Lodging:
There are several options for lodging at the Parker Scout Reservation. You may camp (tent) at four different sites. Although there are no hookups, we have several spots that will accommodate your camping trailer (12′ or less extended, please). You may also stay in the Miller Castle bunkhouse. The medieval bunkhouse has several semi private rooms with private baths, (2-4 people) and four large bunk rooms which we will limit to 8 campers each. There are four large bathrooms with showers, and two commons areas. Available semi private rooms will be assigned to families with children and ADA persons first, then to the earliest registrants at 2 people to a room. No matter how you decide to sleep, the price remains the same, just be sure to indicate your preference at registration. For more information on the Parker Scout Reservation visit www.bsacmc.org/parker-scout-camp.
Meals:
You work hard on the water playing in boats, harpooning and learning new strokes. The kitchen will be there to refuel you. We do all we can to provide meals to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences (please let us know when you register). However, if you have strict food requirements, we suggest bringing along some of your favorites to supplement our planned menu. Individual coolers may be used inside the castle. Please do not plan on using the refrigerator in the kitchen.
Breakfast: Oatmeal, yogurt, hard boiled eggs, toast, fruit and a special treat of PANCAKES on Sunday.
Lunch: A simple affair of soups and stews, build your own sandwich / burrito bowls or similar.
Dinner: Thursday night will be a CLASSIC Minnesota Potluck Dinner – please bring a dish to share. The kitchen oven can be used as needed. Dinner will be provided on Friday and Saturday nights.
Sweets will be available. Feel free to bring something to share for social hour.
Coffee and hot water for tea and hot chocolate will be available any time. (If you are a tea specialist recommend bringing your own).
What to bring:
Kayak – If you have your own kayak, please bring it along! We encourage you to use your own kayak and gear, if possible. Learning in your own kayak helps you feel more comfortable going out and practicing on your own after the gathering.
Our focus is strictly Greenland techniques and skills. All types of kayaks are welcome, but we will work specifically with Greenland paddles.
Clothing – The water will be cool\cold and you should expect to get wet, especially if you plan on taking part in rolling training. Dry-suits or thick wet-suits are recommended. PFD’s are required. Neoprene or similar head gear is recommended. Nose plugs and ear plugs are advisable.
Gear – Everyone should bring a water bottle, sunglasses and strap, sunscreen, sun hat, paddling snacks.
Qajaq USA has an array of gear available for trial use including paddles, tuiliks (neoprene paddling jackets), harpoons, and a selection of skin-on-frame kayaks. This gear is intended to be shared over the course of the weekend. Many attendees will also have gear they are willing to loan, so if you are interested in acquiring gear of your own, training camp would be a great opportunity to try things out before making an investment.
Yoga – bring your own mat.
Davey Jones Locker – (yard sale) have kayak related gear that needs a new home. Feel free to bring it – there will be an area in the courtyard for display. Please tag it with seller’s name and price so a potential buyer can seek you out.
Auction:
Saturday night we have are our Silent Auction and Live Auction! As a non-profit we rely on the fundraiser to help keep costs for the camp as low as possible and help bring in our special guests .
If you have any items to donate, whether a new piece of paddling or camping gear, handmade gear like paddles, norsaq, or even a kayak, or other items like clothing, artwork, pottery, books, or a service you can provide like a guided trip, please consider donating.
If you are unsure about whether to bring something to donate, email in advance to work out details.
