Checkpoints for lifeguard
requirements or page 11 of this guide. All lifeguards must be council-approved.
Waterfront – Fishing, canoeing, kayaking and sailing. See Safety Activity Checkpoints for
lifeguard and/or certified small craft safety facilitator requirements or page 11 of this guide. All
instructors must be council-approved.
Archery Range – Must have certified, council-approved instructors.
Other Sports Equipment – Equipment is available to provide sports related activities for girls
and can be requested from ranger upon check-in.
Craft House – Kiln is available if troop has a certified, council-approved instructor. Water
and electricity are available if needed for group activities.
Marine Lab – program totes available within lab.
Bobbie Lou Kaminis Memorial BBQ Shelter – Covered picnic shelter with picnic tables,
barbeque grills and lights.
Lodge Complex – is used for council and community events. Troops may reserve main dining
hall, lounge area, or individual classrooms for training, crafts, films, etc. Electricity is in all
buildings of complex. Special facilities of the Lodge Complex include:
DINING HALL – seats 168 for meals
KITCHEN – If use of the kitchen facilities is needed, contact the Outdoor Program
Manager for the current requirements for kitchen staff.
LOUNGE with fireplace
CLASSROOMS – 3 (Capacity: 3 rooms - 10-20)
STAFF QUARTERS – 14 beds, bath, telephone)
INFIRMARY– 6 beds, bath, air conditioning, nurse or First Aider’s room
COOK’S QUARTERS – 2 beds, bath, air conditioning
KITCHEN STAFF QUARTERS – 4 beds, bath
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CAMP WILDWOOD
589 ACRES; UNIT CAPACITY: 211; DINING HALL CAPACITY: 144
RANGER ON SITE: (352) 748-2825 Cell (813)417-5467
From I-75, Exit 329:
Head east on Rt. 44, just past the Wendy's; turn left onto CR 229 for 1 ¼ miles; turn right onto
CR 228 for 1 mile to stop sign; turn left onto CR 462 for 2/10 of a mile; merge right onto CR
223; Camp Wildwood is on the right hand side.
From US HWY 301:
Take US Hwy. 301 to CR 462 west (approximately 1 mile north of the town of Wildwood); turn
west on CR 462. Follow CR 462 for 2 ½ miles; merge right onto CR 223; Camp Wildwood is on
the right.
From US HWY. 27:
Take Florida Turnpike north or Hwy. 44 east to HWY. 301. Turn north and follow directions
from above.
26

CAMP
UNITS
Friendship
Gator
Health
Center
Cricket
Homestead
Stuart’s
Horseshoe
Meadows
Oak
Hammock
Wilderness
A/C & heated building, bathroom, kitchen. Bunk
beds. BBQ grill. No fire circle.
Cabins, bunk beds, bath house, wheelchair
accessible. Screened unit shelter with fireplace
and refrigerator. Fire circle.
A/C & heated building, bathroom, refrigerator.
Bunk beds. Fire circle.
Cabins, bunk beds, bath house. Screened unit
shelter with fireplace and refrigerator. Fire
circle.
8 mini-barns, bath house, fire circle. No
electricity.
Dormitory style, bunk beds, bathrooms and bath
house, full kitchen with ice machine, fireplace,
fire circle, large common area with observation
tower.
Campers may pitch tents in this area, bath house,
fire circle. Screened unit house. No electricity.
Primitive tent camping, shared bath house, fire
circle.
SLEEPING
CAPACITY
SUITABLE
FOR
15 All campers
40
All campers
16 All campers
40 All campers
32 Experienced campers
52 All campers
32 Experienced campers
Experienced campers
27

Other Camp Wildwood facilities:
Swimming Pool – shared by all troops. See Safety Activity Checkpoints for lifeguard
requirements or page 11 of this guide. All lifeguards must be council-approved.
Archery Range – Must have certified, council-approved instructors.
Other Sports Equipment – Equipment is available to provide sports related activities for girls
and can be requested from ranger upon check-in.
Costello Lodge- the lodge may be reserved for use without the kitchen. If use of the kitchen
facilities is needed, contact the Outdoor Program Manager for the current requirements for
kitchen staff.
Nature Center – used for environmental studies, library, conference room, laboratory/
classroom, bathroom and refrigerator. This is a great opportunity to use program totes in
environmental or outdoor education.
Equestrian Center – provides led rides, trail rides and other equestrian programs. See online
resources for more information.
Bikes – can be checked out using the Troop/Group Camp Application.
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10 ACRES; LODGE CAPACITY: 35
NO RANGER ON SITE: Cell (813)758-4516
PLANT CITY TROOP HOUSE
Plant City Troop House is 10 minutes from Plant City in Sansone Park, just off I-4. A large
grassy program area is available as well as a small pond and creek for nature study.
From Tampa, take I-4 to Plant City Park Road (exit #22). Turn right and take Park Road south to
Sansone Park on the left. Follow the park road past the ball field on the left, pass a park building
and turn left on the next road which dead ends at the Troop House.
Large lodge with lights, kitchen, bath; sleeping on floor (cots
provided). Loft may be used for sleeping or as a small program
area. Large screened porch. Indoor fireplace, outdoor fire circle.
You must carry garbage home with you. This site is good for
campers with little experience and for winter camping.
SLEEPING
CAPACITY
SUITABLE
FOR
24 All campers
29

Map of Girl Scouts of West Central Florida
Showing Camp Locations
30

Girl Scouting builds girls of
courage, confidence, and character,
who make the world a better place.
Tampa Service Center
5002 W. Lemon St. / P. O. Box 18066
Tampa, FL 33679-8066
(813) 281-4475 / (800) 881-4475
Fax: (813) 282-8285
www.gswcf.org
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